Summerset Scene, Autumn 2024

Scene Summerset

MASTER OF THE GAMES – COMING FIRST FIRST IN – MOVING TO MILLDALE IN LIVING COLOUR – THE MAN WHO CHANGED TV

A FAMILY AFFAIR

COVER Lois Anderson displays some of her medals. Photo credits: Paul Petch from Christchurch Photographer.

Whangārei

Milldale

Hobsonville

Ellerslie

Karaka

Rototuna

8,000

More than New Zealanders call

Cambridge

Summerset home

Nelson

Richmond

Hamilton

Bell Block

New Plymouth

Wanganui

Levin

Waikanae

Paraparaumu

Warkworth

Half Moon Bay

Manukau

Katikati

Avonhead

Wigram

Prebbleton

Blenheim

Rangiora

Casebrook

Mosgiel Rolleston

Dunedin

Trentham

Lower Hutt

Aotea

Kenepuru

KEY

Papamoa Beach

St Johns Rotorua

Taupō

Napier

Te Awa

Hastings

Havelock North

Palmerston North

Kelvin Grove

Masterton

= Summerset village

= Proposed village

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magazine@summerset.co.nz

Hello from Ellie

Welcome back to the first Summerset Scene of the year! According to the calendar we are in autumn, but it still feels like summer to me, and what a stunner of a summer it has been! Good weather makes competing much more pleasant for this issue’s cover star, keen athlete Lois Anderson who lives at Summerset Prebbleton in the South Island. Read her story on page 4.

My parents visited from the UK recently, and we enjoyed exploring the delights of Auckland and surrounds. On my travels, I popped into Summerset Falls in Warkworth to chat with the man who brought colour television and Coronation Street to New Zealand! Read Eric Price’s story on page 15.

I also visited Les and Mary Cave, the very first residents to move into new village Summerset Milldale. Les’s job as a gardener at arguably one of Auckland’s most unique attractions certainly stood both their own garden and the communal gardens in good stead. Read their story on page 10.

The adage goes that 'mother knows best', and some of the mothers in Summerset at Heritage Park know the best place to live is where they can keep a close eye on their children. Five of the residents living there have family who work at the village; read the story on page 38.

We also talk to Summerset’s oldest resident, 108-year-old Ruby Rohrer, who moved back to New Zealand from America when she was 106. Jude Dobson shares tales of her recent visit to Aoraki/ Mount Cook, and Lynda Hallinan shares the secrets to a successful crop of salad greens.

We also have book recommendations, crafts, style tips and puzzles, and don’t

forget to check out our Summerset Sessions page so you can see what is coming up.

I wish you all a wonderful autumn, and I look forward to seeing you on my travels.

Ellie Clifford SUMMERSET SCENE EDITOR

Master of the Games

COMING FIRST

When Summerset Scene catches up with 77-year-old Lois Anderson, she is in the middle of her weekly walk with friends along the Avon River in Christchurch.

BY ELLIE CLIFFORD

It’s a good way for Lois to stretch her muscles, as they had some intensive use over the weekend when she was in Dunedin competing in the Masters Games. Lois competed in seven events on the day: the 100-metre sprint, the shot put, the javelin throw, the hammer throw, the long jump, the weight throw, and the triple jump. Lois came first in every event.

“I attended a country school with a sole teacher who was keen on fitness, which was what got me started,” Lois recalls. “I started going to the nearest athletics training centre, and when I was 15 a bank manager from Balclutha, who had been a keen athlete himself,

thought I showed promise. So he offered to train me and some others. He was my coach until I was 19. He gave me a training schedule and I would train four times a week. In winter we would do stamina work, which meant running along the banks of the Clutha River. We would also carpool to the beach to practice our running and used the sand dunes to practice the long jump.”

It wasn’t just the Balclutha bank manager that encouraged Lois in her passion. Her parents were incredibly supportive, with her father driving her to and from training, and her mother ensuring she ate the right foods for optimal nutrition and that she had the right clothes to train in. “I was the second of eight children, and we lived out on a farm in the countryside, so it wasn’t always easy. But they always believed we ought to make the most of every opportunity we were given,” Lois remembers. “Dad dug and marked out a long jump for me. It doubled as a cricket pitch for my brother!”

At 19, Lois headed off to university in Dunedin where she studied physical education. Sole parenting her young daughter as well as studying at Teacher's College, later, meant that there was little time to compete, although she still played sports when she could. “I was in a hockey team when my daughter was a baby,” she said. “She would come with me to practice.”

After Teacher's College, Lois and her daughter moved to Palmerston, Otago, where she met her second husband, Allen. “He was the woodworking teacher and I was the PE teacher. It was a small country school and children were all mainstreamed together. We had children with a variety of special needs, and that’s the area I focused on. I would go on a lot of camps with them.”

Aged 35, Lois rekindled her love of competing and entered the Masters Games, which she has taken part in ever since.

“My favourite is the 100-metre or 200-metre sprint, but I do a variety of sports,” Lois says. “Before Covid I would compete in the Pacific Games, which are held in Australia and the Pacific Islands.”

Although she doesn’t know all her fellow competitors, she does know some of them. “I have run against one lady for 30 years!” Lois laughs. “We always keep an eye on each other. Although, in the 2016 World Athletics Championships in Perth I did a heptathlon and we were on the same relay team. I really enjoy the relays as you are supporting others, and you are trying your best for them rather than for yourself.” Lois finished the heptathlon third. “With tape holding together my Achilles!”

Supporting others is as important to Lois as her fitness. As well as caring for a disabled woman every Friday afternoon, she is a keen volunteer in a community garden and cleans her local church. Busy times for someone who also plays golf and trains regularly for athletic competitions. “Taking care of others has always been my family’s ethos,” Lois reflects. “But it was also the ethos of the school I taught at for 22 years. It was very inclusive. Disabled people ought to be given the same opportunities as everyone else.”

Although she has won numerous medals, for Lois it’s not all about breaking records, it’s the challenge. In 2016 she ran the New York marathon along with one of her three daughters.

“My parents had recently passed away and I wanted to go and spend time with my sister who lives in New York, but I didn’t want to just

Bottom left: Lois with some of her medals. Bottom centre: Bronze, silver and gold medals. Bottom right: Demonstrating the discus.

wander around art galleries and museums. I wanted to do something ‘real’,” Lois explains.

Lois began training in earnest 18 months before the race. “I would go with my husband in the car to his golf club in Lincoln, and then I would run home. I always kept running shoes in the car. I ran everywhere I could. I would run for an hour and then join a jogging group for another hour of running.”

By the time the marathon arrived, Lois hadn’t been able to run for a month as she had over-trained. “I had shin splints,” she explains. “I thought there was no way I could compete. But when I got on the plane and saw the blind and wheelchair-bound competitors from New Zealand heading over to take part, I thought, ‘What am I whingeing about?’ I ran a 5km pre-race warmup and realised I could run just fine.” Lois’ sister and family were there to cheer her and her daughter on.

Completing the marathon and being handed a blue cloak was a surreal and humbling experience for Lois.

“Eighty thousand people took part,” says Lois. “I was in a later wave of runners and by the time I finished it was almost dark. I was wandering down 5th Avenue in the blue heat-preserving cloak, trying to find my way back to the hotel!”

Lois and Allen have lived in Summerset Prebbleton since August 2023. “We are residents 30 and 31,” she says. “We wanted an easier lifestyle with less home maintenance. We felt settled from week one. Everyone is very friendly, but we aren’t in each other’s pockets.” Lois appreciates both the convenience to the city and to her golf club, as well as the opportunities to socialise and have her own space. “I go out in the minibus with others on trips, we have a monthly residents’ meeting, and I have joined the Rummikub group.”

For Lois, proximity to the local domain is also a benefit, as she heads there to practise her sports. “I have all my equipment in the garage. Any piece of grass will do. Though this morning as I was practising the javelin a dog started coming over – I had to hold back my throw as it would’ve thought it was a big stick to chase!”

Top: Practising the shot put.

Movin' on up: Moving specialists lend a hand

Preparing to move house can be hard, and our moving specialists are there to make the shift as easy and seamless as possible.

Judy Board, who recently moved into her villa at Summerset Cambridge, says she had a fantastic moving experience. “As we age there are times when even the simplest tasks seem enormous,” says Judy. “To have a moving specialist assist and remove those seemingly difficult tasks ensures a smooth transition. The icing on the cake was when Trish (Bright, moving specialist) was there to meet me at my beribboned front door!”

Summerset Milldale residents Lana and Garry Wolfgram agree. Despite feeling daunted by the task, the Wolfgrams were reassured by the guidance, support and practical advice from moving specialist Anna Irvine. Lana says, “Despite the hands-on assistance, we always felt in control, a crucial aspect during such a significant life change. Downsizing and moving to a retirement village became an opportunity for new adventures, thanks to the meticulous planning, dedication and support we received.”

Some of our new Milldale and Cambridge residents.

Partnering with the Keystone Trust

Summerset has partnered with Keystone Trust, an organisation that helps young people held back by inequality to access the education needed to move into a successful property or construction career.

Recently we were delighted to present our first scholarship recipient, Maggie Hu, with a certificate at the Keystone Trust’s awards evening. Maggie is studying a Bachelor of Construction at Massey University, and will gain work experience with us as a quantity surveyor.

Summerset staff in Auckland also joined in Try for Charity – a day of touch rugby competitions. Teams from New Zealand’s property and construction sector took part to raise money for Keystone Trust.

Although our team didn’t win, it was a great day of fun in the sun, and a whopping $30,000 was raised!

RAP in Australia

We are proud to share that Summerset Retirement Villages has been granted official endorsement for our first ‘Reflect’ Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) from Reconciliation Australia.

Summerset Retirement Villages is founded on a deep respect for people, and acknowledges the need for affirmative action towards reconciliation in Australia. To represent our Reflect RAP, Samantha Richards, a proud Indigenous woman from the Wurundjeri and Dja Dja Wurrung tribes, created our incredible artwork (pictured right). The artwork conveys the concept of community through a large central circle surrounded by smaller circles. It pays tribute to the traditional Australian landscape with the elements of triangles representing mountains and four circles symbolising water or swamps.

