Richard
Hadlee naming Ryman Northwood village named after legendary sports icon
ISSUE 1 | 2026
Grand Opening
Celebrating our founder Kevin Hickman Leadership check-in
Making a meaningful difference as a village manager
A kaleidoscope of family fun
A message from Naomi
Hello and welcome to the latest edition of Ryman Living. As we head into the middle of the year, it’s been great to reflect on the past six months.
From vibrant Family Days, village openings and celebrations, to the creativity, generosity and friendships shared across our villages, this issue highlights what makes our Ryman villages so special.
As the global environment continues to feel uncertain at times, what remains constant is the certainty of our Ryman communities and the sense of security, care and belonging our homes provide.
This edition of Ryman Living highlights our fundraising efforts, particularly in support of our charity partners Dementia Australia and Bowel Cancer New Zealand. From residents getting involved in the “Move Your Butt” fundraising campaign, to the collaboration between our teams and dementia specialists, these initiatives reflect the care, compassion and purpose that underpin everything we do.
We’re also proud to share two important milestones for our communities. The official naming of Richard Hadlee Village honours a remarkable New Zealander whose legacy continues to inspire, while the Grand Opening of our Kevin Hickman Village marks a significant moment
in our history as we celebrate our founder’s enduring vision for retirement living and aged care.
As always, the stories and people in this edition are what make it special. We celebrate some of the amazing contributions residents and our teams are making to village life across both sides of the Tasman.
Thank you for the part you play in making your community such a welcoming and supportive place. Our teams are excited for the coming months, and we look forward to sharing more special moments with you.
Naomi James Ryman CEO Naomi
More than just care Bert Newton resident on why the village feels like home
Leadership check-in Making a meaningful difference as a village manager
Celebrating love
Valentine’s-inspired wedding show brings meaning
Cruise control
Exploring new horizons after retirement
Golden Girls
Close community fosters great friendships
Around the villages
Catch up on interesting events from Ryman villages
'Move your butts' Residents put on their walking shoes for Bowel Cancer
Top left: Village Manager Janine Snape on the decks with Village Lifestyle Coordinator Caroline. Top right: Callum Wills, Brenda O'Donnell, and Tara Wills bravely meet the scaly visitors. Above: Residents Linda Woolstencroft and Margaret Daniels. Middle: Four generations in one picture, resident Nancy Wong with her family. Right: Little Ollie was enamoured with the magic show. Far right: Fairy Emily enchants the children at Logan Campbell Village.
Sunshine, smiles and Family Day fun
Residents, families, and friends came together across our villages to celebrate summer with themed fun, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
The start of the year always kicks off with our fun and entertaining Family Days at villages across New Zealand and Australia. Residents welcomed friends and family to soak up the summer sun, relax, and enjoy quality time together.
Like our villages, each celebration reflected its own community, with activities tailored to residents, families and local visitors. From face painting, fairy entertainers and magic shows to bouncy castles and family-friendly games, there was something
for everyone to enjoy. Laughter filled the air as generations came together to celebrate, while some villages also introduced animal encounters and nature-based activities that gave children an opportunity to learn more about the world around them.
No matter the village, one thing is certain – Family Days bring out the strong sense of community in our villages. It’s a fantastic day to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories.
See you all next year!
A milestone moment for Northwood village
Residents and guests gathered as Ryman’s Northwood village in Christchurch was officially named Richard Hadlee Village.
The naming announcement marked a significant moment for the community, honouring cricketing great Sir Richard Hadlee, one of New Zealand’s most respected sporting icons.
Sir Richard joined residents and team members for the occasion, taking time to meet those who call the village home and share in the celebration. The unveiling was met with warm applause, reflecting the strong connection many Cantabrians feel to his legacy.
Resident Jan Cowley was especially thrilled.
“I’m absolutely delighted with the new name. When I
moved in, there was a form where you could nominate someone as a namesake — and I nominated Sir Richard!”
