AUTUMN 2021

MUM KNOWS BEST Golden nuggets passed down through the generations SUMMER PHOTO COMPETITION And the winners are… LIVING ALONE POSITIVELY A new programme that fosters village companionship many residents. I have deeply appreciated your support and, at times, rather honest feedback! The last 12 months have brought challenges that none of us could have predicted, and I am so proud of the way that residents and staff adapted and responded to these circumstances. Thank you.

Each year on ANZAC Day, our family pays tribute to my grandfather who served in the NZ Army in North Africa and Italy during World War 2. It’s such an important day for all New Zealanders and Australians and it was particularly special to read about some of our residents’ connections to World War 2 in this ANZAC-themed issue. Lest we ever forget the enormity of what our nation’s young men and women sacrificed, so we could all enjoy our freedoms today.

Finally, I want to extend a warm welcome to Welcoming our new - FROM THE CEO - our new Village Managers at The Avenues Village Managers and Somervale – Caroline Cameron and Paul McGee. Everyone is thrilled to have A very warm welcome to Paul McGee, who has just Thank you and farewell you onboard and I know our residents and started at Metlifecare as the new Village Manager staff at both villages will be looking forward for Somervale. Paul joins the Somervale team to getting to know you too. from the Lendlease Retirement Village business in Hi everyone, is underway. Having seen both to be passing the baton to a Melbourne. He says he enjoys meeting new people, projects to fruition, I’m now new CEO at a time where the I wish you all a wonderful Easter with walking his pet dog Jersey Girl and playing the This will be my final message planning to take some time to future is looking so positive family and friends. The next issue will be guitar while his wife sings! from the CEO’s desk, as I step decompress before deciding for the business. Since I joined a celebration of great mates, ahead of Paul said he’s really looking forward to meeting all down from the role. It has been what’s next. After 21 years of Metlifecare, the company has International Day of Friendship on 31 the Somervale residents and staff, and working with a privilege to lead this incredible busy senior corporate leadership really grown and we now provide July, so keep those stories coming in to them to make Somervale a a great place to live and company over the last five roles, I have to say I’m really support and community for over [email protected]. a fantastic to work. He can’t wait to enjoy all that years. Thank you to all those looking forward to spending time 5,600 residents. With more the Bay of Plenty has to offer, including catching up who have taken the time to send out on the water sailing, tackling new villages in exciting locations Thanks again and signing off for now. with his family in the region. kind notes and emails of thanks. the 84km Timber Trail on my coming shortly, Metlifecare will Your heartfelt words have been bike next month and catching up continue to redefine retirement A warm welcome also to Caroline Cameron, our much appreciated. with friends and family too. village living in New Zealand new Village Manager at The Avenues, who will be starting her new role very soon. Caroline joins us The ownership transition to EQT I am extremely proud of what Of course, one of the highlights from the UK, and we’ll look forward to catching up is now complete and the long- we have accomplished during of the past five years has been GLENGlen SOWRY with her in the next issue of The Villager magazine. term Full Potential Plan strategy my tenure and am pleased the interaction I have had with so CEO - METLIFECARE

2 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 3 - NEWS - this time. Alert level changes have highlighted the many everyday heroes within our villages and, with heroes, legends and icons being the Village life theme of this issue, we pay A sneak peek behind the scenes. tribute to all of our wonderful residents and team members working hard to keep PO Box 37463, everyone safe. Parnell, Auckland 1151 CELEBRATING OUR CENTENARIANS Metlifecare.co.nz At 106-years-young, Powley resident Christina “Chris” This is my first issue as 0800 909 303 Woollard celebrated her birthday surrounded by friends, editor of The Villager, having /Metlifecare staff, and a family of four generations. Born in Ireland, stepped into previous editor /Metlifecare she also lived in England, France Anna Murdoch’s shoes whilst and Germany, witnessing World Welcome to the Autumn Anna is on maternity leave. The Villager is published for Metlifecare Ltd. Metlifecare’s War II before moving to New issue of The Villager. We were I am delighted to be able to The Villager has a distribution of Zealand, which has been her putting the final touches share that Anna’s beautiful 9,500 and is available online at home for more than 60 years. on this issue as our villages baby girl, Delphi Prudence, Metlifecare.co.nz LOVE IS IN THE AIR – Chris continues to enjoy daily and care homes in Auckland arrived safe and well just Editor: Haley Coe. For all editorial AND IN THE NEWS went into Alert Level 3 before Christmas and is a big enquires, please contact the editor recreational activities and Sure, things may look a little different at lockdown and the rest of hit with her two big brothers [email protected] outings, and is looking forward in the golden years but love and New Zealand moved to Alert and doting Mum and Dad. Contributors: Vanessa Trethewey, to receiving another letter from romance are still very much on Vern Walker, Brian Colegate, Level 2. Once again, it’s been the Queen when she turns 110. the agenda. Just ask five Poynton Happy reading! Haley Coe, Sarah Bate, River residents who recently shared their a privilege to see the many Wilner, Jasmin Bull Meanwhile long-term Highlands experiences of love, loss and life as acts of kindness and offers Published and printed by: resident Edna McIntyre recently part of a special Valentine’s Day of assistance residents have ICG www.icg.co.nz turned 105. Born at the time extended to each other during feature in the Sunday Star Times. Haley Senior Account Director: of World War I, Edna has lived LauraGrace McFarland through World War II, the From celebrating 60 years of Design: Julian Pettitt, Alisha Kumar Great Depression and a host marriage to toasting the flourish of other adversities – despite of a new relationship, love and this she remains happy, positive companionship remain alive and and great company. well at The Poynton. Check out the Contents full article in the ‘News’ section of The Villager is printed on FSC-MIX source Happy birthday Chris and Edna! Metlifecare.co.nz 2 From the CEO 20 A journey of remembrance pulp from well-managed forests and other controlled sources. We print using BIO-inks Village life Bridge to the Olympics that contain materials which are based on 5 22 renewable resources including wood resin (rosin, colophony), and vegetable oils linseed 8 Terry & the Pacemakers 24 Life in pictures oil and soy bean oil. GWP ROLLERS ARE GO!

