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The
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GOLDEN YEARS Your local guide to living well, staying active and enjoying life at 60 and beyond.
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Erin Skelton 55+ LIFESTYLE LIVING SPECIALIST M 0274 867 965 | D 09 306 7768 Bayleys Pukekohe, 8 Massey Avenue, Pukekohe BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE PUKEKOHE LICENSED UNDER REA ACT 2008
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
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.
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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.
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www.franklintimes.co.nz | October 2026 | 3
GOOD FOOD WITHOUT THE FUSS
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.
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.
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.
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.
Plan today for peace tomorrow. Fountains can help ensure your farewell reflects your wishes and gives your family peace of mind. Your family wants to honour your life, but making decisions during a difficult time can be overwhelming. Pre-planning your funeral allows you to make your preferences and choices clear. Why consider pre-planning your funeral with us? • Ease the burden on your family. • Ensure your wishes are honoured. • Take financial responsibility for your funeral. • Be self-reliant and have your affairs in order. Contact us today and let our friendly team guide you:
PAPAKURA Cnr Wood & Elliot Street Phone: 09 298 2957 4 | October 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
PUKEKOHE 93 Edinburgh Street Phone: 09 238 2221
VISIT US ON OUR WEBSITE fountainsfunerals.co.nz The GOLDEN YEARS
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www.franklintimes.co.nz | October 2026 | 5
GOLF AT ANY AGE THE IRON YARD’S TAKE ON STAYING ACTIVE AND HAVING FUN
One of the great things about golf is that it’s a game you can enjoy at almost any age. Whether you’ve been playing for decades or have never picked up a golf club, it’s never too late to give it a go! For those aged 60 and over, golf offers a fantastic combination of gentle exercise, fresh air and social interaction. It’s a great way to stay active without putting too much strain on the body, and the beauty of the game is that you can play at your own pace. You don’t need to commit to walking 18 holes to enjoy the benefits either. Driving ranges are a great alternative, allowing you to practise your swing, hit a few balls and enjoy being outdoors without the time or physical demands of a full round. Facilities like The Iron Yard in Paerata are helping make golf more accessible and enjoyable for all ages, with modern ball-tracking technology adding a bit of fun as you see how far and accu-
rately you’re hitting, and there’s also a cafe for that scone and tea afterwards. Minigolf is another option that’s often overlooked. It’s a fun, relaxed activity that doesn’t require any golfing experience and can be enjoyed with friends, partners or grandchildren. A little friendly competition never hurt anyone! Beyond the physical benefits, golf is also great for keeping the mind active. Concentration, coordination and a bit of problem-solving are all part of the game. And perhaps most importantly, it’s a wonderful way to connect with others. A regular catch-up over a few golf balls and a coffee can be just as enjoyable as the golf itself. So whether you’re looking to take up a new hobby, dust off those old clubs or simply find another reason to get out of the house, why not give golf a try?
Add value to your investment Contact us today to arrange your FREE, no-obligation site visit.
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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. Franklin’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 Franklin’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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www.franklintimes.co.nz | October 2026 | 7
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!
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8 | October 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
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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.
