An update from Switzer
CEO, Tina Mills
The mornings are chilling down, but we have been fortunate to still be enjoying long, warm days as we move through the autumn season – Its’s been the perfect weather for enjoying magical walks through the Switzer gardens and taking lovely day trips to local hot-spots 2025 is flying by and there are already so many changes that have occurred since our last newsletter in December I am excited to share a few of them here with you!
Clinical Leadership Changes
As you will read over the page, Sharon Marsden has officially moved into the role of Clinical Governance, where her many years of expertise are focused on ensuring our clinical systems, processes, and team members are compliant and delivering the highest level of care. Daniel O’Reilly has since taken on the task of Clinical Nurse Lead. He is working hard to ensure the clinical team have hands-on leadership, while also providing our residents and their whanau with engaging, expert clinical support and guidance. Welcome Daniel and family!
Community Programme Success
Our community programme has officially moved in-house and is absolutely thriving! (We’ve even had to open the double doors and add additional tables to the space to accommodate everyone!) It’s a joy to be welcoming so many new members from our wider community each week. Our Eden room is a hive of fun-filled activity, chatter, and laughter on Tuesday’s, Wednesday’s, and Thursday’s and it has brought a whole new layer of dynamic human connection to Switzer.
Exciting Events and Activities Galore
The activities team have really kicked things up a notch – Whenever I do a walk-through the households, I note that things are so colourful and magical around here! It is so wonderful to see the broad range of activities and events on offer every week. (You will see many of the festivities right here in this newsletter!) With more volunteers on board, and such a diverse range of things to participate in, our residents are spoilt for choice (Something we are very proud to be able to say!) Randolph and the team have well and truly proven that residential care never needs to be boring!
Please read on and enjoy this jam-packed newsletter about everything that has been keeping us busy at 71 South Road over this sunny summer/autumn period.
Tina Mills | Chief Executive Officer Claud Switzer Memorial Trust
H 71 South Road, Kaitaia, 0410 ( 09 408 1480
* tina@switzer.org.nz www.switzer.co.nz
Welcome Daniel and Whanau!
From the Deep South to the Far North! Daniel and his family made a MEGA move to join us here at Switzer. Daniel has step ped i nto the role of Clinical Nurse Lead , allowing Sharon Marsden to move into the critical role of Clinical Governa nce. We feel very lucky to have Daniel and Sharon working as clinical leadership powerhouses ensuring Switzer ’ s staff have the best guidance and are supported to deliver the hig h es t level of care to our residents .
“I was born in Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty. I met and married Lisa in the South Island of New Zealand. Together we have 3 beautiful daughters called Jaime (19), Faith (3) and Olive (2). My family and I shifted here from Otago to Kaitaia in November 2024 to be on the same island and live closer to Whanau who all live in the North Island.
I first began working in Aged Care as a Health Care Assistant in 2011 while I was studying fitness and exercise science full time and after that I switched over to Nursing. My current qualification is a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science. Now that our youngest girls are getting older, I am considering resuming academic study to complete a Master of Health Science.
My family and I appreciate Kaitaia and Switzer community, especially all of kindness shown by all the residents and colleagues towards one another. Our best resource is each other so together we can make a difference.”
Other things about me : I try to live according to the 10 commandments. I enjoy fishing, tennis, the gym and fitness. I also play the drums, and I used to teach them.
Favourite quote : “Laughter is the best medicine”
Switzer Spa Day!
Pampering Session
Our residents were treated to a luxurious pampering session in the serene Kowhai Lounge. The atmosphere was beautifully curated, with soft, relaxing music setting the perfect backdrop for an indulgent experience.
Residents indulged in rejuvenating facial and hand massages, designed to soothe both body and mind. The gentle touch of our lifestyle team allowed many to drift into a peaceful slumber, fully immersed in relaxation.
To enhance the experience, the room was adorned with a diffuser, filling the air with calming scents that further elevated the sense of tranquillity.
We were delighted to see participation from our residents, including some male residents who joined in the pampering fun. It was a wonderful reminder that selfcare knows no gender.
This pampering session not only provided relaxation but also fostered a sense of community and well-being. We look forward to bringing more luxurious experiences to enhance the lives of our cherished residents.
CelebraBng InternaBonal HUG Day
On January 21st, we came together to celebrate International Hug Day, a special occasion dedicated to the power of physical touch and emotional connection. This heart-warming day, also known as National Hugging Day, reminds us of the importance of affection and the joy that a simple hug can bring to our lives.
