ACTIVE RETIREES WHOLE MAGAZINE REDUCED 250502 by www.affinityads.com

A gift that honours the past and shapes the future

“For me, Auckland Museum isn’t just a heritage landmark. It’s a part of the DNA of our city and my family.”

In today’s fast-paced, dayto-day world, it’s good to be able to pause for a moment to think about the legacy we will leave behind. For some, like longtime Museum volunteer, Marguerite Durling, leaving a bequest to Auckland Museum is a wonderful way to preserve a treasured part of the city’s heritage and inspire future generations.

“I wanted to give something back to the city that has given so much to me.” Marguerite says. “And what

better way than by supporting the Institution that has been part of my family for so long? I love that

I am helping to preserve the Museum for the next generation and I have confidence in how my gift will be used after I am gone”.

As a registered charity, the Museum relies on funding from a wide range of sources, including the generosity of bequestors like Marguerite. Your gift, big or small, will help to ensure that the Museum continues to be a place of curiosity, innovation, learning and research. To find out more, please contact Sue Morse, Auckland Museum’s Donor Development Executive, on 021 280 6244 or email smorse@ aucklandmuseum.com.

YOUR KINDNESS NEVER STOPS INSPIRING

Auckland Museum is built on the generosity of many and the gifts we receive enable us to maintain our iconic building, fund research and inspire future generations.

Be part of your Museum’s future by leaving a gift, big or small, in your Will. To find out more, please contact Sue Morse, Donor Development Executive, on 021 280 6244 or email smorse@aucklandmuseum.com

Marguerite Durling’s decision to leave a gift in her Will to Auckland Museum was the best way she felt would reflect the importance the institution has played in her life.

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A gift that honours the past and shapes the future

“For me, Auckland Museum isn’t just a heritage landmark. It’s a part of the DNA of our city and my family.”

“I wanted to give something back to the city that has given so much to me.” Marguerite says. “And what

better way than by supporting the Institution that has been part of my family for so long? I love that

I am helping to preserve the Museum for the next generation and I have confidence in how my gift will be used after I am gone”.

YOUR KINDNESS NEVER STOPS INSPIRING

Auckland Museum is built on the generosity of many and the gifts we receive enable us to maintain our iconic building, fund research and inspire future generations.

Marguerite Durling’s decision to leave a gift in her Will to Auckland Museum was the best way she felt would reflect the importance the institution has played in her life.

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This publication is published on behalf of Probus South Pacific Limited

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Probus South Pacific Ltd

Directors 2024-2025

Chairman: Michael Ransom

Vice-Chairman: Judith Maestracci AM

Treasurer: Mike Gilmour

Directors: Margaret Drake, Peter Turner, John Hall, Merv Richens OAM

Disclaimer: Please check all travel prices as they vary depending on time of year. Before booking any travel overseas, always check insurance options, especially health insurance. Every care is taken to ensure pricing, offers and content is correct at time of publishing. Please check with advertisers when making a purchase as the publisher cannot be held responsible for inaccuracies in this publication. Please note that some content is advertiser supplied. This is viewed and edited to ensure it is of value to most readers.

A TRIP TO RAROTONGA AND ON OUT TO AITUTAKI

Where we stayed and what we found that is well worthwhile taking on when you go there.

CRUISING COPENHAGEN TO REYKJAVIK AND TAKING IN A SOLAR ECLIPSE

Also Namibia, Africa for travel beyond ordinary.

UNRAVEL TRAVEL WITH EASY TO LOOK OVER TRAVEL OPTIONS

PARIS AND BORA BORA GIVEN THE ONCE OVER

VERY LATEST FIGURES AND THE FUTURE OF RETIREMENT VILLAGES IN NZ

ROYAL NZ BALLET PERFORMANCES TO BOOK THROUGHOUT NZ

The Probus Community

Probus Chairman’s Message, April 2025.

I HAVE FOUND MY TRIBE!

These were the words a new member of a club said to me when we started a new club in Melbourne recently.

To me, it indicated the real value of belonging to a Probus Club, where you get to enjoy fun and friendship with other people in your local community.

As we embark on a new year, I am so grateful to Club and Association Management Committees for the ongoing and active support of Probus clubs and wider communities.

For the past eighteen years, I have spent each January working at the Australian Open Tennis championships in Melbourne. I have met many players, past players, coaches and officials during that time, and I have always been impressed with the dedication they have shown to reach that level in their chosen sport. Not all of them make a great deal of money from tennis, but they all love it, and show true dedication to reaching that level.

So, it is with Probus. We have many people in our Probus community who realise the importance of what we do, in providing a real sense of community and companionship to retired and semi-retired people in our local towns and suburbs, by providing opportunities for people to come together and enjoy each other’s company. I believe we really are providing a great service to our local communities.

Serving as a member of the committee of your local club is a fantastic way of providing that service.

All clubs have held their Annual General Meetings in March, these meetings provide opportunities for members to nominate for positions on their Management Committee. This is a meaningful way for members to contribute to the ongoing success of their club as well as the opportunities to strengthen relationships with other members. I encourage all members to consider joining their Club’s leadership team.

One of the primary objectives of Probus South Pacific Limited (PSPL) is supporting all Clubs in membership retention and growth, helping to keep Clubs healthy and active. Our

membership strategy is centred around a collaborative approach that sees us all working together for our mutual benefit.

Over time, our membership strategy has evolved and with that, so have the roles of Membership Representatives that include Ambassadors, Probus District Chairs and Rotary District Probus Chairs. We are most thankful for the valuable contribution by these individuals at a regional level.

Michael Ransom

Chairman 2024-2025 | Probus South Pacific Ltd

Cook Islands

By Joan Gestro

THE COOK ISLANDS. Just a 3.5 hour flight from Auckland, and you’ve landed on luscious Rarotonga where you’re greeted with fresh frangipani garlands called ‘ei. Plenty to see and do, relax, read, sip a cocktail, gaze over the azure waters. That’s exactly what we did, soaking up the atmosphere.

We stayed at the adults-only resort on Rarotonga’s south-west coast, Sanctuary Rarotonga-on the beach, from where you can see turquoise lagoon waters and breathtaking sunset views right from your balcony.

Sanctuary Rarotonga welcomes guests aged 16 and over, but if you’re travelling with younger family members, the family-friendly sister resort next door, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium, makes it so easy for grandchildren to stay with Mum and Dad, yet still enjoy holiday time with Nana and Granddad.

All Sanctuary guests are also able to use The Rarotongan’s facilities, so you can join up anytime with the rest of the family for lunches, dinners, or a refreshing sundowner on the new Lagoon Deck at Captain Andy’s Beach Bar & Grill, named after a famed South Seas trading schooner skipper. Both resorts now offer guests a delicious and extensive Daily Full Cooked Breakfast Buffet, the perfect way to set up the whole family for another great day on your Rarotongan holiday. You can enjoy a quiet breakfast at Sanctuary Rarotonga’s sand-floor BlueWater Grill, or choose to join the rest of the family at The Rarotongan’s Te Vaka Room. Either

way there’s a wide range of hot and cold breakfast dishes to select from, including eggs, bacon, sausages, quiche and much more.

During the day, the whole family can also enjoy playing or relaxing on the white sands of

The Rarotongan’s Aroa Beach. For a special treat, snorkel straight off the beach in the sheltered waters of Aroa Lagoonarium Marine Sanctuary where you can even swim with gentle Green Turtles as well as colourful angel fishes, parrot fish,

Sanctuary Rarotonga-on the beach.

James Whittaker: strong voice for affordable hearing health

James Whittaker has a clear vision as to how New Zealand’s hearing industry should change.

James begins explaining his vision by saying he wants better education on hearing loss, its side effects, prevention and solutions and quality hearing aids to be more affordable

“Other companies may want to sell hearing aids; we want to do whatever’s best for hearing health and have a long-term relationship with our customers. It’s the reason we don’t offer gimmicks such as ‘free hearing checks’.

“We are not in the business of testing to sell hearing aids. We offer the most advanced, comprehensive diagnostic testing available and the best value for money hearing aids on the market – and the process doesn’t end with a huge bill at the end.

“Instead, customers join Resonate, for a $90 per month subscription fee that ensures they have the industry’s leading hearing aid, the ReSound Nexia 9. No deposit or contract is required and all hearing aid repairs and customer service are included within the subscription fee and their hearing aids are upgraded every three years to the latest technology.”

But before people commit to their hearing health subscription, he says having a conversation first with them about their overall hearing health is really important.

“We aim to impart as much information as possible before clients

make a choice, the right choice for their circumstances. Even the best hearing aid can be a disappointment if it’s not fitted properly.

“For many people there is still a stigma associated with wearing hearing aids – they see them as a sign of getting old, showing their age. Beyond that, they may also worry about cost. On the other hand, failure to recognise the need

for hearing aids is more likely to make you appear old.

“Never underestimate the power of your ears in maintaining your overall health. Untreated hearing loss can accelerate cognitive decline and dementia, lead to balance issues including the risk of falls, social isolation and depression and poor sleep quality.

“Investing in your hearing health can have such a positive impact on well-being including improving brain function. Often, the first people to notice the benefits of improved hearing are those you love, who enjoy again having conversations more easily.”

With this in mind, the driving ambition behind Resonate is to always do what’s best for customers.

“Resonate won’t sell you into hearing aids and walk away. With us, we have an ongoing relationship with our customers which also includes complimentary ear cleaning and a comprehensive hearing assessment every 12 months as part of the monthly subscription fee.”

It is this kind of commitment which has seen James make his personal mobile phone number available to all callers – part of his industry pledge to remain transparent and directly connected to Resonate’s growing customer base.

If there’s too much silence in your life, Resonate is here to help.

We provide you with the world’s best hearing aid technology, the ReSound Nexia™ 9 by Danish audio experts, for only $90 a month.

• No hidden charges

• No deposit

• Free hearing aid upgrade every 3 years

• Complimentary hearing assessments every 12 months

• Guaranteed price for life of $90 a month after 2 years continuous subscription

Our Resonate audiologists will make all the time you need to tune your new hearing devices to your environments.

Contact Resonate: 0800 737 662

resonatehealth.co.nz

sunset wrasses and many more colourful and approachable tropical fishes. Snorkelling plus stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, gym, games room and tennis along with fish feeding, learning to husk a coconut, make a fresh flower garland ei, dance the ‘ura (hula), play the ukulele and island log drums, bingo, karaoke, are all complimentary to resort guests at both resorts.

Younger adventurers will also enjoy splashing about at The Rarotongan’s Little Dolphin’s Mini Waterpark as well as all the activities at the resort’s free Moko Kids Club for children aged 4 -11 years.

After all the fun times together, feel free to retreat the few steps away back to Sanctuary Rarotonga where the adults-only swimming-pool with a unique swim-up bar awaits just the two of you for a quiet drink and a bit of R&R.

www.sanctuaryrarotonga.com and www.therarotongan.com

The popular swim-up bar and swimming pool at Sanctuary Rarotonga-on the beach.