Ryman CEO Naomi James said it was a privilege to recognise Sir Richard in this way.
“Sir Richard is a New Zealand legend whose achievements are known by people around the world, but he has always remained a proud Cantabrian.
“He inspired a generation of budding cricketers, and his dedication, humility and excellence reflect our Ryman values.
“It is such an honour for us to have his name associated with
For over three decades, Ryman villages have been named after remarkable New Zealanders whose stories continue to inspire. Richard Hadlee Village now proudly joins that tradition, as the community continues to expand and prepares to open its new village centre later this year.
Pictured: Ryman CEO Naomi James with Sir Richard Hadlee at the naming event our Northwood community and to continue his legacy through the village our residents and team are building together.”
What’s in a name?
An excellent tradition to honour our local heroes.
Who is Richard Hadlee?
Sir Richard Hadlee is celebrated as one of cricket’s greatest fast bowlers and allrounders, and in 1990 became the first cricketer to be knighted while still playing. Sir Donald Bradman praised him as “The Master of rhythm and swing” for his exceptional command of swing and seam bowling.
Born in 1951 into a distinguished cricketing family, Hadlee followed in the footsteps of his father Walter, a former New Zealand captain, and his brothers Barry and Dayle, who also represented their country.
Over his remarkable career, he became the first bowler to reach 400 Test wickets, finishing with 431 alongside more than 3000 runs. He set multiple world records, including 36 five wicket hauls in an innings and nine 10 wicket hauls in
a match, and still holds the record for most five wicket bags against a single Test nation—14 against Australia.
His greatest performance came at The Gabba in 1985–86, where he claimed 15 wickets, including 9 for 52, leading New Zealand to their first Test and series victory in Australia. Across domestic and international cricket, he took 1490 wickets at an average of 18.11 and scored a highest firstclass total of 210.
Honoured repeatedly throughout his career, he was inducted into both the ICC and New Zealand Cricket Halls of Fame. Now retired, he enjoys a quieter life following other sports.
Our village
Ryman’s newest village is on the edge of Christchurch, with a perfect blend of rural charm and convenience with nature reserves nearby and the Northwood Supa Centa across the road.
Richard Hadlee Village offers the latest in independent living choices with stylish apartments and townhouses available now. Construction is underway on the village centre which will include assisted living and care options. Plus, all the exciting Ryman amenities such as a pool, on-site café, movie theatre and more will be available.
The village is located conveniently to easily access the city centre and with a family friendly vibe in the neighbouring suburbs and proximity to the Northern Motorway, it's an ideal spot for friends and family to visit.
A grand opening for Kevin Hickman Village
Kevin Hickman Village celebrated its Grand Opening in April on a beautiful Christchurch day, with residents, community leaders, healthcare partners, government representatives and Ryman executives gathering to mark the occasion.
Residents filled the village lounge alongside Joanna Hickman, wife of the late Ryman co-founder Kevin Hickman ONZM, and members of his family, including one who is a resident. Christchurch Mayor Philip Mauger also attended.
Following a mihi whakatau by Te Taumata Tapu o Ngāi Tūāhuriri, Ryman Chief Operating Officer Marsha Cadman reflected on the village’s development and the decision to name it after Kevin.
“A flagship Ryman village named after the man who started it all … it couldn’t have been more fitting,” she said.
Chief Executive Officer Naomi James described Kevin as a man who excelled in policing, sport, horse breeding and racing, as well as aged care and retirement living.
“Kevin lifted standards across the entire aged care sector and reshaped what retirement living and care could look like,” Naomi said.
Guests also watched a video of Kevin reflecting on his West Coast upbringing and the inspiration behind founding Ryman.
Mrs Hickman said Kevin, a humble man who avoided the limelight, would have been 'deeply honoured' to have a village named after him.
“It epitomises everything great about Ryman,” she said. “The homes are gorgeous, and the village and care centre are something else.”
