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Eastern Times Golden Years Insert Supplement Oct 23 2026 - issuu

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GOLDEN YEARS Your local guide to living well, staying active and enjoying life at 60 and beyond.

MONEY MATTERS

Are you claiming everything you’re entitled to?

RETIREMENT LIVING Making the right choice for your future

GET CONNECTED

Find your tribe right here in east Auckland

TECH MADE SIMPLE Understanding AI without the jargon

A SUPPLEMENT BY

Mobility equipment hire & sales

for a more independent tomorrow.

www.healthequip.co.nz

| Delivery Auckland Wide | 739A Great South Road, Penrose | 383 Khyber Pass, Newmarket

T

The


ARE YOU CLAIMING EVERYTHING YOU’RE ENTITLED TO? With household costs continuing to put pressure on budgets, it’s worth checking whether you’re receiving all the financial assistance and discounts available to you. Rates rebates – If you own your home and have a modest income, you may qualify for a rates rebate of up to $830 for the 2026/27 rating year. The income threshold for SuperGold Card holders is $46,400, although some households earning more may still qualify, depending on their rates and circumstances. Applications are made through your local council. Community Services Card – You don’t have to be receiving a benefit to qualify for a Community Services Card. Depending on your income, the card can reduce the cost of GP visits, prescriptions and some other healthcare services. Help with housing costs – If you’re renting, boarding or paying a mortgage, you may qualify for an Accommodation Supplement, even if you receive NZ Superannuation. Eligibility depends on your income, assets, accommodation costs and circumstances. SuperGold Card discounts – Available to people aged 65 and over, the free SuperGold Card offers discounts at thousands

Lawyers in the heart of Howick

of participating businesses, including retailers, service providers and attractions. Cardholders can also enjoy free off-peak public transport on eligible services. Visit supergold. govt.nz to explore available offers. Disability Allowance – If you have ongoing health-related expenses because of a disability or medical condition, you may qualify for a weekly Disability Allowance. This can help cover costs such as medical appointments, prescriptions and other approved expenses. Income limits apply. Winter Energy Payment – Eligible NZ Super recipients automatically receive extra money towards heating costs from May 1 to October 1 each year. There’s no need to apply.

DON’T MISS OUT A quick eligibility check could make a difference to your household budget. Visit workandincome.govt.nz or call Work and Income on 0800 552 002 to find out what assistance you may qualify for.

New Zealand owned & operated since 1993

A privilege to care for your family

Retired or looking to Retire? Our experienced team is here to help you with all your legal needs as you transition into the next stage of life. We can assist with all aspects of Elder Law including: • Retirement Village / Occupation Right Agreements • Residential Care Advice • Enduring Powers of Attorney • Wills / Living Wills • Family Loan Documentation (Bank of Mum and Dad) • Estate Administration

www.fencible.co.nz Office 1, Howick Village Mall, Central Terrace, Howick Village Phone 0800 Fencible | 09 533 3539 www.fenciblelaw.co.nz 2 | October 2026 | www.times.co.nz

Every life is special, we understand that. Let us pay tribute to the life of your loved one and celebrate the unique way they have touched you, your family and those around you.

Robert Johnstone & Kevin Kelleher

For a personal, professional service contact us today to discuss your options 35 Wellington Street, Howick | Phone 09 534 7300

www.howickfuneralhome.nz

The GOLDEN YEARS


SCAM-PROOF YOUR RETIREMENT

From fake bank calls to urgent messages supposedly from family, scammers use convincing tactics. A few simple habits can help protect your money and peace of mind. Retirement savings can take decades to build, but scammers may try to steal them in minutes. Fraud can affect anyone, and today’s scams often look and sound surprisingly genuine. Watch for urgent requests. A caller claiming to be from your bank may insist your money is at risk and must be moved to a “safe account”. Hang up. Call your bank using the number on your card or its official website, not a number supplied by the caller. Check messages from family. A text saying “Mum, I’ve lost my phone” might ask you to save a new number and send money. Before doing anything, ring your family member on their usual number. Scammers also impersonate NZ Post, NZTA and other familiar organisations in messages containing payment links. Be wary of tempting offers. Unexpected investment opportunities promising high returns, online relationships that turn into requests for money, and offers to recover money lost in a previous scam should all raise concerns. Never rush into transferring funds because someone is pressuring you.