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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
www.franklintimes.co.nz | October 2026 | 9
FIND YOUR
TRIBE IN FRANKLIN
Looking to make new friends, learn something different or give back to your community? From social clubs to volunteering, Franklin has plenty of opportunities to get involved. Whether you’re newly retired, working part-time or simply looking for a fresh interest, joining a local group can open the door to new friendships and experiences. Probus Club – Designed for retirees, Probus brings people together for guest speakers, outings, coffee mornings and social activities. It’s a relaxed way to meet others and explore interests. www.probussouthpacific.org/find-a-probus-club U3A Franklin – Love learning? The University of the Third Age offers talks and interest groups covering subjects from history and geography to arts and culture. No exams or qualifications are required.www.u3a.nz Rotary Club – For those who enjoy giving back, Rotary combines friendship with fundraising, volunteering and projects that benefit the wider community. www.rotarydistrict9920. org/clubdirectory Lions Club – Lions members work together on local fundrais-
ing and community projects while enjoying the camaraderie of belonging to a service club. www.lionsclubs.org.nz Clarks Beach, Waiau Pā and Tuakau Menz Shed – Enjoy working with your hands? Men’s Sheds provide a friendly environment for practical projects, sharing skills, and enjoying a cuppa with like-minded people. www.menzshed.org.nz Zonta Auckland South – Zonta brings people together through friendship, networking, advocacy and projects supporting women and girls. Enquire about membership and activities. Email: southauckland@zonta.org.nz
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Prefer something less formal? Franklin also has garden clubs, bowls, walking groups, art classes, quilting circles, and historical societies. Whether you’re keen to volunteer, learn a skill or simply enjoy good company, there’s likely a group to suit your interests. For more local opportunities, visit franklinseniors. nz, a free directory covering Pukekohe, Waiuku, Beachlands, Clevedon and surrounding communities. Why not make this the year you try something new?
Palms Village Open Home
Thursday 29 October 10am - 2pm. 100 Harris Street, Pukekohe.
We’re positive you’ll love Palms Village. If you got along to the Franklin Positive Ageing Expo, you might have met the team from Palms Village. If you didn’t, we’d love to see you at our Open Home. Our villas and apartments are spacious and modern with a supportive community right at your doorstep. Come and see for yourself on Thursday 29th October from 10am - 2pm. We’re positive you’ll love it! Can’t make it? Call Louise on 027 725 6786 for a personal tour.
Palms Lifecare & Village 100 Harris Street, Pukekohe | Tel: 09 237 3070 or email: village.palms@hll.org.nz | heritagelifecare.co.nz
10 | October 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz HLC0612 HLC Palms Open Home_Franklin Times 160x125mm_FA.indd 1
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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
(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.
Your Golden Years, Your Way. Here to Su Support pport You Through Th hroug gh Life’s Liife’s Important Ch Important Changes hange es Transition into a Retirement Village Wills & Estate Planning g Enduring Powers of A torney At Attorney Protecting What Matters Most
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www.franklintimes.co.nz | October 2026 | 11
FIVE EASY WALKS TO ENJOY AROUND FRANKLIN From harbourside paths to peaceful reserves, Franklin offers plenty of rewarding places to stretch your legs. Here are five gentle outings worth exploring. 1. Waiuku Path – Follow Waiuku Stream past historic buildings, information panels and the River Lane Esplanade Reserve. There are places to pause, enjoy the water, and watch for native birds. Choose a shorter section or extend your stroll towards Riverside Drive.
for little fairy houses, shaded seating and benches along the way. Nearby Rise ‘n Shine Cafe offers a handy place to finish. 4. Cobourne Reserve, Port Waikato – For a shorter outing, try this walk of just over half a kilometre through a landscaped reserve towards the boat ramp. Picnic tables, toilets and the nearby beach make it a pleasant stop during a visit to Port Waikato.
2. Karaka Path – Enjoy views across Pahurehure Inlet on this wide, mostly flat concrete shared path through Karaka Harbourside. Seating along the way makes it easy to rest, although there are a few gentle rises and road crossings.
5. Ōpaheke Park, Papakura – With around 2km of walking paths, open green spaces and wetlands, this large park offers room to walk at your own pace. There is parking off Ōpaheke Road and accessible toilets. Visit in dry weather, as the park holds stormwater after heavy rain.
3. Paerata Rise trails – Explore a network of neighbourhood paths, including a delightful trail off Te Rātā Boulevard. Look
Choose a distance that suits you, wear comfortable shoes, and check track conditions before setting out.