She added that Ryman’s culture of warmth, caring and community remained 'alive and well'.
Christchurch singer Rebecca Nelson concluded the celebration with performances of some of Kevin’s favourite songs before guests enjoyed high tea prepared by the village kitchen team.
Top left: Christchurch Mayor Philip Mauger, Naomi James and Joanna Hickman. Top right: Candidate for Wigram Tracy Summerfield with Ryman Chief Customer Officer Rick Davies. Middle right: Ryman Chief Financial Officer Matt Prior with Joanna. Bottom middle: Kevin Hickman Village residents were wowed by the event. Bottom right: Singer Rebecca Nelson
More than just care
Effie shares why Bert Newton Village feels like home
At 92, Effie Trellis has always been independent, social, and full of warmth — qualities her daughter Maria says have only grown stronger since Effie moved into the care centre at Bert Newton Village almost a year ago.
What began as a big decision for their family, has since brought comfort, connection, and peace of mind.
“Walking in for the first time, I felt this sense of calm,” said Maria.
“Everyone was so welcoming. It wasn’t just staff doing their job, they genuinely cared. Mum picked up on that straight away, and it made the transition so much easier for both of us.”
Effie speaks about life at the village with a smile that rarely leaves her face.
“I really do feel at home here,” said Effie.
“The staff are wonderful. They check on me, they make me laugh, and they know the things I like. It feels like family.”
Over time, Effie has settled into a rhythm she enjoys — familiar faces, shared meals, and friendships formed in everyday moments.
“There’s always something going on,” said Effie.
“We chat, we play games, tell stories and keep each other company, it’s lovely.”
For Maria, seeing her mum thrive has brought reassurance.
“It’s hard to explain the relief you feel when you know your parent is truly supported,” said Maria.
“Mum isn’t just cared for — she’s valued, that makes all the difference.”
For Effie, it’s the little things that mean the most.
“A cup of tea made just the way I like it. Someone stopping to have a chat, feeling seen and heard. You don’t get lost in the crowd here,” said Effie.
For their family, Bert Newton Village has provided something priceless: peace of mind and the freedom to simply enjoy time together.
Top image: Bert Newton Village care resident Effie Trellis. Left: Bert Newton Village. Above: Effie Trellis with her daughter Maria Gabriel.
Making a meaningful difference
From caregiver to Village Manager: a journey of growth and care
Possum Bourne Village Manager Ruben Kumar’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable, reflecting his steady progression at Ryman and the dedication he has shown at every step of his career.
Born and raised in Fiji, Ruben moved to New Zealand to complete his nursing qualifications, motivated by a desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
After a successful start as a student nurse, Ruben’s journey at Ryman continued to a Registered Nurse role followed by his appointment as Unit Coordinator.
As his experience grew, so too did his interest in the broader operational side of village life. Roles as a Resident Services Manager across several villages allowed him to build leadership capability and gain deeper understanding of what it takes to run a successful village.
In 2025 the role of village manager came up at Possum Bourne in Pukekohe, south of Auckland.
“The role at Possum Bourne came up and I thought ‘I’m ready’ and I am very appreciative to get this opportunity,” Ruben says.
Ruben’s favourite thing about the role is working with his team and he believes strong leadership is about helping others grow. He encourages his leaders to be able to make tough decisions and have honest conversations; while knowing he is there to support them when they need it.
For Ruben the village has become his second home and being a Village Manager has fulfilled his goals: "Making a difference in people’s lives is incredible. Having the residents flourishing after moving in — nothing beats that.”
Passion in practice
Michelle Smith brings lifelong respect for aged care to her role at Nellie Melba Village.
M
ichelle Smith’s passion for aged care started in childhood, watching her mother work as a head nurse and seeing the respect and dignity she showed residents.
“I grew up running around an aged care facility, sitting on residents’ knees when I was young,” said Michelle.