9 Happenings 26 Coming up roses The contents of The Villager are protected A meeting of the newly formed ‘GWP by copyright and may not be reproduced Rollers’ took place recently at Greenwood 10 Living alone positively 28 Fabulous friendship in any form without written permission of Metlifecare. Opinions expressed in Park and was co-hosted by John 11 Checking in with our 30 ‘Show us your summer’ The Villager are not necessarily those of Metlifecare, the publisher or editor. Rowlandson and Colleen Gunn. Residents new residents photo competition winners Information contained in The Villager is correct at the time of printing and while all who use Mobility Scooters and one with 12 Development update 32 Sweet treats due care and diligence has been taken in the an E-Trike gathered for afternoon tea and preparation of this magazine, Metlifecare is 16 A life of service 34 Mum knows best! not responsible for any mistakes, omissions, all agreed the next meeting will be a short typographical errors or changes to product outing - weather permitting. Go the Rollers! 18 Reflections of a cultural icon and service descriptions over time.

4 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 5 - NEWS - - NEWS - FACELIFT FOR OLD DAME Mt Roskill’s oldest dame is about to get a fresh new LOCAL CUISINE A BIG HIT face, thanks to the dedicated and passionate team at AT BAYSWATER Hillsborough Heights Village. Residents have happily eaten their way around the Painters will transform the village’s historic villa – not world, by way of the popular ‘Fine Dining’ evenings only an iconic Mt Roskill landmark, but also the much- at Bayswater Village. Most recently they enjoyed loved home of village resident Margaret Lithgow. the best of New Zealand with a delicious night of Māori cuisine. Foraged ingredients, such as Built in 1903, and fondly referred to by locals as ‘the horopito and kawakawa, were turned into modern house on the hill’, the villa has spent much of her masterpieces that residents commented were hundred-plus years dressed in white. But according more like art than food, thanks to Regional Kitchen to Hillsborough Heights Village Manager Penny Services Manager Santiago Correa and his team. Smith it’s time for a change. The residents were amazed and remarked how much fun you can have enjoying food from home! “The villa has been painted many times throughout WAITAKERE GARDENS her life. It’s impossible to establish what the first FAMILY DAY colour was, but she has been white within living The sun was shining, sausages sizzling, and memory,” says Penny. laughter was in the air. The annual Waitakere Gardens Family Day was much enjoyed by “She needs repainting, so we decided to take the all. Magician, Andy Wonder, kept the crowd opportunity to reinstate her presence and grandeur with entertained with an array of tricks, while a whole new colour scheme. As the gracious old lady of MARIE TAKES A RIDE children had their faces painted and enjoyed the area, we think she should be treated accordingly.” ON THE WILD SIDE Kitchen team members ice creams. A big thank you to the Family Day Pinesong resident Marie Barley has been Santiago, Tomas and Patricia Working closely with Dulux and Metlifecare’s interior volunteers who made the event so successful. ticking a few things off her bucket list in designer Rebecca Milne, the Metlifecare team has recent years. opted for a mushroom grey (Tirau Double) with blue and white trims. Traditional colours from her era, the One thing she always wanted to do was GLOBAL ADVENTURES FOR CRESTWOOD GYM BUNNIES new look will be both classic and timeless. Stay tuned ride on a Harley Davidson. After years It may be 25 degrees in French Polynesia, Mexico, New opportunity to celebrate the for the big reveal in the next issue of The Villager. of anticipation, recently a family friend Auckland right now, but a York, London, Paris and Istanbul, unique cultures of each city purchased a Harley and there was “no group of Crestwood residents throwing a party to toast our they’ve ‘visited’. But there’s stopping” Marie. have just been ‘experiencing’ arrival in each destination.” no rest for the wicked - after “It’s now or never,” Marie said, donning sub-zero temperatures in enjoying caviar and White some gloves and a wild child jacket and Siberia’s snowy Omsk. From hot dogs in New York, Russian cocktails in Omsk, they to tacos and tequila in Mexico, hot-footed it back to the gym climbing aboard. The village gym members are two residents have embraced every and are now halfway to China! Marie’s daughter Kath says she’s excited years into a ‘Round the World’ to see what her mum will cross off next. challenge, clocking up kilometres “Skydiving perhaps?” Only time will tell. on exercycles, treadmills and rowing machines to reach their next port of call. Says Crestwood Village Manager SCANDALOUS GOSSIP AT DANNEMORA GARDENS Helena Pearson, “We started the A recent presentation from Kiwi icon and gossip columnist David Hartnell gave Dannemora Gardens challenge when we first opened residents a sneak peek into the ‘Golden Age of Hollywood’. David’s juicy gossip and scandalous tidbits the gym as a way of keeping were digested over afternoon tea, and he also kindly donated a couple of his books to the village library. residents motivated. Before reaching Siberia, we’d ‘visited’ Fiji,

6 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 7 - HAPPENINGS - Pipers, kilts & haggis oh my! 1 2

ibiscus Coast Village and - PROFILE - Gulf Rise residents and staff celebrated the life of HRobbie Burns with a traditional “Burns Supper” recently. Hibiscus Coast chef, Robert Terry & the Owen, carried the Haggis as 3 4 he was called in by Pipe Major Hobson. James McFadden, then addressed the Haggis and Pacemakers did a toast. It was a traditional They may be living in a retirement village, but Terry and Scottish meal much enjoyed by the Pacemakers have no intention of taking things quietly. all. Residents also took turns to recite Robbie Burns poems throughout the evening. omprised of a posse “I’m very much enjoying playing “Ray and Pat are really into their of talented Greenwich again. Music really adds so much country music, but I’ve been Jack McCulloch, one of the Gardens musicians, the to life.” trying to get them into stuff that’s resident organisers, said, “Last Crecently formed band have already a bit groovier, like Cliff Richard. year was a challenging year for The trio teamed up after playing performed several concerts at the We haven’t done a lot together residents, so we wanted to come together in The Greenwich village, treating residents to a stellar 5 6 up with something fun to kick-off Strummers, the village ukulele band. yet though; we are really just line-up of country and western starting to gel.” the New Year. We formed a team tracks, with a bit of Cliff Richard “Having been in reasonably and came up with a plan that Terry and the Pacemakers – thrown in for good measure. good amateur bands when I included our sister village, Gulf was younger, I was looking for named thanks to Pat’s pacemaker Rise, to encourage everyone to The group has enabled Terry Dew, something a little more ambitious.” - hope that their efforts get back into the usual spirit that Pat Conlon and Ray Ryan to dust encourage other village residents exists within our villages. And off their guitar strings and reignite Now the guitarists practice to pursue their passions. 7 8 with kilts, tartans and pipers, how their lifelong love of music. once or twice a week in Terry’s could we fail!” apartment - which is chock-full “There are people in the village “I used to play in rock bands in of high-quality sound gear - and who sing, play keyboards and 1: Jay and Graeme Newton 2: Pipe Major Stewart Dobson 3: Cheryl Anderton 4: Betty the 1960’s but I’m just getting are joined by vocalists and fellow have other talents. If we can Maritz (centre) with her daughter and granddaughter 5: Joyce Bowes, Marian Taylor and back into it again,” says Terry, who village residents Anne Sturgeon, inspire others to get involved, Gillian Callinan 6: Judy Henriksen 7: Katie Elgar (AVM), Chef Rob Owen, Catherine Holbutt plays guitar and base in the band. Bronwyn Chant and Laurie Millen. that would be really great.” (VM) 8: James McFadden, Katie Elgar, Pipe Major Stewart Dobson and Catherine Holbutt