Make accounts harder to access. Use different, strong passwords for banking, email and other important accounts. Turn on two-factor authentication where available. Never tell anyone your banking password or one-time security code, and don’t install software at a stranger’s request. Pause, check and talk. If something feels wrong, stop and discuss it with someone you trust. Verify requests independently, even when a message appears to come from a familiar person or business. Check bank statements regularly for transactions you don’t recognise. If you think you’ve been scammed. Contact your bank immediately; quick action may help stop or recover a payment, although recovery is not guaranteed. Change compromised passwords and report online scams to the National Cyber Security Centre at ownyouronline.govt. nz. Suspicious texts can be forwarded free to 7726. The best defence is simple: slow down, check the story and never let someone else’s urgency become your emergency.

Protecting what’s yours since Winston ran in Hunua. We’ve looked after generations of local families as they’ve aged — making sure their wishes are carried out, through wills, enduring powers of attorney, rights of occupation and estate planning. Decades of listening have made us rather good at elder law. Come and tell us what’s next for you.

DONOVAN LAW

22 Picton Street, Howick. 09 53 47169 donovanlaw.co.nz

The GOLDEN YEARS

www.times.co.nz | October 2026 | 3


GOOD FOOD WITHOUT THE FUSS

Cooking for one or two doesn’t have to mean complicated recipes, endless leftovers or spending hours in the kitchen. With a few clever shortcuts, eating well can be surprisingly simple. As we get older, eating nutritious meals becomes particularly important. Protein helps maintain muscle strength, supports recovery and contributes to keeping us active and independent. The good news? You don’t need to be a master chef to get enough. Simple meals packed with goodness – Eggs are an affordable protein powerhouse. Try scrambled eggs on wholegrain toast, a cheese and vegetable omelette, or boiled eggs with a salad. Tinned salmon or tuna makes an easy lunch with crackers, while baked beans on toast, Greek yoghurt with fruit, or a supermarket roast chicken with frozen vegetables can provide quick, satisfying meals. Cooking for two? Make a little extra and freeze individual portions for another day. Heat, eat and enjoy – For days when cooking feels like too much effort, ready-made meals can be a practical alternative. Most supermarkets offer a range of chilled and frozen meals, from soups and casseroles to curries, pasta dishes and traditional favourites. Many are available in single portions, ideal for smaller households.

There are also plenty of meal delivery services throughout New Zealand, offering everything from fully prepared, heat-and-eat dinners to meal kits with pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes. Some offer one-off orders, while others operate through subscriptions. It’s worth comparing prices, portion sizes and delivery costs to find what suits you. Choose wisely – Not all convenience meals are nutritionally equal. Check the label for protein, vegetables and fibre, and compare sodium (salt) levels. Adding a handful of frozen vegetables, a side salad or some extra beans can make a readymade meal more balanced. Keep it enjoyable – Eating well shouldn’t feel like a chore. Stock your pantry with useful staples, prepare extra portions when you have the energy, and don’t be afraid to take shortcuts. Whether it’s a homemade omelette or a ready-made dinner, what matters is enjoying nourishing food that suits your appetite, lifestyle and budget.

HAVEN CARE

Your Home Care Partner

Care Begins With Understanding U Un nde nd der ers rrst sta tan and ndi din ing ng In-home care that helps people live meaningful, connected, and independent lives, shaped by trust, kindness and genuine relationships.

Our Services

Personal Care Respectful support with daily routines

Companionship Connection, outings and everyday support

Respite i Care Time to rest and recharge

Support Let’s Let Le L ett’’s Chat Cha Ch hat h ha at Dementia

Family routines and A relaxed, no-obligation conversation gentle reassurance

about how we can help.

INSPIRED B BY LIVED EXPERIENCE 4 | October 2026 | www.times.co.nz

Hav Care was founded from our experience of supporting Haven our ag ageing parents through different stages of their journey. We understand the emotions and challenges families face, and the importance of finding the right support while maintaining independence, dignity, and connection. We’re still on that journey today.

Recovery at Home Support after illness, hospital, or surgery

Palliative Care Comfort, dignity and support at home

Dementia Support Routines and gentle reassurance

09 243 7088 care@havencare.co.nz www.havencare.co.nz LOCALLY ALLY O ALL OWNED WNED

SERVING AUCKLAND The GOLDEN YEARS


When you’re planning for the years ahead, knowing where your income comes from matters. Download your free copy of Southern Cross Partners’ guide to investing in your retirement.

southerncrosspartners.co.nz *Southern Cross Partners Ltd is licensed to provided peer-to-peer lending services under the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013.

