Summerset Scene, Summer 2023 by summerset

Summerset Scene •

S U M M E R

2 0 2 3

•

VILLAGE VIRTUOSOS – CELEBRATING RESIDENTS’ TALENT A SHARED VISION – A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE • TROLLEY DOLLIES OF MOUNTAIN VIEW WHATS COOKIN'? - CAFE CULTURE

COVER Lois Chapman Photo credits: Emma Steiner Photography.

Whangārei

Warkworth

Milldale Hobsonville

Half Moon Bay

Ellerslie

Manukau

Karaka

7,600

Katikati

Papamoa Beach

Rototuna

More than

Cambridge

Hamilton

Rotorua Taupō

Bell Block

Summerset home New Zealanders call

St Johns

New Plymouth

Napier Te Awa Hastings

Wanganui Levin

Havelock North

Waikanae Paraparaumu

Palmerston North Trentham

Nelson

Lower Hutt

Richmond Blenheim

Rangiora Rolleston Casebrook

Avonhead Wigram Prebbleton

Kelvin Grove Masterton

Aotea Kenepuru

KEY = Summerset village = Proposed village

Dunedin Mosgiel

Story to share? We really enjoy telling your stories. If you have an exciting or interesting tale to tell, get in touch with us. We’d love to hear from you! magazine@summerset.co.nz

Hello from Ellie

Welcome to the Summer issue of Summerset Scene, the last for 2023! The sun is shining, the sav is on ice, and the shops are overflowing with fresh berries for the pavlova. The silly season is almost upon us, and I for one cannot wait! This year has been quite the year for New Zealand, what with Cyclone Gabrielle at the start of the year, the Southland floods towards the end, a new king crowned, a new government, and the fifth wave of COVID-19 sweeping the nation. Yet, compared to the turbulent rest of the world, our island nation at the bottom of the earth remains a safe haven, and New Zealanders surely rank as amongst the most welcoming and kind. Never have I seen that demonstrated so clearly as at our Summerset villages. Our residents continue to astound me in the ways that they support one another. Take for example our story on page 13 about the

Summerset Mountain View 'Trolley Dollies', a vast team of volunteers who ensure that no residents miss out on that feeling of independence that comes with being able to nip to the shops. Carol Hoult from Summerset at the Course in Trentham volunteers her time at a local school cafe, specifically so that hockey-playing teens can have the funds to play the sports they love. Read her story on page 36. Meanwhile Diane A. and Dianne B. from Summerset down the Lane run a support group to ensure those who are vision impaired have an outlet, and both have been instrumental in ensuring this magazine is more accessible. Read their story on page 10.

I wish you all a wonderful and restful festive period and I look forward to seeing you all in 2024!

Ellie Clifford SUMMERSET SCENE EDITOR

As well as being generous with their time, our residents boast an awful lot of talent between them. Our cover story this month meets a set of residents who showcase their varied skills in the residents’ lounge at Summerset Rototuna. Read more about them on page 4. We also have our usual columnists, news, pets and brain health, as well as a round-up of the Great Summerset Challenge and Summerset’s Best Garden competition.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

Contents

Village virtuosos – talent within our village

A shared vision: a different perspective

Trolley Dollies of Mountain View

Staff profile Debbie Summers

News Working with Blind Low Vision Aged Advisor gives us gold

Applause

Village pipeline

Reduce, reuse, recycle

Awards

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

This publication uses vegetable-based inks and

Paper produced using elemental chlorine-free (ECF) and manufactured under the strict ISO14001

environmentally responsible paper produced from Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®)-certified,

Environmental Management System.

mixed-source pulp from responsible sources.

News Reader's Digest awards us gold

Jude on... Summer vibes

Summerset Sessions Great Summerset Challenge

Five questions

Village people

Recipes Perfect party platters

Gardening Dazzling dahlias

Style Seniors are superior

Green update Recycling in our villages

Craft

Books Review

Simple scrappy cleaning cloths

Wellness Fitness fun in the summer sun

What's cooking? Cafe culture

Travel Hamilton

Brain tease Let's talk about Brain health

Poet's corner

Brain tease

Pets of Summerset Katie the cat

Wilson Elder

Puzzles

Summer reads

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

VILLAGE VIRTUOSOS: CELEBRATING THE TALENTS WITHIN OUR VILLAGES BY ELLIE CLIFFORD

Perhaps it is a generational difference that explains why Summerset residents don’t tend to openly showcase their substantial talents, but when Summerset Rototuna village manager Joanna Smith discovered the impressive skillset among the residents, she was eager to introduce these talents to the wider community. “We have a lovely big residents’ lounge, and I thought it would make a great space to showcase the considerable skills we have in our village,” says Joanna. “I began to shoulder tap people who I knew were active in various ways and asked them if they would like to take part in the display.” One such resident is Lois Chapman, who features on our cover. Lois makes incredibly detailed and intricate cards for all occasions and has been practising her art for 30 years. “I started off scrapbooking when my children were in high school, then moved into card making,” says Lois. “I would use stencils on paper, which I would then cut out onto felt,

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

then put it together. It was as time-consuming as it sounds!” Lois still has some of the first cards she ever made. “I look back on them and can’t believe how much more detailed we can make them today. The tools have moved on. Die cutting has made things so much easier. There are so many machines and gadgets you can buy. It can get very expensive, though, which is a shame as people on a budget can’t afford such a large outlay.” Through her church Lois ran card-making classes for children with special learning needs. “Every week for years,” she says. “I enjoy supporting people. I had a huge room within the church for all my supplies – over the years I collected a lot.” Lois still runs two classes, this time from her Summerset villa. “I run a fortnightly class for two women with autism and I run a social class weekly for about five people. It is a support group more than anything. It’s nice for people to come together and make something with other people. Everyone needs an outlet.” Ross Dingle’s outlet is woodworking. The former dry stock farmer has been practising the art for the past 30 years, and among his various projects he has made two incredible

Top left and middle right: Exquisite detailing on Lois's cards. Top right: Kay's tiger. Above left: Flower pot card. Bottom right: Ross's grandfather clock.

Above left: Ross's clock on display. Top right: An example of Tom's work. Below right: The residents' workshop

"By the time I made the frame, I realised I didn’t know where I was going to get the mechanics for it!” grandfather clocks from reclaimed rimu. “The original clock I made was from wood from the demolished Whangamatā hotel in around 2008,” said Ross, who has lived at Summerset Rototuna for four years. “The clock was in the village for a time and I ended up selling it locally.” The wood for the second clock, which is now on display in the residents’ lounge, came from an 80-year-old villa made of heart rimu that a former Summerset employee was tearing down. “It took a whole day to de-nail the timber and bring it back to the village.” Ross found a plan online and followed the process for it, though it wasn’t totally straightforward. Ross explains, “By the time I made the frame, I realised I didn’t know where I was going to get the mechanics for it. Most are manufactured in Germany, so I had to find my own source. Luckily I found a clock

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

repairer here in Hamilton who provided the mechanics for me, and from there I did the rest.” The clock was a labour of love, taking between 500–600 hours to complete in the residents’ workshop in the village, where Ross can frequently be found, along with several other regulars. Kay Dingle – Ross’s wife of 55 years - also displays her hobby, a menagerie of exquisitely designed knitted animals, each with their own unique style and fashion. “The animals started out as a joke from my granddaughter!” Kay says. “Though I have always been a knitter – I would knit for our children, grandchildren, and now our great-grandchildren – I always said these were too fiddly and time consuming. She bought me the pattern book and it sat on my shelves unread for ages!”

Left and top right: Kay’s animals are so detailed. Second from left, Kay Dingle, Ross Dingle, Tom Prowse. It was following knee surgery three years ago that led Kay to crack the spine and order yarn to complete her first animal, a dog. Kay sells her wares at local Hamilton markets or via word of mouth, leading to demand far outstripping supply. Cue some sweet talking by Kay and there is now quite the working bee going. “It was taking a week of fairly constant knitting to complete one animal. So now my sister who lives at Summerset by the Dunes (Papamoa) knits some of the animal bodies for me, two neighbours sew on buttons and do some embroidery work on the faces, and Ross stuffs them. Some animals, like the hedgehog and the sheep, are more time consuming just because of the design. The bodies are all the same size though, and though I rely on the books for the patterns, I choose my own colour combinations.” For Tom Prowse, photography is his form of selfexpression. He began in his early teens when his parents gave him a camera. “I can’t sing,

play a musical instrument, dance or write poetry, so it’s my way of expressing myself,” Tom laughs. “I got a Kodak camera for my 13th birthday, and I have been taking photographs for about 57 years.” Tom takes inspiration from shooting landscapes and buildings, and anything unusual that catches his eye. “It’s really just anything I like, or I look at a few sites online for inspiration,” Tom says. “There is no theme for my display, just a collection of my favourite images. I use a digital camera now.” Tom, who, along with his wife, Gayle, has been living in the village since July 2020, cherishes the diverse range of people he has encountered as his favourite aspect of village life. Despite this, he finds photographing people challenging, explaining, “I’m reluctant to intrude on their privacy.” Thank you to Billie Randall for her assistance in this article.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

OUR NEWS

Working with Blind Low Vision We want our magazine and the stories about our wonderful residents to be accessible to all. That is why, after being approaches by some residents, we are now working with Blind Low Vision NZ to ensure that Summerset Scene, backdated from Winter 2023, is available to registered members in their audio library. Are you a member of Blind Low Vision NZ? If so, you can also find the latest edition of Summerset Scene in the Blind Low Vision NZ library. Just follow these simple steps:

01 02

On Easy Reader – navigate to Magazines and find Summerset Scene On Alexa – start the Blind Low Vision skill, say “Alexa, magazines”, then say “Alexa, find Summerset Scene", then follow the instructions to select and start the latest edition.