“That’s where my respect for older generations comes from — the wisdom and lives they’ve lived. They deserve to be cared for and respected.”
Now Resident Services Manager at Nellie Melba Village, Michelle brings that philosophy to her work every day.
“I’m very, very passionate about aged care,” she said.
“I believe in what I do. That’s why I do it. That’s why I love it.”
She is especially passionate about the continuum of care Ryman provides.
“Moving into serviced apartments can extend independence,” she said.
“It gives residents extra support before things become overwhelming, and that makes a real difference.”
Michelle previously worked with Ryman at Linda Jones Village in New Zealand and returned to the organisation after relocating
Her role at Nellie Melba is a constant balance of people, planning and support.
“It’s a busy mix of admin and supporting team members and residents,” she said.
“Helping oil the wheels that keep the village running.”
Known for her practical and honest leadership style, Michelle is a trusted sounding board for both team members and residents.
“I’m down to earth, straight to the point, but also empathetic and realistic,” she said.
For Michelle, the work is personal — caring for people well and doing it the right way.
Emma’s wedding dress reveal tells a different love story
Logan Campbell Village’s Valentine’s-inspired wedding show prompts resident Emma to share her love of her late daughter.
AValentine’s inspired wedding dress show at Logan Campbell Village in Auckland prompted residents to reminisce about their big day. For Emma Muller, it became a heartfelt tribute to her late daughter Nicola, who died 19 years ago at 37.
Emma no longer has her own wedding dress, but she kept Nicola’s ivory silk two-piece gown.
When she offered to wear it in the show, memories of her daughter resurfaced.
Nicola, a former air stewardess, had long struggled with kidney disease, and her pregnancies worsened her condition.
Emma had taken Nicola’s two young sons home so
she could rest when she received the shocking call that her daughter had died.
“Her body just shut down,” Emma says.
Supported by her husband of 60 years, Lindsay, and close friends, Emma helped to raise the boys so their father could continue to work.
She only recently felt able to unpack the wedding dress she had tucked away.
The boys, now in their 20s, joined her on the 19th anniversary of Nicola’s death to look through her memory box.
“She was very vivacious… the whole room would light up. Everybody loved her,” Emma says. “The boys are a credit to her.”
Nicola’s wedding had been joyful — held on St Patrick’s Day with Irish dancers, and photographed at Auckland’s Shelly Beach, where her ashes would later be scattered.
Fellow residents who had also lost daughters shared their stories, including seamstress Jacqui, who helped Emma adjust the dress so she could wear it proudly.
“It’s a tribute to her,” she says.
Left: Friend and fellow resident Jeff Field escorts Emma Muller at the wedding show, wearing her late daughter Nicola's wedding dress. Above: Nicola pictured on her wedding day.
Spreading the love this Valentine’s Day
Residents Bill & June bring smiles to residents and staff across the village.
At Weary Dunlop Village, Valentine’s Day was about more than romance — it was about friendship, laughter, and a simple act of kindness.
Long-time residents Bill Hearn and June Shields spent the morning surprising fellow residents and staff with roses, determined to 'share a little bit of joy and love' around the village.
“We always enjoy a good laugh and a lot of fun at Weary Dunlop. So, to be able to go around on Valentine’s Day and spread that joy — it was really great."
Days later, the feedback was still flowing.
“I’m still getting comments from people about how thrilled they were to receive a rose,” said Bill.
For June, the experience was just as meaningful.
“I feel I got as much pleasure handing them out as the people who received them,” she said.
“It’s the friendliest village. Since moving here, I’ve met so many wonderful people who are now my friends.”
One special moment stood out — delivering a rose to 100-year-old Audrey, who shared her tip for making blooms last longer.
“She told us to dip the stem in boiling water,” said June.
“A few days later she said it was still standing up strong. That just warms your heart.”
Beyond the roses, both agreed it was about connection.
“Valentine’s Day is known as a couples’ day, but it’s also about friendship,” said June.