Layers of yellow, red and purple represent the earth’s history and the artefacts hidden beneath. The story embodies the idea of staff and

residents, people depicted as U shapes, coming together within the red outline circle. Represented in the art through circles, they share knowledge, strengths and experiences to create a new community as a place for people to feel safe, supported and connected.

We look forward to deepening our appreciation and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People’s cultures and needs, and progressing our commitment to reconciliation.

Papamoa's village centre officially opens

Valentine’s Day saw the official opening of the village centre at Summerset by the Dunes. Residents and Summerset ambassador Jude Dobson enjoyed a sumptuous afternoon tea in the beautifully decorated village centre. In progress for almost two and half years, the Construction team have delivered a high-quality facility for everyone to enjoy.

This is more than just a building, as local iwi Te Kapu o Waitaha released the land to Summerset in 2018 and maintain a special partnership, which includes Summerset supporting Te HouHou tertiary health scholarships. It is hoped that some of those Waitaha scholars will return to work in the village.

Summerset by the Dunes, Papamoa.

FIRST IN: MOVING TO MILLDALE

For Les and Mary Cave, walking through their front door at Summerset Milldale for the first time felt like coming home, despite their villa being bought off-plan and being the first residents to move into the village.

The couple, who relocated from Manly on Auckland’s Hibiscus Coast, had been looking around for a while before they found Summerset. “We knew we wanted to move into a retirement village and do it while we still had our health,” says Mary. “My sister and her husband, who coincidentally is Les’s brother, live in a retirement village. We were impressed by the spacious villa and a community facility at Summerset Milldale which will offer care options if the need arises. Care options take the pressure off family. We ended up choosing our home while it was being built. There was only Nicola Redmond in the sales portacom on site at that stage, with the homes under construction. We were so impressed with Nicola’s knowledge, efficiency and helpfulness that we knew it was the right decision for us.”

The couple were admittedly daunted by the prospect of downsizing from a larger home to a two-bedroom villa. “Anna Irvine, Summerset’s moving specialist, came to us before moving and gave us advice.” Mary is pragmatic. “It is mostly just ‘stuff’, and we could go through it all together. Anna’s help was invaluable. On the day we moved in, she had directed the moving company on where to place the items. It was outstanding. When we walked through our new front door I was almost in tears. All our things

had been placed perfectly. It was just like coming home.”

Although the Caves were the first to move in, they don’t feel alone. “The Village Manager is working out of the villa next door,” says Mary, “and Sales are next door to him. The staff here are all great. We also get on well with the Property team. The Construction team is helpful, courteous and friendly. Several other residents have now moved in too.”

For Les, the village is ideally placed for his part-time job at the Sculptureum, the unique and creative art gallery and sculpture garden in Matakana, where he is gardener. “I have been there for eight years, before it opened to the public,” he says. “I am part of a small team there and we do get to offer our opinions to the owners on what plants will show the art in the best light. My favourite is a perennial called Gaura (‘Whirling Butterflies'). We use it to great effect for displays. Funnily enough, Summerset has planted a different variety of it around the village, which I am delighted by.”

Les has a keen interest in how the gardens at Summerset will evolve. “I taught science, biology and horticulture at Mahurangi College for 27 years and I enjoy propagating plants. The pupils and I would go to Tāwharanui Regional

Park and replant a lot of the natives there. There are raised planters here and our grandson Hugo and I planted the first crop of veggies, which are growing outrageously and cropping after just eight weeks.”

The Summerset temporary rec centre is in the process of being erected, and the pair are looking forward to a place where they can gather with their new community. “There are going to be some great facilities here,” says Les. “I am especially looking forward to Lumin in our villas. It will be a good way to find out what’s going on in the village.”

“There are going to be some great facilities here. I am especially looking forward to Lumin in our villas. It will be a good way to find out what's going on in the village.”

Although the pair are excited to be part of the new community at Milldale, they have many interests outside of the village. Mary works as a dental receptionist one day a week and is active in a book club, bridge club and a walking group. “Les and I go for a lot of walks around the Milldale area. There is plenty of variety,” she says. Les agrees. “I think as it grows it will develop into a great community. There are cycle tracks and walking paths around the perimeter, and there is lots of open space.”

Top: Mary and Les Cave at their new home.

Bottom: Les at work at the Sculptureum.

VILLAGE PIPELINE

Construction is well underway at five future villages across the country.

SUMMERSET WAIKANAE

This is the perfect spot for a relaxed coastal retirement lifestyle. We have welcomed our first residents to the village.

SUMMERSET ST JOHNS

On the edge of Auckland’s Eastern Bays, Summerset St Johns is the address for a luxurious retirement experience. The first homes will be ready mid-2024, with plans and pricing available now.

Perfectly positioned next to Boulcott’s Farm Heritage Golf Course in Lower Hutt, the first homes are ready and we have welcomed our first residents to the village.

SUMMERSET BLENHEIM

Situated in the heart of sunny, wine-growing Marlborough, the first homes have just been completed and we have already welcomed our first residents.

Summerset Milldale offers easy access to everything on the Hibiscus Coast that a busy retirement life demands. The first homes are ready and we have welcomed our first residents. Plans and pricing for other homes are available now.

NEW ZEALAND LAND BANK DESIGN CONSENT CONSTRUCTION

Boulcott, Wellington

Waikanae, Wellington

Milldale, Auckland

St Johns, Auckland

Blenheim

Half Moon Bay, Auckland

Rangiora, Canterbury

Kelvin Grove, Palmerston North

Masterton, Wairarapa

Rotorua, Bay of Plenty

Mosgiel, Otago

Rolleston, Canterbury

SUMMERSET BOULCOTT

SUMMERSET MILLDALE

Green Update

As part of our commitment to reducing our impact on the environment, we are delighted to help Scouts Aotearoa New Zealand through our care centre refurbishment programme.

Beginning at Summerset at the Course in Trentham, old care centre fixtures and fittings are being given a new lease of life by local Scout groups. Spearheaded by Summerset’s senior systems engineer Jono MacKenzie, Group Leader of his local Scout group, the partnership is mutually beneficial.

“Scout halls need upkeep, and the cost of this often gets passed on to the families. Many of our members are from low-income households, and it’s part of the Scouts ethos that we are inclusive of all young people,” says Jono.

Over the past few months, Jono has been working closely with construction staff on-site in Trentham to arrange for Scouting members to come in and remove what they need and take it away.

So far at Trentham, the Scouts have taken away LED lights, basins, toilets, doors, and door hardware from several rooms. “Although Summerset would have recycled these items as much as we could, there are still costs associated with their removal and disposal. This

is a win-win for both Summerset and the local community group. The Scouts who participate in the removal also earn credit towards a Better World badge, so it benefits everyone.”

As Summerset in the Vines in Havelock North and Summerset by the Ranges in Levin are due to start their care centre refurbishment soon, Jono, who is Group Leader of Newlands Scout group in Wellington, is keen to reach out to the local Scout groups in the area. Donations make a vast difference to the groups’ funds.

Although the buildings are owned by Scouting Aotearoa, each Scout group is the custodian of the buildings, and Scout halls get a lot of wear and tear. Jono says, “In one instance we needed to replace a damaged toilet that was installed in the 1960s.

"Through Summerset, one of our bathroom vendors, Newtech, donated an $800 toilet, so we only had to pay for the installation. This meant that rather than facing a $1,400 bill we only had to pay $600.”

It is not only fixtures and fittings that get recycled and donated. In late 2023, several IT devices that were coming to the end of their working life at Summerset made their way to the 23rd Aotearoa New Zealand Scout Jamboree, where 4,000 scouts gathered at Mystery Creek in Hamilton. Fifty laptops, fifty computers and a number of mobile phones were donated so that newsletters, schedules, registers and surveys could be completed digitally rather than printed on paper.

And our recycling efforts don’t stop there. After their return from Jamboree, Summerset has donated 25 computers to Araura College on Aitutaki in the Cook Islands, and 450 mobile phones to Recycling for Charity, an organisation that refurbishes electronic

equipment and sells it, with the proceeds going to the Wellington Hospital Foundation as part of their fundraising.

Photo: Donating 25 laptops to Araura College on Aitutaki in the Cook Islands.

Top left:Jono MacKenzie (L) spearheaded the recycling initiative. Top right: Removing items. Bottom left and right: Jamboree site.

IN LIVING COLOUR

BY ELLIE CLIFFORD

It is fortunate for New Zealanders that Eric Price of Summerset Falls worked in television’s ‘Golden Age’. He brought colour television to our shores and delivered the world Coronation Street.

Eric started his career producing dramas at His Majesty’s Theatre in Auckland. Receiving a bursary from the New Zealand government, he went to the UK to study at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London, alongside Dame Judi Dench and Dame Vanessa Redgrave.

In 1956, this led to work at Ealing Films as assistant director, working with many of the screen greats. “Once, my car broke down on the Ealing bypass. I had the bonnet up, entirely blocked from view apart from my legs. A Rolls-Royce drove past, and a moment later it reversed back. A voice said, ‘Want a lift, Eric? I’m going to Shepperton but Fred [the driver] will drop you at Elstree.’ It was Sir Alec Guinness! In the car I asked how he’d recognised me. On set he’d commented on the pattern of my bespoke Savile Row suit – he was planning on wearing the same in the film The Scapegoa t. He had recognised me from my trouser leg!” Eric laughs.

Sir Alec was a gent but others were harder work. “Bette Davis was difficult to work with,” remembers Eric. “Though she was brilliant. She would observe everyone on set and would say what everyone should be doing. She was invariably right.” Eric says back then stars rose through the ranks, working behind the scenes and understanding all aspects of production. The

Above: Eric with a scrapbook of his work.

star was the studio or production company. “You worked on it for the love of the broadcast, not for the fame. In those days, a handshake was a contract. It is different now, it’s all about ego.”