On a DAISY player, call the Blind Low Vision NZ contact centre on 0800 24 33 33 to request a copy to be sent via USB.

For more information or assistance please call 0800 24 33 33.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

YOU RATE US THE BEST! Summerset was proud to win gold for 'Group Provider Nationwide' in Aged Advisor’s 2023 People’s Choice Awards. The most gratifying aspect of the victory is the fact that the awards are voted on by retirement village residents and their families from around the country. One resident said, “I vote every year for our village as I genuinely believe it is the best”, with another saying, “I just love my life living in this village, best decision I ever made.” Summerset CEO Scott Scoullar says, “This is a terrific achievement and one we should take pride in, particularly as it is voted for by our residents. We have more than 2,500 staff whose goal it is to bring the best of life to our residents and ensure they love living in our villages. “We are committed to nurturing relationships, delivering exceptional experiences, and embracing innovation to provide the best experience for our residents, and it’s very pleasing our hard work has been recognised by them and they’ve voted for us.” In addition to the Group Provider gold award, five Summerset villages were named finalists for the Best Retirement Village award. These are Canterbury-based Summerset on Cavendish, Summerset Prebbleton and Summerset at Wigram, Whanganui’s Summerset in the River City, and Summerset in the Orchard in Hawke’s Bay. Photo: Aged Advisor’s Tania Ryan with Scott Scoullar.

Photo: Some of our Applause Award winners.

Applause Awards It was a night of glitz and glamour in Auckland recently, as staff from across Summerset gathered for the annual Applause Awards. The Awards are a night of recognition for staff who continually elevate the standards of Summerset and exceed expectations when it comes to bringing the ‘best of life‘ to our residents. With over 1,500 nominees across 34 categories, to be declared a winner is a significant accomplishment. We are delighted to announce the following winners: Village of the Year Summerset in the River City, Wanganui Developing Village of the Year Summerset Palms, Te Awa, Napier Care Centre of the Year Summerset at Avonhead, Christchurch We know we have many exceptional staff who go above and beyond every day for our residents. This year, the title of Activities Co-ordinator of the Year is won by Sarah Poepjes of Summerset Richmond

Ranges, and Care Centre Manager of the Year goes to KT Trivedi of Summerset at Monterey Park in Hobsonville, Auckland. Three staff shared the title of Caregiver of the Year. These are Aline Honorio de Jesus Ribeiro of Summerset Rototuna in Hamilton, Flora Cajegas of Summerset on the Coast in Paraparaumu, and Rose Realiza of Summerset Richmond Ranges in Richmond. The Diversional/Recreational Therapist of the Year is Faye Inglesia of Summerset down the Lane in Hamilton, and Village Manager of the Year is Shelley Walls of the winning Village of the Year, Summerset in the River City, Wanganui. This year, the quality of entries was so high that two staff members took home a trophy each for the Summerset Bringing the Best of Life Supreme Award. These are housekeeper Mellania Mufunda from Summerset on Summerhill in Palmerston North, and Judith Butala, kitchen hand at Summerset on the Coast in Paraparaumu.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

BY ELLIE CLIFFORD

A SHARED VISION: A DIFFERENT

PERSPECTIVE

“There are about 15 of us in the group here. We meet once a month for a coffee afternoon, sometimes inviting a guest speaker. It is a really good way to share our experiences, as well as tips and ideas.” Dianne Alston is talking about the Blind Low Vision support group she and friend and fellow resident Diane Bradding run together at Summerset down the Lane in Hamilton. Dianne has macular degeneration, which means her vision has been steadily deteriorating. She is now registered with Blind Low Vision as having a vision impairment. “It started when I was 60, and it was one of the reasons I moved into the Summerset village,” Dianne says. “My husband died, and I thought, eventually I am going to need a bit more help.” Diane Bradding has no sight issues herself, but her husband, David, to whom she has been married for almost 50 years, has been registered blind since birth. “We met when we both worked at the Talking Book library in Auckland. I was a sound recording technician and David was a repair technician.” Both Dianne A. and Diane B. are keen advocates for greater accessibility for the vision impaired, and both are involved with Blind Low Vision Waikato, the local branch of the nationwide organisation. “There are a lot of hazards that people don’t often consider,” says Dianne A. “Vehicles with towbars that back into spaces – the drivers don’t realise that for vision-impaired people that is very difficult. If they park backing into the road we’d be expecting hazards, but when it’s backed into the pavement we are so much more likely to walk into them. We just can’t see them.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

And it is very difficult to judge cars coming up to the crossings too, as we don’t have depth perception.” The pair have successfully championed their cause within the village, with the village newsletter printed in larger font for vision-impaired residents, and staff vehicles parked nose in. “It’s raising awareness,” says Diane B. “The village staff are considerate of vision impaired residents. Funnily enough. my husband has become far more independent since moving into Summerset than he was before, never having driven, but having many amenities within walking distance now. He avidly plays bowls and has represented New Zealand in blind bowls in the past.” Dianne A. and Diane B. have lived in the village for eight and six years respectively, and set up their support group just over a year ago. “We told the Activities Co-ordinator and those who we knew were registered with Blind Low Vision, and it snowballed from there.” Some residents with macular degeneration and other forms of vision loss have struggled with their diagnosis, and the support group aims to provide reassurance and options for its members. “Some have been coming for months, but only now have begun to come out of their shell, which is heartening. We are of the mindset that life is different, not over,” says Diane B. Technology is a good friend in this instance. Blind Low

Diane B., standing far left, and Dianne A. fourth from left, with members of the vision support group.

Vision supply an Echo Dot for everyone registered, which enables residents to talk to Alexa, the interactive virtual technology voice assistant. “Alexa told me I could set up a reminder to be told the weather daily at 7:30am,” laughs Dianne A. “I said, ‘No, thank you, Alexa, that is far too early!’” The Blind Low Vision library also has its own platform, Dolphin EasyReader, which connects to libraries around the world and allows users to access books and magazines through a range of formats and mediums. “David listens to his books and magazines on his iPad via the Dolphin EasyReader,” says Diane B. “It connects via Bluetooth to his hearing aids.” I had a Zoom meeting with the pair back in August, when they got in touch to discuss Summerset Scene and the possibility of having an audio version for those who struggle to read it. Accessibility is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Colours that Dianne A., for example, would struggle with, make visual perception easier for David Bradding. “We really enjoy the magazine, and we know that it isn’t practical to have it printed in giant font, but we wanted it to be accessible to everyone,” Dianne A. says. Although the magazine is available online, and text can be zoomed in on, online reading is not always possible, or preferable, for some vision-impaired

readers. “We wanted to know if Summerset Scene could be read aloud too,” says Diane B. After contacting Blind Low Vision New Zealand, I am delighted to say that our magazine, starting from the Winter issue of 2023, is now available to be listened to on a variety of audio devices for those registered with Blind Low Vision, and that going forward each issue will be in their audio library. Diane B. says, “Wendy Carsons narrates the Winter 2023 issue. When you begin listening you can either have the list of contents read out, and then go straight to any article you want, or you can just go straight to the first one and read chronologically. Wendy begins by describing the photo on the front cover. David was delighted as well.” She adds, “Some people still use a DAISY player and receive books and magazines on a CD or memory stick, so it will be available for them in that format too.” We are thrilled that our publication will be able to reach more readers. Thank you so much, Dianne A. and Diane B. for getting in touch! For more information on Blind Low Vision New Zealand and the services that they offer, visit: blindlowvision.org.nz

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

V I L L AGE P I P E L I N E

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

SUMMERSET WAIKANAE

SUMMERSET BOULCOTT

SUMMERSET MILLDALE

This is the perfect spot for a relaxed coastal retirement lifestyle. The first homes will be ready soon, with selling off plans now underway.

Perfectly positioned next to Boulcott’s Farm Heritage Golf Course in Lower Hutt, the first homes are just finished and are available now.

Summerset Milldale offers easy access to everything on the Hibiscus Coast that a busy retirement life demands. We have welcomed our first residents to the village.

SUMMERSET ST JOHNS

SUMMERSET BLENHEIM

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 late 2024, with selling off plans now underway.

Situated in the heart of sunny, wine-growing Marlborough, the first homes will be ready early 2024, with selling off plans starting soon.

NEW ZEALAND LAND BANK

Boulcott, Wellington Waikanae, Wellington Milldale, Auckland St Johns, Auckland Blenheim Half Moon Bay, Auckland Rangiora, Canterbury Masterton, Wellington Rotorua, Bay of Plenty Kelvin Grove, Palmerston North Mosgiel, Otago 12 Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

DESIGN

CONSENT

CONSTRUCTION

Trolley Dollies OF MOUNTAIN VIEW

They may usually be associated with keeping you safe while you’re flying the skies, but Summerset Mountain View has their own version of friendly stewardesses. The delightfully named Trolley Dollies ensure residents in the care centre and serviced apartments can do a little bit of shopping, and being a not-for-profit service, staffed by resident volunteers, it most certainly is duty free. “The idea was suggested in 2016 and there was a great response by the Summerset residents,” says Gillian Lawson, who, together with fellow resident Lorraine Eldershaw, took over the running of the Trolley Dollies in 2018. “We had two raffles with prizes kindly donated by the local pharmacy and Countdown supermarket. The money raised from the raffles was then used to stock the trolley. A fellow resident created a roster of volunteers and restocked the trolley weekly.” The service began with a team of six volunteers who would visit the serviced apartments and care centre with a fully laden trolley every Tuesday. “The village hadn’t been finished then,” says Gillian, who, along with Lorraine, has lived at the village for seven and a half years. “Another resident, Chris Thurston, had originally started the service, and after doing the shopping and rostering for three years she stepped back, and we stepped up.” As the village has been completed and more residents have moved in, the team of

volunteers has swelled in number to 17, and the service has expanded to two days a week – on Tuesdays visiting the apartments and on Thursdays heading to the care centre. The trolley is stocked with a range of goodies, from confectionary and cakes to toiletries, greetings cards and stamps. Ginger Kisses and chocolates are perennial favourites. Residents can put in special requests if they would like something specific, and the team also buy seasonal items. “At this time of year we’ll get in Christmas cards, wrapping paper, Christmas chocolates and small gifts. Taranaki calendars are always popular,” says Gillian. It takes the team of volunteers around an hour to complete each service. “It depends how long we spend talking to each customer!” laughs Gillian. The service is a success socially for residents who are unable to go out of the village to do some of their shopping. Gillian says, “No one needs to feel that they must buy anything, but they appreciate the feeling of independence by being able to buy small treats occasionally. Some residents do not want or need anything, or don’t have any money available, but still look forward to a visit or a chat.” The volunteers also benefit from the service, as the 17 Trolley Dollies have become friends, meeting up at the village café once a month for a coffee and a catch up. A great service all around!