ALLURING AITUTAKI

We delighted in the magic of Aitutaki, just a short 45-minute flight from Rarotonga aboard Air Rarotonga.

Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort Adults Only, where we stayed, is just 15 minutes from Aitutaki Airport, and is the only private island resort in the Cook Islands. We were greeted with fragrant lei and driven to the landing from where we made the 2-minute crossing aboard the resort’s private ferry. A warm welcome and cool, refreshing towel awaited us at the other end, along with a wonderful fresh drinking coconut.

You’ll be familiar with the famous Lonely Planet travel guides, but did you know that Tony Wheeler, the founder of Lonely Planet, named Aitutaki as his favourite island? Aitutaki is fabled for being the home of the World’s Most Beautiful Lagoon. You can gaze out from your private island bungalow or villa, from your beach sun lounger or from the resort’s new Infinity Pool dining deck and take in the magnificent lagoon and sunset views. Imagine starting the day with a refreshing open-air shower in the privacy of your bungalow or villa, then tucking into a mouthwatering full cooked breakfast buffet before relaxing with a good book by the pool or taking a ride aboard your complimentary bicycle to explore your private island, Motu Akitua. It’s believed that Akitua was not only the place that the first Polynesian

explorers landed on Aitutaki, but was also the spot where the first Europeans landed as well – the captain (William Bligh) and crew of the HMS Bounty, just 17 days before the infamous Mutiny on the Bounty.

The expansive aqua lagoon has several magical little islands floating all around it, and you can explore these aboard one of the wonderful Aitutaki lagoon cruises, a highlight of any visit to Aitutaki. Our trip was on the Vaka cruiser, sailing past uninhabited islets, stopping on one for a snorkel, another for a swim, and a barbeque lunch on the Vaka. The British ‘Survivor’ was filmed on one of these islets. One Foot Island is favoured by delicate, graceful White Terns (also called Love or Angel Terns), living in the thick bush. This stop awarded us a ‘footprint stamp’ in our passports from the little island Post Office. Turtles can be seen in the lagoon, and during the middle of the year, Humpback whales can be seen breaching off the coral reef in the deep Pacific Ocean beyond as they migrate past. A couple of operators

now even offer opportunities to swim with the whales, a true once-in-alifetime experience.

Aitutaki is very much a heaven on earth. Without doubt it should be right up high on your bucket list, an absolute must-do. Perfect if you’ve got a special anniversary or birthday coming up, or if you’re gifting someone a very special honeymoon to treasure forever! www.aitutakilagoonresort.com

Back on Rarotonga, we decided to take a closer look at distinctive island fashions and the famous black pearls of the Cooks.

MANINI: AN EXCLUSIVE BRAND

In Rarotonga, this was a stopand-browse, but being greeted by innovative use of colour and design on the Manini dresses on display, all creations of customer focused owner, Tara, these clothes are to buy and wear with flair, and are also worn by women around the world. Therefore, the four of us did come away with purchases, a stylish bag for me, plenty of space for all the ‘essentials’ in a lady’s handbag, of course! We were happy campers. Manini is an exciting experience. We’ll be back for sure on our fourth trip.

Manini (stands out amongst the crowd) is owned and run by Tara Tuarae-White, and her husband Walter from their home in Rarotonga.

Tara has been in the fashion industry in Australia for over 20 years and had always wanted to start her own label. She wanted to create an inclusive brand for every woman –with clothing that made each one of them feel beautiful.

After many years of living in Australia and visiting Aitutaki and Rarotonga, they both decided they had had enough of city life and moved to Rarotonga to launch Manini in 2019.

They named the brand after

Cocktail time beside the new Infinity Pool at Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort.

The Vaka and chase boat.

the Manini two-toned reef fish, not colourful but unique and always stands out amongst the crowd.

“Seeing people feel good about themselves in Manini is the fuel.” says Tara.

BERGMAN BLACK PEARLS –BREATHTAKING QUALITY

We also had a ball visiting Bergman Gallery of Black Pearls, an exquisite jewellery showroom, showcasing Ben Bergman’s creations, with many choices for selecting a special purchase, what better way to mark the highlight of your visit to Rarotonga.

In 1976, an Air New Zealand DC-10 arrived in Rarotonga carrying a youthful Australian family.

“I take this opportunity to bid you a warm welcome to Rarotonga. My name is Ben Bergman, Pearl Jewellery Designer and Director of Bergman & Sons, Black Pearl Jewellers of the Cook Islands. Our family operation expanded to include this exotic new gem and we became the first local company to specialise in Cook Islands

Black Pearl Jewellery, with jewellery stores on Rarotonga and Aitutaki. On leaving Melbourne in 1975 to live and build a business in an unheardof Pacific Island, but since that time, we have built a company specialising in Cook Islands Pearls. In 1986 the Cook Islands Government supported the development of a modern black pearl sustainable industry centred on Manihiki, the Island of Pearls

“In 1997, Cyclone Martin was said to have generated waves of such height that they swept over this small Island of Manihiki, killing 19 and devastating most of the surface infrastructure.

“But we’ve all recovered, and today, Black Pearls feature in the collections of world jewellery & fashion houses Tiffany, Cartier, Mikimoto & Louis Vuitton. Today, pearl jewellery ranks third in consumer preference, surpassed only by gold & diamonds” says Ben Bergman.

The Cook Islands is one of the easiest yet most rewarding destinations for New Zealand travellers. It’s a very special combination, a unique blend of benefits. Just a 3.5 hour flight away you’ll be warmly greeted by friendly locals who all speak English, the country uses the New Zealand dollar, and there’s such a huge array of cafes, restaurants, markets, tours, fishing, diving, island night shows and so much more, all within such easy reach. Unbeatable.

No wonder all five of the travel guides in the well-known Australian TV show, Travel Guides, rated the Cook Islands 5 out of 5 stars. The first time ever for any destination in over 50 episodes of the show! Right now there’s some fantastic deals on, so why wait any longer?

A sample of colour and design at Manini.

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Tauck: a century of meaningful travel and innovation

For 100 years, Tauck has been synonymous with transformative travel experiences that deepen the connections travelers have with the world around them. With a legacy built on providing enriching journeys to all corners of the globe, Tauck is poised to enter its second century with an unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and meaningful connections.

At the heart of Tauck’s approach is the belief that a single, meaningful travel experience has the power to change lives. Whether it’s a serene river cruise through Europe or an exhilarating wildlife expedition in Southern Africa, the company has consistently delivered travel experiences that foster curiosity, personal growth, and profound memories.

As the company celebrates its centenary, the focus remains on smaller group sizes allowing for ample time, freedom, and flexibility in the destinations with carefully curated journeys across all seven continents.

On their river cruises, Tauck has cultivated an enviable reputation for offering intimate and exclusive experiences, and accommodating fewer guests to create a sense of spaciousness and comfort that larger ships simply cannot offer.

In 2026, Tauck is expanding its offerings with two new riverboats sailing the Rhône and the River

Seine in France, which will further enhance its reputation for luxury and intimacy. Moreover, Tauck’s long-standing commitment to solo travelers is evident with the announcement there are no single supplements applicable for category one cabins on the river cruises.

One of the company’s most spectacular 2025 offierings is the extensive program of tours to Africa. Namibia and Tanzanian tours are popular, as is the “Wildlife Odyssey,” a 12-day journey through South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. The adventure includes exclusive

wildlife encounters, from visiting an elephant family at a sanctuary near Victoria Falls to morning game drives in Kruger National Park. This trip epitomizes the kind of life-changing experiences that Tauck is known for, immersing travelers in the natural wonders of the African continent.

As Tauck enters its second century, its commitment to innovation remains as strong as ever.

The company’s recent centennial celebration in Florence, Italy, served as a moment to reflect on the past while looking to the future. Surrounded by art, culture, and history, Tauck’s employees, partners, and clients gathered to mark this milestone. The event was not only a time for reflection but also for giving back, with more than 1,400 hours of volunteer work and financial support invested in local restoration projects, demonstrating Tauck’s commitment to making a positive impact on the communities it visits. Tauck is ready for the next chapter, promising travelers even more extraordinary, life-changing journeys.

TRAVEL BEYOND ORDINARY TM

Tauck is a family-owned travel company enjoying their 100th year anniversary this year in 2025. Tauck’s values and vision remain true: Always do the right thing. Deliver more than what’s expected. With journeys across 7 continents, in over 100 destinations and to 70+ countries, Tauck keeps moving forward to find new ways to enhance travel experiences that will be memorable for a lifetime. For 26 consecutive years, Tauck has earned the trust and the satisfaction of their guests, to be named in Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best” list.

NAMIBIA, AFRICA – SMALL GROUP TOUR

Epic Safari

12 days l Apr – Oct 2026

Bushman desert walk * Behind the scenes at a wildlife sanctuary

A solar eclipse at sea: the ultimate cruise experience

In July 2026, a once-in-a-lifetime experience awaits those aboard Oceania’s newly refurbished Marina for the 14-day Eclipse voyage in Iceland. As the ship sails from Copenhagen to Reykjavik, passengers will find themselves in the path of totality near Grundarfjordur, offering an unforgettable view of a solar eclipse at sea. Imagine witnessing this celestial event as day turns to twilight, all while surrounded by the vast ocean and a stunning 360-degree view of the sky. Whether from the deck at an onboard cocktail party or from the comfort of a private stateroom balcony, the ethereal glow will make for an experience that’s both magical and rare.

But the incredible views are just the beginning. Oceania is renowned for its unparalleled culinary offerings, and aboard Marina, the dining experience is sure to delight every palate. Guests can indulge in wellnessinspired dishes at Aquamar, enjoy an al fresco meal at the Pizzeria, or savor fine dining at the Grand Dining

Room or Polo Grill. Oceania’s signature pairing dinners in La Reserve and Privée, an exclusive private dining venue, promise to elevate the culinary experience to new heights.

For food enthusiasts, Oceania also offers hands-on experiences with their Culinary Discovery Tours. Passengers can explore local markets,

select ingredients, and learn to create destination-inspired dishes. In 2025, new onboard culinary classes will take guests on a journey through the flavours of New Zealand, Australia, Polynesia, and the Pacific Northwest, allowing them to explore the rich cultures through food.

Adding to the allure is Oceania’s “Your World Included™” promise, which offers a selection of allinclusive amenities designed to provide an exceptional value. Guests can enjoy complimentary specialty coffees, unlimited wi-fi, fitness classes, and gratuities, all without additional charges. With exceptional service and luxurious comforts, this cruise promises a stress-free, immersive experience like no other.

Oceania Cruises continues to set the standard for ultra-premium cruising, lending world-class dining, incredible destinations, and exclusive experiences that make every moment special. The solar eclipse at sea will be the crown jewel of an unforgettable voyage.