What of one of the most famous streets in television history, Coronation Street? Eric was there from earlier than episode one, as he helped set up the programme for Granada Television. “London was the epicentre for all things film and television. Coronation Street was different. It was set in the north of England; you had to be able to converse in the idiom and do it convincingly!” Twenty-one writers from the Manchester area were recruited and trained up. “One bloke was a milkman. He went on to be incredibly successful!” says Eric. Early viewers of the show might remember the character of Ena Sharples, the formidable and judgemental gossip, recognisable by her ever-present hairnet and double-breasted overcoat. “Originally she written as a skinny harridan, but we couldn’t find anyone to fit the bill,” says Eric. Violet Carson, who played piano for the comic Wilfred Pickles and read books on Children’s Hour on BBC Radio, was a local. No shrewish fishwife, Violet Carson’s Ena was a sturdy, moralising battleaxe. “She was perfect from the get-go. We had to rewrite the character for her,” says Eric.

It was the imminent hosting of the 1974 Commonwealth Games in Christchurch that spurred New Zealand to embrace colour television. Eric was then at the BBC. “NZBC (the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation) contacted the Beeb and asked if they knew anyone for the job. I was coming to the end of my contract, and they cabled me an offer. It was far too low!” Eric says. “I was going to turn it down, but I got word that my father was terminally ill in Auckland. The decision to say yes was an easy one.”

Eric came back to New Zealand in 1972, and set about delivering colour television. “I didn’t have very long at all."

“The Games were almost upon us,” Eric recalls. "Colour TV was a different beast to the status quo, requiring entirely different equipment and a mindset shift."

As colour consultant, Eric began training staff in the art of scene and set composition. “A colour television camera had a three-colour system – red, green and blue – which would blend together to make the colour.” Eric would recruit a blonde woman in a blue dress with a green scarf to stand against a pink wall in front of the camera – known as coffin cameras because of their sheer size. “In colour she looked incredible. In black and white she totally disappeared. Since not everyone would

have a colour television, it was necessary to think very carefully about these factors.

Training the TV crew to think about tones rather than colours was key,” says Eric.

Eric’s contract was fulfilled when colour television was launched in New Zealand on 31 October 1973, in preparation for the Games.

Eric says that Sir David Attenborough arrived in New Zealand to persuade him to come back to London to take over the role of the directorgeneral of the BBC. “David had been groomed for the job,” laughs Eric. “But he wanted to keep making his nature programmes. He was told by the powers that he would be released from his obligation if he convinced me to come back.”

Although ultimately Sir David Attenborough would not become the director-general, it wasn’t because Eric had accepted the role. “My wife put her foot down,” said Eric. “She said I had disrupted the family once and couldn’t do it again. So here we stayed.”

Remaining in the industry until his retirement, Eric was inspired by his earlier study of tones and shades to take up painting. His watercolours adorn the walls of his Warkworth villa. “In paintings you look for tones; dark, mid and light. You change the colour of what is there to create a contrast. I have always admired the Flemish artists as well as Turner and Gainsborough; their use of light and contrast is incredible.”

Eric has lived at in his villa at Summerset Falls for 14 years. “I moved in with my Japanese Akita, Ichiban. I chose the village because it is pet friendly. It’s funny that I ended up retiring here –Warkworth is where I first started school!”

Right: The orignal cast of Coronation Street.

RESIDENTS RACE AT THE GT CHAMPIONSHIPS

In scenes reminiscent of Top Gear , four lucky residents from our Christchurch villages enjoyed a hot lap around the racetrack at Euromarque Motorsport Park Ruapuna, in Christchurch. As the primary sponsors of the GT New Zealand Championships, we are delighted to offer our residents the chance to enjoy the motor races. Ian Bright of Summerset Prebbleton, Don Cowlin of Summerset at Wigram, Warren Masters of Summerset on Cavendish (pictured), and John Winder of Summerset at Avonhead won the Summerset draw to accompany a driver around the track.

Donning a full racing suit and helmet, our intrepid residents enjoyed zooming around the track in Porsche 992s with drivers Paul Southam and Sam Fillmore. Reaching speeds of up to 220kph on the straight, it was a wild ride, thoroughly enjoyed by all. Congratulations too to Adrienne Todd from Summerset at Wigram and Alistair McGregor from Summerset at Avonhead, who both won a double VIP pass to the weekend races, which included lunch and drinks in the hospitality tent for them and a guest.

FOOD ENRICHMENT PROGRAMME A GREAT SUCCESS

In winter 2023 Summerset began a clinically-led food initiative to enrich our resident menus with increased protein and calcium. The aim of the project was to increase weight gain for residents within the care centre, and to reduce the likelihood of broken bones caused by falls. An improved offering was also developed for our residents requiring texture-modified food, and this menu is now fortified with protein and calcium as well as vitamins and minerals.

The results from the initiative are in, and they are outstanding. Residents receiving hospital level, rest home level and dementia level care all put on an average of 1.4kg over the year, with our most frail residents putting on 2kg. There has also been a reduction in broken bones associated with falls.

To ensure we are meeting the needs of all our residents we continue to provide snacks and dishes that are fortified with protein and calcium, for example, ice cream, custard, yoghurt, cheese and bread.

JUDE ON... SEEING NEW ZEALAND

In the 1980s there was an advertising campaign that promoted New Zealand as a travel destination to locals with the phrase "Don’t leave town till you've seen the country." It featured a Kiwi guy travelling the world, and the people he met had more knowledge of his home country than he did. The Parisian waitress knew about Milford Sound, the New York cabbie the Bay of Islands. Until recently I’d have been embarrassed to say I had not seen Aoraki/Mt Cook if someone overseas started telling me how good it was. But I’ve fixed that now.

In January we headed south for a wedding in Wanaka. There is something about a wedding that is plain good for the soul – whether you’ve been married for decades like me or gone through a challenging divorce as a woman I enjoyed talking to at the reception had. We agreed that a wedding reminds you that love is a powerful and wonderful thing worth grabbing and preserving if the opportunity presents itself. Weddings also remind you about the support of family and friends and why that is important.

After the beauty of Central Otago in summer we drove north. What a gorgeous part of the country that is! The rolling hills with all the changing light and the special blue of Lake Pukaki. I can see why landscape artists love painting it. Tekapo and Twizel are nice stops, and if you want to see what the stars really look like, you are in the right part of the country to do it, with operators offering amazing opportunities to see what is out there without the light pollution of a town or city.

I have always had Mt Cook on my bucket list and I was super happy to tick it off. My fitness has gone a little pear-shaped in recent months, so I was not up for a mountain-goat-type experience to see it, but I did want to get my walking shoes on and get out there in the elements. Thankfully the mother of the bride recommended just the walk for me. The Hooker Valley track is a 10km walk on a well-maintained DOC track, which is easy going. There are three swing bridges which are a bit of fun – nothing scary, just a bit of a wobble as you cross. It is of course mountain terrain, and the weather is a bit of a lottery.

Thankfully we stayed the night, because the day we got there the track was closed due to wind and rain. It would have been hard to believe the next morning, because it was clear blue skies with just a wee breath of wind when you needed it to keep you cool.

The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre at the Hermitage has some fascinating information on Sir Edmund Hillary, and a great film about him too. So, all in all, a great place to visit. Put it on your list, I reckon, because, as they say, "Don’t leave town till you’ve seen the country!"

Jude in front of Aoraki/Mt Cook.

FIVE QUESTIONS

Ruby Rohrer lives in the care centre at Summerset at Heritage Park in Auckland. Aged 108 years old, she is Summerset’s oldest resident.

Ruby with her son celebrating her 108th birthday.

What has been your greatest adventure?

My whole life has been an adventure! I moved to Summerset at Heritage Park from America aged 106! I am a Kiwi. I was born in Devonport on Auckland’s North Shore, but I moved to America when I married. Devonport was a sleepy little village then; everyone knew everyone. It was very quiet. When I moved to America it was totally different. I lived in San Diego – my house was on a main thoroughfare with lots of lights. The street led down to the beach. I used to swim in Devonport when I was younger (there were bathing sheds at Stanley Bay Beach), but I didn’t swim in San Diego – the water was too cold!

What has been your favourite activity to take part in?

I used to love to dance. When I was a child we had two dance teachers who lived opposite the school, Miss Marge and

Miss Beryl. We used to do a recital every year, and it was a lot of fun being up on stage. One I particularly enjoyed was a performance of “There was an Old Woman who Lived in a Shoe.” We had a giant shoe up on the stage and we did ballet and tap dance. I loved to tap dance. I had the special shoes and everything. When I was older I would go to the cabaret in Auckland with my friends. I am moving my feet now just remembering the steps!

What would be your advice to your 21-year-old self?

I would say manners will get you far. Being polite and courteous goes a long way. Everyone appreciates it. Also, make sure you enjoy your work. I did – for a long time I was a bookkeeper. When I worked doing the books for my brother’s hardware store there was a bigger hardware store across the street and the men who worked there would always call out to me and say things and wave. Even though

always polite to them.

What would be your ideal way to spend a day?

With friends and family around me, but I also loved to garden. I had a beautiful garden with flowers and plants. I don’t have a favourite flower but I just used to love to plant and grow things. It kept me very busy. Knitting was also fun. I have made countless sweaters over the years. And I can’t forget spending time with my dog, Mr Wiggles. He stayed in America with family when I moved here but he is lovely. He was always climbing up onto my chair to be close to me.

You’re 108 – what is your secret to a long life?

I have no idea! I can’t say it was healthy eating, as I used to really enjoy fast food. Maybe just being busy and spending time with family and friends. All my memories are good ones!

Summerset Sings

Summerset favourite Will

Martin is back, and he has teamed up once again with Irish singer/songwriter Chloë

Agnew for the first Summerset

Sings concert of 2024. The Celtic-themed concert was recorded live in an Irish pub in honour of St Patrick’s Day and can be found on our website at www.summerset.co.nz/ summerset-sings/

Cooking with a MasterChef –Sweet and Savoury Recipes

with Pic’s Peanut Butter

Filmed live in front of an audience at Summerset

Richmond Ranges, MasterChef

Brett McGregor takes us step-by-step through three unique and tasty dishes using local company Pic’s peanut butter.

Whether you’re a novice cook or know your way around the kitchen, there is something to inspire everyone to get cooking in this series.