Our Switzer community embraced this celebration with creativity and enthusiasm! Residents crafted colourful hug vouchers, pouring their hearts into each design. These vouchers were a delightful way to spread joy throughout our community, encouraging everyone to share warm hugs with one another.
Throughout the day, residents joyfully visited each household, presenting their beautifully made hug vouchers. In return, they received hugs from fellow residents and staff members, creating a wonderful atmosphere of love and camaraderie.
We believe that such moments of connection strengthen our bonds and enhance our community spirit. Thank you to everyone who participated and made the day a memorable one.
Tropical Fun in the Summer Sun!
What an incredible day we had at our Summer BBQ Party - A Hawaiian Luau to remember! As the sun shone brightly, our outdoor deck transformed into a vibrant Hawaiian paradise, bringing the spirit of the islands right to our community. Residents and staff embraced the festive theme, donning colourful Hawaiian shirts and beautiful leis, adding to the cheerful atmosphere. The deck was beautifully decorated, with tables set up and adorned with tropical touches that made everyone feel like they were on a mini vacation
Guests sipped on refreshing mocktails, beer, and wine as well as indulging in delicious sausages grilled on the BBQ. The tantalising aroma of food wafted through the air, tempting everyone to gather around and enjoy the feast. But the fun didn’t stop there! Our staff surprised everyone with an energetic dance number that had everyone laughing and clapping along. Inspired by the performance, many residents joined in, dancing together and creating unforgettable memories.
The sunny weather was perfect for socialising, and it was heart-warming to see residents mingling, sharing stories, and simply enjoying each other's company. The laughter and smiles were contagious, making this BBQ party a true celebration of friendship and Switzer community spirit
Love was in the Air on ValenBne’s Day
On February 14th Switzer's residents came together to celebrate love and friendship with a delightful Valentine's Day high tea. The morning was filled with laughter and cheer as residents enjoyed a beautifully arranged spread of delicious treats and hot beverages.
The high tea featured an array of mouth-watering slices and sweets, beautifully complemented by a colourful selection of fresh fruits, all elegantly displayed on tiered serving trays. The tables were adorned with cheerful pink and red decorations, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that
perfectly captured the spirit of the occasion. As soft music played, residents took the opportunity to relax and socialise with one another, sharing stories and laughter over their steaming cups of tea. It was a wonderful moment for everyone to connect and celebrate friendship, reminding us of all of the importance of companionship and community.
Valentine's Day is not just about romantic love; it is also a time to cherish the bonds we have with friends The high tea provided a perfect setting for everyone to come together, enjoy tasty treats, and create sweet memories.
Wine TasBng on an Autumn AMernoon
Wine TasBng on an Autumn AMernoon
"Now try this one, madam," the House Sommelier suggested as he filled another glass at Switzer on a mild autumn afternoon Indeed, wine tasting proved a very successful new addition to the Home Happenings programme at Switzer Residential Care Facility.
Switzer went first class after the Lifestyle Team purchased a variety of red and white wines. Residents were asked to rate each sample using a scorecard, with one being not nice at all while five indicated deliciousness.
At each fresh glass, around five tastings in total, residents swirled a small mouthful of wine around, then absorbed the bouquet while the hosting sommelier gave them some ideas (okay, he just read from the label on the back of the bottle!) of what to look out for in each wine
By Frank Malley
The process of swirling then inhaling oxygenates the wine and ‘opens it up’, as most of the flavours from tasting wine come through the nose being that it is connected to the back of the mouth.
There was also some grapes and edam cheese with crackers, the latter renowned as a popular pairing with wine (as the fat and salt in cheese counters the acidity and tannins in wine, creating a more balanced and enjoyable flavour experience).
While many of the residents separate themselves into either a red or white wine connoisseur, one thing the wide and varied scores - which came through with each new bottle sampled - showed was that the definition of a good or bad wine is definitely in the tastebuds of the beholder.
We’re thrilled to share the highlights from our delightful Pancake Day celebration! Residents gathered in the Millie Lounge, where our amazing staff whipped up fresh pancakes right before our eyes. The aroma of warm pancakes filled the air as everyone eagerly anticipated their morning treat.
The celebration featured a beautiful display of toppings, allowing residents to customize their pancakes just the way they liked. From a variety of fresh fruits to delicious spreads and rich syrups, there was something for everyone! Residents enjoyed choosing their favourites while sipping on steaming hot drinks, making for a cosy morning tea experience.