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

GO GREENER

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

A stylish Summerset series of sustainable art and fashion events. “Reduce, reuse and recycle” was the mantra at villages across the country in acknowledgment of National Recycling Week, which took place in October. Residents across the country got in on the act, taking part in a wide variety of activities in the name of sustainability. There were clothes drives and white elephant sales, marvellous fashion shows displaying creations made from recycled items, and even a scarecrow-making competition!

Summerset Palms in Te Awa Residents and staff at Summerset Palms in Te Awa set the red carpet alight with their Spring Fling fashion show. A range of outstanding and outlandish creations made from either recycled or upcycled materials were modelled, showing that its more than just art deco style for these Hawke’s Bay folks. The show was such a roaring success that they plan on doing it again next year.

Summerset Mountain View in New Plymouth Residents created items from recycled materials. Pat Dombroski embraced Covid couture, designing and handcrafting a terrific tunic. She washed and recycled masks and used RAT tests for the buttons.

Top: Covid Couture!

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

Top: Summerset Palms.

Summerset at Wigram Summerset at Wigram residents in Christchurch held an art and fashion show too, with an epic array of upcycled clothes and recycled art. These included outfits made from an old bed spread, chip packets and milk bottle tops, and a hat adorned with Christmas decorations.

Top and inset: Sustainable fashion at Summerset at Wigram. Below: Summerset by the Lake are ready to clean up.

Summerset by the Lake in Taupō Summerset by the Lake in Taupō went back to basics and donned gloves, grabbers and bin bags, and did some old-fashioned litter picking, which was sweetened by ice cream afterwards.

Summerset by the Park in Manukau Summerset by the Park in Manukau had their own version of WOW, with an evening of fabulous entertainment and wearable art. WOW, you sure made that red carpet work!

Top: WOWing all at Summerset by the Park, Manakau.

Summerset in the Sun in Nelson And finally, Summerset in the Sun in Nelson, the home of the original Waste to Waist fashion show, held its annual event in September for the ninth year running. The two-show event boasted 220 attendees for the main show, and 22 epic creations on the catwalk. Residents and staff both designed and modelled the costumes, with participation from grandchildren and greatgrandchildren – the youngest of whom was six years old, and the eldest 93. Proceeds from the show went to Hato Hone St John – a whopping $2,600! Well done, everyone!

Above: Summerset in the Sun’s annual Waste to Waist event. Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

We are delighted to be named overall winner in the Reader's Digest Association 2024 Quality Service Awards in the retirement villages category. The awards are based on surveys of consumers and recognise companies who go above and beyond in creating remarkable customer experiences. The winners are chosen from a survey of 1,570 New Zealanders across 31 categories.

it must be earned through superior service and genuine care.” Summerset CEO Scott Scoullar says. “The Quality Service Award is an excellent acknowledgement to our team. Service is something we take pride in, we want our customers to love what we’re providing for them, delivered by a friendly, dedicated and caring team who feel like family.” 2024 • Vo te

New Ze a l

★

“In such a challenging time, New Zealanders are more discerning than ever before. Their loyalty can’t be bought through discounts and promotions;

2024 ★ rs • ★ de

Reader’s Digest editor-in-chief Louise Waterson said while the prestigious Quality Service Awards have been running for ten years, few have been set in as difficult a landscape.

★

OUR NEWS

Reader’s Digest Big Win

★

R etirement Villages

Start your engines! Summerset sponsors the GT New Zealand Championship We firmly believe retirement is a time for new experiences, and we know we have many keen motorsports enthusiasts in our villages across the country. This is why we are delighted to announce our new partnership with GT New Zealand Championship, which races throughout the summer. The series kicked off at Taupō Motorsport Park on 17 November, with 50 residents from Summerset by the Lake in attendance. Across the open and GT4 classes vehicles from McLaren, Porsche, Ferrari and Lamborghini lined up. Grant Smith, GTNZ Category Manager says, “We’re thrilled to have a company like Summerset lend its support and engage with the GT New Zealand Championship. “The Summerset GT New Zealand Championship series will be the premiere motorsport class in New Zealand this summer, and it will be quite a spectacle seeing up to 30 of these GT cars at a variety of circuits around the country.” The Summerset GT NZ Championship will consist

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

of two classes within one field – An Open class featuring 911 GT3 Cup, Ferrari Challenge and Lamborghini Super Trofeo, and the popular GT4 class featuring GT4 category vehicles. Upcoming races are: •

26-28 January at the Manfeild Circuit Chris Amon in Feilding

•

9-11 February at Euromarque Motorsport Park, Ruapuna, Christchurch

•

16-18 February at Highlands International Motorsport Park, Cromwell

•

15-17 March at Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, Waikato

We look forward to offering Summerset residents exclusive experiences at the summer racing events.

JUDE ON …

S U M M E R V I B ES

Summer always seems to bring with it a good feeling. Is there anything factual about warmer weather and longer days materially affecting our health? I went looking for evidence for the link between summer and better health.

Our skin improves

We all need vitamin D for good health. The major source of that comes from our own production in our skin from exposure to the ultraviolet rays in sunlight. Low vitamin D can lead to a loss of bone density and an increased risk of fractures.

Warm weather is good news for arthritis sufferers. Most people feel less pain during summer, and it is also a great time to begin an exercise regime.

produces the vitamin D we need. In the winter, only 10% of the body is exposed, so nearly two hours of sun exposure at noon is needed to produce enough vitamin D.

Hip fractures could be prevented

Walking around in sunlight can decrease skin sensitivity to acne, psoriasis and dermatitis. We are more agile

You drink more water

Warm weather means we are likely to drink more. So, how much sunlight do we need? There are Water promotes digestion, regulates body variables that affect your vitamin D production – your temperature and improves the health of our skin as skin pigmentation, your age, the latitude of where well as flushes toxins out of the body. you live, the time of day you go out in the sun and The risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) goes down the season of the year. One study came up with the Doctors say that warm weather helps blood vessels amount of sunlight needed to produce enough enlarge, allowing blood to circulate better. The vitamin D in those with lighter skin. In spring and summer, 25% of the body is exposed to the sun, and warmer days of summer are good news for those at risk of thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. about 8 to 10 minutes of sun exposure at noon

Here are a few reasons why summer is good for your health: You’re less likely to die from a heart attack

A healthy dose of sunshine could prevent older women from fracturing their hips. One study found that half of postmenopausal women admitted to hospital with hip fractures had low levels of vitamin D. Sleep improves

A study showed that those who had a heart attack in Sleep experts recommend exposure to sunlight summer had an increased survival rate of 19%. UV between 7am and 9am each morning to help people light converts cholesterol to vitamin D, so getting out who have problems getting to sleep at night. Early in the sun is a good way to decrease cholesterol morning exposure can help insomnia because levels, which reduces the risk of heart disease and sunlight helps the body reset its internal biological stroke. clock. We eat more fruit With yummy summer fruits available, it’s often easier to hit that 5+ a day recommended fruit and veg quota per day. Strawberries are high in vitamin C, and their associated antioxidant activity helps with the prevention of chronic diseases such as cancer.

Migraines decrease Canadian doctors running trials testing the link between weather and migraines have concluded that clear, sunny and dry weather reduces the attacks of migraines. So, summer, it seems, is just what the doctor ordered. Enjoy it! Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

The Great Summerset Challenge has had its epic grand finale recently in Wellington! The first New Zealand trivia competition of its kind was a resounding success. Six Summerset villages from around the country went head-to-head for the coveted title of Grand Champions. Each team had already made it through a challenging round against the other villages in their region. The entire event was live streamed so residents and their families across the country could watch and cheer on their representative team. Over 350 people tuned in to watch the showdown. After a tough seven rounds of competition (three team rounds and four individual) emceed by radio personality Nick Tansley, our champions were announced and awarded their trophies. First Place: Team Heritage – Summerset at Heritage Park, Ellerslie, Auckland Second Place: Clever Clogs – Summerset at Pohutukawa Place, Bell Block, New Plymouth Third Place: Trentham Trotters – Summerset at the Course, Trentham, Wellington Well done to the: Wigram Wonders – Summerset at Wigram, Christchurch Brainy Laners – Summerset down the Lane, Hamilton The Brite Sparx – Summerset in the Bay, Napier The results are in for our third nationwide gardening competition Summerset’s Best Garden! Top NZ landscape designer and well-known TV and radio host Tony Murrell judged all the entries and independently chose the winners of each category. And the winners are:

Left: First place winners Team Heritage. Top right, Jan and Barry Hall’s Creative Garden winner. 18

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

Best Garden Betty Trewin – Summerset Falls, Warkworth. Tony says: ”The textural elements along with combinations and weaves of indigenous plants with fabulous exotics from around the world is beautiful.” Vegetables and Herb Garden in Ground or a Container Margaret Willard – Summerset on the Coast, Paraparaumu Tony says: “Shows us all how we can create a growing environment in raised containers using ecofriendly methods that have been well thought out and engineered.” Eco Friendly Garden Hamilton Village scarecrow-making group – Summerset down the Lane, Hamilton. Tony says: “A fun and quirky eco-friendly garden art using upcycled materials. Who would have thought that a 'Tin Man' could evolve from baked bean and sliced peach tins! I bet the group had lots of laughs working on these garden and home gems. Creative Garden Jan and Barry Hall – Summerset by the Dunes, Papamoa Tony says: “A lot has gone into creating a garden that not only supports plant life but also works for them too. Their creative use of screens and vertical planting have given them both a haven for living and a pretty garden.” The Summerset Sings Christmas Special concert with Will Martin and guest performer Chloe Agnew is available on our website from 15 December.