Available to view via the website at www. summerset.co.nz/cooking-with-a-masterchef/

Summerset Big Quiz

Keep the grey matter on top form and join us on Zoom every second Wednesday of the month at 2:30pm. The next quiz is Wednesday 10 April at 2:30pm

There are four rounds of 10 questions, each a different category, and two spot prize questions where you may win a bottle of wine to enjoy at the next quiz. Whether in a team or individually, all are welcome!

Zoom code: 851 8722 4668 or visit: https://summerset.zoom.us/j/85187224668

The NZSO has unveiled its highly anticipated 2024 season, “Mātātoa Intrepid Adventures”, which NZSO Artistic Advisor and Principal Conductor Gemma New says “celebrates the intrinsically adventurous, open-hearted and all-embracing Kiwi spirit.” Global music luminaries like violinists Maxim Vengerov, Augustin Hadelich, Christian Tetzlaff and pianist Alexander Gavrylyuk feature.

The NZSO and Summerset are proud to continue a thriving partnership, and Summerset residents can enjoy 25% off most concerts* using the discount code SUMMERSET25. To find out about upcoming concerts visit www.nzso.co.nz. Sign up to NZSO+ for behind-the-scenes content and concerts at: www.nzso.co.nz/plus *some exclusions apply.

We have heaps of great things lined up for our 2024 Summerset Sessions

A Summerset World

Produced and directed by Kiwi actor William Kircher, A Summerset World is filmed specifically for our residents and friends of Summerset. Each episode profiles a different village and showcases some of the residents living there. Our first ever episode was filmed at Summerset by the Ranges in Levin and featured a snow village – in the heart of summer! Since then, we have showcased life at six other villages.

In sunny Hawke’s Bay, William has been driven around by residents of Summerset in the Bay in a beautifully restored 1951 Vauxhall Velox and enjoyed a tasting of local wines with Summerset in the Orchard’ s wine club members.

In the South Island, William has taken to the skies in a resident’s flight simulator, and co-host Pinky Agnew enjoyed a private performance from Summerset at Wigram ’s married musical duo.

Our latest episode was filmed at Summerset Richmond Ranges , where we meet wood carvers, artists and a former NZ rugby league player, and take a line dancing class. We visit the printing club and sit down with a mother and daughter duo, who both live in the village. This year, A Summerset World heads to six more Summerset villages. We cannot wait to see what is discovered!

Summerset's Best Garden

The competition celebrates residents who love to tend to their gardens, plants and veges! Judged by top landscaper and radio host Tony Murrell there are four categories our residents can enter in, in each of the four seasons, and the winner of each category receives a $250 Gift Card from Mitre10. Congratulations to our summer winners!

Best Garden – Meridee Steele of Summerset Mountain View

Tony says: “I love your plant selection for summer, with lots of colour, texture and form.”

Prized Potted Plant – Indoor or OutdoorAnne Weston of Summerset at Wigram

Tony says: “After cherishing this maidenhair fern over 48 years, it’s clear you’ve a strong understanding of its requirements based on its health and vitality.”

Eco-Friendly Garden Les and Mary Cave –Summerset Milldale

Tony says: “It’s astonishing that within weeks of moving in you have an abundance of healthy produce to share with others. Well done.”

Upcycled Garden Display – Jim Diggle –Summerset in the Orchard, Hastings

Tony says: “By exploring the Hawke’s Bay beaches and bringing back your treasured finds, you have found lovely tactile material to work with.”

VILLAGE PEOPLE

Photo 1: The best way to travel! Residents of Summerset Mountain View enjoyed their recent Pukekura Park buggy outing.

Photo 2: Summerset Mount Denby residents know you’re never too old to enjoy a bouncy castle.

Photo 3: On yer bike! Summerset by the Lake's biking group have been making the most of the beautiful weather.

Photo 4: It was a fun guessing game on Valentine’s Day at Summerset on the Landing; which resident’s wedding was it, based only on the photo, location and date.

Photo 5: Summerset on Cavendish residents present a giant cheque to the BrainTree Trust, having raised an astonishing $12,459.20 for the charity.

Photo 6: The competition is hotting up at Summerset in the River City’s annual Village Games.

Photo 7: These residents at Summerset in the Orchard know how to ring in the New Year.

Photo 8: Summerset at Wigram resident Ray Elder with the tea trolley he lovingly restored for the care centre.

Photo 9: Flower fairies! Summerset by the Park residents enjoy a visit to a sunflower farm.

Photo 10: “It’s behind you!” Summerset Monterey Park residents wrote, directed and starred in Christmas Crossbones Ahoy, a pantomime for family, friends and fellow residents.

Photo 11: Not a day over 24! Richmond Ranges leap year baby Olwyn may technically be 96 years old but has only celebrated on her actual birthday 24 times.

Photo 12: Summerset Pohutukawa Place residents enjoy cruising in a convertible for AmeriCARna.

Photo 13: TV presenter and Summerset’s Best Garden Judge Tony Murrell popped in on a prior winner at Summerset Falls in Warkworth.

Residents enjoyed a tropical vibe with their recent Hawaiian night.

Photo 15: Summerset on Cavendish residents enjoy a recent tour of the 21-hectare Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

Photo 16: Summerset at the Course residents raised a whopping $9,312 at their Market Day, for both Wellington Free Ambulance and Te Omanga Hospice.

Peter Savoy

BY ELLIE CLIFFORD

Peter Savoy is Summerset’s National Construction Manager. Hailing from Scotland, Peter has worked on some huge projects globally, including London’s Shard of Glass as Construction Director, and the Kingdom Tower in Jeddeh, touted to be the world’s tallest skyscraper. Peter has been with Summerset for six years.

“School didn’t suit me so I left early and started working on building sites in 1984. I took an apprenticeship in bricklaying,” says Peter. “Coming from Northeast Scotland there were jobs in distilleries. On snowy mornings the distillery manager would come and give everyone a wee dram of whisky. How times have changed!”

Completing his apprenticeship, Peter soon headed to London where he worked on a range of building projects, including a stint in Barcelona preparing for the 1992 Olympics. Moving into construction management roles, he was recruited for the Construction Director role at the Shard, at the time Europe’s tallest building at 307 metres, and a source of fascination to Londoners watching it being built. “The project was by far the most challenging I had worked on but one of the most satisfying,” remembers Peter. “At its peak we had a workforce of 1,800 and we were constructing a floor slab every 4 to 5 days. We were never out of the papers. Channel 4 did a documentary called The Tallest Tower about it. My one claim to fame!”

Peter had been working in Saudi Arabia when he heard about the role at Summerset. Peter had been working on the Kingdom Tower, which when completed is projected to be more than 1 kilometre high. “There was a recruitment drive for New Zealand, and my wife, Diana, who is a Kiwi, and I wanted to relocate. Although working in the retirement sector was new for me once I realised the scale of what Summerset does, I leapt aboard.”

Peter is responsible for the safe delivery of all new and ongoing construction activity at Summerset, supporting the construction teams at villages around the country. Witnessing new staff gel and pull together as a high-performing team is a source of immense satisfaction to Peter. “Engaging with the teams on developing villages, from the first home opening to us closing the gate after the final building is handed over, is such a great journey.”

Summerset develops, designs, constructs, and operates our villages, an entirely different environment to what Peter, as a main contractor, was used to. “As a main contractor, the focus is on completion at all costs, which

can compromise quality. At Summerset we take a much longer view on this and so we take the time to get things right. Obviously, a lot of external factors can affect the building trade. Covid, weather delays, consent delays, supply issues and staff shortages all pose challenges. Our staff work extremely hard to pull together as a team to overcome them.”

Peter particularly enjoys the opportunity to help develop the careers of others at Summerset. “Our teams across the country are encouraged to enter career development plans, which offer a structured pathway to advance their careers in construction.”

When he is not visiting villages around the country, Peter likes to spend his downtime cycling or reading, and the weekends see him whipping up dishes in the kitchen for Diana and his two sons, William and Cameron. Both have followed their dad’s footsteps into the construction industry, with Cameron a Construction Cadet in Summerset. “We are all very proud of our Cadet Programme,” says Peter. “This year will see three of our first Cadets complete the training programme and graduate.”

“WE ARE ALL VERY PROUD OF OUR CADET PROGRAMME. THIS YEAR WILL SEE THREE OF OUR FIRST CADETS COMPLETE THE TRAINING PROGRAMME AND GRADUATE.”

AUTUMN ENTICEMENTS

THE MORNINGS HAVE BECOME QUITE CRISP SINCE SUMMER DISAPPEARED IN THE REAR-VISION MIRROR. MY MENU REGULARS HAVE CHANGED FROM LIGHT SALADS TO MORE SUBSTANTIAL OFFERINGS SHOWCASING THE PLETHORA OF FLAVOURSOME OPTIONS FROM THE GARDEN.

Now, when celery is at its best, I know it must be autumn. This versatile veg is the base of so many soups – my go-to meal for autumnal lunches – as well as casseroles and stews. Just as well, as the celery is booming this year.

An abundance of apples throughout the country is another bonus. Crisp slices served with goats’ cheese and drizzled with fig vincotto or pomegranate molasses make an excellent snack for unexpected guests – a delicious gluten-free and reduced lactose snack

to enjoy. Apples also add interest and moisture grated into muffins and cakes.

Unfortunately, my angling skills made the fish laugh during summer, so I’m making the most of economical green-lipped mussels in soups, in fritters with capsicums and herbs, and with pasta. Mussels are loaded with protein, vitamins and minerals but are low in calories. When adding them to soups and fritters it’s best to mince them so they don’t become tough.

Enjoy an awesome autumn.

RECIPES BY JAN BILTON

EAST–WEST MUSSEL CHOWDER

SERVES 4 AS A LIGHT MEAL

INGREDIENTS

375g pottle marinated greenshell mussels

1 medium onion, diced

1 large celery stalk, diced

1 red chilli, seeded and diced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon fennel seeds

2 cloves garlic, grated

1 large (300g) potato, peeled and diced

3 cups fish or chicken stock

½ cup white wine

½ cup coconut cream

METHOD

Drain the mussels and place in a bowl of cold water for 5 minutes. Drain again. Mince finely in a food processor or blender.