K’gari & Murray Princess

Illuminate your senses on K’gari: Explore the world’s largest sand island and experience Queensland’s first laser lightshow

There’s a reason Queensland’s K’gari (Fraser Island) entices nature lovers and adventure-seekers to its shores. Stretching 123 kilometres in length, it claims the title of the world’s largest sand island, with remarkable sights and sounds including pristine lakes, a rainforest growing out of the sand, stunning wildlife, and even Queensland’s first permanent laser lightshow experience just waiting to be explored.

Only 3.5 hours’ drive north of Brisbane or via direct flight to Hervey Bay from Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne, travellers can escape to this protected paradise to explore the diverse landscapes, wide open spaces and great outdoor experiences for an unforgettable Australian adventure!

Kingfisher Bay Resort is the island’s premier eco resort and has recently introduced a brand-new innovative product that has been exceeding expectations since opening late in 2024.

Using mesmerising projections, enchanting fog, and the sounds of nature, Illumina immerses viewers in the essence of the island, educating

guests on how the unique landscape constantly changes with the seasons, tides and stars.

To make the show possible, Kingfisher Bay Resort engaged international light artist, Bruce Ramus, whose projects transcend the traditional boundaries of light art. By incorporating the natural environment into his designs, he offers a groundbreaking immersive art experience that invites a deeper engagement with the island.

Illumina reimagines your interaction with the island and fosters an increased appreciation for its incredible ecosystem that’s been recognised on the World Heritage list for over thirty years.

The all-new product is the first permanent light, laser, and projection installation of its kind in Queensland and is now showing nightly for guests enjoying a stay at Kingfisher Bay Resort.

Visit www.kingfisherbay.com to book your dream K’gari island escape.

Murray Princess: Cruise back in time with the Murray Princess: Discover the timeless wonders of the Murray River on a classic paddlewheeler

Step aboard the award-winning PS Murray Princess and embark on a journey that transports guests back to an era when river travel was the ultimate luxury. This authentic paddlewheeler experience, winner of the 2024 South Australian Tourism Gold Award, offers a magical cruise along the majestic Murray River, blending history, nature, and exceptional hospitality into one unforgettable experience.

From the moment you set foot on the Murray Princess, you’ll be enveloped in a relaxed atmosphere where every detail is designed to delight. Savour fresh, locally sourced meals, from hearty breakfasts to elegant dinners, all paired with fine Australian wines and enjoyed against the backdrop of stunning river views.

Meet new friends and be entertained on board in a blend of relaxation and engagement, featuring talks on the river’s rich history, live music, and themed evenings. Onshore excursions bring you closer to the magic of the regions the Murray River traverses, with visits to the Ngaut Ngaut Aboriginal Reserve, a significant archaeological site, and guided nature walks that unveil the region’s unique flora and fauna. Enjoy a traditional Bush Tucker Breakfast by the riverbank, or venture to Monarto Zoo for an up-close wildlife encounter. Sit back, look up and enjoy Australia’s first International Dark Sky Reserve.

Whether sampling regional vintages at local wineries or simply soaking in the majestic rhythm of river cruising, the Murray Princess promises a brilliant getaway filled with connection, discovery, and the timeless charm of river travel.

Visit www.murrayprincess.com. au to book your 3, 4, or 7-night adventure today.

UNRAVEL TRAVEL

CIRCLE JAPAN CRUISE

Japan Fall Foliage Cruise – With a Touch of South Korea!

Experience the magic of autumn in Japan with a touch of South Korea on our enchanting 19-day hosted small group cruise. From fiery fall foliage to rich cultural history, this extraordinary voyage offers a seamless blend of refined comfort, exploration, and unforgettable moments.

Discover Tokyo’s vibrant energy, stroll through the stunning gardens of Kanazawa, and savour the world-famous Kobe beef. Immerse yourself in the traditions of samurai districts, cruise past scenic coastlines, and explore hidden gems along Japan’s picturesque shores.

Experience the beauty of South Korea’s Seoraksan National Park, with its dramatic mountain peaks and brilliant autumn colours, before returning to Japan to uncover the timeless charm of Hakodate, Otaru, Aomori, and Miyako - each offering a unique glimpse into Japan’s history, cuisine, and maritime heritage.

Aboard Holland America’s Westerdam, relax in comfortable verandah stateroom accommodations, indulge in world-class dining, and enriching cultural experiences designed to enhance your journey.

With international flights included and limited availability, now is the time to book your spot on this extraordinary autumn voyage.

Call today to reserve your place – don’t miss this unforgettable experience!

Our guests join us for our tours from all corners of New Zealand and you can be rest assured your tour host will always be one of our friendly wellexperienced YOURTours team members, ensuring everything is looked after from start to finish, allowing you to relax and just enjoy your holiday.

FULLY ESCORTED TOURS

Norfolk Island Explorer

Scenic Southern Splendour

8 Days – Departs 13 February 2025 |

including Stewart Island and the Catlins

Coromandel Magic

Wearable Arts 2025

4 Days – Departs 26 February 2025

9 days from $4699.00— Departs 10 April & 10 October 2025

$4199 From Auckland pp twin share Single room supplement $699 – First five single rooms only $499

Includes return flight from Auckland back to Auckland,7 nights South Pacific Resort, all breakfasts and dinners, Fabulous Ghost tour and dinner (as told by the Ghost of the Convict surgeon) Night as a Convict dinner, Bounty Bar and Grill Dinner, Progressive Dinner, lsland Fish Fry, Barney Duffy BBQ, Convict Settlement tour to enjoy the history, Island culture to learn about the cooking, weaving, dancing. Paddock to plate visit to farm with free range chickens and cattle including a lovely lunch, Greenfingers Garden Tour, Wonderland at night with Lights creating a different setting. Time to enjoy the shops or own individual choice.

$2899pp share twin from Auckland

Fly to Dunedin, full of Scottish Heritage (3 nights). Visit the Albatross Colony, the Botanic Gardens and the serene Chinese Gardens. A visit to Larnach Castle with a guided tour and a high tea. Coach through the Southern Scenic Route—the Catlins. Off the beaten track and through rural heartland and rugged coastlines. We check out the views from Nugget Point and the Petrified Forest at Curio Bay. Overnight in Invercargill. Fly to magical Stewart Island (2 nights). Explore Oban and a leisurely cruise of Paterson Inlet and visit Ulva Island, a renowned birdlife sanctuary. Try the local Blue Cod as we dine at the South Sea Hotel. Fly back to Invercargill and join our coach for the journey to Queenstown (2 nights). Visit Arrowtown for sightseeing. Step aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw for a farewell dinner cruise to Walter Peak. We include return airfares from Auckland/Tauranga/Wellington & Christchurch Breakfast and dinners and some lunches, all sightseeing included on the itinerary, an experienced Tour Manager, quality touring coach and driver.

Southern Explorer

CANBERRA FLORIADE

5 Days – Departs 25 February from Chch/ Well | $3550pp share twin

Wellington/ Christchurch passengers fly to Auckland with transfer to hotel for overnight inclusive of breakfast. Quality touring coach via Waihi to Whitianga (2 nights) including all breakfasts and dinners at local restaurant, Hot Water Beach, Cruise to Cathedral Cove, local islands, and blow holes with hopefully some sight ings of the local wildlife. On to Coromandel town for overnight, travel on the unique Driving Creek Railway to the “Eyefull Tower” for colossal views, guiding tour of the historic Coromandel township with local guide. Home via Thames with a visit to Thames Museum and Rapaura Watergardens. Wellington, Christchurch passengers will be taken to the airport for flight home.

Featuring OVERNIGHT DOUBTFUL SOUND CRUISE

Featuring Southern Highlands Tulip Festival

8 Days from $4999pp share twin – 19 Sept 2025

9 Days – Departs 9 Feb 2025 | $5199 pp share twin

Sydney (2 nights) Sunset dinner Cruise on harbour. Coach through to Mittagong (2 nights), Spectacular Tulip Festival in Corbett Gardens, Sir Donald Bradman Oval, two private gardens. On to Canberra (3 nights). Visit Cockington Green – home of gorgeous crafted miniatures of iconic buildings around the world set within landscaped gardens, A day to visit Floriade - garden show which is the largest in Australia. Enjoy lunch at a Tulip Farm in a garden setting. Sights including National Museum and National Gallery. Cruise on Lake Burley Griffin. Includes All breakfasts, most dinners, quality touring coach, all sightseeing and garden entrances mentioned, Experienced Tour Manager from New Zealand, Return flights to Australia.

Fly to Dunedin (2 nights), guided visit to Olveston House and sights of Dunedin, Chinese Gardens. Travel through the Catlins to lnvercargill (2 nights) including visit to Bluff. Enjoy a visit with lunch at Bill Richards Transport World. (Optional day trip to Stewart Island). Coach via Riverton, visit Te Hikoi Museum, onto Te Anau for overnight. Travel to Manapouri and through Wilmot Pass to join overnight cruise to the unspoiled, unforgettable Doubtful Sound. Twin share cabins with private bathrooms, stunning scenery, onboard nature guide. Back on land we travel to Queenstown (2 nights) including sights, TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak dinner cruise. Includes return airfares from Auckland/Tauranga/Wellington or Christchurch, quality accommodation, sightseeing, full size touring coach, overnight cruise Doubtful Sound, ALL breakfasts, most dinners, and some lunches.

Magnificent Europe River Cruise

Dep: 18 Sept, 21 Sept, 25 Sept & 02 Oct 4 days from $2499 pp share twin from Auckland/Christchurch $2599 share twin from Tauranga

Amsterdam to Budapest and Fully Escorted

Taranaki Rhododendron Garden Festival

(Featuring fabulous floor to ceiling windows on AVALON Cruise)

27 Days – Departs 19 July 2025 | $21,430pp share twin ONLY LIMITED SPACE ALREADY

Return flights from Auckland/Tauranga or Christchurch/ to Wellington for 3 nights at the fabulous Novotel hotel. We Include, all breakfasts and dinners, Platinum seats to the show with a souvenir programme. Just ask anyone who has been with us how good our seats are!!! Approx two hours of non-stop entertainment which will take your breath away!! Enjoy a free day in Wellington for our own sightseeing choices (perhaps a visit to Te Papa or Zealandia), Day trip to the Scenic Wairarapa with time for some retail therapy in Greytown and a light lunch at Martinborough.

5 days—Departs: 31 Oct & 07 Nov from $2799 from Auckland. $2999 from Tauranga share twin (costs from other centres available – fly to New Plymouth and home from Auckland.0

** First 5 bookings for a Single Room NO additional cost **

Sydney Handa Opera

On Sydney Harbour – Featuring GUYS & DOLLS

Tropical North Queensland (Escape the Winter)

5 Days – Departs 02 April 2025

8 Days-Dep 02 August 2025 from $5590.00 pp share twin

$4199 pp share twin

Fly Singapore Airlines to Singapore for two nights on Orchard Rd before heading into Amsterdam (3 nights including breakfasts and one dinner and sights). We then join our River cruise on the Avalon Passion in our deluxe outside cabins where we can sit and watch the River and River life go past from our open floor to ceiling window, large private bathrooms with full shower, and premium L’Occitane bath products, breakfast, lunch and dinner on board daily with complimentary sparkling wine at breakfast, wine, beer or soft drinks with lunch and dinner, happy hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day. An Avalon professional Cruise Director as well as a Supreme Tours Tour Manager travelling with you, Avalon Choice including sightseeing with certified local guides, guided optional excursions and ample time to explore on your own. There complimentary Wifi throughout the ship. Includes gratuities. Cruise includes Rhine Gorge, Nuremberg Regensburg, Vienna. Budapest (3 nights) with sightseeing before home via Singapore where we stop overnight.