The tables were beautifully set, complete with festive decorations to mark this special occasion. Pancake Day, also known as Shrove Tuesday, is a cherished tradition that takes place the day before Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent. This day is all about enjoying rich foods, as people traditionally used up ingredients like eggs, milk, and sugar before the fasting season began. Our residents truly enjoyed this delicious celebration, sharing laughter and stories as they savoured their pancakes. It was a wonderful way to come together as a community and embrace the spirit of this festive day.
The tables were beautifully set, complete with festive decorations to mark this special occasion. Pancake Day, also known as ‘Shrove Tuesday’, is a cherished tradition that takes place the day before Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent. This day is all about enjoying rich foods, as people traditionally used up ingredients like eggs, milk, and sugar before the fasting season began.
Our residents truly enjoyed this delicious celebration, sharing laughter and stories as they savoured their pancakes. It was a wonderful way to come together as a community and embrace the spirit of this festive day.
Discover the Power of Spin Poi!
Join our weekly sessions!
We're excited to invite you to our weekly Spin Poi sessions, led by our certified instructor and Diversional Therapist, Randolph. This ancient Māori practice combines physical movement with mental focus, offering a unique and enjoyable way to improve your overall health and wellbeing.
The Benefits of Spin Poi:
• Enhance physical health: Spinning poi can help improve strength, flexibility, and coordination.
• Boost cognitive function: The mental focus required for poi can improve concentration, memory, and spatial awareness.
• Reduce stress and anxiety: The gentle, flowing movements of poi can be meditative and calming.
Poi has a rich history in Māori culture, dating back to preEuropean times. While its origins are unclear, it's believed that Māori men used poi to build strength and flexibility, while women enjoyed it as a form of entertainment. Today, we continue this tradition, reaping the rewards of this beautiful practice.
Randolph, our Diversional Therapist, has completed his training through SpinPoi, an organisation founded by Dr. Kate Riegle van West. Dr. West's ground-breaking research has shown the positive effects of poi on physical and cognitive function, gaining international recognition.
You're invited to join Randolph for our weekly Spin Poi sessions in the Millie Lounge. Please check your Home Happenings for the specific date and time
Join the Cosy Fun: Knit ‘n NaSer is Back!
We're excited to announce that our Sewing and Knitting Natter Group has resumed in the cosy Orange Lounge !
Our talented residents have come together to create beautiful small blankets for babies, and we would love for you to be a part of this heartfelt initiative.
In our group, some residents are busy knitting soft squares while others are sewing them together to craft lovely baby blankets. This activity not only fosters a sense of community but also allows everyone to lend a helping hand to one another, making it a truly rewarding experience.
As we work on our projects, we enjoy engaging conversations and the soothing sounds of music in the background. It's a wonderful way to relax and connect with fellow residents, whether you're an experienced knitter or just starting out.
We warmly invite you to join us whether you want to knit, sew, or simply observe and chat. There’s always room for more hearts in our creative circle. Come and share in the joy of crafting and companionship.
Cheers to you, Marie Masters!
Masters, one of our cherished residents, recently celebrated her 95th birthday! As we mark this incredible milestone, we'd like to take a moment to reflect on Marie's remarkable journey and share some of her inspiring experiences with you.
Marie Masters was born on March 10, 1930, in Devonport, Auckland. Growing up, she was an avid learner and attended Takapuna Grammar School before pursuing a career in teaching. After completing her training at Teachers College, Marie taught at several schools, including Kaingaroa Primary School, Kaitaia Primary School, and Pukepoto School.
In 1952, Marie met Philip Masters, a local farmer, and they tied the knot. Together, they built a happy life, raising three children – Graham, David, and Phillipa – and enjoying countless family moments. Their marriage was filled with love, laughter, and adventure, including hosting dinner parties and card nights with friends. Although Philip passed away in 2008, Marie continued to live in
her family home until she became a Switzer resident in 2019.
Marie's first priority has always been her family, but she's also had a range of hobbies and interests that have brought her joy over the years. Some of her favourite activities include playing golf, knitting, reading, colouring in, watching sport and the news with a glass of wine
Marie was also an accomplished baker and cook, and she's been an active member of her community, serving as a Plunket president and earning long-service recognition.
As Marie celebrates her 95th birthday, we're reminded of the importance of living life to the fullest. With 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, Marie's legacy is one of love, kindness, and devotion.
We're honoured to have her as part of our Switzer community and look forward to many more years of sharing in her wisdom and experiences.