Sauté the onion, celery and chilli in the oil in a medium saucepan for 5 minutes on low heat or until softened. Add the turmeric, fennel seeds, garlic, potato and stock. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, until the potato is soft.

Add the minced mussels, wine and coconut cream. Purée until smooth. Heat through gently to prevent the mussels toughening. Add a little extra hot stock or water if too thick.

Great garnished with chopped coriander or parsley and served with crusty bread.

TIPS

I used a hand-held (stick) blender to purée the mussels and soup.

MOREISH MUSHROOM STROGANOFF

SERVES 2 AS A LIGHT MEAL

INGREDIENTS

50g butter

1 small onion, diced

1 clove garlic, grated ½ long red chilli, deseeded and diced, optional

250g Swiss Brown mushrooms, sliced thinly

1 teaspoon finely chopped rosemary leaves

1 teaspoon chives

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon ground paprika

½ cup sour cream

METHOD

Melt the butter in a frying pan. Add the onion and sauté until softened. Add the garlic, chilli (if using), mushrooms, rosemary and chives. Sauté until the mushrooms are tender.

Stir in the soy sauce and paprika. Reduce the heat and stir in the sour cream.

Great served on cooked linguine, polenta or mash.

TIPS

To make a more substantial meal, add a little chopped cooked bacon or ham. The top can be garnished with grated parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese.

SERVES 4-6 EASY APPLE TARTS

INGREDIENTS

1 sheet frozen flaky puff pastry, thawed slightly

½–3/4 cup smooth apricot jam

3 medium-size Granny Smith apples

ground cinnamon for dusting ¼ cup walnuts, lightly toasted and chopped

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Line a baking tray with baking paper.

Cut the pastry sheet into thirds. Place on the baking paper. Brush with a little of the jam.

Quarter the apples, then core. Cut each quarter into 4 slices. Layer the apples onto the pastry lengths so each slice overlaps. Brush generously with the jam.

Bake for 25 minutes, or until the pastry is crisp and the apples tender. Sprinkle with the walnuts.

Each length can be cut into 3. The tarts can be reheated on a hot baking tray in the oven at 200°C for about 5 minutes or in a preheated air fryer at 200°C for 2 minutes.

TIPS

Delicious served warm with whipped cream, ice cream or custard.

Hearts on the front line

Friday, 22 March, is Summerset’s Frontliner Day; an opportunity to celebrate and thank all our hardworking village teams across our 37 villages nationwide. Frontliners all ensure residents enjoy the best of life in their Summerset communities. Thank you to you all.

Debbie Casey has been a caregiver at Summerset on Summerhill in Palmerston North for 20 years. “I get such satisfaction from caring for our residents,” she says. “Doing something good for someone else gives you a sense of purpose. I feel happier giving back to someone rather than sitting all day!”

For Debbie it’s her close-knit team that supports her in her role. “Caregiving can be a tough job,” she says. “You need to work together. Good communication is key. We support and respect each other.”

Building relationships with residents and their families is important. “You need to build a bond,” says Debbie. “Residents need a safe and happy environment. You are a stranger at first.”

Debbie’s spare time is limited; when she is not working she is renovating her home. How does she relax? “I see friends, read or garden, or just chill and watch a movie,” says Debbie.

Jo Clark has worked at Summerset by the Park, Manukau, since 2009. Starting as the Kitchen Manager, she became Café Supervisor before becoming the Activities Co-ordinator – a role she has been in for six years. Jo describes her role as AC as “beautiful,” explaining that building connections with and seeing residents happy brings her joy.

Alongside her role as AC, Jo is also the Service Coordinator. This involves visiting residents and checking in on their well-being. Jo tries to include other Summerset villages for outings and events. “It brings people together,” she says. “Friday is our bus trip day. Sometimes we do mystery trips, which are always great fun.”

Like Debbie, Jo also emphasises the importance of her team. “We can all rely on each other to help out when needed,” Jo says.

Because of her background in the kitchens, Jo runs a cooking class at the village. Sought-after by many residents, it is also popular with widowed men who may not have had much experience cooking. “I have just finished my first cookbook!” Jo says proudly. “It has my recipes and ones submitted by residents.”

Top left: Debbie Casey. Top right: Jo Clark.

What a pearler!

ARTICLE BY LISA ELLIS

Pearls, beloved for centuries, are back. Here’s how to wear them with style in 2024.

French style guru Genevieve Antoine Dariaux said there was just one piece of jewellery that was “equally becoming to everybody, lovely with almost every ensemble, appropriate for almost any occasion, and indispensable in every woman's wardrobe… long live the pearl necklace.”

If you’ve had a string of pearls – real or fake –lurking unworn in your jewellery box, now’s the time to bring it out. Pearls are back, fashion experts say, and they’re better than ever.

Worried that donning a string of pearls will make you look like a wannabe member of the Royal family? Here’s how to wear and care for pearls in 2024.

ARE THEY REAL?

Got a string of pearls that look too good to be true? Then they’re probably not the real thing, jewellery experts say.

Real pearls, whether natural or cultured, are formed in shellfish like oysters or mussels, and they’re characterised by small irregularities that reflect the natural processes involved in their creation. Fake pearls are manufactured, usually using plastic or glass (or occasionally shell), that’s covered with a pearly coating, so they’re more uniform in appearance.

Does it matter? Not these days. If you’ve got some precious pearls handed down from family members over the years, the sentimental value is likely to outweigh any monetary one, whether they’re real or not.

WILL PEARLS SUIT ME?

Pearls suit everyone, no matter your age, stage or skin tone. Their glowing surface reflects light, which is why a pearl necklace has always been a popular choice among royal women of all ages. Choose your pearl shade according to your skin tone: cool or lighter skin tones will suit white, blue or grey pearls, while warm or darker skin tones will come to life with cream, blush-pink or golden ones.

HOW CAN I WEAR MY PEARLS IN A NEW WAY?

At fashion weeks earlier this year, pearls popped up all over the place – as simple single strands, opulent chokers, oversized earrings or cocktail rings. The new way to wear pearls is really about donning them whenever you feel like it. Pearls are versatile enough to wear with a T-shirt and jeans or with a formal dress for a fancy occasion. If you feel old-fashioned wearing that family heirloom single strand you’ve had for decades, try mixing it up by wearing it with another necklace, or try looping it around your wrist for a double-strand bracelet.

CAN MEN WEAR PEARLS?

Men have worn pearls for centuries. While English pop star Harry Styles and US basketball legend LeBron James have a penchant for wearing pearls (and can pull off the look with aplomb), mature men might find it easier to adopt more subtle styles. Pearl cufflinks are always classy and suit all shirt or suit colours, or a vintage pearl tie pin adds extra wow factor. If those are both a bridge too far, consider introducing elements of pearly magic in a lowkey way: pearl buttons or a pearly white collar will bring that special iridescent shine to your look without too much effort.

TIP OF THE ICEBERG

ARTICLE BY LYNDA HALLINAN PHOTOS BY SALLY TAGG

With a few pots on a patio, anyone can be self-sufficient in salad greens, writes Lynda Hallinan.

My grandfather Evan was a man of simple tastes. He liked plum sauce on cold cuts, mustard sauce on corned silverside, mint sauce on roast lamb and Grandma’s special salad dressing on pretty much everything else on his plate, but especially on iceberg lettuce salads.

Grandma’s special salad dressing wasn’t actually special, of course. In the days before anyone had heard of balsamic vinaigrette or the olive oil emulsification better known as aioli, it was the salad dressing favoured by most farmers’ wives across New Zealand: a can of sweetened condensed milk flavoured with a spoonful of Colman’s dry mustard powder and a very generous splash of malt vinegar. My husband loves it to this day, although his grandmother had a rather different interpretation of just how generous you should be with the vinegar!

It’s an easy creamy dressing to whip up, but sadly the same can’t be said for the cultivation of a good iceberg lettuce. It seems to be the most difficult type to grow over summer, being susceptible to lettuce aphids, heat stress and rotten hearts when the weather is humid. Luckily, as the summer heat gives way to autumn’s cooler temperatures, all crisphead lettuce varieties find the conditions more to their liking. Slow and steady wins this race, and

experience has taught me that the best time to sow and plant them is now.

It pains me to pay up to six dollars for a single plastic-wrapped iceberg lettuce at the supermarket when a packet of lettuce seed costs as little as $4 and – all going well – can produce hundreds of lettuces.

For classic hearting crispheads, sow or transplant seedlings of ‘Greenway Iceberg’ (Yates seeds), ‘Great Lakes’ (Kings Seeds) or the aphid-resistant ‘Bug Off’ (Egmont Seeds). If purchasing seedlings in punnets from a garden centre, look for ‘Great Lakes’ or ‘Imperial Triumph’ in the Zealandia Grow Fresh range. Iceberg lettuces prefer moist soil, respite from the hottest afternoon sun and a cool root run, so they’re best planted in garden soil. For pots and tubs, you’ll have more luck planting compact cos varieties such as ‘Little Gem’ or ‘Little Caesar’ (both from Kings Seeds) or baby butterheads such ‘Tom Thumb’ (Yates and Kings Seeds).

Or, for the best bang for your buck, plant a six-pack of the Dutch hybrid lettuce ‘Salanova’. Not only do these horticultural superstars grow as big as cheerleader pompoms, they’ve been bred to produce up to three times as many leaves as a standard lettuce. They’re also

known in the trade as ‘double cutters’, which means that if you lop off their heads but leave the lower rosette of leaves attached to the stalk, they’ll grow another head, making them excellent value.

Salanova lettuces come in all the main varieties: oak leaf, buttercrunch, red and green cos, and crisphead. Their individual leaves are smaller and can be snipped with scissors for harvesting.

When growing lettuces – or other leafy salad ingredients such as rocket, mustard greens, mesclun leaves and peppery baby radishes – in pots, the key is regular watering and fortnightly feeding with liquid fertiliser to encourage quick growth. Position pots in a sunny spot that, if possible, allows for a little afternoon shade so they don’t overheat.