8 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 9 - NEWS - - LIFESTYLE - Checking in with our new residents Living Ensuring new residents feel welcome and settled is an important part of Metlifecare’s Resident Transition Service.

survey is one of the methods used to Alone Gail Kingston, Resident understand what went well, and what could Transition Manager, with be improved, and some significant changes Ian and Gay McGovern haveA recently been made to this process. We’ve Positively gone from sending out a paper-based survey to a After reading Nigel George’s article (‘Staying sane during the far more personalised service, where Metlifecare silly season’), which featured in a previous issue of The Villager, now has a group of Customer Care Representatives a conversation was sparked at Coastal Villas about what checking in on all new residents around ten weeks residents could do to help alleviate feelings of loneliness for after their move-in date. This call also provides an opportunity to find out how residents are getting on other residents living on their own. once they’re settled in their new homes. to remember one staff member’s name (the Metlifecare Operations Manager, Sarah Bate, said, nominated staff member that the resident goes to o gain some insight into what measures could “But the primary aim of the outing is “The new process provides the Operations team for help).We’re also hearing new residents love our be taken, residents Laraine Perrett and Brian companionship,” said Laraine. with almost instant feedback from our newest complimentary lunch or dinner delivery on the first Colegate contacted more than 100 of their day. We’ve had overwhelming feedback that our “And we don’t need to travel vast distances to residents. Every time a phone survey is done, the Tfellow village residents living alone. From there, the team are making a massive difference, just in the way achieve that,” said Brian. Village Manager receives a summary directly into LAP (Living Alone Positively) project was born. their email inbox. This means the Village Manager they welcome new residents and are prepared to do Three LAP village events have already taken place in whatever it takes to help them settle in. Brian reported that personal calls at villas and can either call the resident to put more support in February, including a Valentine’s Day BBQ dinner. apartments was the most effective means of place or let their village team know they are doing The get-togethers have been much enjoyed by all. What advice would you give us to help improve gathering information and contact by phone enabled a great job. Here’s a couple of the questions we’ve the move in experience for future residents? them to cover almost everyone. been asking and what we are hearing: It’s early days with our new process and generally the feedback has been comments like “I’d tell “There were 22 residents who expressed an Tell us what have the team done that’s made them move in sooner – we should have done this immediate wish to participate in the project and an the most positive impact to your experience of years ago in hindsight” or “I’d just tell them it’s the early indication from those consulted suggested that moving into a Metlifecare village? New residents best thing ever to move into a village, the team are outings at the weekend would be popular,” he said. are telling us it makes a big difference only needing so friendly and helpful!”. My favourite comment “As for group activities in the village, we will strive Gail Kingston with Susan Oxlade so far has been: “I tell my friends and family I feel to organise meetings of like-minded villagers with a and Christine Pullin I’m in Disneyland!”. common interest. For example, those among us coping If you have moved into a village recently, and with impaired eyesight may like to get together as a haven’t had your call yet, please be assured you will group to share experiences and opinions,” he added. get a call within the next month or so. If you have Brian and Laraine are aiming to organise a weekend anything urgent that needs fixing, please just get activity outside the village soon, which would involve in touch with your key contact at the village, we’re residents being willing to take passengers. here to help you!”

10 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 11 bar, cafe, library, activities room, Fairway Gardens, artist impression pool, gym, spa, beauty salon and hobbies room. This building also houses 27 highly desirable - DEVELOPMENT NEWS - one, two and three bedroom premium apartments also due for completion in 2022. Development Sales & Marketing Manager David Martin says the New villages, $180 million development in East Auckland is unlike any other retirement village in the country, bespoke lifestyles and demand is expected to be extremely high. The New Year has heralded in a string of exciting developments for Metlifecare, as we continue creating bespoke villages in unrivalled locations across the North Island. “There’s been really strong demand waiting for this village to go on the market because it visualise and get a feel for your outside views, measure spaces rchitecturally designed Here’s a glimpse of what’s for completion in early 2022, it is so unique, from its golf course new home prior to completion. and try different kitchen, carpet to integrate with their been happening at some of our will be comprised of 58 two and location through to its five-star and cabinetry finishes at the “This is our most immersive sales surroundings, and newest villages… three bedroom apartments across facilities and strong community touch of a button. We can also A four architecturally-designed experience yet. Buying off the carefully crafted to enhance focus,” says David. share the experience live with FAIRWAY GARDENS plans definitely has its advantages the lives of those who live buildings – many of which will family or friends who may not be If you’ve ever wanted to live And for those keen for a sneak but it can be tricky for some to there, each new development boast stunning views across the able to visit us in person.” on a golf course, now’s your Pakuranga Golf Course. peek of life on the green, Fairway visualise their new home. People combines the customised feel of chance. This month Metlifecare’s Gardens now also has a dedicated interested in Fairway Gardens To experience Fairway an independent lifestyle village flagship village Fairway Gardens Hot on the heels of Stage 1 will sales and information suite offering can interactively experience Gardens contact Jo Ashby with the support and security of goes to market, with Stage 1 of be construction of the stunning another “first” – a virtual sales every aspect of their new home. on 0800 600 701 or go to being operated by Metlifecare. construction now underway. Due clubhouse, home to the lounge, experience that allows you to See room sizes, materials, Fairwaygardens.co.nz.