By Frank Malley
The Price is Right! activity proved a true blast from the past for the residents at Switzer recently
The activity was based on the premise to The Price Is Right, an American television game show where contestants compete by guessing the prices of merchandise to win cash and prizes.
It proved a great way for the Switzer elders to learn how much common - and not so common - household items cost at the supermarket or grocery store in this day and age!
The Lifestyle team running the activity also upped the ante by throwing in more unusual items such as a couch pillow from the op-shop, a bottle of aftershave, and a laptop. To keep proceedings unpredictable, the activity presenter also produced a vehicle WOF checklist
and asked residents if they had any idea how much it cost to have one done. This proved the hardest to get right, or even close, and they were quite astounded to find out the cost was $97 from VTNZ Kaitaia (which lays claim to being the second most expensive VTNZ in the country - behind Queenstown!)
The whole activity was new, exciting and spontaneous for the residents and all part of Switzer Residential Care Facility's adherence to the Eden Alternative Philosophy: to engage and entertain our elders, whilst offering meaningful activity to keep the three plagues of "Loneliness, Helplessness and Boredom" at bay.
The residents enjoyed themselves - taking turns to guess the cost of each item, with the person closest to the actual price, winning a piece of confectionary.
St. Patrick’s Day CelebraBon 2025
A Day of Green and Good Cheer! This St. Patrick ’ s Day, our community was a sea of green! Our residents and staff donned their favourite emerald attire, embracing the tradition that says wearing this lucky colour keeps pesky leprechauns at bay.
After all, who wants to risk a pinch from those mischievous little folk? Plus, we all know that sporting green can bring a bit of extra luck, and many of our residents proudly honour their Irish ancestry!
The festivities kicked off with a thrilling scavenger hunt! Armed with a list of St. Patrick's symbols, our residents set out to explore the households, searching high and low for treasures. With the dedicated support of our incredible staff, who wheeled chairs and guided eager scavengers, everyone dove into the hunt with enthusiasm! Once the symbols were found, they returned triumphantly to the Orange Lounge, where a delightful chocolate awaited each lucky finder. Sweet success!
But wait, the celebration didn’t stop there! Neryl whipped up some scrumptious cupcakes that were devoured with glee. And let’s not forget the famous shamrock shakes prepared by our amazing team what better way to toast to the day than with a festive treat? As our residents savoured their goodies, they enjoyed lively Irish music, creating the perfect backdrop for laughter and socialising. It was a day filled with joy, camaraderie, and a sprinkle of Irish luck!
EDEN FOCUS – PRINCIPLES UPDATE
Eden at Switzer Update 2025
By Jacqueline Trinder
This year the Eden focus is to complete the last three Principles that will allow Switzer to become a fully accredited Eden Alternative site. The last Principles required are 1,6 & 7, (however once we have achieved 6 and 7, we automatically achieve Principle 1 - The three plagues of loneliness, helplessness and boredom which accounts for the bulk of suffering among our Elders).
Over the years a lot of work has been completed for Principle 6 (meaningless activities erodes the human spirit; The opportunity to do things that we find meaningful is essential to human health) and Principle 7 (medical treatment should be the servant of genuine human caring, never its master).
Principle 7 is one of the most challenging principles as it delves into alternative therapies instead of, or alongside pharmaceuticals. It takes Education, patients and understanding to change the mindset that using alternative therapies such us, the use of music, animals, plants, children, and herbal remedies to distract, heal and calm our residents.
We present other alternative therapies to our residents and at times have had speakers talking about their natural healing practises.
We also hold annual Eden education sessions to ensure our staff are knowledgeable about the ways in which they can uphold Eden values.
One of the ways we do this as it relates to Principle 7 is by employing a range of alternative remedies including (but not limited to):
• Castor oil for topical pain relief
• Hand, arm, and temple massage for stress relief and relaxation
• Kiwi crush to add fibre and naturally aid digestion
• Tai Chi classes to calm and relax
• Natural herbal remedy education and guided sessions on topics such box breathing, and grounding
• Herbal tea tasting and providing a variety of staple herbal teas within resident households to be used to aid different things (i.e. camomile tea for sleep, peppermint tea for digestion, etc.)
• Aromatherapy is used throughout the home via diffusers in offices and common areas to promote a sense of wellbeing and calm. (Citrus in the mornings, and lavender/calming scents in the evenings). We also add essential oils to our warm hand towels, which the residents are offered in the main dining room before every meal.