If your radishes, rocket, coriander or brassicas have bolted to seed early, eat their flowers instead! I always like to add a few edible flowers to my vegetable garden to decorate lettuce salads with pretty petals –and to feed the bees at this time of the year. So why not pot up a selection of cool blue borage, dianthus, zesty orange calendulas, chives, nasturtiums and violas to brighten up your plot – and your plate?

WHAT TO SOW AND PLANT NOW

• Autumn brings cooler days and nights, but there’s still plenty of warmth in the air – and lingering white cabbage butterflies. When planting broccoli, cabbages, cauliflower and other brassicas for winter, protect your seedlings with fine netting or a sprinkle of Derris Dust.

• Plant pansies, polyanthus and Iceland poppies for a beautiful show of potted colour from late winter.

• Spring bulbs – from cheerful daffodils to fragrant freesias – are available to buy now from bulb catalogues and garden centres. In warmer climates, chill tulips in the fridge for a few weeks prior to planting. After planting bulbs, pop in a punnet of low-growing annuals such as alyssum or heartsease pansies to cover the soil until the bulbs show their heads.

• Feed potted trees to perk them up again after summer. When feeding lemons, limes and mandarins, always use a slow-release fertiliser specifically formulated for shrubs in tubs, such as Burnet’s Gold Fruit and Citrus Food for Pots.

CRAFT CORNER

ARTICLE BY MELISSA WASTNEY

SOOTHING WHEAT BAGS

Wheat bags are very simple to make yourself and, when warmed in the microwave or chilled in the freezer, can be a real comfort to ease muscle and joint stiffness. They can also be used as an alternative to hot water bottles to keep your feet or hands toasty warm while you read or watch television.

Despite the title of this column, you could use flax seeds, rice or barley instead of wheat to make these heat packs, depending on what you have access to. You could also add some dried lavender, if you like. Not requiring any special materials, these packs also make wonderful quick gifts for friends and family.

SUPPLIES PER BAG

1/2 metre of fabric will make around 3 of these wheat bags. It’s important to use natural fabrics because these will be heated. Choose 100% cotton or linen

Pencil or tailor’s chalk, scissors, measuring tape or ruler, pins, thread and sewing machine

4 cups dried buckwheat grains – or barley, rice or flax seeds

Iron and ironing board

Handful of dried lavender or 1/4 tsp dried cloves (optional)

METHOD

1. Cut two rectangles of fabric measuring 48cm x 18cm. With right sides together, pin around the edges and sew, using a 1cm seam allowance and leaving one of the short edges unsewn.

2. Press the sewn seams (this can help further secure them) and turn the tube right side out. Fold the raw edges in to meet each other, and press again.

3. Fold the tube widthways to divide it into thirds, and press. Open it out again, and use the ruler and pencil or tailor’s chalk to draw a line over the fold marks.

4. Tip the buckwheat or other grain into the tube. Pin the opening closed. Carefully stitch along the open edge to close it, then pivot the needle and continue stitching with a 1cm seam allowance around the edge of the tube, being careful to move the grain away from the seam as you go.

5. Move the grain into the three ‘sections’ so they are roughly equal in weight, and stitch along the marked pencil lines.

6. Trim any loose threads and enjoy your new wheat bag!

TIP

This can be a bit tricky, as the grains want to get in the way of your needle! Just go slowly and stop as often as you need to in order to move them away from the seam.

USING YOUR WHEAT BAG

To heat, pop the wheat bag in the microwave for 1 minute along with a cup of cold water. This is important so that the buckwheat doesn’t dry out too much and become a fire hazard.

If not warm enough, microwave further in 30-second increments until your desired temperature is reached. Handle with care and do not overheat. Heating times will vary depending on your microwave.

To use cold, place your wheat bag in the freezer for at least an hour before use.

REVIEWS BY KAREN MCMILLAN

Light at Lavelle PAULLINA SIMONS

MACMILLAN PUBLISHING

RRP $37.99

Isabelle is a young Ukrainian farmer in 1929. She is brave when their idyllic family life is threatened by new Soviet Union decrees. But after hardship, terror and famine, Isabelle flees her homeland, arriving alone and broken in Boston and unsure of her family’s fate.

Finn is a successful Boston banker with a beautiful wife, Vanessa, and two lovely children. As a favour to his tailor, he agrees to move Isabelle into his home to help with household chores, much to Vanessa’s chagrin, but the children are enamoured by the exotic addition to their home.

But then the stock market crashes and Finn’s world collapses. As he fights to save his family from losing their home, he can no longer ignore Vanessa’s increasing emotional instability. When things are at their worst, he finds an undeniable connection with Isabelle, but they discover that even after so much loss, there may be more left to lose.

Light at Lavelle pulls on the heartstrings. A breathtakingly compelling love story set in historical times that vividly brings to life events in Ukraine in Soviet times and life in the USA during the Great Depression.

The War Photographers SL BEAUMONT

PAPERBACK WRITER’S PUBLISHING

RRP $32.99

This gripping novel brings together two powerful stories from WWII and the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.

In 1943, Mae Webster is a young woman working in the top-secret codebreaking centre at Bletchley Park. Her life changes forever when she meets and falls in love with New Zealand war photographer Jack Knight. But tragedy occurs when Jack’s photographs reveal a double agent, who will do anything to stop being identified.

In 1989, Rachel Talbot, Mae’s feisty granddaughter, is working as a photographer for a news organisation. When she learns that her grandfather was murdered during the Second World War, she goes in search of his killer, a Stasi officer, as East German unrest is escalating. It’s not long before Rachel is in the thick of the Cold War boiling over and in a very dangerous position, even with the help of a charismatic activist she met in East Berlin.

A must-read for anyone who enjoys a well-researched historical novel with unforgettable lead characters. There are fascinating details about the clandestine work at Bletchley Park and front-row seats to the fall of the Berlin Wall.

The Best Things in Life are Cheese

ELLIE AND SAM STUDD

MACMILLAN PUBLISHING

RRP $49.99

The Writer’s Garden

The Studd family joke is that their veins run with brie instead of blood, and this book from siblings Ellie and Sam Studd oozes with a passion for cheese. Their father is none other than legendary cheese expert Will Studd.

Ellie and Sam guide you through the key categories of cheese. Everything from blue cheeses and washed rinds to fresh cheeses such as mozzarella. They tell each cheese story, explaining how they are made, and share tasting notes for their favourite cheeses in each category.

It has everything you need to know about cheese – how to buy, store, cook and match it with other food and wines – and the text and photography is fun and appealing. With 70 delicious recipes, including Mac and Cheese Three Ways, Summer Halloumi and Watermelon Salad, Baked Camembert with Caramelised Apple and Roasted Hazelnut, and the best-ever Cheese Toasties, you will find loads of creative but simple dishes with cheese.

The Best Things in Life are Cheese is practical and quirky and will be a regular fixture in your kitchen once you own this fabulous book.

JACKIE BENNETT AND RICHARD HANSON

MURDOCH BOOKS

RRP $75.00

This sumptuous book features gardens from literary greats throughout the decades, creating a visually stunning and intriguing book with a difference. Featuring 30 iconic authors and their gardens, the book includes the garden at Key West, Florida, created by Ernest Hemingway with his second wife, Pauline. It was started in 1928, and included a boxing ring he installed to spar with his mates but was later replaced by a swimming pool, a huge luxury at the time.

In contrast, the garden that the Alcott family enjoyed was much more traditional. Louisa May Alcott, most famous for her novel Little Women, had a garden where her novel's real and imaginary worlds merged. Each sister in the book had a “bed of flowers devoted to the flowers that – according to the author – suited each of their personalities.”

The book also details the gorgeous garden where Leo Tolstoy wrote his great works of fiction, including Anna Karenina and War and Peace, at Yasnaya Polyana, a place where the apple blossom was a symbol of renewal. The Writer’s Garden offers a unique insight into the gardens and lives of some literary greats.

A family affair

BY ELLIE CLIFFORD

Mother’s Day this year falls on 12 May, and for some staff at Summerset at Heritage Park, celebrating mum is easy – they simply

need to cross the village and knock on her door.

Three of the staff at the village in Ellerslie, Auckland, have their mums living at their place of work, while former Activities Co-ordinator Isabelle Gordon has not one but two grandmothers living at the village. In this close community where family and work intertwine, Summerset at Heritage Park becomes not just a place of residence or employment, but a shared home filled with love and connections.

Shelley Daley is one of the longest-standing residents at Heritage Park, as she was one of the first to move into the village. “I have been here for seven years now. I was part of setting up the first Residents’ Committee.” It was a happy accident that granddaughter Isabelle came on board to work as the Activities Co-ordinator in May 2023 when she returned from travelling overseas. “I live more in the city centre, so it’s a great way to see Gran more often than I would have done,” says Isabelle.

Isabelle’s other grandmother, Patsy Gordon, moved into a serviced apartment in September 2023. “My partner moved into the care centre and I wanted to be close to him,” explains Patsy. Isabelle is one of 20 grandchildren Patsy has living in Auckland, but it’s not the first time

Mothers and grandmothers of Summerset at Heritage Park.

their careers have overlapped. “When Isabelle was in intermediate school, I was a health educator. I came and gave the puberty talk to Isabelle’s class!”

Living in a serviced apartment, Patsy appreciates the extra time she has for her hobbies. “I swim every day at the pool here, and I play nine holes of golf regularly with my friends. I have been a member there for years – I began playing golf in 1996.

“There's a lot to do both in and outside the village. Everyone is very friendly here.”

Sales Manager Lisa Nelson had been working at Summerset for a year before her parents moved in, but it was a happy coincidence that she was working where they eventually settled. “They had already decided they wanted to move to Heritage Park before I began working here,” Lisa remembers, “but they didn’t move in until a year after I started.” Lisa’s mother, Gaye, says, “My husband and I had looked at 12 villages before we settled on Heritage Park. This one just felt right. I have a lovely ground-floor apartment overlooking the lake. I love it here. There is always something to do. It felt like home from the get-go.”

Property Manager Simon Gregory has his mother, Barbara, living at the village, but they might not see each other from one week to the next. Barbara, originally from the UK, has lived in the village for three years. Simon and his mother were able to be in the same bubble during the Covid lockdowns. “It was really cheering to know she was safe and close by,” remembers Simon.