Coach to New Plymouth (3 nights) at the central NOVOTEL Hobson. We enjoy two full days of garden visits, some only open to the public during the festival. We choose a variety of different types of gardens which feature fabulous displays of colourful perennials, herbaceous borders and of course the Rhododendrons that the area is famous for. We visit the iconic Len Lye Gallery the incredible Tawhiti Museum and travel home via the Forgotten Highway with lunch at the Whangamomona Hotel before overnight beside the lake in Taupo. Coach back to Auckland.

Fly to Cairns and settle in to our central hotel for 7 fabulous nights. We include all breakfasts, some lunches and dinners. Sightseeing of Cairns city, Kuranda Sky Rail and Cable car, World War 11 Aquaduck ride through the rainforest. Up close and personal with the croc’s at Hartleys Zoo!, The Atherton Tablelands, cruise Lake Barrine, famous Curtain Fig Tree, Twilight tour and dinner at the Cairns Aquarium which is a fabulous experience. Dinner on Cairns harbour. So much variety and still time to enjoy your personal choice sightseeing, shopping or just relaxing and soaking up the sun. We have a Supreme Tour Manager with you from New Zealand and use quality Touring coaches throughout our stay in Cairns. (even some electric coaches!).

Including airfares from Akld/Well/Chch to Sydney. 4 nights central 4* hotel, all breakfasts, most dinners, sightseeing Sydney including light lunch Manly, PREMIUM tickets to Opera on the Harbour. Escape to Manhattan in the 1950s: a colourful world of showgirls and gangsters. Guys & Dolls is musical theatre at its show-stopping best, with a score packed full of hits There’s nowhere better to experience a tale of romance and comedic mayhem than Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour. Raise a glass as the sun sets, then take your seat for an unforgettable performance, with fireworks every night. Farewell dinner cruise on the harbour. DON’T MISS OUT! *Discount not combinable with other discounts.

FREE home pick up & return from Auckland/Wellington/Christchurch

QUEENSLAND COAST ESCAPE

Outback Discovery

10 Days – Departs 03 May 2025

$9980pp share twin | $11,279 single passenger

9 days-Departs 03 July 2025 – from $4995pp share twin

Fly to Brisbane and coach to the beautiful Sunshine Coast where we spend a relaxing 4 nights at our resort style accommodation. Enjoy a Seafood cruise in Mooloolaba, tasty Devonshire tea at the Botanical garden in Maleny and time for some shopping at the delightful Montville. A visit to the famous Eumundi Markets will be fun! Travel to the Gold Coast (4 nights). Enjoy local sights of the Gold Coast beaches, a day trip to Mt Tamborine with lunch at St Bernards hotel—known for the St Bernard dogs that live at the property as well as the amazing views from the decks, a visit to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and a sunset cruise around the multi-million dollar homes on the canal before dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Including all breakfasts, most dinners & sights. Join us on this relaxing tour with a variety of sights.

Fly to Brisbane for overnight. On to Longreach (3 nights) luxury glamping accom, Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum Winton, Qantas Founders Museum, Stockman’s Hall of Fame, Drovers Sunset Cruise, and Outback Dinner Show. Channel Country Way, morning tea scenic Swanvale Lookout, sunset drinks overlooking red sandhills, 2 nights new ensuite cabins at Toogunna Plains, Morning Station tour, Eromanga Natural History Museum and exclusive “Taste of the Outback” long-table dinner. Opal town of Quilpie with local guide, star gazing through Meade Telescopes at the Cosmos Centre, guided tour of a Date Farm with morning tea, Farewell two course oven camp dinner and overnight at Roma. Return to Brisbane for overnight before flying home. Including all breakfasts, all lunches and dinners (except Brisbane), all sightseeing, quality coach which is built for the outback along with a Savannah guide/experienced driver, Tour Manager from New Zealand, airfares.

TAANZ bonded for your protection and member of IATA

Small group hosted travel

Escorted travel offers a host of advantages for the discerning traveller.

Travelling with others brings many benefits, and New Zealand company World Journeys have designed a range of small group hosted journeys with this in mind. The camaraderie fostered within a tour group makes it an ideal choice for those seeking to connect with like-minded individuals, or for solo travellers who enjoy good company.

A host travels with the group, of no more than 18 guests, taking care of tipping, smoothing the way

and navigating the unexpected. Working in with local expert guides, travellers can gain access to otherwise hidden gems and enrich their cultural understanding.

Ultimately, escorted travel provides a stress-free and memorable way to explore some of the world’s most fascinating destinations, from the Mediterranean to the Caucasus, the Silk Road, South America and Japan. All tours are guaranteed to go, so you can book with confidence, and

all your flights (from Auckland) and tipping are included!

If you feel the need to experience new cultures and cuisines, hear new melodies and meet fascinating people, call your travel agent, or World Journeys on 0800 117311, or find out more at www.worldjourneys. co.nz/hosted-journeys

SMALL GROUP HOSTED JOURNEYS

Best of the Med’

25 days, 3 September 2025

Cruise the Med’ from Barcelona to Venice, then tour Italy’s charming Cinque Terre and Lake Como.

Fables of the Silk Road

29 days, 1 September 2026

The cultural diversity of the “Five Stans” of Central Asia, travelling time worn trading routes.

Grand Tour of South America

35 days, 31 August 2026

The iconic sights of Chile, Ecuador & the Galapagos, the Amazon, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil and Argentina.

Crossroads of the Caucasus

22 days, 27 September 2026

From bustling Tokyo to scenic Old Towns, snow monkeys, rural villages and traditions galore.

Contact World Journeys or your travel agent for details

Let the Scenery Unravel with Twilight Travel

Explore the world with Twilight Travel & Tours. Specialising in group adventures, this New Zealand-owned and operated tour company provides comfortable and leisurely paced journeys.

Encompassing destinations in New Zealand, Australia and the South Pacific.

Embrace the camaraderie of like-minded travellers and indulge in the comfort and ease of a wellorganized adventure. Every detail is thoughtfully considered to ensure that all you need to do is relax and enjoy the journey. Whether it’s savouring the local cuisine, exploring historical sites, or simply soaking in the stunning vistas, Twilight Travel & Tours ensures that your experience is nothing short of extraordinary.

Participating in a group tour offers

the convenience of comprehensive arrangements, including accommodation, breakfasts, dinners, a diverse range of sightseeing activities, and a home pick-up and drop-off service in the main centres. With small groups of around 24 passengers, all your needs are

meticulously attended to, ensuring that your tour becomes a truly relaxing holiday experience.

Owner, Shavourn Jones has over 30 years of travel experience and personally escorts most of the group tours on offer. As a member of Wanderlust Travel Experts, a TAANZ bonded Company, ensures your travel funds are protected, providing you with peace of mind.

Shavourn also offers bespoke travel planning services, arranging independent adventures, holidays, or cruises to destinations worldwide, as well as creating tailored itineraries for special interest groups, clubs, and retirement villages.

Call Shavourn to discuss destinations and itineraries, and enquiry about her escorted group tours.

Let the Scenery Unravel with Twilight Travel

Catlins & Stewart Island

3 April 2026

Explore the “Wild South” from Dunedin to Stewart Island via the windswept Catlins.

8 nights including 2 nights Catlins and 3 nights Stewart Island

Ulva Island Guided Tour and Paterson Inlet Cruise

Stunning scenery, flora & fauna

Kiwi, Penguins & Albatross

22 February 2026

Discover Tasmania, an island of natural wonders, stunning landscapes and, unique flora and fauna.

Circumnavigating the island

History & heritage, arts & culture

Port Arthur, Cradle Mountain

National Park, Gordon River

Unique flora & fauna - Devils, Platypus, Echidnas, Wombats

Specialising in escorted small group tours throughout New Zealand, Australia & the South Pacific

30 October 2025

Discover the gardens of Taranaki and beyond, visiting a variety of gardens from small town potagers to large rambling country gardens.

10 private Taranaki gardens

Cross Hills Rhododendron Gardens

Pukeiti and Pukekura Park

5 & 6 day tour options

Phone: 0800 999 887 | Email:bookings@twilighttravel.co.nz | Website: twilighttravel.co.nz

Paris in spring

Forget summer: Paris is at its best in spring before the peak tourist season kicks in and all the major attractions are crowded. No wonder Parisians take their holidays and head out of town in July or August.

Even in spring, to ascend the Eiffel Tower queuing for an hour is common, while the lines of visitors to the Louvre are daunting.

Less popular attractions often give a better Paris experience and a Paris card can save you lots.

The Tuileries gardens near the Louvre are uninspiring and usually busy, so head for the less famous outdoor spaces, such as Parc André Citroën where a balloon lifts you 150m for a birds-eye view of the park, the Seine, Eiffel Tower and even Montmartre.

A tethered helium balloon, the Ballon de Paris Generali serves the

Story and photos: Gillian Vine

dual purpose of monitoring air quality in Paris and giving tourists a great view of the city. Well worth the €18 ($NZ33), it ascends only when it’s calm and clear, but if the weather keeps it grounded, the park’s impressive gardens still justify a visit.

Another quieter park is Jardins des Plantes, established in 1626 as a royal medicinal garden. These days, it’s more wide-ranging (I even spotted a few NZ plants, including kowhai and corokia) and a lovely place to stroll. A small menagerie was opened in the late 1700s and is still going strong, with the focus now on breeding endangered animals, including the Arabian oryx and Malay tapir. The latter’s colouring looks rather like a Belted Galloway cow but tapirs are related to horses, not cattle.

If you’re a rose lover, suss out the Metro and use it and then a bus

to visit Paris’ suburbs and peaceful Roseraie du Val-de-Marne where the comprehensive, well-organised collection of 11,000 rose bushes encompasses almost 3000 species and cultivars. Take a picnic and eat al fresco under big trees in the adjacent park.

Paris’ lesser-known museums are relatively quiet, too, except on the first Sunday of each month when numerous locals and tourists take advantage of the free entry scheme.

My favourite museum (for the moment) is Musée Guimet, which has a fabulous collection of Asian art. Use your Metro skills to get there –the Musée Guimet stop is right by the entrance – and take in Europe’s most comprehensive Asian collection. Closed on Tuesdays.