A Day in the Life of a Care Partner
By Gezelle Colobong
Being a care partner is both a profound and challenging responsibility. For those who take on the role of caring for a loved one or for those working in care homes - due to age, illness, or disability – our days are oLen filled with rouNnes that require paNence, compassion and resilience. The following is a glimpse into my day as a care partner, highlighNng both the challenges and moments of tenderness that define my role.
A typical day for me begins early, before the sun rises. In the quiet of the morning, I prepare for the day ahead. This early start oLen involves tending to the needs of the residents I care for, for those with physical disabiliNes or cogniNve condiNons, the day begins with helping our residents get out of bed, assisNng them with washing or showers, dressing and perhaps feeding breakfast. I not only assist with daily acNviNes but also provide emoNonal support, offering gentle reminders, encouragement and reassurance.
As the morning transiNons into midday, I have to address the emoNonal and mental well-being of our residents in our household. This could mean engaging in acNviNes to keep them mentally sNmulated, such as reading, puzzles, or light exercises in cooperaNon with our Diversional Therapists on duty. As a care partner I have to be vigilant in providing companionship to prevent feelings of loneliness, which are common among our residents. The act of simply siUng with a resident, holding their hand or offering a reassuring smile can be immensely comforNng.
As the day winds down, my responsibiliNes shiL again. Evening rouNnes involve preparing dinner, helping with personal care tasks, or assisNng with bedNme preparaNons. For me, the evening is an opportunity to help our residents feel secure and comfortable, ensuring they are seWled in for a good night’s rest. This involves making sure their medicaNons are taken, helping with any final hygiene tasks, and ensuring their environment is safe.
Despite the weariness that accompany the end of the day, I oLen find myself reflecNng on the day’s moments. These reflecNons oLen bring a sense of fulfilment, knowing that I have done my best to provide care and comfort.
My role demands both physical stamina and emoNonal resilience. Care partners navigate the difficult balance of supporNng our residents while managing our own wellbeing. My days are filled with moments of tenderness and deep emoNonal connecNon, but also moments of physical and mental exhausNon. Despite the challenges, I find meaning in my commitment to our residents oLen drawing strength from the knowledge that I am providing an invaluable service.
“ Through our dedica.on, love and quiet perseverance, care partners offer a model of selflessness and compassion. Our daily lives may be demanding, but it is also defined by an unwavering commitment to the residents we care for.”
– Gezelle C.
New volunteers always welcome
Got Nme to spare and hobbies to share? Come on down and find out about being a Switzer Volunteer or email Randolph for an info pack:
randolph.c@switzer.org.nz
SWITZER BOARD MEMBERS
• John Carter (Chair)
• Paul Reeves (Trustee)
• Jack Rogers (Trustee)
• Eddie Aitken (Secretary)
( (09) 408 1480
* recep-on@switzer.org.nz
The 10 Eden AlternaBve Principles
1. The three plagues of loneliness, helplessness and boredom account for the bulk of suffering among our Elders.
2. An Elder-centred community commits to creaNng a human habitat where life revolves around close and conNnuing contact with people of all ages and abiliNes, as well as plants and animals. It is these relaNonships that provide the young and old alike with a pathway to a life worth living.
3. Loving companionship is the anNdote to loneliness. Elders deserve easy access to human and animal companionship.
4. An Elder-centred community creates opportunity to give as well as receive care. This is the anNdote to helplessness.
5. An Elder-centred community imbues daily life with variety and spontaneity by creaNng an environment in which unexpected and unpredictable interacNons and happenings can take place. This is the anNdote to boredom.
6. Meaningless acNvity corrodes the human spirit. The opportunity to do things that we find meaningful is essenNal to human health.
7. Medical treatment should be the servant of genuine human caring, never its master.
8. An Elder-centred community honours its Elders by de-emphasising topdown bureaucraNc authority, seeking instead to place the maximum possible decision-making authority into the hands of the Elders or into the hands of those closest to them.
9. CreaNng an Elder-centred community is a never-ending process. Human growth must never be separated from human life.
10. Wise leadership is the lifeblood of any struggle against the three plagues. For it, there can be no subsNtute.
The core concept of the Eden AlternaNve is simple: Care environments are habitats for human beings that should promote health, wellbeing and growth rather than faciliNes where the frail and elderly stagnate and decline.
Switzer believes that providing human companionship, animals, children and plants help to provide opportuniNes for a meaningful life.
Visits from the Queen!
Milo is a stunning, regal looking lady who someNmes comes in to visit us here at Switzer with her mum, Dawn. She walks beauNfully on a lead, but her preferred mode of transport is via trolley! If you are lucky enough to see her - give her a gentle pat