As Bill reflected, small gestures can make a real difference.
“If you can put a smile on someone’s face, no matter what they’re going through, it's worth it."
Top right: Residents Bill Hearn and June Shields prepare to spread the love with roses around Weary Dunlop. Top left: Bill and June with resident Elaine Millar. Bottom: Resident Audrey White.
Cruising into relaxation mode
Moving into a retirement village is the perfect time to go on a cruise for many – you’ve finally got the time to go travelling, and you know your home will be safe and secure while you’re away.
Murray Halberg residents Irene and Barry Welham know a thing or two about cruising – they’ve already done eight and they’ve got another one coming up in September!
“We have always enjoyed them, it’s the relaxation,” says Irene.
They’ve even done some cruises twice, and for that reason they have no problem staying on board and just enjoying what the boat has to offer!
“Last year, we didn’t go off the boat as we’d been to Bali and Australia before,” says Irene.
“And we like it when everyone’s off the boat. I’ll go and get dolled up for the pool with my sunnies and my sarong, and we’ll have lunch by the pool too.”
Adds Barry: “It’s just like being in the village. They have all these activities, and you either do them or you don’t. It can be as relaxing or as active as you choose.”
As well as offering a taste of luxury, with a wide variety of delicious dining options, entertainment and amenities on board, many enjoy cruising for the opportunity to see multiple destinations whilst only unpacking once.
“You’re not having to hop on and off buses and trains – your hotel’s going with you,” says Barry.
Aucklanders Irene and Barry’s favourite cruise line is Celebrity Cruises, and they’re looking forward to boarding the revamped Celebrity Solstice next month which they also enjoyed last year.
“We’ve always been well looked after. The staff were so good to us on the last trip, they’re just wonderful,” says Irene.
“You get to feel like a king and queen for the week,” nods Barry.
Irene and Barry’s Top 3 tips for successful cruising:
1 Use a travel agent rather than booking online to help you understand exactly what your package deal includes and avoid unexpected surprises and hidden extras.
2 Choosing the off-ship excursions organised in-house may be more expensive than organising your own, but at least the ship will wait if you’re late!
3 Be careful not to do too much – the heat can be overwhelming in some destinations so keep the pace manageable and don’t overdo it.
Irene and Barry’s Top 5 cruising destinations:
1 Greek Islands, including Turkey and Santorini
2 Mediterranean, including Italy and Spain
3 Australia & New Zealand
4 Asia Pacific including Singapore
5 Caribbean
Friendship goals realised for Keith Park Village’s
‘Golden Girls’
The companionship, camaraderie and commonality they’ve found with each other has surprised these three residents of Keith Park Village.
Three serviced apartment residents at Auckland's Keith Park Village have been affectionately dubbed ‘The Golden Girls’ thanks to the firm friendship they’ve formed. Anne, Nola and Bette say they ‘just clicked’ after moving into the Hobsonville village.
Anne arrived first after years at Ryman’s Botany village while her husband was in dementia care. After he passed away, her daughter encouraged a move west.
“Coming here I was so anxious because I didn’t know anyone,” she says. Returning from a short hospital stay, she discovered Nola had moved in.
“She sat opposite me at lunch and I thought to myself, ‘I hope she’s nice…’” She needn’t have worried. “We just clicked. We have been through similar experiences in life.”
Nola, a long time widow, had felt the same nerves. “I left behind all my friends and clubs… I felt like I was just existing, not really living.” But everything changed. “Since I came here, I’m having a ball. I suggest everyone comes and makes an appointment!”
Three months later, Bette arrived and instantly joined the fold. As Bette recalls, Nola greeted her with: “We’ll look after you,” and she did. “She’s the mother hen, and we’re her chicks,” laughs Anne.
The nicknames soon followed: ‘The Golden Girls’, ‘The Three Musketeers’, even ‘Charlie’s Angels’. Their week is filled with crafts, exercise, Monopoly, bingo, outings and café catch ups.