12 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 13 First Pohutukawa Landings villas close to completion “These will be the first three bedroom homes offered at Gulf Rise. With all the villas sold, we are expecting extremely high demand for these larger apartments, which are selling now and are scheduled for completion in 2022.”

Gulf Rise, artist impression

POHUTUKAWA LANDING “We’re extremely excited to be welcoming “These will be the first three bedroom homes “General Manager - Development, Matt Wickham, Further east in the seaside suburb of Beachlands, our first residents this May, by which time the offered at Gulf Rise. With all the villas sold, we are says, “It’s fantastic to see these new villages development of Metlifecare’s coastal masterpiece highly anticipated Village Green amenities will expecting extremely high demand for these larger coming to life, increasing the choice and lifestyle Pohutukawa Landing is well underway, with the be complete. This vibrant social hub will feature apartments, which are selling now and are scheduled opportunities for retirees across the North Island. first villas already completed and the Stage 2 villas everything from shared gardens and barbecue for completion in 2022,” says David. Metlifecare has further locations in the pipeline areas, to a spectacular architecturally designed and we look forward to sharing more details of our and clubhouse apartments under construction and Also due for completion next year is the village’s upcoming projects in the near future.” now on sale. community pavilion.” state-of-the-art contemporary clubhouse Says David, “Demand for homes in Pohutukawa And now, thanks to the recent opening of a building. Complete with a stunning café, gym, Landing has exceeded our expectations, prompting completed show home on site, those considering lounge, library and multi-use activities spaces, the us to bring forward the release date of our Stage village life at Pohutukawa Landing can get a genuine new clubhouse looks set to become the beating REFER A FRIEND 2 villas – which include 18 two and three bedroom taste of exactly what’s on offer. heart of the Gulf Rise village. AND WE’LL GIVE homes as well as our clubhouse building that Find out more at Pohutukawalanding.co.nz or call To arrange a visit contact Adelina Dantas on 0800 YOU $1,000 houses some amazing amenities, as well as seven 005 877 or find out more at Gulfrise.co.nz. premium apartments.” Jo Ashby on 0800 600 701 to arrange a visit. AND IN OTHER NEWS… It’s not surprising it is proving so popular. Not GULF RISE If you know someone who would love Work on Hobsonville’s Orion Point village continues, only does Pohutukawa Landing echo the unique Meanwhile at Metlifecare’s award-winning village living in one of our villages, all you with earth works and civil works currently underway, spirit of the Beachlands community, but it is one Gulf Rise, construction of two new apartment need to do is refer them to us. If they in preparation for Stage 1 of construction. More will of Metlifecare’s most spacious villages and is just buildings is underway. Once complete, they’ll move in, we’ll give you each $1,000 be revealed in the next issue of The Villager! a stone’s throw from Pine Harbour Marina. For each offer 15 premium one and two bedroom cash as our way of saying thank you. yachties and ocean-lovers, it’s pretty much as close apartments and four highly-anticipated three Plus, there’ll be plenty of other exciting projects to Chat to your sales exec for the details. as you can get to paradise. bedroom apartments. update you on too.

14 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 15 - RESIDENT PROFILE - Once the war ended, the newly the Glenfield and Hillcrest Lions reunited couple bought a bombed- Clubs, which helped Bruce bring out house in Acton, East London, the right people together to take with no inside toilet, no hot water on two projects that were dear or electricity. “It was testament to to his heart – the rebuilding of Dorothy that she was able to bring the Glenfield war memorial and A life of service the refurbishment of the local up two children so well in those When The Orchards resident Bruce Powell saw the derelict state of conditions,” says Bruce. community hall, including the the Glenfield war memorial, he was determined that the memorial construction of a once-planned On his release from the should be a place of pride, where the local community could gather, but long-forgotten Supper Room. armed forces, Bruce joined to honour young soldiers lost in the First and Second World Wars. the Admiralty Engineering Laboratory, as part of a team Bruce Powell at developing weapon control ruce Powell greets me at ANZAC systems for the Navy. Following service The Orchards reception The first thing they his qualification as an electrical with a warm handshake and draughtsman, the family moved asked was, ‘Can you It even received national news Ba twinkling smile. At 102 years to Bath. However, six years later, drive a tank?’ coverage, on TV1’s Holmes old he’s a picture of health. We they were ready for a change. programme, with the Governor- chat as we make our way to the A successful application to General attending the opening. meeting room and spend the next the Royal New Zealand Navy “People are always pleasantly hour poring over folders brimming dockyard saw the family board Bruce says it’s heartening to surprised to see an old building with family history. the SS Southern Cross in search see up to 500 members of the in such pristine condition,” he I’m here to meet the man of new horizons and warmer community now gather at the says proudly. described as the “driving force” climes. It was with some dismay memorial every ANZAC Day, After Dorothy’s passing, Bruce behind the restoration of the they arrived in Wellington on when previously there were no local saw the construction of The Glenfield Community Hall, the coldest and greyest of days, community events commemorating Orchards underway and moved the rebuild of the local war before finally making their way to such an important date. into an independent living unit. memorial and the RSA’s annual sunny Auckland and a new home Next, Bruce set his sights on He says, “The move was a wise ANZAC service. To get a sense on the North Shore. Bruce Powell the rundown community hall one, with security and community of why these projects were so and, together with the Hillcrest being important.” important to Bruce, we started “Living in a house opposite the He says, “The first thing they that saved Bruce’s life. He was Lions Club, was the driving with his own experience as a primary school, with Shoal Bay Last year’s ANZAC Day in asked was, ‘Can you drive a evacuated to England in the same force behind the complete World War 2 serviceman. at the bottom of the garden, lockdown was tough for all New tank?’” He opted instead for a hospital ship that was sunk at refurbishment of the building. was heaven for the children, Zealanders, particularly retired Born in Yorkshire, the armed motorbike, assisting tanks that Dunkirk shortly afterwards. although Dorothy was initially a servicepeople, but Bruce was services have formed a big part of broke down on the journey from After a period of recuperation, bit homesick!” pleased to be able to mark the Bruce’s life. At 18, a propaganda Colchester to Avonmouth, prior it was off to the School of Mines day at The Orchards Metlifecare film inspired him to join the to being transported to France. After retiring as a senior planning and Technology in South Wales, village. He stood with his Coastal Defence Unit of the officer in 1980, Bruce felt the While serving in France things took to study radar technology – a grandson at the gate at dawn, as a Territorial Army. His unit was need to keep active and became a a turn for the worse, and Bruce science that Bruce says was very lone bugler played in the distance. mobilised in the 1938 Munich charter member of the Glenfield came down with a life-threatening “hush hush” in those days. He He hopes that this year they’ll be Crisis for two weeks, before it was Toastmasters Club. He also joined bout of meningitis. His family were met and married his wife Dorothy able to return to the ANZAC Day stood down. the governance group of the told that last rites were soon to be in 1942, before heading to North Glenfield Community Centre, gatherings they enjoyed prior to Following the outbreak of war Africa, then Italy, with the Heavy 2020. Either way, one thing is administered but, fortuitously, a spending several years as Chairman. a year later, Bruce was posted newly developed antibiotic became Anti-Aircraft Regiment. It was for certain, Bruce will be keeping to the Light Aid Detachment, available and was provided first three and a half years before he It was his involvement with various himself busy, finding ways to be of Young Bruce Powell servicing a cavalry regiment. to the armed forces - a policy saw Dorothy again. community groups, including service to others.