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www.times.co.nz | October 2026 | 5


UNDERSTANDING AI WITHOUT THE JARGON

Artificial Intelligence (AI) might sound complicated, but it’s already part of everyday life. Here’s how it works, and how it could make life a little easier. You’ve probably heard people talking about Artificial Intelligence, or AI. But what exactly is it, and should you be using it? Put simply, AI is technology that can recognise patterns, answer questions, create content and help with everyday tasks. You may already be using it without realising. It’s behind some smartphone features, online shopping recommendations, and voice assistants.

You simply type your question in everyday language. There’s no need for complicated instructions.

Your own helpful assistant – One of the easiest ways to explore AI is through tools such as ChatGPT, which you can use on a computer, tablet or smartphone. Think of it as having someone available to help you brainstorm ideas, explain confusing information, or tackle everyday questions.

Things to remember – AI can be remarkably helpful, but it isn’t always right. It can make mistakes or provide outdated information, so check anything important, particularly medical, legal or financial advice. Avoid sharing passwords, banking details or other sensitive personal information. And remember, AI isn’t a replacement for real people, professional advice or your own judgement.

Not sure what to cook with the ingredients in your fridge? Ask AI for a recipe. Planning a holiday? It can suggest destinations, itineraries and packing lists. It can also help you write a birthday message, explain unfamiliar technology, or suggest activities to enjoy with the grandchildren.

Give it a go! – You don’t need to be technically minded to use it. Many AI tools offer free versions, so you can experiment without spending money. Start with something simple, such as asking for a recipe, a gardening tip, or help writing an email. You might be surprised just how useful it can be!

Indoor guided tour of southern stars, constellations, and their stories Thursday–Sunday evenings. Tickets from $15.50 Call 09 624 1246 or email info@stardome.org.nz to book

OBSERVA OBSERVATORY V TORY & PLANETARIUM VA 670 Manukau Rd, Epsom, Auckland stardome.org.nz 6 | October 2026 | www.times.co.nz

The GOLDEN YEARS


FIND YOUR

TRIBE IN EAST AUCKLAND

New friendships, shared interests and opportunities to give back are right on your doorstep. Discover some of the many clubs and groups welcoming people across east Auckland. Whether you enjoy learning, helping others, working on practical projects or simply meeting new people, there’s no shortage of opportunities to get involved locally. Probus Club – Probus is all about friendship and fun, with regular meetings, interesting speakers, outings and social activities. A great choice for retirees looking to expand their social circle. www.probussouthpacific.org/find-a-probus-club U3A – Keep your mind active with talks, discussions and interest groups covering a wide range of subjects. U3A encourages lifelong learning in a friendly environment. www.u3a.nz Rotary Club – Rotary combines community service with friendship, offering opportunities to support local projects, fundraising initiatives and young people. www.rotarydistrict9920.org/ clubdirectory Lions Club – Members enjoy fellowship while contributing to local causes through fundraising, community events and practical assistance. www.lionsclubs.org.nz

The GOLDEN YEARS

Howick Community Menzshed – A welcoming place to share practical skills, work on woodworking and other projects, with conversation and companionship. www.howickmenzshed.nz Zonta Auckland East – Interested in supporting women and girls? Zonta offers opportunities for friendship, advocacy, fundraising and community involvement. Email: eastauckland@ zonta.org.nz SeniorNet – Groups such as SeniorNet Pakuranga offer opportunities to learn new skills, meet like-minded people and stay socially connected. Catering to those aged 50 and over, SeniorNet combines practical technology lessons with friendly gatherings and guest speakers. www.senpak.nz

THERE’S MORE TO DISCOVER East Auckland also offers bowls, gardening clubs, walking groups, art classes, historical societies and other hobby groups. Whether you want to learn something new, share your experience or simply have a regular outing to look forward to, joining a club can be rewarding. You don’t need to be retired to participate in many of these groups. Take the first step, make an enquiry and discover where your interests might lead.

www.times.co.nz | October 2026 | 7


RETIREMENT VILLAGE REFORM EXPECTED Retirement villages could be in for a shakeup. The Retirement Villages Amendment Bill will be introduced next term, should New Zealand First be included in the next government. Minister for Seniors, NZ First MP and Port Waikato candidate, Casey Costello says common sense must prevail. “Seniors need more choice and more security. New Zealand First will deliver legislation that protects residents where needed, supports more housing options, and recognises the sector’s role in aged care,” she says. “New Zealand First will ensure practical retirement village legislation is delivered [with] common sense reform that protects both the sector and the seniors who call it home.”