I’m a great believer in free attractions. Unlike London, where it

The Ballon de Paris Generali floats above the Parc André Citroën, in Paris, and (left) the view from the balloon.

costs £6 to see Karl Marx’ grave, or Rome where a donation is suggested to visit John Keats grave, there is no charge for Parisian cemeteries. Luminaries buried at the 44ha Père Lachaise Cemetery include Jim Morrison, Colette, Edith Piaf and Oscar Wilde. It’s worth taking a tour if you want to see the final resting places of most famous of Père Lachaise’s “residents”.

And a super freebie, if you skip the temptation to go shopping, is at iconic department store Galeries Lafayette, whose rooftop observation deck offers panoramic city views. By choosing less crowded options and scheduling some free attractions, your Paris experience will be better, as well as less expensive.

(Clockwise from above): Malayan tapir at Jardins des Plantes; a swag of roses at Roseraie du Valde-Marne; a Tang Dynasty horse in the Musée Guimet; the Eiffel Tower from the Seine on a spring day.

Albany Stadium, North Shore

28 February/1 March

BAY OF PLENTY

Baypark Event Centre 28/29 March 2026

The Dream Like Never Before

The dream of Bora Bora comes alive like never before at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa.

THE WESTIN BORA BORA RESORT & SPA is the newest resort to open in the beautiful Islands of Tahiti, with the majestic Mount Otemanu serving as a backdrop and it features the most overwater bungalows in Bora Bora. The new resort offers 128 overwater bungalows and 14

beach villas, 6 bars and restaurants, a saltwater swimming pool, a private beach, a spa and a fitness studio. A remnant from the former Le Meridien property is also the Eco Centre and turtle sanctuary with resident marine biologists teaching guests about the marine life of The Islands of Tahiti.

ACCOMMODATION

128 Overwater Bungalows and 14 Beach Villas

OVERWATER BUNGALOWS

• Lagoon, Island & Otemanu Views

• 1 & 2-Bedroom Configurations

• From 41 to 111 sqm

• Large glass-floor panels

• Optional Private Plunge Pool

• Private terrace with direct access to the lagoon, dining area and loungers

BEACH VILLAS

• Lagoon View

• 1 & 2-Bedroom Configurations

• From 41 to 130 sqm

• Optional Private Plunge Pool

• Private beach with access to the lagoon and loungers, dining area in some villas

RESTAURANTS & BARS

TIPANIER | Breakfast & Dinner

Buffet for breakfast & FrenchPolynesian Elegant Bistro for Dinner

VARAVARA | Lunch & Dinner

Beach Restaurant offering Mediterranean & Pacific Gourmet Cuisine

MAERE | Dinner

Signature Restaurant creating a memorable culinary journey with a daily changing theme

‘O’A | Lounge Bar

Crafted Cocktails with Mount Otemanu view

TEAVA | Swim-up bar

Refreshing Beverages & Dishes

HONUTIKI | Beach Bar

Frozen Drinks, Nibbles & Snacks

PRIVATE VENUE

MANAHERE

Manahere, meaning "Power of Love"

in Tahitian, is our resort's exclusive overwater venue for private events, intimate dinners, and romantic moments.

Perfect for a special dinner for two or a group celebration, it features an elegant indoor space and a stunning outdoor area.

Located in a prime spot, this overwater bungalow overlooks a private lagoon with breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu. Its serene ambiance and natural beauty make Manahere the ideal place for unforgettable memories.

SWIMMING POOL & PRIVATE BEACH

BEACH

Private Beach facing Mount Otemanu

SWIMMING POOL

Saltwater Swimming Pool with Swimup Bar

THE HEAVENLY SPA & FITNESS STUDIO

THE HEAVENLY SPA

Personalized Serenity Moments

FITNESS STUDIO

WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio

ECO CENTER

Located within the resort, the Eco Center aims to protect marine life and sea turtles in French Polynesia through conservation actions and research. Clients can participate in discovery activities with the marine biologists of the center.

ACTIVITIES

All activities are complimentary

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

(Flower Crown, Shell Craft & Coconut Palm Weaving…)

WELLNESS CLASSES BY WESTIN™ (Sunrise Run, Flash Abdos, Westin Challenge, Paddle Yoga, Tibetan Singing Bowls…)

RUM & WINE TASTING

AQUATIC ACTIVITIES

EXCURSIONS

BORA BORA by air Helicopter Sky Diving

BORA BORA by sea

BORA BORA by land

Quad Adventure | Safari 4x4 Hiking | VIP Tour and more…

Lifetime Home: A fresh approach to home equity release

RETIREMENT should be about enjoying life, not worrying about money. Yet, for many retirees, this is not the reality.

Lifetime Retirement Income founder and managing director Ralph Stewart notes: “Many Kiwis leave work without a financial cushion to support them through the next 20 years or more. They’re forced to rely solely on NZ Super, which is a wonderful benefit, but we know it’s barely enough to live on frugally let alone comfortably.”

“So, it’s no surprise that many are looking for additional ways to support a secure and worry-free retirement.”

“That’s why we developed Lifetime Home. It’s an innovative product designed to help homeowners aged 70 and over unlock the equity in their homes in exchange for a sustainable retirement income – without taking on debt,” Ralph explains.

THE SMART ALTERNATIVE TO A REVERSE MORTGAGE

Lifetime Home lets retirees stay in their homes while boosting their NZ Super. Eligible homeowners can sell up to 35% of their home’s equity in exchange for regular fortnightly payments over 10 years. Lifetime buys this equity for 25% of the home’s agreed initial value, paid out at 2.5% per year (less fees and charges).

Unlike a reverse mortgage,

there’s no interest or debt, just a predictable income stream. The best part? Homeowners know exactly how much equity they’ll retain at the end of the agreement.

WHY CHOOSE LIFETIME HOME?

• No debt, no interest – Lifetime Home is not a loan, so there is no interest to accumulate.

• Stay put – You can remain in your home as long as you wish.

• Predictable payments –Fortnightly payments on the same day as NZ Super, making budgeting easy.

• Financial certainty – Know upfront how much equity you’ll retain in your home.

JUDITH’S STORY: FINDING FINANCIAL FREEDOM

After 50 years as a social worker, Judith* retired at 72. She was shocked to discover how tight her budget would be.

“Going from a steady paycheck to just the pension was tough. I realised it could be a struggle,” she says.

Judith considered downsizing, but a smaller home wouldn’t have left her better off financially. Retirement villages didn’t suit her either – she valued her independence and privacy.

Then she discovered Lifetime Home. Six months after receiving her first payment, she’s noticed a big difference.

“Having that extra income means I can pay my bridge fees, put petrol in the car for trips, and even save a little. It’s a great feeling.”

With her finances in order, Judith is embracing retirement.

“I’ve worked hard for 50 years – I deserve to enjoy it. Now, I can still buy the odd treat, which I wouldn’t have been able to manage on NZ Super alone.”

“Lifetime Home was the perfect solution for my situation.”

FIND OUT MORE

Strong growth in retirement village development

Retirement villages remain a popular option for seniors in New Zealand.

RETIREMENT VILLAGE LIVING continues to grow in popularity in New Zealand, with 53,000 now calling a retirement village home and around 130 people moving in each week.

Michelle Palmer, the new executive director of the Retirement Villages Association, says operators are reporting strong demand as New Zealanders seek the security, peace of mind, companionship, and pathways to care that the country’s retirement village model provides.

“Following the trend of recent years, retirement village operators are continuing to receive high levels of inquiries,” says Michelle.

“Thousands of new units are under construction across the country to meet this growing demand.

“While significant development is underway, more will be needed in the coming decades to ensure future demand is met.”

A growing segment of the market includes luxury retirement villages, with several providers developing communities that offer high-end amenities such as concierge services, chauffeur-driven vehicles for residents, on-site guest accommodation, and gourmet dining.

A Retirement Villages market review released by real estate and investment management firm Jones Lang La Salle last year found that 2,298 units were completed in the year ending 31 December 2023.

This was higher than both the five-year and ten-year average growth in units. The report estimated that an additional 932 units would need to be built each year for the next 25 years to meet demand by 2048.

Since joining the RVA, Michelle has been visiting villages across the country.

“The residents I have been talking to welcome the security, warm and dry age-appropriate accommodation, access to leisure and social activities, and freedom from property upkeep

and maintenance concerns

“Residents know exactly what their outgoings for rates, insurance, and maintenance will be, and if they are going away, they can lock up and leave their home safely.

“Residents also love the range of options including serviced apartments, assisted living, frail care, or transitions into on-site aged care facilities with hospital-level services. This allows residents to make choices that meet their changing needs while remaining in the same community.

“That also provides peace of mind for relatives, who can have confidence their older relatives are living in a safe environment where they have their independence but also swift access to help and support if needed,.

“That is certainly something I valued when my own mother moved into a retirement village. It really enhanced her quality of life through the company, friendship, and security.”

A focus for the RVA for 2025 is continuing to roll out its Blueprint for Improvement, the New Zealand’s retirement villages sector’s most

significant reforms in a generation.

The blueprint includes ensuring operators re-license vacant units as quickly as possible, providing greater clarity/disclosure around moving into care, stopping weekly fees once a unit is vacated, paying interest on outstanding capital sums after nine months, and more clearly defining chattels, repairs and maintenance responsibilities.

“Around 75 per cent of villages have already voluntarily adopted many of these industry reforms and our ambition is to bring all villages up to these same exacting standards, lifting the bar for the entire sector,” says Michelle.

A journey of resilience: Stepping out of fear, one continent at a time

I HOPE THIS MESSAGE finds you well. My name is Andrew Matthews, a proud member of the Tauranga Citizens Club and a passionate advocate for those facing challenges with osteoarthritis. I embark on a mission to traverse the seven continents and prove that life does not end with an arthritis diagnosis.

In 2017, after completing an incredible trek over the Pyrenees in France and across Spain to the Atlantic Ocean, I returned home with the burning desire to do great things. However, life took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis. Despite the initial

setback, I have chosen to redefine my aspirations and plan to travel to as many countries as possible over the next five years or more, demonstrating that arthritis is not the end but the beginning of a new adventure.

My journey will commence on the 12th of November 2024, departing from Auckland to Canberra, Australia, and proceeding to Asia, and beyond. I intend to traverse countries, not merely pass through them, connecting with people from diverse walks of life. Throughout my travels, I will emphasize the message of “Stepping out of fear one step at a

time into the unknown.”

Beyond personal exploration, I am committed to fundraising for Arthritis New Zealand, a cause close to my heart. My journey can inspire and empower retirees facing similar challenges, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and embrace life’s adventures.

If you aspire to see the world but cannot afford it then my journey will give you an insight by following my journey. I hope to show glimpses into my travels, experiences, and the lessons learned along the way. By sharing my story, I aim to give hope and motivation among seniors, showing them that life holds incredible opportunities even after retirement.