16 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 17 - RESIDENT PROFILE - Reflections of a cultural icon She’s been on everything from T-shirts, tote bags and men’s ties, to bumper stickers, fridge magnets, and stationery. The face of one of the world’s most renowned advertising campaigns, Weslee (Wes) D’Audney is a cultural icon.

he elegant 95-year old, who has been a But there is so much more to this vibrant nonagenarian resident of Metlifecare’s Hibiscus Coast Village than a globally-recognised face. She’s a talented for the last 28 years, was propelled into the painter, an award-winning gardener, and a writer with Tspotlight 79 years ago. As a pre-med student and New numerous publications to her name (some of her books York model she became the poster girl for America’s can be found in the New Zealand National Library). World War 2 recruitment efforts. Her image is said “Being a poster girl is not what I want to be to have inspired 400,000 Americans to take up remembered for,” explains Wes. “I didn’t work to nursing and has been exhibited in the world’s leading achieve that – there are so many other things I’ve museums, from the Smithsonian Institution to the worked hard to achieve.” Australian National Maritime Museum. First and foremost are her family - five children, “It’s a funny feeling to be historic,” says Wes, who six grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, five ended up in New Zealand in 1945 after marrying great-grandchildren and twins on the way. A career an RNZAF pilot in New York City. It was such an dedicated to working with multi-handicapped insignificant part of my life – all I did was sit for two children comes in a close second. hours and have my picture taken – but somehow that propaganda poster has taken on a life of its own.” “My youngest son Bruce was multi-handicapped and we couldn’t find the right care for him. The only After serving its purpose in the 1940s, the poster solution I could think of was to become a teacher of started reappearing around 2005, first spotted by the deaf and teach him myself, so at the age of 44 Wes’s daughter Carol as she browsed the internet I went back to university.” during a visit to Shanghai. There she gained a Master of Science in Special Says Carol, “Nostalgic images from the 40s and Education and a Specialist in Education degree in 50s suddenly became really popular and it has just Educational Administration before embarking on a snowballed from there.” rewarding, successful career teaching profoundly deaf and multi-handicapped children. Among her Since then, Wes has been bombarded by fan mail career highlights were her directorship of two federal and autograph requests from all corners of the globe programmes for the early diagnosis and education of and her image has been splashed across over 200 handicapped children and her role as a professor at a items of memorabilia, including pendant necklaces university medical centre. embedded with Swarovski crystals, baby onesies and even Israeli postage stamps! “These are the things that I’m truly proud of.”

18 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 19 - REFLECTIONS - A journey of remembrance Another ANZAC Day comes and goes. We all bow our heads and reverently remember the sacrifices of our servicemen upon foreign fields. Vern Walker, of Metlifecare Pinesong, recalls his involvement in coordinating the travel A photo taken of the 23rd Battalion tour group outside the Auckland War Memorial Museum arrangements for our 23rd Battalion, to revisit what was the Battle of Crete . . .

t’s 20 May, 1941, and the skies above Crete comrades were buried. The arranging of a Papal task faced me. I commandeered a table tennis table darken as 22,000 German paratroopers descend audience, as well as an evening with their old foe - in the loft above the Thomas Cook retail office in upon the Maleme aerodrome. Screaming Stuka the German paratroopers - in a beer hall in Munich. Colombo Street. I found that bookings on flights to Ibombers attack. German gliders crash among the Auckland had not been made. Nor was the overnight The previous year I happened to be in Athens. olive groves. Troops of the 23rd Battalion had the accommodation in Auckland. Red flags were flying I thankfully took the opportunity to fly to Cairo to daunting task of defending the area. There followed everywhere. I had to quickly contact every member ensure all bookings were in order, since the group bayonet charges, death, and defeat. Forty years of the group to make sure all was in order. Finally, I were to revisit nearby El Alamein. I found that on, in 1981, the battalion decided to make a journey felt I had a solid grip on all requirements, including of remembrance. One of the most gratifying the hotel reserved was a dump. A tiny cage of an elevator. Loudspeakers at a nearby mosque, blaring travel insurance. I relaxed when I was sure only green experiences of my 40 years with Thomas Cook flags were on my horizon. Travel was organising the arrangements of a six- out well before breakfast time. I complained to the week world tour. local agency. The manager, in the face of losing the Sadly, there was further drama, on the night prior business, promptly conveyed me in his car to visit to departure from Auckland. A lady slipped in the I clearly recall the significant events that played various hotels. I decided on a lovely Swiss-operated shower, injured her hip and had to abort the tour. out. I got a call from our Christchurch office. In hotel, located within sight of the pyramids. I insisted very short order, could I provide a quotation for this that this hotel cost no more that the 2-star hovel. Upon arrival in Crete at Chania airport, the group extensive journey? Such an eleventh-hour request I won that battle. were embraced by the locals. Stirring music as bands was often a ploy to prove that prices already provided headed the marching of our Kiwi men into town. And by my competitors were sharp and honest. To my The sudden influx of business through the doors I am sure there were a few heavy heads as the 23rd astonishment I landed the business. I then spent of our Christchurch office was too much for our was shouted and shouted, with plenty of ouzo in the manager to handle. So, barely a month prior to time in Christchurch discussing the itinerary with local tavernas. the battalion members. Having a keen interest in the departure of the 23rd, I felt I should live in military history, I found the task a very engaging one. Christchurch and oversee the files of the 99 persons On 20 May this year, it will be 80 years since those Out came detailed maps in order to locate where The brochure used to promote the tour who had paid their deposits. A huge and urgent days of danger, and devotion to duty.