Making independence easier, one step at a time Because growing older shouldn’t mean giving up the life you love At The Circle, we believe ageing should never mean losing your independence, your choices or your sense of adventure. We are passionate senior advocates, dedicated to empowering people to live their best lives, either in their own homes or independently within a retirement village, for as long as they wish. But we’re much more than a helping hand. We’re companions, problem-solvers, trusted supporters and people who genuinely care. Whether it’s a Sunday drive, visiting a local exhibition, enjoying coffee, tidying a wardrobe, assisting with personal care or simply sharing a laugh, we’re here to make everyday life easier and more enjoyable. We also step in when family cannot be there, offering peace of mind that someone caring and capable is looking out for their loved one. At The Circle, we listen, advocate and are not afraid to push boundaries to ensure seniors are heard, respected and empowered to make their own choices. When the time comes to consider retirement living or additional care, we’ll help navigate the options and find the right fit. Our approach is genuine, flexible, empathetic and practical. We understand that everyone’s needs, wishes and circumstances are different. Above all, we believe life is for living at every age.

Proposals for three-month buy-backs with retrospective applications would destabilise the sector, raise costs for future residents, and undermine the security residents value. “Three-month buy-backs are political posturing. They would damage the sector and make residents more vulnerable.” As approximately 50,000 of New Zealand’s 950,000 seniors live in retirement villages, reform is needed to help protect residents, support investment and keep the sector sustainable, she adds. “This is not about one single fix. It is about making practical changes that improve outcomes for seniors. New Zealand First is focused on improving life for seniors and delivering common sense reform.”

YOUR LIFE. YOUR CHOICES. YOUR INDEPENDENCE. Contact: Christine Bull | Phone: 027 494 9951 Email: chris@thecirlce.nz

www.thecircle.nz 8 | October 2026 | www.times.co.nz

The GOLDEN YEARS


MOTION IS LOTION Staying active doesn’t have to mean running marathons or spending hours in the gym. For Aucklanders aged in their 70s and 80s, regular movement can be as simple as walking around the neighbourhood, gardening, swimming or joining a local exercise group. The key is finding activities that suit your ability and can become part of everyday life. Walking is one of the simplest options. A stroll around a local park, reserve or waterfront can provide gentle exercise while offering an opportunity to get outdoors. People who haven’t exercised regularly can start with shorter outings and gradually increase the time and distance as they become more comfortable. Strength and balance are also worth considering in later life. Simple exercises can be incorporated into a routine at home, while organised classes can provide instruction and a social element. Auckland’s parks, swimming pools, recreation facilities and community groups can also provide opportunities to keep moving without making exercise a solitary pursuit. Gardening, dancing and playing with grandchildren all count as physical activity too.

active regularly. Exercise doesn’t need to be completed in one long session. Smaller amounts of activity spread throughout the day can make movement more manageable. Older people should take their individual health and mobility into account when choosing activities. Anyone returning to exercise after a long break, or with a medical condition or concerns about falls, should consider discussing suitable activity with their doctor or another qualified health professional. There’s no single exercise routine that will suit everyone in their 70s or 80s. For Auckland’s older residents, the practical goal is to find safe and enjoyable ways to keep moving, maintain social connections and make physical activity a regular part of the week.

Choosing something enjoyable can make it easier to remain

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The GOLDEN YEARS

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www.denturecreations.co.nz www.denturecreations.co.nz www.times.co.nz | October 2026 | 9


Ageing well is about more than where you live. It’s about how you live. Independence, friendship, choice and something to look forward to matter throughout life, including when we need extra care. Since 1977, HBH Group has supported older people across East Auckland. The faith-based charity offers homes, care and community services that help people age well and live fully.

A place to belong At HBH’s independent living apartments, Jan Parks has found friendship after almost six decades in her family home.

Where care feels like home HBH’s Eden Alternative philosophy guides everyday life: nurturing meaningful relationships, encouraging autonomy and personal choice, and creating opportunities to continue contributing to community life. Residents bring a lifetime of skills, stories and interests. Helping in the garden, sharing household tasks or deciding how to spend the day can support independence, purpose and belonging.

“Our residents do not live in our workplace. We work in their home.” Across Howick Views and Gulf Views, our teams know the person beyond their care needs. We ask them to consider:

“If you needed care, would you choose to live here?”

“When your spouse dies, it’s the day-today chats you realise you miss most. I have that here with my neighbours.” Jan Parks, HBH independent living resident

At Stevenson Village, affordable rental housing provides a foundation for community, with residents sharing gardening, produce and companionship. HBH’s dementia day programme offers connection and meaningful activity, alongside respite for family carers. Virtual Village East helps older people remain independent and stay connected in their local community.