FIVE

QUESTIONS WILSON ELDER LIVES AT THE MEMORY CARE CENTRE AT SUMMERSET ROTOTUNA IN HAMILTON. HAILING FROM SCOTLAND ORIGINALLY, WILSON HAS LIVED IN NEW ZEALAND FOR 48 YEARS. SUMMERSET SCENE CAUGHT UP WITH HIM FOR A CHAT.

What has been your most unusual experience? I am from Glasgow and for my National Service I was in the 1st Battalion Scots Guards. I was assigned to guard Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II. I was there for the Trooping of the Colour in 1957. So, I was one of the traditional soldiers with the bearskin hat. The Scots Guards are the only ones without the plume in the hat, and our buttons are grouped in threes – that’s how you can tell that’s our regiment. I was stationed at Winsor Castle for a year. Those soldiers are recognisable across the world – what was it like doing that job? Hot! The uniform is heavy and we had to do a lot of standing motionless. Often someone would faint. And when you have a bayonet in your hands and you faint, it is pretty risky for the person in front of you. No one ever got hurt by it that I knew of, though. The chin strap is plastic too, so we would get rashes where it would rub. The uniform would need to be pristine so we would rub chalk on the white cuffs as they got grubby fast. People would always come and pull faces at you, try and pull at your buttons. I used to growl “Piss off” at them under my breath. That would soon stop them! What brought you out to New Zealand? I was a glazier and there were opportunities here. My wife, Ann, and I and our four children moved out here in November 1975. We settled in Hamilton.

Wilson playing pool at Summerset Rototuna, and in his Scots Guards uniform. How would you describe an ideal day with your family? Having a family barbecue all together and playing games. There were four years between each of my children. One is an accountant, one a chef, one is a fireman and another is a nurse. Between them that’s the whole person covered. Lynne, who is the nurse lives back in Scotland, but the others are all still local and live in New Zealand; two in Hamilton and one in Tauranga. How do you like to spend your days at Summerset? I started out in a villa just three months before Ann passed away. I moved to the memory care centre about a year after moving to the village as living alone without Ann just wasn’t the same – I miss her every day. I can often be found playing pool in the residents’ lounge. My good friend Eddie visits me often and we play. We have known each other for over 50 years – Eddie was one of our young apprentices who I worked with in Scotland. He came out to New Zealand with his wife and had a family here. I used to play golf with him and some others before my hip gave me problems and Ann got dementia. He is about 10 years my junior but I still beat him in pool, almost every time.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

V I L L AGE PEOPLE

Take a look at some of the recent village happenings.

7 6

Photo 1: Summerset on Summerhill explore Ngā Manu Nature Reserve in Waikanae. Photo 2: Rototuna Residents' Committee organised a mystery bus tour, which included visiting some alpacas. Photo 3: Ruby Rohrer cuts the cake with her son at her 108th birthday at Summerset at Heritage Park.

Photo 5: Would you like fries with that hotdog? Summerset at Heritage Park hold a pet pooch show. Photo 6: Masques and Mardi Gras! Summerset in the Bay enjoyed a New Orleans night. Photo 7: TV Presenter Daniel Faitaua meets a fan on his recent visit to Summerset Prebbleton. Photo 8: Pohutukawa Place residents held a Blue Day

Photo 4: Summerset in the Sun enjoys the

vintage look at Willowbank Heritage Park.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

and raised a whopping $3,205 for prostate cancer.

4 5

9 10

Photo 9: Champagne and sweepstakes at Summerset on Cavendish in honour of the Melbourne Cup. Photo 10: Summerset in the Orchard residents celebrate the Melbourne Cup in style. Photo 11: Happy Halloween from Summerset by the Lake! Photo 12: Summerset on the Course residents enjoy ice cream on a recent visit to Picton. Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

S TA F F P R O F I L E

Debbie Summers BY ELLIE CLIFFORD Debbie Summers has been instrumental in setting up Summerset’s sustainability programme. As Head of Sustainability, she ensures Summerset is reaching (or exceeding) our waste reduction targets, monitors our environmental impact and sets up environmental initiatives. Thanks in part to Debbie, the foundations for Summerset’s formal green journey were laid seven years ago, starting with our supply chain. “I started in 2016 in a National Contract Manager role, and we started talking sustainability pretty much immediately,” says Debbie, who is based at Wellington HQ. Summerset’s carbon baseline was set in 2017, the Green Team was introduced in 2020 and Debbie was the winner of the inaugural Green Champion Award in 2021. Debbie was inspired to start her sustainability journey when she was employed at New Zealand Post. “I was running waste audits at mail centres, courier depots and post shops right across the country, and pulling together a huge group of waste champions along the way. As you can imagine, there was a lot of paper waste in mail centres, but it was quite interesting to see what ended up in the mail centre waste bins. “Once I had mastered the waste minimisation programme, I moved into energy efficiency, and the rest is history.” This experience stood her in good stead when she joined Summerset. Sustainability is obviously more than just switching to LED lightbulbs and sorting rubbish into correct bins. And there are frustrations around how New Zealand deals with the waste, with material collected for recycling not being recycled, or being shipped off to another country to deal with, not to mention the large amounts of waste floating around in our oceans. “There is a lot of rhetoric versus reality when it comes

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

to meeting sustainability objectives – it’s a constant battle,” sighs Debbie. From an organisational standpoint, though, Summerset is making a difference, with Waste Champions set up across Summerset construction sites. “It’s been amazing to see how sustainability principles and practices have been embedded across the organisation, and I feel proud to be part of it. The construction Waste Champions forum is just fantastic, with passionate people all working towards the same goal.” Debbie is also impressed with how our villages view sustainability. “We have a great village network that includes property managers and activities coordinators that have embedded sustainability at village level. We have very active and supportive village residents too, and a great village network that embeds sustainability at a village level.” Debbie stays abreast of developments and innovation in sustainability through listening to podcasts, reading and networking. She is a member of the Construction Sector Accord Product Stewardship Action Group, which looks at how to reduce construction waste. “A lot of practices just involve common sense and efficiency. It’s not just buying green, for example, it’s thinking about buying less, using less and being more efficient with what you have,” she says. “There is a massive amount of information out there.” There is also a massive amount of reporting out there too, as the requirement around sustainability reporting has grown a lot in the last few years. “Initially the focus for sustainability reporting was mainly on environmental issues. However, now we are required to report on how we are operating

Debbie accepting a Construction Sector Accord Beacon Award in 2023. Below: Debbie on the Milford Track.

environmentally, socially and at a governance level. I share our results to various organisations, including Toitū Envirocare, NZX, the Financial Markets Authority, and national and international investor organisations. We report on carbon emissions, what we are doing to combat climate change, and we track and measure everything from how much waste we send to landfill, electricity used and water consumed. This includes implementing and reporting on solar installations, gas boiler switching, LED lighting initiatives and the number of EV charging stations and EV fleet vehicles, to mention a few.”

or internationally, to compete. It doesn’t matter how fit I think I am, though, after every tournament it takes me about a month to get over it!” says Debbie. She has two children studying at university, and has passed her love of sustainability to her daughter, who loves to op shop and has started to use the sewing machine to mend and adjust her own clothes. Keen on protecting our oceans, Debbie also volunteers as a citizen litter scientist for Sustainable Coastlines, surveying beaches close to where she lives in Eastbourne.

Debbie’s high regard for the environment continues in her personal life too. Wellington born and bred, in her spare time Debbie can be found enjoying the great outdoors. “My goal is to complete all the Great Walks of New Zealand. I only have a couple left. I train for those, carrying my own pack! You’ll often find me working in my vege garden and saving the sand dunes.” Debbie also plays basketball and plays masters basketball every year. “The team I play for is pretty good and come together annually, whether nationally Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

DELICIOUS RECIPES

SUMMER

P L AT T E R

C H AT T E R

R E C I P E S BY JA N B I LTO N

IT’S TIME TO CELEBRATE SUMMER WITH FUN PARTY PLATTERS. THEY DON’T NEED TO BE COMPLICATED! CREATE A LITTLE SOMETHING OF YOUR OWN AND ADD A FEW STORE-BOUGHT EXTRAS TO FILL IN THE GAPS, SUCH AS OLIVES, CHEESE, CORNICHONS AND CHERRY TOMATOES FOR A SAVOURY PLATTER. Smoked fish such as salmon and mackerel, or smoked oysters or mussels can be served ‘as is’ or diced or puréed to spread on crostini. They all have a long refrigerator life – ideal for family or Summerset friends popping in unexpectedly for some cheer.