Additionally, I am seeking support and guidance on potential avenues to maintain financial stability during my journey. I am in the process of establishing a website called (inspireseniorstravel. com) and utilizing platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and social media to document and share my adventures. Furthermore, if you require further information or would like to discuss this proposal in more detail, please feel free to contact me via email at a.matthews2453@gmail.com or by phone at 021 0298 5047.

I am excited about highlighting my experiences. Thank you for considering my request, and I look forward to the possibility of sharing my journey with a broader audience. Warm regards, Andrew Matthews Inspireseniorstravel.com

The Firebird returns with My Brilliant Career

Royal New Zealand Ballet unveils a mesmerising double bill for Autumn (30 April-1 June) Two powerful stories, compelling choreography, music and design…

The Royal New Zealand Ballet (RNZB) is set to ignite stages across the country with two stunning and thought-provoking ballets – the powerful The Firebird and the evocative

My Brilliant Career, presented in association with AVIS. Created by two of the ballet world’s star choreographers – Loughlan Prior (named one of ‘25 to Watch’ in 2025 in the prestigious US publication Dance Magazine) and the awardwinning Cathy Marston – this season promises to be a tour de force of storytelling, movement and theatrical

Prior’s The Firebird, a dazzling reimagining of the Russian fairytale set in a dystopian desert world where water is more valuable than gold. Originally premiering in 2021 to sold-out audiences in Wellington and Auckland, the production was cut short due to Covid restrictions. Now, in 2025, it finally makes its longawaited debut in the South Island.

Prior’s expressive choreography, set against Tracy Grant Lord’s striking costume and set designs enhanced by immersive projections from POW Studios, brings to life a world both magical and perilously

in Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch, under the baton of Hamish McKeich, The Firebird is set to be one of the most visually and emotionally captivating productions of the year.

Complementing this grand spectacle is the New Zealand premiere of My Brilliant Career, choreographed by the internationally acclaimed Cathy Marston for Queensland Ballet in 2023 and now performed by the RNZB for the first time. Based on Miles Franklin’s iconic novel and familiar to many through the 1979 film starring Judy Davis and

of a young woman determined to carve her own path in life. Marston, known for her deeply intelligent and character-driven choreography, brings Franklin’s timeless heroine to life in a powerful and intimate portrayal that will resonate with modern audiences.

“With our first main stage season for 2025, we are delighted to be bringing to audiences across the motu a pair of contrasting, but equally thought-provoking and emotionally charged narrative works which demonstrate the immense storytelling capacity of ballet,” says RNZB artistic director Ty King-Wall.

“It is wonderful to be presenting for the first time in New Zealand, a work by Cathy Marston. Cathy is a choreographer at the peak of her powers, and My Brilliant Career demonstrates perfectly her skill at adapting literary sources for the stage. It is a privilege for us to be performing one of her works. We are also so excited to be returning to Loughlan Prior’s

The Firebird and to be sharing

it with a wider audience this time, after receiving such an enthusiastic response to its premiere four years ago.

“We are incredibly grateful to our friends at AVIS for their investment in this season, which has helped us bring these powerful performances on tour from Auckland to Invercargill and connect with our audiences’ love of dance. With their support we look forward with great anticipation to bringing this thrilling programme to some of our country’s most beautiful theatres in April and May.”

The Firebird is a visual feast, a ballet of scale and spectacle, while My Brilliant Career is an intricate and deeply personal exploration of ambition and selfdiscovery. Together, they make for an unforgettable evening of dance. With a national tour from April 30 to June 1, this season is poised to be a landmark event in New Zealand’s cultural calendar.

Discover more at https://rnzb.org.nz/ show/the-firebird-mbc

Season information:

Wellington

St James Theatre, 30 April-3 May

Auckland

Aotea Centre, 7-10 May

Palmerston North Regent on Broadway, 14 May

Invercargill

Civic Theatre, 21 May

Dunedin

The Regent, 24-25 May

Christchurch

Isaac Theatre Royal, 29 May-1 June

CREATIVE CREDITS

The Firebird

Choreography: Loughlan Prior

Music: Igor Stravinsky

Set & Costume Design: Tracy Grant Lord

Lighting Design: Jon Buswell

Projections: POW Studios

My Brilliant Career

Choreography: Cathy Marston

Music: Matthew Hindson

Set & Costume Design: David Fleischer

Lighting Design: Paul Jackson

Video Design: Craig Wilkinson

Conductor: Hamish McKeich

Orchestras: Orchestra Wellington, Auckland

Philharmonia, Christchurch Symphony Orchestra

“Shingles? I thought I was too young. I was wrong. The pain made me want to rip my skin off.”*†

*Inspired by real patient stories.

Patient portrayals.

†Shingles symptoms may vary among patients.2

‡Not everyone at risk will develop shingles.2

References: 1. Bollaerts K et al. A systematic review of varicella seroprevalence in European countries before universal childhood immunization: deriving incidence from seroprevalence data. Epidemiol Infect. 2017;145:2666-2677. 2. Harpaz R et al. Prevention of herpes zoster: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). MMWR Recomm Rep. 2008;57(RR-5):1-30

90% of people over 50 already carry the virus that causes shingles.1‡ Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Graham Norton rolls up his sleeves in Marlborough

Graham Norton is no stranger to great wine, but this harvest season, he took his passion a step further and joined Invivo Wines’ Cofounders Tim Lightbourne and Rob Cameron in Marlborough, New Zealand to experience the winemaking process firsthand.

Graham rolled up his sleeves in the sunny Awatere Valley, getting handson with grape picking, tasting juice samples, and assessing fruit quality with his long-term Invivo winemaker partners – an essential step in crafting the next, twelfth vintage of his GN Sauvignon Blanc.

“New Zealand produces some of the world’s best sauvignon blanc, in my opinion. It’s incredible to think that what began as a small, limited-edition run of GN New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc has grown into a global brand. Now, here we are harvesting grapes in Marlborough for our twelfth vintage! I don’t just put my name to the wines – I’m involved in the process, which makes being here in this stunning region for harvest all the more special,” says Graham Norton.

The long-standing partnership between Graham and Invivo began in 2014 with a single New Zealand sauvignon blanc and has since evolved into an internationally acclaimed wine and spirits portfolio, now including ten products and more than 300 accolades. Today, GN Wines is a topselling brand and commercial success in multiple markets, including the UK, Ireland, New Zealand, USA and Japan.

“Graham has always been handson – he personally tastes, blends, and signs off on every vintage with us to ensure his favourite wine is made

to his exact taste preferences,” says Invivo Cofounder and Winemaker Rob Cameron. “To welcome him to our vineyard and experience the magic of Marlborough firsthand was a real highlight for all of us.”

Global Growth & Success

Since its launch, GN Wines and

Spirits has grown into a powerhouse global brand, with commercial success in key markets, including the UK, where Graham Norton Sauvignon Blanc was the fastest-growing major brand in the category in 2024, with sales up 396% year on year*. In 2024, a glass of GN wine was enjoyed every two seconds by Brits.

Beef

MUSHROOM AND GOATS CHEESE STUFFED SIRLOIN

1 Green lea Sirloin roast

400g Swiss brown mushrooms, diced

3 shallots, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

3 sprigs thyme, chopped

100g baby spinach

2 Tablespoons whole-grain mustard

150g goat cheese, crumbled

Butchers twine

5 large carrots, sliced in half lengthways

1 bulb of garlic cut in half

2 Tablespoons harissa paste

1/2 lemon, juiced

Peppercorn & whiskey sauce

1 shallot, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

1 sprig of thyme

20ml whiskey

500ml beef stock

200ml cream

1-2 teaspoons freshly crushed black peppercorns

Knob of butter

To serve

Peppercorn & whiskey sauce

Yorkshire puddings

Harrisa roasted carrots

Dauphinoise potatoes

MATCHED WITH

MOUNT BROWN ESTATES GRAND RESERVE

PINOT NOIR 2023

Intense fruit concentration with dark cherry, rich forest fruit aromas and earthy undertones. Mouth-filling palate, great balance and persistent finish.

Preheat the oven to 180c.

To make the stuffing, first, sweat the shallots in some oil over medium heat until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the thyme, stir through, and remove from the pan.

Heat the pan with some more oil, then sauté the mushrooms over high heat until browned and all the liquid has been released. Season with salt and pepper and add back the shallot mixture.

Add the spinach and toss until spinach hasn’t wilted, remove from the heat.

To prepare the sirloin, trim some of the fat cap off the top and sides, then make an incision through the side of the sirloin two-thirds of the way through, open the sirloin, and repeat the process under the first cut.

You should end up with a flat, opened-up piece of meat. If the beef is too thick, gently flatten it more with a meat mallet.

Evenly spread the mustard over the meat and top with a thin layer of the mushroom filling, sprinkle over crumbed goat's cheese, then carefully roll the meat back up until you have the fat cap onto. Secure in place with butcher’s twine.

Heat a large casserole dish or cast

iron pot, add oil, and gently and evenly render/brown the fat cap over low to medium heat.

Once rendered quickly brown all the sides of the beef roll.

Remove then add the carrots and the garlic bulb. Place the meat onto and roast in the oven for 30/35 minutes for medium rare. Remove from the oven and rest for 15/20 minutes in a warm place lightly wrapped in foil before carving.

Remove carrots, season lightly, toss with the harissa paste and 1/2 lemon, and serve on the side.

PEPPERCORN & WHISKEY SAUCE

To make the sauce, sauté the shallots in a frying pan with a little oil or butter over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, then add garlic and continue to cook for 2 minutes.

Deglaze with the whiskey and add the beef stock.

Increase the temperature and reduce the stock by half, then add the cream and continue to reduce by half or until the sauce is thickened. Add the butter, peppercorns, and a few drops of fresh lemon, season with salt, and serve with the beef.

CHEF MARK SOUTHON

Lamb

BALSAMIC & ANCHOVY ROTISSERIE LAMB LEG WITH DUCK FAT ROASTIES

1 Boned lamb leg

6-8 anchovy fillets, finely chopped

2 Lemon, zested

3 sprigs rosemary, finely chopped

1/2 cup Olive oil

6 Garlic cloves

2 shallots, finely chopped

Butchers twine

Salt & pepper

Basting Mix

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 cup balsamic

1 tablespoon honey

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

4 sprigs of rosemary to use as a brush to baste the lamb

Duck Fat Roast Potatoes

6 large potatoes (Agria)

3 Tablespoons Duck fat

Flakey sea salt

1 sprig of rosemary, finely chopped

MATCHED WITH

GIMBLETT GRAVELS

STONED CROW SYRAH 2020

Aged in French Oak, this wine is dark and concentrated showing peppery and toasty oak characters. The wine is seamless, has supple tannins, with a smooth, firm and spicy finish.

GOLD – Global Fine Wine Challenge 2022

96 Points – Andrew Pritzker MW

92 Points – Toni Paterson MW

To prepare the lamb first sweat down the shallots, garlic, rosemary, and lemon zest in some olive oil for 5 minutes then stir through the anchovy. Cool.

Trim the excess fat from the lamb leg and lay it out on a board, skin side down.