People come first As a charity, HBH reinvests in its homes, care, teams and community programmes, while advocating for older people needing support. Approaching its 50th anniversary in 2027, HBH remains committed to dignity, choice and belonging.

HBH GROUP | AGE WELL, LIVE FULLY Homes | Care | Community | Advocacy

Explore our services or arrange a visit.

www.hbh.org.nz | 09 538 0800 10 | October 2026 | www.times.co.nz

The GOLDEN YEARS


CHOOSING YOUR

FUTURE Deciding where and how we want to live in our later years is a personal decision. For some of us, home remains the right place to be. For others, changing circumstances or a desire for a different lifestyle can prompt thoughts about what comes next. Give yourself time to explore – It is easy to put off thinking about the future when life is comfortable. Yet when circumstances change unexpectedly, decisions can feel rushed, leaving less time to consider the options. Exploring possibilities before a decision becomes urgent gives you time to understand your choices and decide what feels right for you. It is not about rushing into a decision before you are ready, but about having the opportunity to explore options and make choices on your own terms. Look at the whole picture – Choosing where to live involves more than finding a suitable place. Think about your health and what you may need in the years ahead, what you can comfortably afford now and in the future, and where you would like to live.

Being close to family and friends, familiar surroundings and activities that make life enjoyable can all contribute to a sense of belonging. Staying at home may be the right choice. Others may welcome less home maintenance, new friendships or shared activities. The important thing is finding an option that suits your circumstances and the life you want to lead. A place to call home – Take time to explore different options, understand the costs and contracts, and seek independent advice where needed. Talking things through with trusted people can help you feel clearer about the way forward. It is about making an informed choice that feels right for you, both now and in the years ahead, and finding a living situation where you feel comfortable, connected and happy. Supplied by Next Step Retirement Living Carmel McLaughlin – www.nextstepinfo.co.nz

Add a touch of class to your home Visit this hidden gem in Karaka 027 537 5252 128 STAN WRIGHT ROAD KARAKA facebook.com/The-Bespoke-Living-Room

The GOLDEN YEARS

www.times.co.nz | October 2026 | 11


Five things to sort before you retire. Retirement brings plenty to plan: travel, time with the grandchildren, perhaps a move. The legal side tends to sit lower on the list.

By Claire Endean Director, Dawsons Lawyers

In my experience, the people who

There are two: one for property

enjoy retirement most are those

and one for personal care and

04 Check how your home is owned

who have their affairs in order, so

welfare. Without them, your family

A home owned jointly passes

nothing is left hanging over them.

may need to apply to the Family

automatically to the surviving

Court, which is slower, more costly

owner, whatever your will says.

and more stressful at an already

Property held as tenants in

Here are the five things I suggest ticking off.

01 Update your will Many of the wills we see were signed decades ago, when the children were young and life looked very different. Since then there may be grandchildren, a second relationship, a death in the family or a change in assets. An out-of-date will can leave the wrong people in charge, or the wrong people benefiting. If your

hard time. EPAs can only be signed

common, or in a trust, is treated

while you have capacity, so this

differently. Knowing which applies

one should not wait.

to you avoids surprises later.

03 Review your family trust

05 Talk to your family

Many trusts were set up in the

Let your executors and attorneys

1990s and 2000s for reasons that

know who they are and where

may no longer apply. The Trusts

your documents are kept. It also

Act 2019 added new duties for

helps to share your wishes, so

trustees, including keeping core

there are no surprises when the

trust documents and sharing

time comes. A conversation now

information with beneficiaries. A

can save a lot of confusion later.

proper review checks that the

will is more than five years old, or your circumstances have changed, it is worth a review.

trust still does what you need, that the trustees are the right people, and that the records are in order. Sometimes the answer is to keep

02 Put enduring powers of

the trust. Sometimes it is to wind it

attorney in place

up.

An EPA lets someone you trust

Once these are in place, most stay current for years, with a check-in when life changes.

make decisions for you if you lose capacity.

At Dawsons, we have been helping East Auckland families plan ahead for over 60 years, from our offices in Kohimarama and East Tamaki. If you would like to talk through where you stand, call us or visit our website.