Crystallised grapes:

1. Divide 400g of seedless grapes into small bunches. 2. Gently whisk 2 egg whites until foamy but not stiff. 3. Dip each little bunch into the egg

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

For dessert platters, try adding strawberries and cherries for colour and/or cheeses containing nuts and dried fruits. A fave party platter filler of mine is crystallised grapes – they can be served fresh or frozen on platters or with drinks.

whites, shaking to remove any excess. 4. Dip into caster sugar, then set aside to dry at room temperature. Can be frozen.

SAVOURY

PARTY PLATTER Air fryer dates with goat's cheese, salt & pepper potatoes, lychees & chorizo AIR FRYER DATES WITH GOAT’S CHEESE: Fill 12 pitted medjool dates with 110g soft goat’s cheese. Cut strips from 125g of streaky bacon long enough to wrap around the dates firmly. Cook in a preheated air fryer at 200°C for about 6 minutes – until the bacon is sizzling and golden – turning once. Or skewer the dates with toothpicks and grill for 3–4 minutes each side. Serves 6. SALT & PEPPER POTATOES: Choose 8–10 baby potatoes or cut large ones into manageable finger-food sizes (I used a colourful mix of potatoes). Preheat the oven

to 210°C. Add 3–4 tablespoons of olive or canola oil to a medium roasting pan. Add the potatoes and toss in the oil. Add 2–3 sprigs of rosemary. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until cooked, turning once. Sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Reheat in the oven or air fryer if needed. LYCHEES & CHORIZO: Drain a can of lychees well. Cut 2cm lengths of chorizo sticks and place in the centre of each lychee.

Fill any gaps on your party platter with large green olives, cherry tomatoes and/or cubes of feta cheese rolled in dukkah.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

SEAFOOD PLATTER

Fish & avocado spoons, smoked mussel canapes, cucumber & salmon croutons

FISH & AVOCADO SPOONS: Dice 200g skinned & boned snapper, tarakihi or similar. Place in a shallow dish and drizzle with 1/4 cup white vinegar. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour or up to 12. Drain and place in a bowl. Season to taste.

SMOKED MUSSEL CANAPES: Finely chop 180g of chilli-flavoured smoked mussels. Add 2–3 tablespoons of coconut cream or mayo to make a paste. Season with salt and pepper. Pile on buttered crackers (the butter stops the crackers going soft).

Stone and peel 1/2 firm, ripe avocado. Dice the flesh. Add to the fish together with 1 table spoon lime-infused or extra virgin olive oil and 1 small diced shallot. Just before serving, fold in 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander or mint. Makes enough to fill 6–8 Chinese soup spoons.

CUCUMBER & SALMON CROUTONS: Slice a telegraph cucumber into 1.5cm rounds. Twist thin slices of smoked salmon on top. Garnish with a made-to-taste mayo and wasabi combo. Cooked prawns make a great addition to this platter. Serve with a chilli & mayo dip. Cooked prawns make a great addition to this platter. Serve with a chili & mayo dip.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

DESSERT PLATTER

Anzac truffles and rosemary walnuts

ANZAC TRUFFLES AND ROSEMARY WALNUTS: Crush 250g Anzac biscuits until they resemble coarse breadcrumbs. Beat 500g room temperature cream cheese and 1 cup icing sugar until smooth. Add 100g melted white chocolate to the cream cheese mixture together with half the crushed biscuits, 2 teaspoons vanilla paste or pure vanilla essence and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Mix well. Drop heaped teaspoonfuls onto a baking paper-lined baking tray. Chill until firm. Roll each truffle into a ball and coat in the remaining crushed biscuits. Chill. Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Makes about 34.

ROSEMARY WALNUTS: Cover 2 cups of walnut halves and pieces with water and simmer for 2 minutes. Drain and dry well. Melt 25g of butter in a frying pan on low. Add 3 tablespoons of dried rosemary leaves and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Add the walnuts, stirring until well-coated. Sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of caster sugar. Stir well. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Spread the nuts in a roasting pan. Bake for 15 minutes until golden, stirring occasionally. Cool. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Add strawberries, crystallised grapes and small squares of Christmas cake to this platter for extra deliciousness.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

In this age of instant gratification, there was another factor

IN THE GARDEN

Dahlia Dazzle For summer colour in containers and courtyards, these

that didn't help the dahlia in the past: you had to buy the tubers, which look as unpromising as dried-up kumara, while they were dormant in winter, then wait until the last frosts had passed before planting them out. However, these days potted dahlias are sold in garden centres all summer, and the beauty of that is you know exactly what the flowers will look like from the get-go. They come in all colours, shapes and sizes, from compact bedding varieties and wee pompoms to giant decorative dahlias. If there's one dahlia to rule them all, however, it has to be 'Café au Lait', a so-called dinnerplate dahlia that boasts huge shaggy heads of palest peach petals. It's an absolute stunner as a cut flower and remains the most popular variety for wedding bouquets.

bold bloomers are back in fashion in a big way, writes

When I got married, in my own garden, of course, I carried

Lynda Hallinan.

a massive bunch of mixed giant dahlias down the aisle. My

"What goes around, comes around," wrote Geoffrey Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales. (Or at least, he wrote "There is no newe guise, but it was old", if you get the gist.) From Crown Lynn pottery to denim flares and beehive hair-dos, if you wait long enough, everything eventually becomes popular again – including garden

bouquet, trussed up with asparagus fern (another unfashionable old-timer), was so big that by the time it came to sign the wedding register, it was a relief to have an excuse to put it down! Throwing it at my bridesmaids would have been classified as a violent assault, so it ended up as pretty petal confetti in my compost heap instead. Dahlias are a great choice for small gardens because they

flowers. Although roses never truly fall out of fashion, a few years ago dahlias were nobody's darlings. Aside from dahlia society shows, where competitive gardeners still took great pains to produce perfect blooms to display on the show table, most gardeners didn't look twice at them because they had a reputation for being hard to grow. That reputation largely came about because dahlia breeders focused on producing bigger and bigger exhibition blooms, resulting in varieties that only flower

do particularly well in pots. Add a stake when planting as, in full bloom, they can be quite top-heavy. Protect the plants with a sprinkle of slug bait when the new stems are emerging, and if you find the petals are being nibbled, tuck in some scrunched newspaper to act as a simple earwig trap. (They'll crawl into it overnight, making for an easy disposal.) Feed halfway through the season with a slow-release fertiliser and make sure they get plenty of water in hot weather.

show judges could love. In an average backyard, these

In cold, wet soil, dahlias should be lifted after they die

show-offs needed staking, spraying and protection from

down in autumn, so they don't rot in winter. However, when

sunburn, earwigs, katydids, green shield beetles and

growing them in pots, that's unnecessary, though it is

powdery mildew.

worth digging them up every few years to divide the

Then West Auckland plant breeder Dr Keith Hammett started producing smaller, healthier plants designed for low-maintenance gardens, rather than championship glory. His 'Mystic' series had simple single flowers, because bees love them, and elegant dark foliage that didn't need spraying. Slowly but surely, a revival began.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

clumps to maintain their health. Dig, divide, share (or take cuttings) – this is the ideal way to acquire dahlias too. Most of the best-performing varieties in my garden were gifts from other generous gardeners, and thus are known only to me as 'Judy's yellow dahlia' or 'Mary's purple dahlia'. I love them as much for sentimentality as for their sensational summer display.

Top left: Café au lait. Top right: Golden sceptre. Below: Summer basket of dahlias.

What to sow & plant now

• Sow radishes, sweetcorn, salad greens and dwarf beans. Misting runner beans with a garden hose aids pollination.

• Train cucumbers up trellis to save space.

• Remove the lower leaves from tomatoes to improve air flow and help keep blight at bay.

• Protect cabbages, cauliflowers and broccoli from white cabbage butterfly caterpillars by covering your plants with fine mesh, or sprinkle with Derris Dust.

• Slide plastic saucers under large potted shrubs or trees, such as citrus, to act as a water reservoir.

• Feed indoor plants with a liquid houseplant fertiliser such as Thrive. Use a damp cloth to polish the leaves too.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

STYLE

BY LU CY C O R RY

Fashion’s great awakening

Everything old is new again as fashion cottons on to the value of experience. As Aotearoa turns towards summer, something miraculous is happening in the world of fashion. Older people are slowly but surely gaining visibility – and kudos – on magazine covers, on the red carpet and in high-end advertising. In recent months, we’ve seen 81-year-old entrepreneur Martha Stewart in her togs for Sports Illustrated’s famous swimsuit issue, 88-year-old actress Dame Maggie Smith in an ad campaign for posh Spanish brand Loewe, and proudly grey-haired Helen Mirren (78) and Andie McDowell (65) on the runway at Paris Fashion Week. George Clooney, Harrison Ford and Morgan Freeman are among the male celebrities showing that ageing doesn’t necessarily mean hanging up your suit in favour of trackpants and a cardigan. Being older – and proud of it – is suddenly hot right now. For once you don’t have to be a size 6 and 18 years old to be considered stylish. Fashion’s great quest for diversity and newness has finally expanded to include ageing. The undisputed queen of this movement is without a doubt 102-year-old New Yorker Iris Apfel, who has nearly three million followers on social media platform Instagram. Apfel, who wears trademark giant

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

black-framed spectacles, says that “more is more and less is a bore.” She hasn’t faded away into old age, and her rallying cry is that no one else should either. Of course, it’s easy to be cynical about the reasons for this sudden appreciation of grey hair, laughter lines and life experience. The “boomer” generation has always been visible, and marketers have twigged that they’re a valuable group to have onside. They’re active and they have time and money to spend on themselves – so it makes sense to target them accordingly. So when you’re out and about this summer, walk tall. While the very young and lithe will be out there wearing ever-shrinking bikinis and shorts, you’ll know better. And there is some good news on the horizon for more mature fashion followers this summer. Designers at the 2023 New Zealand Fashion Week showed a relaxed and sensible approach to summer dressing, with lightweight, easy-to-wear dresses, loose-fitting trousers and flat shoes or sandals. Summer has never looked so good – and it’s up to you to prove that age is no barrier.