“We talk about everything and we talk about nothing!” laughs Nola. “We solve the problems of the world,” adds Bette.
Their friendship isn’t exclusive, and they happily include other residents and team members. They also love the support: “You never have to wash your own sheets or towels; it’s all done for you,” says Bette. “I love it now, I wouldn’t change it for anything,” adds Anne.
The biggest difference? “We all feel secure,” says Nola. “And the company,” adds Bette. Their families notice it too. As Bette says: “Everyone notices how happy we are… They know I’m here and are so happy.”
Top left: Bette Hambly, Nola Jonassen, Anne Richards, relaxing in the village lounge together. Top right: Neil Harris and Anne having fun over a game of Monopoly. Right: Anne, team member Jessica Van Schalkwyk, Bette and Nola getting creative in the craft room.
Around the villages
Our villages in Australia and New Zealand are buzzing with activity!
ANZAC Day
Village residents, families and guests across New Zealand and Australia villages gathered for heartfelt commemorative Anzac Day services. Residents came together to honour those who have served, past and present, with many veterans proudly wearing their medals. At some villages, a wreath was laid, while others bowed their heads for a moment of silence. The ceremonies reflected gratitude, remembrance, unity, and respect throughout the communities.
Choir hits the right note
Residents from Diana Isaac Village’s choir were busy during February singing various national anthems at the Over 70s Cricket World Cup held in the South Island of New Zealand.
The choir attended three games: NZ vs USA in Rangiora, NZ vs Australia at St Andrew’s College in Christchurch, and the final between England and Australia at Hagley Oval.
“It was amazing to attend the final. We were invited for morning tea in the lounge, and the view out onto the oval was stunning,” says resident choir director Sandra Norquay.
“I was so proud of the choir – it’s a choir for everyone. There are no auditions, so for them to get out and sing is fantastic.”
The highlight for Sandra and the choir came when a member of the public said, “God, that was amazing!”
The choir also received a thank-you card from the New Zealand Over 70s team for their fabulous performances.
Musical afternoon!
Residents at Charles Brownlow Village in Geelong, were treated to a fantastic performance by the dynamic duo the Billy Tea Bush Band. Mick and Phil have been bringing the fun and energy to communities across Australia for over 30 years. Residents enjoyed the performance and it was followed by a delicious afternoon tea of fresh lamingtons and fruit sticks.
Centennial celebrations
Residents and staff at Weary Dunlop Village in Wheelers Hill, gathered to celebrate a very special milestone, surprising resident Audrey White for her 100th birthday. Audrey, who still lives independently in her apartment, was treated to cake, singing and plenty of well wishes from friends and staff across the village. Congratulations Audrey — what an incredible achievement!
Residents ‘move their butts’ for bowel cancer
The Edmund Hillary Village walking group celebrated their 10th anniversary by supporting Bowel Cancer New Zealand’s Move Your Butt campaign
The Hillary Hikers have embraced Bowel Cancer New Zealand’s Move Your Butt campaign in the best possible way — by moving their butts!
Wearing bright purple and orange campaign t-shirts, around 20 residents from Edmund Hillary Village’s
walking group drew smiles as they strode along Auckland's waterfront from Mission Bay to Kohimarama on a sunny February morning.
With Bowel Cancer New Zealand chosen as Ryman’s 2026 NZ charity partner, the group was eager to support the annual challenge, which
raises awareness of bowel cancer and the importance of early detection.
Group organiser Howard Keyte says members were proud to wear the shirts.
“Walking along the waterfront gave them more exposure, and we got lots of positive responses.”
For Graeme and Barbara Cook, the cause is personal.
Their son has lived with Crohn’s disease since his teens, giving them a clear understanding of the importance of gut health.
“This cause means a lot to us,” says Graeme.
Bowel cancer is New Zealand’s leading cause of cancer death, yet when detected early, more than 90% of cases are treatable.
