A supportive and social village life for Alan
Alan sadly lost his wife Phyllis just before the first lockdown in 2020, after the couple moved into the village five years ago.
“They have all been so supportive when I really needed it most. I wrote them all a personal letter to thank them.”
The 90 year old, who has spent his entire life in Christchurch, says his regular expenses are down due to village living and was immediately taken with the apartment opportunity after a tour.
“The security of this place appealed to me, and it was very warm. I also liked that there’s nothing to worry about, you don’t have to think about getting a plumber in for example.”
The couple’s two daughters and son helped them both move into the village, a downsizing that was far easier than Alan thought it would be. Now with a two bedroom apartment, Alan says he really enjoys having a dwelling more compact than his original family home.
“You’ve got to adapt haven’t you, and an apartment is just so easy to keep clean and tidy. I still have a small garden and I like to grow runner beans.”
With a wool buying background and a stint as a golf professional too, Alan has had a busy career but says he prefers the quieter life these days with enough social activities, like bowls and mahjong, to keep him entertained.
Alan helped to start a village choir that now has 24 members and regular practice sessions to prepare for upcoming recitals. The grandfather of five grandchildren and six great grandchildren (pictured with artwork from one of his great grandchildren Tabitha) says he’s always open to welcoming new residents as neighbours.
“To be free of all that worry of maintenance at my time of life is a relief. Plus we could do with a few more in the choir too.”
Get more info about Bupa Hugh Green at: www.bupa.co.nz...
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Staying home over the break?
The long weekend is the perfect time to make your place safer for an earthquake with these steps:
• Find out where you can turn off your water and gas mains
• Check your chimney for any signs of wear and tear, or damage
• Check your home's foundations are secured
• Move heavy items that are up high to safer, lower down locations.
• Secure tall and heavy furniture and appliances
These simple actions can keep your whānau safer in case of a big shake, so tick them off and make the most of your break.
Bob Francis Wins Senior New Zealander Of The Year
Seven-term Mayor of Masterton, Bob Francis CNZM QSO MBE JP, has been named the 2024 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
Affectionately dubbed ‘Mr Wairarapa’, Bob has served his community in multiple areas, including health services, commercial development, the arts, aviation, homelessness, conservation and sports.
Bob’s award signifies the sixth time Ryman Healthcare has supported this category of the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards, which provides a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Kiwi seniors who continue to make positive contributions towards the future of Aotearoa.
Click read more for the full article.