Spread the anchovy mixture on the lamb, and roll it up tightly with string. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Skewer with your rotisserie attachment.

BASTING

MIX

Make the basting mix by mixing all the ingredients together in a small bowl.

Heat the coals, when hot divide them into two piles on either side of a small tray filled with some water, place the lamb on top, and start the rotisserie.

I like adding a small block of fruit wood (cherry or plum) to add some sweet smoke.

Bast the lamb regularly throughout the cook to create a tasty outer coating on the lamb.

Cook the lamb until it reaches an internal temperature of 55c (MR) or

60c (M). Remove it from the heat and rest for 20 minutes before slicing. Drizzle over the remaining basting liquid to serve.

Serve with roasted potatoes, harissa carrots, and a nice summer salad.

** Cooking time will vary depending on the lamb size and coal temperature but should be around 1-1.5 hours.

DUCK FAT ROAST POTATOES

Preheat the oven to 220c. Place the duck fat in a large tray and heat for 5 minutes before adding the potatoes.

Peel, wash, and cut potatoes into large chunks. Par cook these in lightly salted water just until the edges of the potato become soft.

Carefully drain and steam dry the lightly shake in the pot so the edges become textured.

Once the fat is hot, carefully add the potatoes, and lightly season with a sprinkle of salt. Cook for 30-40 minutes turning once or twice during the cooking time until golden brown and crispy.

Remove from the tray, drain excess fat off, and sprinkle with the chopped rosemary.

CHEF MARK SOUTHON

WINNERNOTYET CONNECTEDWITH Resultpublishednextissueanduploaded

Experience. A Day Keeper at Devils @ Cradle will lead you through the sanctuary and provide you with a thorough insight into its operation. When joining this tour you will be directly supporting these animals and threatened species conservation. Leave the Central Highlands this afternoon, and head towards the scenic north-west coast for your overnight stay.

Day

5 | Burnie - Launceston

Day 6 | Hobart to Launceston

CHANCE TO WIN: Entries open until March 23rd 2025

WIN! AAT Kings Tassie Getaway Prize

Table Cape is by far Wynyard's most remarkable natural wonder, at 180 metres high, 'The Cape' - as locals refer to it - offers spectacular views of Tasmania's coastline. As you

The Prize:

• Trip for 2 on AAT King’s Tassie’s Wilderness Icons

• 6 day guided holiday, Hobart to Launceston

• Comfortable accommodation with easy access to city centres

• National Park Entrance Fees

• 4 Dinners, 5 Full Breakfasts and 2 Lunches

• Return flights from Tauranga or Auckland

*T&Cs Apply. Competition on prize value based on retail value.

reach Table Cape lookout where, on a clear day, you can see mountain ranges over 175 kilometres away. If there’s a town with a cuter name than Penguin, we’re yet to find it. Locals embrace its appeal – there are penguin sculptures at every turn, including one measuring over 3 metres tall. Your journey along the northwest coast also passes through Ulverstone and Sheffield, The Town of Murals, boasting over 100 large paintings depicting the area’s rich history and local characters. All of this exploring builds an appetite. Refuel at Ashgrove Tasmanian Farm, where happy cows contribute to award-winning cheeses – everything from cheddar and red Leicester to creamy Tasmanian blue.

Getaway Prize Terms & Conditions

*AAT Kings tour prize

· Two (2) AAT Kings Tassie’s Wilderness Icons tours departing between 01Sep2025-30Nov2025.

• AAT Kings Provider will provide a maximum of (1) one night pre trip and (1) one night post trip accommodation (in trip departure / finish city) only if required to meet flight schedules and trip departure.

• The prize is for twin share occupancy. Single supplement will be additional.

• The prize is not exchangeable for cash, or transferable to another person and if for any reason the winner is unable to travel then the prize will be forfeited.

• The prize winners must hold a valid passport and any travel visa’s are the responsibility of the prize winners. If an individual prize winner is unable to travel on the departure date of the trip then prize is forfeited.

• All trips and flights are subject to availability and the prize winners agree to be bound by the standard AAT Kings booking conditions (https:// www.aatkings.com/tours/tassies-wildernessicons/)

There are few places in the world where you can leave the city behind and within minutes be surrounded by nature. Launceston is one. Blink and you’re at Cataract Gorge, a yawning chasm carved by ancient rivers. This rare natural phenomenon unites bushland with neat Victorian gardens, replete with ferns and exotic plants. Get a different perspective of the green cavern on the optional scenic chairlift, zipping you over the water to a lofty lookout. We wouldn’t blame you for lingering here, or perhaps taking a cruise along the river. The choice is yours.

insurance for the duration of the trip prior to departure from New Zealand.

• If the winner has a criminal record and is denied entry into Japan or the specified destination or encounters any visa issues on route, AAT Kings cannot be held responsible or liable in any way.

• Prize is not transferable and must be issued only in the correct name of the person travelling.

• Transfers to your closest New Zealand departure point, travel insurance, meals not stated on tour, spending money, additional optionals, plus any other associated expenses are the responsibility of the prize winners.

Flights prize

• Prize includes two (2) return economy class airfare to departure city from Tauranga OR Auckland, New Zealand.

If you don’t mind spending a few minutes to complete this questionnaire, we will double your chances to win our next travel trip to Australia. A trip for two with airfares, accommodation and tour included.

· Prize valid for AAT Kings travel dates between 01Sep2025-30Nov2025. Blackout dates around public holidays may apply. If the winner does not travel between these periods, the prize will be invalid.

• Transfers to your closest New Zealand departure point, travel insurance, meals, spending money, plus any other associated expenses are the responsibility of the prize winners.

· Prize valid for travel dates between 01Sep202530Nov2025. Blackout dates around public holidays may apply. If the winner does not book between these periods, the prize will be invalid.

• Flight prize conditions include but are not limited to:

• All unstated costs are specifically excluded from the flight prize.

1. Which NZ attractions have you visited recently as an individual or group? Please list in order of preference.

• AAT Kings reserves the right to verify the validity of entries and to disqualify any entry that is not in accordance with these terms and conditions.

· The prize is restricted to availability.

• Entrants must be residents of New Zealand.

• Entrants must hold, or be able to obtain before booking flights, a valid passport (and visa if necessary).

• Entrants must not be subject to any conviction or court order which would prevent them from legally entering the overseas destination.

2. What are your preferred travel destinations worldwide? Please list in preferred order.

• The winner must hold full international travel

Standard flight booking terms and conditions apply.

By entering this competition, you agree to the Terms and Conditions.

3. If you currently DO NOT live in a Retirement Village,please indicate your favourite from this list: Metlifecare, Arvida, Summerset, Oceania, Karaka, other names.

HOW TO ENTER email your name & contact details to: colin@affinityads.com

Entries close March 23 2025. Prize drawn and winners announced March 30.

By entering this competition, you agree to the Terms and Conditions. HOW TO ENTER

Email your name & contact details to: colin@affinityads.com

Or enter at the Seniors & Travel Expo

Entries close March 23 2025

Prize drawn and winners announced March 30

EMPOWERING YOU TO CONTINUE LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE

Tasmania... the remarkable hidden in the unexpected.

Every year that passes is an invitation to grow, explore, and embrace life’s fullest potential. As you step into the next chapter of your life’s journey, it’s natural to start thinking ahead. Ensuring you’re prepared doesn’t just provide peace of mind—it allows you to truly enjoy every moment.

Tasmania... the remarkable hidden in the unexpected.

RESOURCES

Making Life Easier

At Eldernet, we understand that the future is something to be embraced. We have been a trusted provider of information for older kiwis and their carers for over 27 years, supporting you to make decisions that empower you to live life on your own terms.

We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to aging. Everyone is on their own individual journey: whether you’re considering home support services, exploring retirement village options, or simply seeking impartial advice, we’ve got you covered.

Discover a huge range of care and support options, community and advocacy groups, and service providers throughout New Zealand to help make your life at home easier.

Retirement Villages

Over the last century, AAT Kings Guided Holidays have enabled like-minded travellers to explore almost every corner of Australia, and Tasmania has always stood out as a gem. Needless to say, AAT Kings have met a few characters along the way. These encounters have turned into enduring friendships, offering guests unique adventures and insights from passionate Tasmanian insiders – vintners, farmers, astronomers, chefs, historians, and artists – that reveal the island’s true beauty.

Let your senses run wild with us.

We’re home to New Zealand’s largest selection of retirement villages. Explore vibrant, inclusive communities that offer a wide range of social and recreational amenities.

Residential Care

DISCOVER TASMANIA TOURS aatkings.com

Let your senses run wild with us.

Phone 0800 456 100 or contact your travel agent

Discover more on our website, and stay informed by subscribing to Empowered, our newsletter full of valuable guidance for your future.

DISCOVER TASMANIA TOURS

aatkings.com

Phone 0800 456 100 or contact your travel agent

Browse comprehensive information about moving to aged residential care . We are the only place in New Zealand where you can view up-to-date vacancies in real time.

Knowledge Lab

Discover independent and impartial information, sector-leading research, cutting edge thinking, and answers to questions you may not have thought to ask in our extensive online library.

Lavender Estate, Tasmania

Recliner & Ottoman are Bob & Lyn Durham

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The TM7 with the ‘All Weather Canopy’ is here to protect you from the elements. Hassle-free ownership with no licence, no registration and almost no maintenance. Plus, have peace of mind with fantastic personal local support, local repair, and local parts from EV Bikes. Order yours today and get your very own TM7 Trike for only $5,500 tested and delivered right to your door. Buy online or call us and retain your independence today!

Podcasts & audiobooks: a new way to enjoy stories

FOR MANY KIWI SENIORS, reading has long been a favourite pastime. Whether it’s curling up with a novel, flipping through a magazine, or following the latest news, stories have always been a part of life. But as eyesight changes or daily routines shift, traditional reading can become more challenging. That’s where podcasts and audiobooks come in – offering an easy, engaging way to enjoy stories, news, and learning without needing to turn a single page.

WHAT ARE PODCASTS AND AUDIOBOOKS?

A podcast is like a radio show you can listen to anytime. They come in episodes, covering everything from history and true crime to gardening and health tips. Many are free and

can be played on a smartphone, tablet, or computer.

An audiobook is a recorded version of a book, read by a narrator – sometimes even the author! You can listen while walking, relaxing, or even doing chores. Audiobooks are available through libraries, online stores, and apps.

WHY ARE THEY GREAT FOR SENIORS?

• Easier on the eyes – No need to strain your eyes over small print. Just sit back and listen!

• Perfect for multitasking –Listen while knitting, gardening, or going for a walk.

• A companion for solitude – A great way to feel connected and entertained, even when alone.

• Access to endless content

– From classic literature to the latest bestsellers, there’s something for everyone.

• Stay informed and engaged –Learn new things, hear different perspectives, and keep up with current affairs.

• Affordable and accessible

– Many great podcasts and audiobooks are free through libraries or streaming services.