Regular physical activity supports gut health, and even moderate exercise — such as walking — can make a big difference.
Bowel Cancer New Zealand
Chief Executive Peter Huskinson says every kilometre helps raise awareness that bowel cancer can affect anyone, and early detection saves lives.
“Move Your Butt brings people together through something simple and positive,” he says. “We’re grateful to the Hillary Hikers.”
Howard started the walking group 10 years ago after fellow resident Richard Still suggested it.
From an initial handful of members, the group now has more than 50 on its mailing list and recently celebrated
"Move Your Butt brings people together through something simple and positive"
its anniversary with a lunch at Formosa Golf Club.
Routes vary each week but always include a café stop.
“People enjoy the camaraderie,” says Howard with a laugh.
“Though the scone often undoes the walk!”
Main image: The walkers hit a purple patch at Mission Bay. Right top: Group organiser Howard Keyte hits his stride as he chats to fellow resident June while fellow purple-clad walkers follow behind. Right bottom: Pretty in purple: The Hillary Hikers gather at the village before setting off on their walk.
Raman’s connection at the heart of dementia care
Raman leads the Bruce McLaren special care unit with empathy and compassion.
Special Care Unit
Coordinator at Bruce McLaren Village, Raman Kaur, goes to great lengths to ensure residents feel comfortable, valued, and safe, even if it means changing the usual routine.
If someone feels like sleeping in, playing the piano to entertain others or prefers their lunch a little later, Raman’s team simply makes it happen.
“It’s important to support our residents, their families, and our staff so we create
a positive environment. We all work together for one goal: providing personcentred care,” she says.
Supporting residents living with dementia is a particular passion of hers, with strong communication with families being essential.
“Distressed behaviour is always an expression of unmet needs,” Raman says. “Good communication with a resident’s loved ones helps us understand the person and preserve their identity.”
Raman, who began her Ryman career as a caregiver seven years ago, trains new staff to be patient, calm, confident and, crucially, well-briefed on each resident’s care plan.
She laughs when described as a 'resident whisperer,' saying her approach comes down to communication; making a connection with the resident, and earning their trust.
“Number one is personcentred care. That’s the most important.”
Enhancing dementia care together
Working together to support residents and their families
Ryman is continuing to strengthen the way it supports residents living with dementia thanks to its ongoing partnership with Dementia Australia.
By working closely with Dementia Australia’s specialist leaders, Ryman teams are sharing insights that help make everyday life better for residents and their families.
General Manager Clinical and Resident Services Sam Powell says the partnership is helping teams build confidence and deepen their understanding.
“Our partnership with Dementia Australia reinforces our commitment
to understanding each person beyond their diagnosis. By working together, our teams gain practical insights that help us continually improve the care we provide, so residents feel supported, respected and able to live well every day,” said Sam.
Natalie Jones, Corporate Partnership Lead at Dementia Australia, says what she sees in Ryman villages reflects a shared spirit of care connection.
“What we see in Ryman villages is truly special — not just in the quality of care, but in the way staff, residents and families engage, celebrate and support one another,” said Natalie.
“Together, we are strengthening care, fostering understanding and building communities where people living with dementia feel supported and respected.”
Both organisations remain focused on providing care that is grounded in understanding, compassion and genuine connection –and they’ll continue working together to support people living with dementia and those who care for them.
Pictured: Ryman dementia care resident Linda Laird with caregiver Sami
Gooey Caramel Muffins
Discover easy-to-bake, delicious muffins from Ryman’s Food Services Chef, Matt Orr. They’re perfect with your morning coffee or afternoon cuppa.