The enforced separations didn’t affect Lisa either. “Having Mum and Dad living where I worked meant we were in the same bubble. I feel very fortunate that we were,” Lisa says.

Happy families.

For Village Manager Leticia Chuck it was her move to Summerset at Heritage Park around the time of the lockdowns that led her mother, Marie, to the village. “I had been living in Melbourne, where I was working in a retirement village. I moved here in 2020, but of course then it was lockdown. Being in another country from Mum, who lived in Brisbane, was awful.” In 2022 Leticia went back to Melbourne and headed to Brisbane, with the intention of bringing her mum over to New Zealand. “We ended up spending seven weeks in lockdown together!” Mum Marie now lives in a serviced apartment at the village. “Where she can keep an eye on everyone,” adds Leticia drily.

“I feel very safe here,” Marie says. “It was an adjustment moving to New Zealand after 15 years in Australia, but everyone is very friendly.” Marie is particularly fond of Property Manager Simon. “I have this clock in my apartment,” explains Marie. “Its high up, and whenever it needs its battery changing, I just call on Simon to help!”

As the staff share stories of their family ties to Summerset at Heritage Park, it's clear that the mothers aren't meddling in the village affairs. “They are low maintenance on that front,” says Leticia, “although my mum seems to have a direct line to Simon!”

“We aren’t here to influence,” says Shelley. “A lot of their work is not our business. I think we are fortunate that we are happy living here, and they are happy working here.”

CYCLONE

GABRIELLE

ONE YEAR ON

It was a testing time for our Summerset communities as six of our villages across the country lost power and communications. Roads and bridges washed away meant communities were cut off from vital supplies and infrastructure. Napier city, including Summerset in the Bay and Summerset Palms, became an island as six of the bridges into the area became impassable. With the floodwaters rising, Summerset Palms village in Te Awa was evacuated as a precaution, a scary prospect at any time but even more so at night.

Fortunately, Summerset Palms is elevated and did not flood.

Megan Pickering, Village Manager at Summerset in the Bay, recalls the first 24 hours. “No one knew what was happening, people couldn’t reach their families. We focused on saving lives.

Preparing to evacuate, getting garage doors open – which run on power – accounting for everyone, taking an inventory of our food supplies.” Megan recalls how people came together to help, saying, “Don’t underestimate the size of your network. Our Chef Manager, Janine, used to work for Mainfreight, and they provided us with a BBQ trailer. A friend of mine works for an electrical supplier and lent us a battery for our Miracle Call system.”

Summerset staff, their friends and families mobilised quickly to help, providing amazing support for our residents and villages while also dealing with challenging situations at their own homes. Group Operations Manager Stuart James enlisted his daughter, his neighbours and members of his football team to help with evacuation, cooking, dish washing and resident communications. Food Services Manager Dean Leuty and Chef Manager Shrey Kamerkar flew down from Auckland as soon as they could to help. Despite the logistical challenges of cooking on industrial barbecues, they provided hot meals each day for more than 250 village residents and staff.

Megan and the volunteers wore Hi-Vis vests so that residents knew who to approach. To communicate with the residents effectively and consistently, a photograph was taken each day of the message board and the messages delivered door-to-door to the residents. “This meant that the message could not be interpreted differently. It was the same message going to everyone,” says Megan. Summerset in the Bay’s main building and Summerset Palms’ temporary rec centre became the social hubs. With generators running and WiFi in place, residents could get in contact with loved ones and charge their phones, hearing aids or laptops.

HELP GIVEN TO RESIDENTS

Weekly fees for independent living residents at Summerset Palms and Summerset in the Bay were waived for February. This enabled residents to replenish their fridges, purchase emergency supplies and to cover any unexpected bills. Summerset also set up a Disaster Relief Fund for staff impacted financially.

ONE YEAR ON

All villages across the country have been provided with additional generators and Starlink satellite phones. Working closely with staff on the ground, we have adapted our emergency response plans as needed, based on their experiences during the cyclone.

AND NOW

At the end of November, Summerset Palms residents marked the start of a new chapter when their new village centre was officially opened. The event was themed with a respectful nod to Napier’s Art Deco style, with decorations, music and dancing. What a wonderful way to mark a new beginning!

MANAGING FINANCES IN THE FACE OF DEMENTIA

When a family member receives a diagnosis of dementia, it can be an emotionally overwhelming and challenging time for everyone involved. Having your financial house in order during such times can be incredibly empowering, providing a sense of control and security. Jocelyn Weathall, Chair of the New Zealand Dementia Board, offers these tips:

DOCUMENT ESSENTIAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION:

Start by creating a comprehensive record of all financial information. Include assets, liabilities and details of bank accounts and other accounts such as insurances and other utilities. Keep these documents organised and easily accessible.

DOCUMENT OTHER ESSENTIAL INFORMATION: Compile contact information for financial advisers, attorneys, family and friends and other important contacts. Write down medical history, medications and healthcare provider information.

REGULARLY UPDATE FINANCIAL RECORDS:

Life is ever-changing, and so are financial circumstances. Update financial records regularly. Inform designated persons with power of attorney about any changes.

KEEP RECORDS OF SIGNIFICANT TRANSACTIONS: Such as gifting, large purchases or sales, like buying or selling a car.

UNDERSTAND YOUR INCOME AND EXPENDITURE : Budgeting and managing finances become more effective when you know where the money comes from and where it goes.

ENSURE LEGAL MATTERS ARE UP TO DATE:

Review wills, enduring powers of attorney, trust deeds and memorandum of wishes to reflect current wishes accurately.

ESTABLISH A FUNERAL FUND: Preparing for future expenses, including funeral costs, can provide peace of mind. Establishing a recognised funeral fund ensures the financial burden of such expenses is mitigated.

DESIGNATE AN AUTHORISED PERSON:

Choose a trusted individual (this may be your attorney under a power of attorney) to enquire on accounts such as utilities, insurance providers, medical providers and other financial matters in case something happens to the primary carer.

INVOLVE FAMILY AND TRUSTED ADVISERS :

A collaborative approach regarding your financial future can create a comprehensive plan tailored to your specific needs.

THE CATLINS

ARTICLE BY AMELIA NORMAN

Jump in the car or campervan and strap yourself in for an unforgettable coastal road trip in The Catlins! Nestled in the south-eastern corner of the South Island, The Catlins is an area famed for its natural beauty. As you wind along the wild road between Balclutha and Invercargill, expect stunning scenery, amazing wildlife, forest walks and beautiful beaches.

ACCOMMODATION

While it is possible to explore The Catlins region in a day, you’ll want to take your time and book in for a couple of nights en route. Head inland from Owaka to find Mohua Park –Catlins Eco Accommodation secreted among the verdant rolling hills of the Catlins Valley. Each of the studio cottages at Mohua Park feels a million miles from anywhere but includes all the comforts of home. While the cottages are fully self-contained, you can also book ahead for a Continental breakfast, BBQ pack or antipasto platter to be delivered to your room. Enjoy your meals on your private balcony with views for miles and birds aplenty. If you’re not the ‘feet up’ type, Mohua Park also offers 4 kilometres of private walking tracks to explore at your leisure.

Curio Bay is a must-visit for anyone exploring The Catlins. Curio Bay Salthouse offers total beachfront accommodation in the form of modern, self-catering studio units or a spacious top-floor executive apartment with spectacular sea views. Kick back and watch Hector’s dolphins frolic in the bay, spot New Zealand sea lions and little blue penguins, or walk five minutes along the sandy beach to explore the famed petrified forest.

EATING

Eateries in this part of the world are few and far between and it’s recommended that you self-cater, stocking up in either Invercargill or Balclutha, depending on your direction. There are, however, a couple of noteworthy coffee stops to visit.

Located within a historic schoolhouse, Niagara Falls Café offers great coffee, delicious homemade baking and a menu of locally sourced, freshly made dishes. Pop in for a hearty morning or afternoon tea if you’re visiting the nearby Niagara Falls (named ironically for their dissimilarity to the famed falls of the same name).

As the name suggests, the Lignite Pit Café and Secret Garden is on a former lignite mine pit about 20km from Invercargill. Transformed in

the early 2000s, this site now boasts a sensational 6ha garden and lake that visitors can wander around. Enjoy a coffee and some home baking overlooking the grounds and learn about the local mining history.

ACTIVITIES

We’ve already mentioned Curio Bay, and for good reason. This adorable little bay that feels like it’s at the end of the Earth is home to a rare 160-million-year-old fossilised forest that is accessible at low tide. Pair this fascinating natural gem with yellow-eyed penguins, little blue penguins and the regular Hector’s dolphins that frequent the bay, and you’ll have plenty to see and do during your time here.

You’ve likely seen imagery of the famous Nugget Point lighthouse jutting out towards the wild Southern Ocean. Get up close and snap some photos of your own from this picturesque spot located within a 47-hectare Department of Conservation wildlife reserve. Take the short walk to the lighthouse and, as well as incredible views of the ‘nuggets’ (a series of distinctive rocks), you may spot New Zealand fur seals, elephant seals, albatross, shearwaters and spoonbills.

Bask in the majesty of nature with a visit to the Cathedral Caves. A short downhill forest walk

will bring you to the beach where these stunning rock formations reside. Test the incredible rock acoustics, snap some photos or just enjoy the picturesque beach and caves before returning along the same track.

It’s vital you plan your visit, as the Cathedral Caves are only accessible from November to May, and only for one hour each side of low tide. There is also a small cash-only access fee, payable at the gate.

For a relaxed road trip through a historic and beautiful part of the South Island, escape to the natural wonderland that is The Catlins.

STATS

Region: Southland and Otago

Airport: Invercargill Airport

Main road: Southern Scenic Route

Population: 3,640

POET’S CORNER

Them what live in our street

She’ll have your name in the book, telling all that you have said

Some say that I’m insane, but I know that I’m not

I’d tell you just how great I am, but the word for that I forgot

I’m just a busy lady who can’t keep her nose out

What’s going on around me, I have to know about.