12 | October 2026 | www.times.co.nz

(09) 272 0002 dawsonslawyers.co.nz The GOLDEN YEARS


PACK SMART

TRAVEL HAPPY > By Lesley Whyte – travelwithlesleywhyte.com. After years of travelling, I’ve learnt that packing is a bit like going to a buffet. Everything looks like a good idea at the beginning, but you don’t need it all! The best suitcase is filled with things that earn their place. Think layers rather than bulky clothing and choose pieces that can be worn in different ways. Blue Bungalow has some amazing travel clothing we recommend, including their merino poncho. It’s warm without being bulky, easy to layer and great for flights when temperatures drop. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, plus something smarter for evenings. Wear them before you travel. Blisters have an uncanny ability to appear on the day you’ve planned the most walking! A camera is my essential travel companion. Whether it’s a dedicated camera or your phone, have it handy, with plenty of memory and power. Safety and security matter too. We recommend Pacsafe products with features including RFID

The GOLDEN YEARS

(Radio-Frequency Identification) protection, slash-resistant materials and security zips. We love them so much that we give Pacsafe products as gifts on our European tours. Our phones are also on lanyards, never simply carried in our hands.

Pack less, pack smart and leave a little room for shopping. The memories should be the heaviest thing you bring home.

We don’t recommend plugging devices directly into public USB charging ports. Instead, we carry a small power bank. One we recommend is the PowerPack Universal 2 - 6 in 1 Travel Power Bank, which is particularly useful for travelling because it combines a power bank with an international travel adaptor. An eSIM is another essential. It can help avoid expensive roaming charges, and we suggest unlimited data where available. Finally, carry a basic first-aid kit with plasters, Panadol, Imodium and electrolytes, along with your regular medication.

www.times.co.nz | October 2026 | 13


FIVE EASY WALKS TO ENJOY IN EAST AUCKLAND From peaceful bush tracks to beautiful coastal views, east Auckland has plenty to offer walkers of all ages and abilities. Here are five favourites inspired by local walking enthusiast David Mallowes. 1. Half Moon Bay to Bucklands Beach – Enjoy fresh sea air and spectacular harbour views along the flat coastal boardwalk from Half Moon Bay Marina to Little Bucklands Beach. The approximately 1km walkway is ideal for a leisurely stroll, with plenty of cafes nearby for a well-earned coffee afterwards. 2. Mellons Bay bush walkway – Starting from the Mellons Bay beach car park, follow a peaceful concrete and boardwalk path through native bush and wetlands towards Haseler Crescent. At around 700 metres each way, this sheltered walk offers lovely greenery, birdlife and even a fairy garden. 3. Botany’s Logan Carr Path – Just across from Botany Town Centre, this mostly flat, paved walkway winds through regener-

14 | October 2026 | www.times.co.nz

ating bush, wetlands and stream edges. Walk as little or as far as you like, with ponds, bridges and plenty of birdlife along the way. Watch for uneven concrete joins. 4. Lloyd Elsmore Park – With shaded pathways, open green spaces and picturesque ponds, this Pakuranga park is perfect for walking at your own pace. Try the 1.5km park loop, watch the ducks or combine your outing with a visit to the nearby Homestead Cafe. 5. Ayrlies Wetlands, Whitford – Discover a peaceful natural retreat on this approximately 1.6km loop through wetlands. The flat gravel and boardwalk paths make for a relaxed outing, with abundant birdlife to enjoy. Entry to the wetlands is free. Whether you’re walking for fitness, fresh air or enjoyment, these local gems are well worth exploring. For more walking inspiration, visit David Mallowes’ WalksOutEast Facebook page.

The GOLDEN YEARS


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CONTACT US www.times.co.nz | October 2026 | 15


Feel free at The Helier What if retirement could feel this good? At The Helier, life has a particular ease to it. Spend hours floating in a pool you never have to clean. Linger over lunch on the terrace with neighbours and friends. Spend an afternoon in the ever-evolving studio, doing something different every week. Then come home to an apartment that feels like it was designed just for you, with all the space and none of the upkeep. Architecturally crafted and beautifully finished, our apartments start from $999,000^. Each one designed for an effortless lifestyle, in one of Auckland’s most loved neighbourhoods, just a stone’s throw from St Heliers beach. And with care on site whenever life calls for it, you’re free to simply get on with living*. 16 | October 2026 | www.times.co.nz

If this sounds like your pace of life, don’t hesitate to get in touch and book a viewing. 09 356 1800 28 Waimarie Street, St Heliers, Auckland thehelier.co.nz Retirement Living for residents 70 years and above. *Access to care subject to availability and not guaranteed. ^Apartments are available under a license to occupy.

Retirement. Living. The GOLDEN YEARS


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