update

GO GREENER

Recycling at our Summerset villages: Why is it important? USE LESS RESOURCES

BEING MORE CONSCIOUS WHEN WE SHOP

Recycling is a hero for saving resources. Instead of

Think about how you treat things you don't care much

always using new materials, we give things like paper

about, like pens. You might lose them without thinking.

and glass a second chance. For example, as paper is

But recycling makes us think twice when we buy things.

recycled it gets smaller each time until it ends up as light

Is the plastic recyclable? Are eggs without plastic worth

paper, like tissues. Glass, though, stays good quality no

a bit more money? It's about being smart when we shop.

matter how many times it's recycled. CONSERVE ENERGY Recycling is a big energy saver. Turning new materials into stuff we use takes a lot more energy than recycling them. Aluminum cans, for example, are a top energy-saving champ. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, making one new can uses as much

At Summerset we are well down the recycling path. You will see that every village recycles. It’s not perfect; sometimes we put the wrong materials in the wrong bin (we have all done that!). Also, recycling does require a bit more effort. But, it is a good, and right, thing to do. We all have a role to play in keeping NZ sustainable so our grandkids can enjoy New Zealand as much as we have.

energy as making 20 cans from recycled material. So, a

So, the message from us is to please support our efforts

recycled can can power your TV for two hours! Other

to recycle. It is important and we will all see the benefits.

materials, like paper, plastic, and glass, also use way less

If you have any questions about how to recycle, please

energy to make by recycling.

ask your Property team.

REDUCE OUR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT Recycling helps to reduce the impact of collecting materials from nature, less energy is used and it lowers the pollution created during manufacturing. REDUCE WASTE TO LANDFILL Now, about landfills—those places where we throw our rubbish. They're becoming a big problem because we're making more waste than ever. Even though we're getting better at using gases from landfills for electricity, we can't keep making new landfills all the time. We are going to run out of viable places to dump our rubbish. While we’re getting better at offsetting the environmental impacts of landfill by collecting gases to produce electricity, we can’t continue to pave over paradise to build landfills at the current rate.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

CRAFT CORNER

Simple Scrappy

cleaning cloths ARTICLE BY MELISSA WASTNEY

These simple little cloths are perfect for cleaning and dusting surfaces in every room, and they also make useful gifts, especially together with a nice bar of soap. I have used up scraps of cotton and linen yarns to knit these, and the finished cloths almost resemble mini landscapes! I have included my trick for joining in a new colour without having to sew in the ends later, and this way you can have fun with irregular stripes or a marled effect in your knitting. These cloths would work just as well in one colour, and are a great project for new knitters or people wanting to get back into knitting after a long break. I’ve also included my recipe for a natural cleaning spray that you can make to freshen up your place. It couldn’t be easier! Customise the scent with your favourite essential oils.

SUPPLIES z For the cloths: scraps of cotton and/or linen yarn, either in 4-ply or a heavier weight. Small leftover balls are ideal. z Size 4.5mm knitting needles z Scissors and a tapestry needle z For the spray: an empty spray bottle (I used a 500ml amber glass one from The Warehouse), 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, a squirt of plain dishwashing liquid, and two drops each of tea tree and lavender essential oils.

Joining yarns with a magic knot 01. Using the magic knot method, you can change colours whenever you like and reduce the number of ends to weave in later. 02. Tie the new length of yarn around the working yarn a few inches from the end, leaving a tail of a few inches. Take the working yarn and tie a knot around the new yarn. Now pull both strands of yarn, moving the two knots closer to each other until they become entwined. This should create a very strong knot. Now you can trim the excess tails and continue knitting with the new yarn.

METHOD 01. To make the cloths, use either one strand of DK weight or two strands of 4-ply yarn held together, and cast on 35 stitches. 02. First row: with the yarn held in front, slip stitch purlwise, move yarn to back and knit to end. 03. For a marled effect, change one of the 4-ply strands and keep the other uniform throughout. 04. Repeat until you have a square piece of knitting. Cast off loosely, weave in ends and trim. 32

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

To make the natural cleaning spray, put all the liquids into the spray bottle, then top it up with warm water and shake gently. You can use any essential oils you like (or skip them altogether, if you prefer).

FITNESS FUN I N

T H E

S U M M E R

WELLNESS

S U N

We know that with warmer weather comes more options to be active. Checking in with some basic movements of where our body is at is helpful to gauge our current ability. Before you say yes to every and all activities, here are a few exercises you can complete to give your body its own personal ‘WOF’, plus some progressions and regressions to get you back moving or prepared for more. Only complete these exercises if they are within your capabilities, and ensure you take an easier option if needed. 1. Lie down on the floor and then stand up. As a progression, try and do it without using your hands or only one hand. 2. Reach over your head with just your arms, or reach with a small object such as a can of food or bag. This will help keep your shoulder muscles mobile and active. 3. Carry something that is moderately heavy a small distance (shopping from the car, for example) on one side.

4. Stand on one leg for 10–30 seconds (use a chair for support if needed). Knowing how stable you are on your feet will give you a gauge of your lower body strength and balance. 5. Squat or bend down and pick up an object off the floor that weighs between 5–10kg. This could be a bag, pot plant or some water bottles. 6. Walk backwards for 10 steps. 7. Bend forwards and touch your left ankle with your right hand, and vice versa. 8. Kick your bottom with alternate heels while standing. If you passed most of these steps, well done! You can work at these every day – in the morning seems to be the best bang for buck. Remember to stay hydrated, keep in the shade, rest before you need to and enjoy getting some longawaited vitamin D!

REVIEWS BY KAREN MCMILLAN

BOOK REVIEWS

S EC R E TS O F T H E L A N D K AT E M A H O N Y This haunting novel opens in Melbourne in 2018 when a stranger dressed in an oversized jacket approaches Imogen on the street and says that her grandfather in New Zealand needs her help. But Imogen has been led to believe that her grandfather is dead. Imogen goes to Taranaki and finds that her gruff granddad is very much alive, but someone is trying to frighten him off his farm. But who is doing this, and why are they doing this? The novel also follows the story of Imogen’s mother, Aoife, in Taranaki in 1976 as a young girl, and the story of Irishman Michael in 1864. It turns out there is a long shadow over Imogen’s grandfather’s farm, which stretches back to two young Irishmen joining the British army to fight against Taranaki Māori.

CLOUD INK PRESS

A stunning novel, the story seamlessly slips from 1864 to 1976 to 2018. Secrets of the Land is a tale where the past haunts the present, but secrets refuse to stay hidden. This is an engrossing literary read with well-researched historical facts at its core.

RRP $30.00

THE ARMOUR OF LIGHT K E N FO L L ET T From master storyteller Ken Follet comes his latest novel, where he returns to Kingsbridge, this time in the 1790s. Set in revolutionary times, the story follows a small group of Kingsbridge people. Life is brutal for the main characters, with society seemingly dominated by greedy businessmen, boorish bishops and judges intent on hanging or deporting people who have committed petty crimes, purely in an attempt to survive. There are many people to dislike, with the top villain spot going to businessman Hornbeam, who is arguably the most despicable. Joining the army to avoid going to prison, or for one character, repaying gambling debts, allows many of the characters to have a front seat as warfare edges towards the mighty battle between Bonaparte and Wellington at Waterloo. There are murders and illicit love affairs, but also decent people fighting for a future without oppression. MACMILLAN PUBLISHERS RRP $59.99

It’s a doorstop of a book, but such is Ken Follett’s skill that it’s a riveting, pacy read that I devoured in a remarkably short space of time, given the number of pages. An ambitious, but utterly entertaining novel. Brilliant.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

S I ST E RS U N D E R T H E R I S I N G SU N H E AT H E R M O R R I S Opening in February 1942, a group of Australian Army nurses board the merchant ship SS Vyner Brooke in Singapore. Also on board is Norah Chambers, an English musician, and her husband, also fleeing the carnage. But only two days later, their ship is sunk off the coast of Indonesia. The surviving Australian nurses and Norah reach the beaches of a remote island, only to be captured by the Japanese. Alongside hundreds of other women, they struggle to survive in the camps, where starvation is never far away, and brutality is their companion. Their struggle will go on for three long years and seven months. But even in the midst of brutal hardship, there is joy, and one of the joys of the camp is the ‘vocal orchestra’ that Norah forms, where women’s voices take the place of instruments and bring hope in the midst of despair.

ECHO PUBLISHING RRP $36.99

Sisters Under the Rising Sun is an astonishing book that pays tribute to the real-life women of the Australian Army who endured hardship in Japanese POW camps, and includes the handwritten musical scores by Norah Chambers, who did so much to help morale during these difficult times. A captivating, moving read.

M RS P O RT E R CA L L I N G A J P E A RC E Living in London in 1943, Emmy Lake is the agony aunt at Woman’s Friend magazine. She loves her job, and although some of the letters are heartbreaking, she finds a great deal of satisfaction in being about to do something to help women struggling with many issues in wartime. But then the Honourable Mrs Cressida Porter inherits the magazine, and her unrealistic, self-indulgent ideas soon threaten to destroy the much-loved magazine, as advertisers and readers begin falling away in dramatic fashion. But Emmy has more things to worry about than just Woman’s Friend folding. Her husband is away fighting in the war, and then the unbearable, unthinkable happens to one of her dear friends. But with a great deal of fortitude, Emmy and her friends band together to fight to save the magazine they and their readers love. Can they win against an owner with so much privilege and money behind her?