20 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 21 - RESIDENT PROFILE - College and the University of Otago. He also re-joined the Mornington Harrier Club. After a stint in the Rangitikei region, he moved to Wellington, Bridge to the where he ran for the Olympic Club and met his first wife, Rachel, who had tremendous Olympics influence on his teaching and coaching careers. Metlifecare Pinesong With a twinkle in his eye, Arch resident, , was recalls a ‘friend’ (post his CNZM Arch timing Sir for the Olympics recently made a Companion of the announcement) commenting that he’d always thought, “Rachel was New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) for his outstanding work as a an Officer of the Order of the a better coach than her husband!” coach and administrator in both bridge and athletics. British Empire in 1982 and was Arch moved to Auckland inducted into the Athletics hen Pinesong resident be hard to go past John the Mornington Harrier Club in to continue teaching, later “With anything Coaches Association of New Arch Jelley was told Walker’s gold medal win at . However, when he was becoming Principal of Sunnybrae I taught, I tried to not Zealand Hall of Fame in 2006. he’d been made the Montreal Olympics.” posted to England during World Normal School, a role he held to be too serious and The following year, Arch received Wa Companion of the New for over 20 years. He coached a SPARC lifetime achievement War 2, the running was put on Arch retired from coaching at make it enjoyable Zealand Order of Merit, his various sports, including award for coaching excellence, 78 but returned to coach runner hold. He served onboard the HMS first thought was, “Who would swimming, rugby, softball and for everyone.” then the Athletics New Zealand , who competed Bermuda, on Russian Convoy nominate a 98-year-old?” But athletics, and his teacher training merit award in 2009. In 2020, at the 2016 Olympics and won duty, and was later commissioned this modest response is typical served him well. Arch’s career was included in the the national 1500m title six as a Sub Lieutenant RNZNVR, of a man heralded as one of our ‘Legends’ section of Athletics times under his guidance. To this assuming roles of navigator and It was at Auckland’s Owairaka greatest athletics coaches of New Zealand’s website. day, Arch still has young athletes gunnery and torpedo officer on Harriers Club – home of “Sir John’s star quality was not the last 60 years. and their coaches knocking on coastal submarines. coaching legend immediately obvious. I thought After discovering a passion for his door for advice. he was okay, but I didn’t think he bridge coaching in later life, Arch and wife Jean quietly At the end of the war Arch – where Arch’s coaching career celebrated the New Year’s really got underway. was going to be a world beater. Arch served as the Mt Albert Arch’s lifelong affair with athletics returned to New Zealand to Bridge Club president for ten Honour with coffee at the village began in 1940, when he joined study at Dunedin Teachers’ “That all changed when he beat “I was impressed with how years. Arch and Jean still teach café among friends. Since then, , New Zealand’s best many good runners there were bridge weekly at the club and are he’s received hundreds of calls, endurance runner at the time. at Owairaka, like kept busy with their combined letters and cards acknowledging John wasn’t planning to run and . Arthur’s family of eight children, 16 his achievement. that day but was persuaded to ideas were so revolutionary, he grandchildren and Jean’s seven compete in borrowed gear and The CNZM honour, and numerous just about changed coaching great-grandchildren. “Jean is a claimed a surprise victory. media interviews that followed, worldwide. I’d always been major shareholder in this family,” paid tribute to an illustrious interested in helping other “On the back of that win, I wrote says Arch. coaching career. One which runners become better. I thought two letters - one to Wellington’s These days, whether he wins resulted in 20 of his athletes if Arthur can do this, I can too.” Sports Post newspaper and one or loses, Arch sees coaching representing New Zealand, with 12 to Olympic selectors - to say Success with several leading New as a win-win, “You get huge competing in either the Olympics Arch Jelley and Johnthat Walker John Walker was set to go Zealand runners raisedcourtesy Arch’s of Stuff satisfaction from seeing someone or world championships. right to the top.” profile and eventually led to a improving and doing well. And if When asked to name a career long-standing relationship with The CNZM award is not Arch’s they beat you, it must be because

Arch Jelley and John Walker STUFF OF COURTESY IMAGE highlight, Arch says, “It would Sir John Walker. first honour, he was also made they had a good coach!”

22 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 23 - STAFF PROFILE - Life in pictures Metlifecare’s Amanda Reelick is a woman of many talents. Not only is she an integral part of the Metlifecare IT team in her role as BI and Applications Manager, but she’s also a successful professional photographer. She chats to The Villager about what keeps her inspired, and what it takes to capture that perfect shot.

manda, you’re clearly a busy woman! Tell us more about your work. I’veA been a professional photographer for the past decade and joined the Metlifecare team a year ago. Both roles are super rewarding, though quite different. We’re currently in the process of Marie Kondo-ing the data. Gathering it from different corners of the business, Amanda with her assistant and the videographers post the photo shoot with actor Tim Robbins organising it, ensuring everything is in the right box looking pretty Marianne Faithful and Peter I wanted to feel something, to and easy to find. Metlifecare can Garrett. The evening was capped keep looking. then find joy as they discover off by an after party with the stars. insights! Photography has a What are your top tips for more creative start but also ends Who – or what – is on your aspiring photographers? with joy when clients receive bucket list to photograph? Tip #1: Find a simple background, their images. Both roles rely A tourism gig in a beautiful remove bags, avoid rubbish heavily on making connections location with a tonne of crazy bins, and make sure no trees are with people. I’ve loved meeting (but friendly) wildlife would be sticking out of people’s heads! Metlifecare’s amazing residents amazing. Especially if underwater Tip #2: Shoot with the sun in and staff and am convinced shots were required and my front of you not behind you, or that retiring here is the way to accommodation was in an over- go. They just need to lower the water bungalow! A family photo put your subjects in shade – you entry age to let me in! shoot with Jacinda Ardern would don’t want sun on their face. also be right up there. Tip #3: Make a connection with What’s been the biggest your subjects. Get someone to highlight of your photography The winners of Metlifecare’s do silly things behind you, make career so far? summer photo competition are them move, dance, look at each Spending an entire day and published in this issue and you other and play games. Have fun. evening on a photo shoot with were one of the judges. What did actor Tim Robbins in Sydney. Tim you look for? To see more of Amanda’s was there playing with his band Connection, lighting, exposure, amazing work, visit The Rogues Gallery along with composition and storytelling. www.amandareelick.com