Mrs Jones from down the road has just got in new lino

If you want to know what goes on, just ask me ‘cause I know.

Mr Brown has gone to town to meet up with his floozie

He comes home late to his wife, smelling awful boozy.

Mrs Smith just had another, making number seven

She still thinks babies are made and sent to her from Heaven.

Mr Green is off to golf, or so he tells his wife

I suspect from what I hear, he has another life!

Mrs Posh goes out shopping for more clothes for herself

I know she’s going ‘op-shopping’, she’s not really got all that wealth!

Here comes Mr Kelly with his big dog called Lou

Please, don’t pause on my lawn to have another … sniff.

You know that woman in the red brick house, down at number 10?

You ought to keep away from her, she’s a terror with her pen!

About the shady life you lead and the man friend she calls Ned.

My brother lives round the corner and he thinks that he’s the best

But I’ll tell you something, I wouldn’t have him as a guest.

He tells lots of porkies and he thinks he’s really funny

So I’ll stay in my house, and you keep away from me, sonny.

Over in number 20, the old man lives alone

If you stop to chat with him all he does is moan.

The kids next door annoy him and so does their danged cat.

He’ll not let them get away with it, he says he’ll see to that!

Now Mrs Mac’s in number 8, avoid her if you can

She’ll be up to borrowing everything – even your fake tan.

Number 12 thinks she’s so great, a pompous puffed-up snob

She’s really scraping the barrel since her husband lost his job.

My cousin lives around the bend and he’s a bit the same

Don’t ask him who he is, he can’t recall his name.

So if you’re feeling lonely, or if you’re feeling low

Then come and have a chat with me, there’s nought that I don’t know!

Della Hammersley

Summerset on the Coast

ARTICLE BY DANIEL HARDIE

10 PERCENT MORE

“You’re not getting old, you’re just getting older,” was a comment from my 86-year-old client who I’ve had the privilege of working with for the past seven years. Usually followed by “Move. Move every day in any way you can.”

Ageing is inevitable. The speed at which we age is something we can have some control over. Our body is a complex combination of many different systems, all of which love movement.

Maintaining what strength and fitness we have is great. Aiming for more is better.

One way to think of how exercise benefits the body is that every time you move, it reminds the body to keep the things it has built (muscle strength, tendons, bone density, memory of movements), and when you do a little more than usual or something different, your body is encouraged to build more muscle, create new memory pathways and “prepare” itself for the next challenge.

This is why the best exercise is progressive. Our bodies are masters at adapting, so we need to keep giving it things to adapt to.

10 percent more might mean:

• Walking a few extra minutes

• Climbing a few more stairs

• Swimming another 1–2 lengths

• Choosing to (safely) lift a little more weight during a class or gym session

It is the art of a gradual increase in intensity that benefits us best. And you can see this benefit over a day, week or year.

Next time you’re approaching an activity that involves movement, how can you do 10 per cent more?

DOUBLECROSS

Reveal a completed crossword by deleting one of the two letters in each divided square.

Fill the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1-9

PETS OF SUMMERSET

For Colin and Fay, the day begins at 6am when their cat Miss Chief wakes up and demands to play and be fed… and play and be fed, and play and be fed.

Miss Chief, known as Missy, has her spot between the couple on their bed at their Summerset Rototuna village – sleeping between their pillows. The seal-pointed ragdoll cat, who is just over one year old, joined the couple at the end of February 2023. “We got her from a breeder in Orini by Taupiri in the Waikato,” says Fay. “Our beloved Siamese cat Bindi had died. I waited a month before I worked on Colin and we got Miss Chief. She was so tiny when we got her that she fitted into the palm of my hand.”

Not so now. Missy has grown considerably, and her long ragdoll coat makes her look even bigger. As ragdolls are slow to mature and are one of the larger breeds of cat, she has almost two more years to go before she is full size. “She always seems to be hungry,” says Fay. “She gets cat biscuits and wet food, but always seems to want more. She was a bit smelly for a while so she is on a special diet.”

Missy is an incredibly playful cat and has a collection of boxes, pill jars and toilet paper rolls to play with. “We strung a pill bottle on a piece of string and she wears it around her waist,” says Fay. “She really enjoys the rattling sound.”

When she isn’t playing, Missy likes to recline on top of the TV unit or enjoys sniffing the feet of the many visitors that cross the threshold of the couple’s house. “She isn’t as affectionate as our Siamese was,” reflects Fay. “But she loves to sit next to visitors, and if you play with her she is your friend.”

Although she is mostly an indoor cat, Colin has built a clever door extender with a cat flap that goes out into the garage where Missy’s litter tray is kept. “It keeps the door closed so there is no draught but allows her to get in without scratching at the door,” Colin says. “We also have a baby gate to keep her inside when we have the ranch sliders open.”

Colin and Fay have lived in the Rototuna village for just over two years, relocating from Lower Hutt. “We bought our villa when it was just framing and a roof,” laughs Fay. “It’s a wonderful village with a wonderful crowd. And Missy certainly likes it here too.”

DIRECTORY

AUCKLAND–NORTHLAND

Summerset Mount Denby

7 Par Lane, Tikipunga, Whangārei 0112

Phone (09) 470 0282

Summerset Falls

31 Mansel Drive, Warkworth 0910

Phone (09) 425 1200

Summerset at Monterey Park

1 Squadron Drive, Hobsonville, Auckland 0616

Phone (09) 951 8920

Summerset at Heritage Park

8 Harrison Road, Ellerslie, Auckland 1060

Phone (09) 950 7960

Summerset by the Park

7 Flat Bush School Road, Manukau 2019

Phone (09) 272 3950

Summerset at Karaka

49 Pararekau Road, Karaka 2580

Phone (09) 951 8900

Summerset St Johns

180 St Johns Road, St Johns 1072

Phone (09) 950 7980

Summerset Half Moon Bay*

25 Thurston Place, Half Moon Bay, Auckland 2012

Phone (09) 306 1422

Summerset Milldale

50 Waiwai Drive, Milldale, 0992

Phone 09 304 1630

WAIKATO

Summerset down the Lane

206 Dixon Road, Hamilton 3206

Phone (07) 843 0157

Summerset Rototuna

39 Kimbrae Drive, Rototuna North 3210

Phone (07) 981 7820

Summerset by the Lake

2 Wharewaka Road, Wharewaka, Taupō 3330

Phone (07) 376 9470

Summerset Cambridge

1 Mary Ann Drive, Cambridge 3493

Phone (07) 839 9482

BAY OF PLENTY

Summerset Rotorua*

171–193 Fairy Springs Road Rotorua 3010

Phone (07) 343 5132

Summerset by the Sea

181 Park Road, Katikati 3129

Phone (07) 985 6890

Summerset by the Dunes

35 Manawa Road, Papamoa Beach, Tauranga 3118

Phone (07) 542 9082

HAWKE’S BAY

Summerset in the Bay

79 Merlot Drive, Greenmeadows, Napier 4112

Phone (06) 845 2840

Summerset in the Orchard

1228 Ada Street, Parkvale, Hastings 4122

Phone (06) 974 1310

Summerset Palms

136 Eriksen Road, Te Awa, Napier 4110

Phone (06) 833 5850

Summerset in the Vines

249 Te Mata Road, Havelock North 4130

Phone (06) 877 1185

TARANAKI

Summerset Mountain View

35 Fernbrook Drive, Vogeltown, New Plymouth 4310

Phone (06) 824 8900

Summerset at Pohutukawa Place

70 Pohutukawa Place, Bell Block, New Plymouth 4371

Phone (06) 824 8530

MANAWATU–WHANGANUI

Summerset in the River City

40 Burton Avenue, Whanganui 4500

Phone (06) 343 3133

Summerset on Summerhill

180 Ruapehu Drive, Fitzherbert, Palmerston North 4410

Phone (06) 354 4964

Summerset Kelvin Grove*

Stoney Creek Road, Kelvin Grove, Palmerston North 4470

Phone (06) 825 6530

Summerset by the Ranges

104 Liverpool Street, Levin 5510

Phone (06) 367 0337

WELLINGTON

Summerset on the Coast

104 Realm Drive, Paraparaumu 5032

Phone (04) 298 3540

Summerset on the Landing

1–3 Bluff Road, Kenepuru, Porirua 5022

Phone (04) 230 6722

Summerset at Aotea

15 Aotea Drive, Aotea, Porirua 5024

Phone (04) 235 0011

Summerset at the Course

20 Racecourse Road, Trentham, Upper Hutt 5018

Phone (04) 527 2980

Summerset Waikanae

28 Park Avenue, Waikanae 5036

Phone (04) 293 0002

Summerset Boulcott

1A Boulcott Street, Lower Hutt 5010

Phone (04) 568 1442

Summerset Masterton*

Cashmere Oaks Drive

Lansdowne, Masterton 5871

Phone (06) 370 1792

NELSON–TASMAN–MARLBOROUGH

Summerset in the Sun

16 Sargeson Street, Stoke, Nelson 7011

Phone (03) 538 0000

Summerset Richmond Ranges

1 Hill Street North, Richmond 7020

Phone (03) 744 3432

Summerset Blenheim

183 Old Renwick Road, Blenheim 7272

Phone (03) 520 6042

CANTERBURY

Summerset at Wigram

135 Awatea Road, Wigram, Christchurch 8025

Phone (03) 741 0870

Summerset at Avonhead

120 Hawthornden Road, Avonhead, Christchurch 8042

Phone (03) 357 3202

Summerset on Cavendish

147 Cavendish Road, Casebrook, Christchurch 8051

Phone (03) 741 3340

Summerset Rangiora*

141 South Belt, Waimakariri, Rangiora 7400

Phone (03) 364 1312

Summerset Prebbleton

578 Springs Road, Prebbleton 7604

Phone (03) 353 6312

Summerset Rolleston*

153 Lincoln Rolleston Road

Rolleston

Phone (03) 353 6980

OTAGO

Summerset at Bishopscourt

36 Shetland Street, Wakari, Dunedin 9010

Phone (03) 950 3102

Summerset Mosgiel*

51 Wingatui Road, Mosgiel

Phone (03) 474 3930