MACMILLAN PUBLISHERS RRP $37.99

Mrs Porter Calling is charming, moving and uplifting in equal measure. AJ Pearce perfectly captures the brave attitude of the era, and this is a book about finding courage when all seems lost.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

WHAT'S COOKING? Café Culture BY ELLIE CLIFFORD

Every Friday, Carol Hoult from Summerset at the Course heads over to Heretaunga College in Upper Hutt and dives back into the world of school kitchens. Carol’s role? Cooking up and serving the lunches to a

Now in retirement, Carol insists that it’s the hospitality

hungry group of teenagers – but don’t ask her to work on

students who are now educating her. She holds them in

the till. “I did my best to avoid the money handling,”

high regard, acknowledging, “They are extraordinary.

Carol laughs. “Few of the students have cash, only debit

They recently catered a dinner for the Labour Party. I’m a

cards, and I struggled to work the EFTPOS machine,

supportive presence; certainly not their teacher.”

but we have one for the Residents’ Committee so I can use it now!”

But what truly sets Carol apart is her deep fondness for her students. “Most of the kids are well-mannered,” she

In her teaching days, Carol was the Head of the Home

notes. Her connection to the school runs even deeper, as

Economics Department at Kerikeri High School in the

her grandchildren are pupils at Heretaunga, and her

Bays of Islands. She reminisces,

daughter is a maths teacher there. As a result, the

“I taught two courses, training students for work in the hospitality industry, and also human development, which was popular with those pursuing careers in early education, law enforcement or nursing. I taught them the theory, but I also challenged them to cook nutritious meals within a budget.”

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

students greet her with warm familiarity, often addressing her with “Hello Mrs McLennan’s mother” or “Hello Danny’s grandmother.” Seeing the students at their happiest, enjoying meals and socialising with friends warms Carol’s heart. She serves up a variety of dishes, with hot chips remaining a perennial favourite. According to Carol, chips are a hit because they’re easily shared among friends, and at their age, teenagers crave peer companionship above all else. The café may operate as a training ground for hospitality students from Monday to Thursday, but Fridays are

Top: Carol busy in the cafē. Centre: Carol and the hospitality

special – it’s when volunteers take over to

students with Chris Hipkins. Bottom: A 'Use it or lose it' class at

raise funds for the school’s hockey teams.

Summerset at the Course.

Carol says, “In this area, the hockey teams must pay an extraordinary amount every game to play on the local pitches. Without the funds raised by the proceeds from the school café, it would be unaffordable for many students to play.” The prohibitive cost of playing hockey is something that really grinds Carol’s gears, as it is a sport close to her heart.

“My other daughter coaches the school’s boys’ hockey team, and my grandchildren play, making me a proud hockey grandma,” explains Carol. “The funds pay for turf fees as well as for new goalie kits each season, as that needs to be sized properly.” When she isn’t working in the café or baking sweet treats to sell there, Carol is active as Vice Chairperson on the Residents’ Committee in her Summerset village, setting up the annual village residents’ luncheon, and helping to lead the weekly ‘Use it or lose it’ exercise class. “I moved to the village from a remote farm in Northland,” chuckles Carol, “so I enjoy being sociable. Despite moving during Covid, I got to know people. I joined the outdoor bowls club and recognised people from their eyes and their posture!” One of the things Carol enjoys about village life is how residents interact with one another. “We reflect what you would find in a town; we all have different skills and talents. I think ours is a resourceful generation. Ageing may mean we have some limits, but we are all living our best lives.”

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

HAMILTON ARTICLE BY AMELIA NORMAN

Just over an hour south of Auckland, nestled among the verdant pastures of the Waikato District, is the bustling city of Hamilton. Although not widely known as a tourism hotspot, New Zealand’s fourth-largest metropolitan area has some fantastic attractions for those seeking a few days away.

If fine dining and excellent wine are two of your favourite things, head to Palate Restaurant for dinner. From beautiful local seafood to the best lamb, pork and beef New Zealand has to offer, Palate produces exceptional plates, each matched with the perfect wine. If it’s a special occasion, consider the Kitchen Table – a seven-course degustation served at a table inside the restaurant kitchen for a truly immersive and unforgettable foodie experience.

ACCOMMODATION

Fancy a cup of tea? Why not enjoy it straight from the source at New Zealand’s only commercial tea estate? Zealong Tea Estate is located 10km out of the city and makes for a fascinating (and delicious) outing. A visit to their beautiful tea house for a stunning morning, afternoon or high tea is a must. While there, enjoy a wander through their beautiful sculpture garden or join a tour of the estate (season dependent), where you’ll learn all about the fine art of growing and making quality tea.

For a city visit, central city accommodation makes a lot of sense. You can’t get much more central than the Novotel Hamilton Tainui. This swish 4.5-star hotel makes for easy holiday accommodation with stylish and comfortable rooms, a delicious breakfast buffet and direct walking access to everything that central Hamilton has to offer. If a rural escape is more your style, check in to On the River. Located 3km from the city and en route from Hamilton Airport, this private boutique suite is perched right upon the mighty Waikato River, surrounded by beautiful leafy vistas. You could easily while away your days here, relaxing on the sunny patio or taking gentle riverside walks. EATING Everyone knows that to find the best food in an unfamiliar city you eat where the locals eat. A trip into suburban Hamilton East is well worth it for breakfast (or lunch) at Hayes Common. This award-winning neighbourhood eatery is open Wednesday to Sunday and has a robust menu of hearty morning eats as well as some quality offerings throughout the day, including great vegan and vegetarian options. Grab an outside table, take your time and enjoy a seriously good meal while you watch the world go by. A sunny afternoon is the ideal time to visit Gothenburg Restaurant for lunch. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the river, this classy tapas restaurant is as much a feast for the eyes as it is the stomach. They do delectable small plates, designed to share, perfectly executed with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Just make sure you leave room for their fantastic desserts! 38

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

ACTIVITIES

To get the best view of the area, book yourself a hot air balloon flight with Kiwi Balloon Company. The early morning start is well worth it by the time you’re floating high above the city and taking in a bird’s-eye view of the Waikato River wending through stunning farmland and distant mountain ranges. Each year, Hamilton plays host to a fantastic hot air balloon festival, which is a real treat if you’re visiting in March. The jewel in Hamilton’s crown is without doubt the famous Hamilton Gardens. Spread over 58 hectares in the east of the city, Hamilton Gardens differ from botanic gardens in that they focus on garden design, rather than research and plant conservation. As such, a wander through the five garden collections is a journey through time and cultures from around the world. Book in for a guided tour to get some real insight into each garden. And be sure to include the Fantasy Garden in your visit for something totally unforgettable! In and around the buzz of the big city, Hamilton has some fabulous hidden gems that make for a memorable escape.

Photo credit: Petra Riddell on Unsplash

TRAVEL LOG

photo credit casey-horner--unsplash

Photo Credit: Look up look down photography on Unsplash

STATS Region: Waikato Airport: Hamilton Airport Main road: Victoria Street Population: 160,911

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

T R AV E L L I N G TIPS It is coming up to holiday season and many people are on the move, visiting friends and family. Travelling with a person living with dementia (PLWD) requires more planning and care but is still possible for a long time after diagnosis. To be enjoyable, a trip needs to be well thought through to avoid situations that might heighten confusion or agitation. Be realistic and consider what will work for the PLWD now rather than what worked in the past. This may involve modifying and adapting the way you travel, where you travel to and whom you travel with. Everybody’s journey through dementia is different and how they will cope with travel will be unique to them. TRAVEL COMPANIONSHIP: Avoid solo travel for PLWD; bring a companion who understands dementia challenges. FLIGHT PLANNING: Allow for flight delays; arrange hassle-free transport at your destination. PRACTICE HOLIDAYS: Start with smaller local trips before planning ambitious overseas vacations. SIMPLICITY IS KEY: Opt for simple travel plans, familiar destinations and minimal disruptions. PERSONALISED APPROACH: Consider PLWD's preferences; assess if staying in one place or multiple changes are suitable. REST AND RECUPERATION: Plan rest times into your schedule; avoid overloading the itinerary. TIMING CONSIDERATIONS: Choose travel times based on the PLWD's freshness, considering morning or night travel. SAFETY MEASURES: Use GPS trackers for those with poor sense of direction; have the PLWD wear brightly coloured clothing for easy identification. Inform airlines about dementia.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

INSURANCE COVERAGE: Check if insurance covers dementia-related incidents; inform the airline in advance. EXIT PLAN: Be realistic; have a contingency plan and consider returning home if necessary. MEDICAL CONSULTATION: Discuss the trip with your GP; consider medication for agitation or sleep, if needed. PREMIUM TRAVEL OPTIONS: Opt for Premium Economy or Business Class for added comfort and assistance. CRUISE CONSIDERATIONS: Address orientation and dining concerns when booking a cruise for a PLWD. ROAD TRIPS AWARENESS: Avoid prolonged car trips in New Zealand; take frequent breaks. NIGHTTIME NAVIGATION: Ensure visibility at night; leave toilet light on or bring a night light. RETURN PLANNING: Plan the return home with equal focus; consider the overall journey's impact.

POET’S CORNER

Last issue we held a competition for haikus. Here is a small selection of the submissions we received.

Congratulations to Pauline Bradford from Summerset on Cavendish, you have won a $50 Prezzy card!

Morning tea

Summer

"I’m home again, and well," she said, “so come for morning tea.”

Sunshine fills my soul

She didn’t have to ask me twice, I clapped my hands with glee.

Perfumed days of warmth

Mrs Catwheeler said “Hello” as I walked in through the door,

Pauline Bradford

I’d made some fancy madeleines – oops, I dropped them on the floor! The nun, yes NUN, from ‘cross the road, brought sausage rolls to share. While that was very nice of her, WHAT’S SHE DOING HERE?