24 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 25 - STAFF PROFILE - Jacek Andreasik - image courtesy of Eastlife magazine Coming up roses Head gardener at Metlifecare’s Highlands Village, Jacek Andreasik, not only revels in a work environment of fragrant roses, but also feels rewarded by the pleasure his gardens bring to village residents.

astlife magazine recently roses and whose idea was it? the Amore Roses Nursery in asked Jacek about his work There have been rose bushes Hamilton for their extensive and how his gardens can at Highlands village since its selection of reliable, low- Einfluence the mood of residents. establishment. The Main Rose maintenance roses. Max is 84 Garden had nearly one hundred years old and started his job at How long have you worked at roses, but in total around the Metlifecare’s Highlands when he Highlands? Is the role similar or village there were about 350. In officially retired 15 years ago. He different to your previous roles? the following years we planted is my biggest supporter. I’ve been working at Highlands since August 2013, initially as a What are some of the varieties fashioned tea hybrid, with its variety of colourful bee and bird- for residents, not for me, and I part of the gardening team, and you have planted and did any yellow-orange-red colour, friendly plants. hope the residents feel good here. as Head Gardener since 2015. of those chosen have special perfect for picking. The rose was During lockdowns the residents I created the Herb Garden where Gardening in New Zealand significance to you or others at chosen as the prettiest rose in could enjoy the relaxing, colourful residents can pick herbs for their is different to Poland, in the village? our recent Rose Show. gardens to walk in. terms of the climate, We planted a lot of Amore cooking. Every year we planted types of plants and Roses rose bushes. I also What other plants do you have extra silverbeet, courgettes and If you could plant any flower, Kiwi culture. In Poland decided to choose varieties within the 11-acre plus grounds? the residents’ favourite herbs. vegetable or tree what would it be there are no retirement which would be healthy, During my time here I re- We also have a small collection and why? villages, so I worked easy-to-grow and with designed and re-planted nearly of Bonsai trees made by Dennis, A few years ago, I was excited for private clients, large a good display of blooms. the whole village, leaving all one of my team. Working at a about subtropical plants. I wanted companies, councils and on People adore roses for the valuable plants. We had to retirement village was a new to plant palms, bromeliads and large-scale projects. shape of their blooms, but they remove a lot of self-seeding experience for me but I felt that succulents everywhere. Later I also love them for their perfume. shrubs, agapanthus or overgrown I would like to create an outdoor discovered New Zealand native In Warsaw I was the Project hedges. Now we have a lot of space that my grandparents plants and I know now they are Manager for restoring a historical Among interesting varieties fruit trees, flowering shrubs, would be happy to be in. tricky to grow. Jacek and Max Bullen baroque garden at one of the we have are ‘Perfumed Kiss’ native plants, subtropical plants How do the gardens benefit Auckland is a place where a lot Royal Palaces. I also had the another 300 and in 2020 we (Amore) and ‘Magni-Scent’ and more. residents in general? of plants from the whole world opportunity to design and plant planted the remaining 400 to (Amore). They are very showy I always use the rule of Beth I think our gardens are a can grow but there some which a large bird-friendly garden for make the grand total of 1000. with extremely strong perfumes. a private client, which was over Another interesting variety is Chatto (British garden writer), unique element that make this cannot. I miss the strong smell two hectares. My main aim was simply to plant ‘Espresso’ (Amore) - a rose with “right plants, right place”. I have retirement village different from of lupines and miss peonies as roses and in fact this is still a single, brown-red flowers. This a few more rules for new planting other villages. When I started well. I would like to pick ripe You were recently responsible work in continuous progress as rose is unique but also reliable in at the village, namely, that it my job here I had a blank canvas. gooseberries from the bush, they for planting more than 1000 should be easy-care and water- After a few years of hard work remind me of the place where I I would like to plant more! One its flowering. rose bushes at Metlifecare’s of my team members, Max, who wise, be attractive for at least a from my team we heard a lot of was born and grew up. Highlands Retirement Village, is a member of the Auckland The residents’ favourite is few months or longer and I avoid positive comments from residents what was the reason for so many Rose Society, recommended ‘Tequila Sunrise’ - an old- boring mass-planting as I prefer a and visitors. The gardens here are Reprinted with permission of Eastlife magazine.