HOW TO LISTEN

It’s easier than you think to get started. All you need is a device like a smartphone, tablet, or computer.

Podcasts:

• ABC Listen App – Free Australian podcasts on news, health, history, and more.

• Spotify & Apple podcasts –Access thousands of shows on any topic.

• SBS podcasts – Multicultural content in various languages. Audiobooks:

• Libby & BorrowBox – Free

audiobooks from Australian public libraries (just use your library card).

• Audible – A paid service with a massive collection of audiobooks.

• Google Play books & Apple books – Buy and download books instantly.

WHERE TO START? POPULAR PICKS FOR NZ SENIORS

Podcasts:

• Conversations (ABC) – Engaging interviews with fascinating Australians.

• The History Listen (ABC) –Incredible stories from Australia’s past.

• All in the Mind (ABC) –Exploring psychology and the human brain.

Audiobooks:

• Lessons in Chemistry by

Bonnie Garmus – A humorous and inspiring novel featuring a brilliant female scientist.

• Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey – A fascinating memoir filled with life lessons and adventure.

• The Midnight Library by Matt Haig – A thought-provoking and uplifting novel about second chances.

TIPS FOR AN ENJOYABLE LISTENING EXPERIENCE

If you’re new to audiobooks or podcasts, start with something light and engaging to ease into the experience. Many apps allow you to adjust playback speed, rewind easily, or set a sleep timer if you like listening before bed. Investing in a comfortable pair of headphones or a small speaker can also enhance your experience.

Podcasts and audiobooks offer an easy way to enjoy stories, learn new things, and stay entertained— anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re revisiting a childhood favourite, exploring a new hobby, or just enjoying a good yarn, there’s something out there for you.

Why not give it a try? Your next great story is just a listen away.

Memphis for a lifetime experience

MEMPHIS, renowned for its iconic music history, stands as a great destination for both cultural richness and cinematic allure. Movie aficionados can trace the footsteps of iconic characters from films like The Firm and The Rainmaker, which have left their mark on the cityscape. Oscar-winning movie Walk The Line, which follows the music legend Johnny Cash included scenes at the historic Sun Studios, located in downtown Memphis.

One of Memphis’ standout attractions, as showcased in the

various films, is the iconic Peabody Hotel, famous for its resident mallard ducks. Additionally, the historic Arcade Restaurant, a favourite of Elvis Presley, appears in The Rainmaker. Meanwhile, Memphis’ picturesque Mud Island Park serves as the breathtaking backdrop to a thrilling chase scene from The Firm, offering travellers an array of captivating attractions to explore when in Memphis.

For more information on the destination, please visit here: https:// www.memphistravel.com/

Canterbury’s most Spacious Retirement Village

Amberley Country Estate, just 35-min from Christchurch, is uniquely designed, with people who want more space in mind. Like a residential subdivision in look and feel, here you ’ll find spacious yards with individually landscaped gardens, wide roads and luxurious, well spread out, generously-sized, north-facing, energy-efficient Villas, many with private yards. We also have social gatherings, group events, exercise classes and regular outings, complimented by our 350m 2 Residents’ Clubhouse. A much larger resort-style Community Facility is coming soon and modern care facilities are planned as well. If you seek an active independent lifestyle with laid-back country living, call today to find out more about a retirement village with space to live a life you ’ll love. Visit our website or phone Hamish on 0800 573 573. Office Open Mon -Fri 10am-4pm.

Low weekly fees, just $138/week

2 & 3 bedroom villas from 94-185m2

Single and Double Garages available 350m2 Residents Clubhouse now open Full Medical and Care Facilities planned

Space to live a life you’ll love

2 Bedroom Villas available for immediate occupancy* from $619,000

Probus Club News

Out and about with the Probus Community.

A casual stroll along the Liffey Stream

The Out & About group of Rolleston Central Probus Club enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the Liffey Stream at Lincoln for their February outing.

It was a cool, cloudy day with a threat of rain which decided to stay away during the time of the walk. The Liffey Stream is fed by a spring, and the water runs clear and clean. The highlight was seeing about ten

eels just hanging out in the water. They are obviously fed and were disappointed they didn’t have any tasty morsels.

A delicious lunch followed at Nom Noms in Lincoln.

A group of happy campers at the BBQ

Boulcott Probus Club recently enjoyed a BBQ at the park.

The weather was lovely until it began to rain and it was time to pack up. Still, a little water was good for the gardens.

The food was delicious, and the Club would like to thank all the cooks, as well as Raylene and Ian for bringing their BBQ. All enjoyed catching up with each other.

Good Green Vitality is a super-blend of 75+ ingredients that work to help support cognition, digestion, energy, immunity and more - all in one easy daily serve. Your

Carefully formulated to help support your health.

Newmarket Probus enjoy a lovely lunch

The lunchtime dining out group at Newmarket Probus Club recently enjoyed a delicious lunch at the local restaurant.

The group visited a traditional, family-run Chinese restaurant that serves dishes like dim sum and pork buns.

All had a wonderful time and look forward to their next outing.

A delightful summer picnic

Howick East Combined Probus Club recently enjoyed its annual summer picnic in warm and sunny climes. It was an idyllic scene under the pohutukawa trees at Eastern Beach with the music and singalong. The show of camaraderie epitomises the motto of Probus Clubs with plenty of fun and friendship in retirement.

A member of the Times newspaper joined the picnic which included 120 members.

The next excursion in the Auckland

region is planned for February, a Red Boat trip up the western Waitemata Harbour to Riverhead. For 25 years, this Probus Club

has been supporting the retired community in Howick and believe they can contribute support to a much larger number of local retirees.

A successful AGM

The Probus Club of Kapiti Coast recently held a successful AGM. The AGM was chaired by President Richard who begun the meeting by remembering those members who have passed away during the year –Greg and Noel.

John then presented the financial report which was accepted.

The election of officers had then been finalised, and Kevin thanked Richard for all his work over the years and gave special thanks for the very successful 50th Anniversary celebrations.

A lovely outing for Levin

Combined

Members thoroughly enjoyed tastings, lunch, and cocktails in Paraparaumu.

It was another wonderful trip organised by Sue, the outings activities and tours officer.

Russley

Probus visit

the wonderful Wairarapa

Members of Russley Probus Club enjoyed a bus tour to Wairarapa.

The group gathered in Wellington for a High Tea luncheon, complete with sandwiches, savouries, and scones before heading off on their journey.

The tour bus driver mentioned that people started growing grapes and producing wine in Wairarapa in the 1970s, after which it became an appealing destination, often associated with cafes, crafts, bookshops, and businesses.

A highlight was the Mount Bruce Conservation Area where the group enjoyed a tour around the forest park – seeing beautiful native birds, including a Kiwi, in a darkened enclosure. This wildlife centre concentrates on maintaining and increasing the native bird population, by having an active breeding programme, releasing birds into safe areas, and monitoring their progress.

Another highlight had been visiting the North Island’s tallest lighthouse standing 52 metres above sea level. It is also considered the windiest place in New Zealand.

The group agreed that it was a delightful and informative trip

with Kip ‘n’ Dayle leading the way. Dayle kept everyone smiling with his jokes and stories, while Sandra was ahead of the group with all the

meals sorted.

Many new friends were made, other friendships deepened, and fantastic memories for all.

Find Your Social Network

Social engagement is important for everyone’s well-being but is particularly important as we enter our later years and leave the security and structure of the workforce behind. Having an active social life provides both mental and physical health benefits, warding off loneliness and depression and increasing longevity. Probus Clubs offer a wonderful opportunity to reinvent retirement for those who have left their work lives but still crave engagement, purpose and companionship.

Social clubs like Probus provide a vibrant community of like-minded people who come together for fun and friendship. Probus promotes mental and emotional well-being by fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. The shared experiences and mutual support within Clubs help retirees navigate the significant life transition with confidence and enthusiasm.

Members meet monthly and stay active and involved through a wide variety of activities that meet individual needs. From coffee catchups and cinema groups to day trips, walking groups and overnight tours, each Club offers various options to keep members engaged. What all Probus Clubs have in common, however, is the opportunity to meet with fellow retirees regularly, to maintain healthy minds and active bodies, to expand interests, and to enjoy the fellowship of new friends.

So, if you are looking to turn your retirement into an adventure filled with learning, connection and growth, Probus offers a compelling path forward.

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SOUTH ISLAND GOLD RAIL HIGHLIGHTS

A gift that honours the past and shapes the future

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CONTENTS

The Probus Community

I HAVE FOUND MY TRIBE!

Cook Islands

James Whittaker: strong voice for affordable hearing health

ALLURING AITUTAKI

MANINI: AN EXCLUSIVE BRAND

BERGMAN BLACK PEARLS –BREATHTAKING QUALITY

Tauck: a century of meaningful travel and innovation

TRAVEL BEYOND ORDINARY TM

A solar eclipse at sea: the ultimate cruise experience

K’gari & Murray Princess

UNRAVEL TRAVEL

FULLY ESCORTED TOURS

Norfolk Island Explorer

Scenic Southern Splendour

Coromandel Magic

Wearable Arts 2025

Southern Explorer

CANBERRA FLORIADE

Taranaki Rhododendron Garden Festival

Sydney Handa Opera

Tropical North Queensland (Escape the Winter)

QUEENSLAND COAST ESCAPE

Outback Discovery

Small group hosted travel

SMALL GROUP HOSTED JOURNEYS

Let the Scenery Unravel with Twilight Travel

Let the Scenery Unravel with Twilight Travel

Paris in spring

The Dream Like Never Before

ACCOMMODATION

RESTAURANTS & BARS

PRIVATE VENUE

SWIMMING POOL & PRIVATE BEACH

BEACH

THE HEAVENLY SPA & FITNESS STUDIO

ECO CENTER

ACTIVITIES

EXCURSIONS

Lifetime Home: A fresh approach to home equity release

THE SMART ALTERNATIVE TO A REVERSE MORTGAGE

WHY CHOOSE LIFETIME HOME?

JUDITH’S STORY: FINDING FINANCIAL FREEDOM

FIND OUT MORE

Strong growth in retirement village development

A journey of resilience: Stepping out of fear, one continent at a time

The Firebird returns with My Brilliant Career

CREATIVE CREDITS

Graham Norton rolls up his sleeves in Marlborough

Global Growth & Success

Beef

MUSHROOM AND GOATS CHEESE STUFFED SIRLOIN

MOUNT BROWN ESTATES GRAND RESERVE

PINOT NOIR 2023

Lamb

BALSAMIC & ANCHOVY ROTISSERIE LAMB LEG WITH DUCK FAT ROASTIES

GIMBLETT GRAVELS

BASTING

DUCK FAT ROAST POTATOES

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Day 6 | Hobart to Launceston

CHANCE TO WIN: Entries open until March 23rd 2025

WIN! AAT Kings Tassie Getaway Prize

The Prize:

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EMPOWERING YOU TO CONTINUE LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE

RESOURCES

Making Life Easier

Retirement Villages

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