Blood flows like liquid honey

Summerset on Cavendish

Summerset

Our hostess, Mrs Traveller, made muffins of something and dates,

I love Summerset,

now being a Tuffin, I do love a muffin, but dates are my favourite hate!

What more could I want?

“I’ve had some trouble with my back,” I said, “but it’s coming right so far, and as a consequence of that, today I wear no bra!”

It's the place that I belong.

Pat Campbell Summerset at Wigram

“My gosh,” said Mrs 48, “I never would have guessed it, I’ve known you now for quite a while; you’ve always looked flat chested!” “Oh, come on, Mrs 48, sometimes you tell such lies,

Haiku to spring

I’m really happy with my lot, no matter what the size!”

A gentle spring breeze

And once again a good time was had.

The hungry snails appear

To have such cool neighbours makes me so very glad!

Fay Tuffin

Yellow bursts of daffodils

Delys Lodge Summerset Rototuna

Summerset Rototuna

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

SUDOKU

WORDWHEEL: 1. HOSTAGES. 2. UNDERDOG. 3. RENEGADE.

Across: 1. Clearance sale, 8. Repose, 14. Ratio, 15. Co-worker, 16. Pickups, 17. Cease, 18. Nod, 19. Madness, 21. Prosecute, 22. Sewing, 25. Addis Ababa, 27. Sawhorse, 28. Lesser, 31. Top dog, 33. Plummet, 34. Mallet, 35. Hear, 37. Too, 39. Kill, 40. Imitate, 41. Schilling, 42. Redress, 43. Beverage, 48. Blissful, 52. On a roll, 56. Acropolis, 57. Abreast, 58. Rain, 59. Has, 60. Soil, 61. Remove, 62. Emotion, 63. Repent, 65. Astral, 66. Discover, 68. Scaredy-cat, 71. Shadow, 72. Contusion, 74. Stopgap, 76. Nip, 79. Comma, 80. Turf out, 81. Horsebox, 83. Snare, 84. Plague, 85. Short-tempered. Down: 2. Leotard, 3. Acorn, 4. Ask, 5. Core, 6. Supernatural, 7. Locus, 8. Risotto, 9. Pick, 10. Shaped, 11. Stung, 12. Toddler, 13. Quick-witted, 14. Retired, 20. Shangri-la, 23. Sapphire, 24. Useless, 26. Indulge, 27. Summer, 29. Sheriff, 30. Lethal, 32. Opine, 34. Model, 36. Regal, 38. Alms, 43. Brass, 44. Verdict, 45. Rope, 46. Galley, 47. Cache, 48. Biannual, 49. Intersect, 50. Stroppy, 51. Union, 52. Osmosis, 53. Observatory, 54. Labour, 55. Trainspotter, 64. Balance, 65. Amongst, 67. Chortle, 69. Abalone, 70. Normal, 71. Speak, 73. Sloth, 75. Piece, 77. Rang, 78. Shut, 82. Rim.

eight-letter word reading clockwise or CODECRACKER anticlockwise. Previous solution: UNDERDOG

CROSSWORD

Insert the missing letter to complete an

? A N E

Insert the missing letter to complete an eight-letter word reading clockwise or anticlockwise. Previous solution: RELATIVE

T S ? A

E D

Insert the missing letter to complete an eight-letter word reading clockwise or anticlockwise. Previous solution: HOSTAGES

E R 1208

O ? R D

H OWordWheel

N U E D

E S

1207 1206

clockwise or anticlockwise WordWheel

WordWheel

the missing letter in each puzzle WORDWHEEL Insert to make an eight-letter word reading Fill the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1-9

SUDOKU

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

DOUBLECROSS BRAIN TEASE

PUZZLES

17 18

23 25

30 31

37 39

41 42

47 52

48 53

59 60

64 65

70 71

76 79

78 80

83 84 Across 1. Bargain shopping event (9,4) 8. Rest (6) 14. Proportion (5) 15. Colleague (2-6) 16. Utes, to an American (7) 17. Stop (5) 18. Doze (3) 19. Lunacy (7) 21. Take to court (9) 22. Stitching (6) 25. Capital of Ethiopia (5,5) 27. Trestle to rest wood on (8) 28. Smaller in size or value (6) 31. Person in charge (colloq) (3,3) 33. Fall rapidly (7) 34. Wooden hammer (6) 35. Listen (4) 37. Also (3) 39. Slay (4) 40. Copy (7) 41. Former Austrian currency (9) 42. Compensation (7) 43. Drink (8) 48. Euphoric (8)

85 52. Having a streak of luck (2,1,4) 56. Athens landmark (9) 57. Side by side (7) 58. Precipitation (4) 59. Possesses (3) 60. Earth (4) 61. Take away (6) 62. Feeling (7) 63. Feel remorse (6) 65. Relating to the stars (6) 66. Find (8) 68. Timid person (colloq) (7-3) 71. Silhouette (6) 72. Bruise (9) 74. Temporary (7) 76. Pinch (3) 79. Punctuation mark (5) 80. Eject (colloq) (4,3) 81. Equine transport (8) 83. Capture (5) 84. Pestilence (6) 85. Irritable (5-8)

Down 2. Gymnast’s clothing (7) 3. Fruit of the oak (5) 4. Inquire (3) 5. Centre (4) 6. Beyond the laws of nature (12) 7. Location (5) 8. Rice dish cooked in broth (7) 9. Select (4) 10. Formed (6) 11. Pricked (5) 12. Young child (7) 13. Fast-thinking (5-6) 14. No longer working (7) 20. Mythical place of peace (7-2) 23. Blue precious stone (8) 24. Serving no purpose (7) 26. Pamper (7) 27. Season (6) 29. Lawman (7) 30. Deadly (6) 32. State one’s view (5) 34. Example (5) 36. Majestic (5) 38. Money for the poor (4) 43. Money (colloq) (5)

44. Decision (7) 45. Weapon in Cluedo (4) 46. Ship’s kitchen (6) 47. Hoard (5) 48. Half-yearly (8) 49. Cross (9) 50. Argumentative (7) 51. Workers’ organisation (5) 52. Absorption of ideas, knowledge (7) 53. Star-gazing site (11) 54. Physical work (6) 55. Public transport enthusiast (12) 64. Equilibrium (7) 65. In the middle of (7) 67. Laugh (7) 69. Paua, to non New Zealanders (7) 70. Usual (6) 71. Talk (5) 73. Slow-moving mammal (5) 75. Component (5) 77. Echoed (4) 78. Close (4) 82. Edge (3)

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

PETS

PETS OF

SUMMERSET

Dame Katie Calico lives in the care centre at Summerset on the Coast in Paraparaumu with her owner, 90-year-old Morag Howes.

resorting to nipping or scratching. Once a village troublemaker, Katie used to terrorise smaller dogs and attend village movie nights with

Katie, then a spirited six-year-old feline, found her

Morag. Nowadays, her interests have shifted to

way into Morag's life 11 years ago through a

watching rugby in the care centre and catching a

temporary stay at the SPCA. Together, they settled

ride on Morag's walker back to their room.

into villa life at Summerset on the Coast and transitioned to the care centre earlier this year.

Despite her age, Katie remains nimble enough to jump out of the window for nightly escapades with

Morag describes Katie as a bit feisty and perhaps a

Zambuca, another feline resident. It seems that

touch arrogant, especially during her days at the

Katie's senior years are filled with a mix of routines

cattery. Apparently, Katie had a knack for claiming

and a touch of adventure.

the high ground and avoiding socialising with other cats. Despite her discerning nature, she's a confident and healthy 17-year-old, as proven by a recent vet visit where fees were waived due to Katie's impressive well-being. Katie's robust health is credited to her selective eating habits—wet food once a day, biscuits twice a day—anything else gets a disapproving sniff. She's also particular about her afternoon naps and, unfortunately for Morag, doesn't share the bed, making her displeasure known with a playful nip if Morag attempts to join her. Though not a fan of being picked up by caregivers, Katie has her moments of friendliness, especially during nightly ham treats. She shows remarkable restraint, waiting patiently next to Morag without

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

MEET KATIE AND MORAG

DIRECTORY AUCKLAND–NORTHLAND

Summerset by the Sea

Summerset at the Course

Summerset Mount Denby

181 Park Road, Katikati 3129 Phone (07) 985 6890

20 Racecourse Road, Trentham, Upper Hutt 5018 Phone (04) 527 2980

Summerset by the Dunes

Summerset Waikanae

35 Manawa Road, Papamoa Beach, Tauranga 3118 Phone (07) 542 9082

28 Park Avenue, Waikanae 5036 Phone (04) 293 0002

HAWKE’ S BAY

Summerset Boulcott

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

Summerset in the Bay

1 Squadron Drive, Hobsonville, Auckland 0618 Phone (09) 951 8920

79 Merlot Drive, Greenmeadows, Napier 4112 Phone (06) 845 2840

Summerset at Heritage Park

Summerset in the Orchard

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, Wainui 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

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 Cashmere* 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 Pohutukawa Place

Summerset at Wigram

70 Pohutukawa Place, Bell Block, New Plymouth 4371 Phone (06) 824 8530

135 Awatea Road, Wigram, Christchurch 8025 Phone (03) 741 0870

MANAWATU–WANGANUI

Summerset at Avonhead

Summerset in the River City

120 Hawthornden Road, Avonhead, Christchurch 8042 Phone (03) 357 3202

40 Burton Avenue, Wanganui 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

* Proposed village

1A Boulcott Street, Lower Hutt 5010 Phone (04) 568 1442

15 Aotea Drive, Aotea, Porirua 5024 Phone (04) 235 0011

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