Method Ingredients
2 cups self-raising flour
1/2 cup caster sugar
3/4 cup milk
125 grams butter, melted and slightly cooled
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
120 grams Barker’s Dulce de Leche Milk Caramel Spread
1. Preheat oven to 180°C.
2. Lightly grease a 12-hole muffin tin or line it with paper patty cases.
3. Sift flour and sugar into a large bowl.
4. In a large jug, whisk milk, butter, eggs and vanilla together.
5. Make a well in centre of dry ingredients, then add the milk mixture all at once.
6. Mix lightly, until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.
7. Divide half of the mixture among muffin tin recesses.
8. Place a small spoonful of Barker’s Dulce de Leche Milk Caramel Spread into the middle of the batter in the muffin tin.
9. Divide the rest of the batter among the recesses.
10. Bake at 180 degrees Celsius for approximately 16-18 minutes or until golden brown.
11. Serve with a sprinkle of icing sugar and enjoy.
Puzzles
There is nothing better than solving a crossword with a cup of tea or coffee. So get your pen ready, grab a few friends, and enjoy!
Across
1. City created in 331BC, now Egypt's second largest (10)
6. Word used in Scotland for mountains (4)
9. Term coined after Second World War, meaning developed western countries (5,5)
10. Large aquatic bird of the genera Cygnus (4)
12. British explorer John Speke was the first European to see this body of water, in 1858 (4,8)
15. Swiss city; also a plant with trioliate leaves and blue-violet flowers, grown as a hay crop (7)
16. Rhodes scholar, All Black, MP, Race Relations Conciliator and host of Radio NZ’s Sunday Morning from 2000 to 2013, Chris ___ (7)
17. In India, boys employed as household or regimental servants (7)
19. Brazil's monetary unit from 19881990, equal to 1000 cruzeiros (7)
20. Former term for rugby players in the No 6 and 7 positions (4,8)
23. Blue-green colour; also a type of duck (4)
24. Fragrant volatile liquid ketone, CH³COCH³, widely used as a solvent (10)
25. Wellington suburb consisting of Upper and Lower parts (4)
26. Popular house plant with small red flowers, euphorbia pulcherrima (10)
Down
1. Grass also known as esparto or needle grass (4)
2. River in northeastern Spain which flows into the Mediterranean (4)
3. Military weapons described as AA guns (4,8)
4. One of the 12 units into which the Roman Empire was divided; also an archbishop's region (7)
5. "Shallow understanding from people of good will is more frustrating than absolute misunderstanding from people of __ __". Martin Luther King (3,4)
7. Author and poet who popularised limericks and wrote The Owl and The Pussycat (6,4)
8. Fragrant yellowish wood with insect repelling qualities, used for carving and cabinetwork (10)
11. Disease also known as Sydenham's chorea, which causes jerking movements affecting the face, hands and feet (2,5,5)
13. Scottish regiment, the last British unit to leave Hong Kong in 1997 (5,5)
14. Person who in the US would be a CPA, in New Zealand a CA or ACA (10)
18. Hot wind which blows from north Africa over parts of southern Europe (7)
19. Singer and guitarist who recorded Layla and Tears in Heaven (7)
21. Gait in which a horse moves its legs in diagonal pairs (4)
22. Greek goddess of the earth, mother of Cronus and the Titans (4)
her friend’s two children are murdered by their estranged husband and father.
This shocking act of domestic violence leaves Paula grief-stricken and questioning her professional and moral responsibilities.
Not long after this devastating event, she encounters a patient, Anita, whose husband has frequently injured her, bringing Paula uncomfortably
fear, trauma, and the limits of the systems meant to protect vulnerable people.
Paula is deeply committed to her medical oath to ‘do no harm’, yet she is forced to confront unsettling questions. Is inaction itself a form of harm? Can she intervene to prevent another tragedy, and what would such intervention cost her ethically and personally? Can she take a life to save another life?
about responsibility, prevention, and how such violence might be stopped.
Debra Oswald’s writing is clear, controlled, and easy to read, and Paula’s dilemma feels totally believable. I found it almost impossible to put the book down, despite, or perhaps because of, the serious moral questions it poses.