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PLANNING BRINGS PEACE OF MIND Sorting out a Will may not be the most exciting job, but it’s one of the kindest things you can do for your family. A clear, up-todate Will records how you want your property and belongings handled. It can reduce uncertainty and help prevent disagreements among relatives. For Auckland seniors, an estate may include a family home, savings, investments, vehicles, jewellery, artwork or items carrying special memories. Writing down your wishes means the people close to you do not have to guess what you intended. Begin by listing what you own and any debts or commitments that should be considered. Decide who you trust to carry out your instructions and talk to that person before naming them as executor. It’s sensible to obtain professional advice when preparing or updating a Will, particularly if you own property, have a blended family, run a business or want to provide for several people. Advice tailored to your circumstances can help ensure the document is clear and properly completed. A Will should be reviewed after significant changes such as marriage, separation, the arrival of grandchildren, selling an
Auckland home or moving into a retirement village. An old Will may no longer reflect your relationships, assets or priorities. Keep the original document securely and make sure your executor knows where it is. You may also wish to organise financial records, insurance details, account information and contact numbers in one place. These practical steps are not about dwelling on the future. They’re about taking control, protecting what you have built and giving your family clarity. Once everything is organised, you can get back to enjoying life with one less task hanging over you.
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09 283 8481 Level 1, 46 Edinburgh Street Pukekohe
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CONTACT US
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THE CHANGING ROLE OF
GRANDPARENTS From school pickups and babysitting to helping out financially, grandparents are playing an increasingly important role in family life. But finding time for yourself matters too. Being a grandparent can be one of life’s greatest pleasures. Watching grandchildren grow, sharing experiences and creating special memories brings enormous joy. But for many grandparents, the role has changed considerably. With busy working parents, rising living costs and the challenges of juggling family commitments, grandparents are often called upon to help with childcare, school pickups, after-school activities and holiday care. Some also provide financial assistance, helping adult children with everything from groceries to getting onto the property ladder. While this support can be incredibly rewarding, it can also become a significant commitment. Finding the right balance – Retirement is often something people have spent decades looking forward to. It’s a chance to travel, pursue hobbies, volunteer, spend time with friends or simply enjoy a slower pace of life. And it’s perfectly reasonable to want those things while still being an involved and loving grandparent. The key is communication. Being clear about how much time
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and support you can comfortably offer helps everyone understand expectations. Perhaps you’re happy to collect the grandchildren from school twice a week but want other days free for your own activities. Or maybe regular babysitting suits you, provided there’s flexibility for holidays and other plans. Quality over quantity – Being a wonderful grandparent isn’t measured by how many hours you babysit. Sometimes the most meaningful moments are the simplest – baking together, sharing stories, playing games or enjoying a walk in the park. Grandparents have a wealth of knowledge, experience and family history to pass on, and those connections are invaluable. Enjoy the best of both worlds – Helping family is a wonderful gift, but so is looking after your own happiness and wellbeing. After all, the best grandparenting relationships are ones that everyone can enjoy.
www.franklintimes.co.nz | October 2026 | 15
Feel Free at Franklin Village Secure your brand new villa Life at Franklin Village has a more relaxed rhythm. Set amongst beautifully landscaped grounds, it’s a place where you have more time for the things you enjoy. Start your morning with a swim in a pool you’ll never need to clean. Spend an afternoon in the workshop creating rather than fixing. Catch up with friends over coffee or enjoy a game of bowls. By the end of the day, you’ll be wondering where the time went. And feeling free doesn’t mean giving up the freedom of space. Our next stage of villas offers generous three-bedroom or twobedroom plus study layouts, all with double internal garaging. 16 | October 2026 | www.franklintimes.co.nz
Secure your preferred villa now and get ready to enjoy more freedom from early 2027. Contact our team today to book an appointment or register your interest. 44 McNally Road, Pukekohe, Auckland franklinvillage.co.nz 0800 333 688 *For residents 70 years and above. Villas are available under a licence to occupy. Images of villas are indicative only.
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