26 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 27 - FRIENDSHIP - FRIENDSHIP SPARKED IN LOCKDOWN BRINGS UNEXPECTED REWARDS If laughter is the best medicine, Palmerston North Village residents Barbara Fryer and Joyce Tait will live long and healthy lives. Though they’ve only known Fabulous friendship each other for a little over a year the pair have forged a remarkable bond founded on mutual interests, Throughout the next few issues of The Villager, we’ll be raising a glass to friendship. shared passions – and a whole lot of laughs. To old friends – and new ones – we salute the comradery and companionship that “Joyce is wonderful. We have good talks about things enriches the lives of Metlifecare’s 5000-plus residents. This month we celebrate a and we laugh our heads off,” says Barbara. 40-year friendship that’s come full circle at 7 Saint Vincent and another forged during Relative newcomers to village life (Barbara moved lockdown at Palmerston North Village. Here’s to good friends! in in 2019, and Joyce in 2020), the two women live Barbara Fryer and Joyce Tait five doors down from each other and have become BUSINESS BECOMES PLEASURE the greatest of friends. Beach. She takes me to the supermarket and on lots AT 7 SAINT VINCENT What began as a casual kerbside chat has evolved of lovely outings. We’ve both lost our husbands. It’s It started as a business relationship and blossomed into daily coffees, regular outings and a bunch of been so lovely having someone to talk to and do stuff into a friendship, and now over 40 years later, food shared activities – from knitter natter club to aqua with. Joyce has ended up becoming my closest friend.” industry veterans John Potter and Ian Willetts are aerobics classes. And to toast the end of each week, The unexpected new friendship has been equally life- neighbours at Metlifecare’s 7 Saint Vincent. the women join in the regular Happy Hour before changing for Joyce. “We first met back in 1980. I was the Managing meeting their neighbours for fish and chips and a “Barbara and I hit it off right from the start. I didn’t Director of Nestle and Ian was with a sales and game of euchre. know anyone when I moved in here, she just really promotions company that was doing some work with “During lockdown I’d sit out on my porch every day. stood out,” says Joyce. us,” says John. “We were both with major multinational Joyce kept walking past and after the second or third companies and shared a lot of common interests.” time we struck up a conversation. I had two chairs so “Barbara was my first friend in the village and we’re nearly always together. If I go somewhere without Throughout their careers the two men’s paths I started putting one out on the footpath for Joyce. her people say, ‘Where’s Barbara?’, and if she goes crossed regularly – they were members (and I’d sit up on my porch and we’d chat for hours.” out without me, people ask ‘Where’s Joyce?’! presidents!) of the same industry associations, It wasn’t long before they discovered that not only and often found themselves together at the same did they have mutual friends, but Barbara’s son-in- “She and I have a great old time – we have a lovely conferences and forums. The Potters (left) and the Willetts law was one of Joyce’s distant relatives! life here.” Fast forward four decades to October last year Have a village friendship you’d like to share? village, the grounds are spectacular and the staff are “I have problems with my vision and Joyce drives. when Ian and wife Cheryl stumbled across a flyer Get in touch with us at [email protected] so friendly – some of them have been here as long After lockdown she took me for a drive out to Foxton for 7 Saint Vincent. as us! This is a village where they bring the services to “We were wanting to downsize from our large you, you can stay in your apartment and still get the property in Glendowie and had been looking at level of care you need. Plus, the location is superb. Refer a friend to a retirement villages from Cambridge to the Hibiscus Our dentist and lawyer are just around the corner, Coast,” says Ian. “We’d never been to 7 Saint the library is across the road and you can access the Metlifecare village Vincent but I’m part of a fortnightly food industry supermarket through the back fence.” and receive $1000!* coffee group with John. I knew he and his wife Alison Within a few short months, Ian and Cheryl had If you know someone who would love living in lived there so I gave him a call.” signed on the dotted line and packed up their family one of our villages, all you need to do is refer them to us. If they move in, we’ll give you each John and Alison’s glowing endorsement of village life home. The newest residents at 7 Saint Vincent, the $1,000 cash as our way of saying thank you. quickly won the Willetts over. couple moved into their apartment three weeks ago, Ring village reception and ask for the sales accompanied by Boris the family cat. executive for more details. Says John, “We moved in here 15 years ago and *Not to be used in conjunction with other offers. haven’t regretted it for a minute. It’s a lovely small The verdict so far? Ten out of ten.

28 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 29 2 - SHOW US YOUR SUMMER - 1 And the winners are…! We were delighted with the number and quality of entries submitted for the ‘Show us your summer’ photo competition.

fter much deliberation, our expert judges including glacier fed river crossings and a have picked the three winners. NZIPP backdrop of stunning mountain views. 3 professional photographer, and resident Judges’ comments: So many lovely things about ofA Metlifecare’s Greenwood Park, Alan Arnold this image. The composition where the horse leads said: “I looked at elements such as creativity and our eye in to the other, the beautiful background, composition. I also looked at whether the photo backlit subjects and it’s wonderful to see has a strong point of interest, without distracting grandparents enjoying adventurous activities elements, as well as being a fun summer event.” with their grandchildren! Is that a touch of humour with the horse wearing a Covid mask? Our second judge, AIPA professional photographer and Metlifecare BI and Applications Manager, 3 Amanda Marris, New developments executive, Amanda Reelick, said, “I really enjoyed being part of support office: Description: Kiwi summer is all about 4 this competition. I loved chatting through the images heading out for a night time surf with your mates. with Alan - an expert and experienced judge. But I Judges’ comments: Love this image with the did find it difficult! There was something to like about warm sunset, wet boys and boards covered in sand every single image, so everyone should be really as if they’ve just washed up on shore. proud of their brilliant entries.” The competition was so close we had to award two Drumroll please! The winners of the $100 Prezzy additional ‘Highly recommended’ prizes, with movie cards are: vouchers going to: 1 Wendy Whitaker, Coastal Villas administrative 4 Bev Shea, Somervale Village resident: assistant: Description: My boy surf casting at Description: Bev Shea from Somervale village in 5 Waitarere Beach. Mt Maunganui and her neighbour June Jennings, Judges’ comments: The image is technically very enjoying Bev’s son’s birthday gift of a ride around Mt. Maunganui and Papamoa. good. The golden hour light is beautiful, the sun has just popped over the horizon (so no direct 5 Chris Berman, Waitakere Gardens resident: light into the camera) creating a beautiful glowing Description: Really relaxed! After a hard day’s sky. The boy is looking into the frame and to the fishing up near Kerikeri. focal point of the sun going down. The storytelling is peaceful, watching and waiting. Thanks so much to everyone who took the time to enter. We absolutely loved all of your photos and 2 Jill Engle, Waitakere Gardens resident: hearing the wonderful stories and memories behind Description: My granddaughter and I loved our them so we’ve included a few more in the montage. horse ride at the Rees River Valley, Glenorchy, Well done!

30 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 31 - RECIPES - Karen’s rum balls Karen McGiffen, Cafe Supervisor at The Poynton, has kindly shared her favourite rum balls recipe Sweet treats with us. Prior to joining Who doesn’t love something a little sweet to finish off a great meal? the team at The Poynton, Our talented Kitchen Manager and Chef at Longford Park Village, Karen worked at the Royal River Wilner shares her take on some favourite classics. NZ Yacht Squadron and fondly recalls treating the Squadron’s Senior Cobwebs River’s terrific tiramisu (World War 2 veterans) to Tried, tested and found to be delicious! River rum balls on their birthdays and at developed this recipe because she found a lot of Christmas time. One of the things she loved about the tiramisu recipes to be quite complicated and she role was hearing all of the veterans’ stories and says it’s wanted a no-fuss, easy to Mum’s ANZAC biscuits a privilege working at The Poynton and still getting to achieve recipe that still River said, “This is my Mum’s special recipe. hear so many amazing stories. has the traditional She likes it because it’s great for baking with flavour. This recipe my children (her grandchildren).” We hope will also feature you enjoy it as much as River’s family does. on the Autumn Metlifecare INGREDIENTS Dietician • 1 cup plain flour Approved Menu • 2/3 cup white sugar for care homes • 1 and 1/3 cups and serviced desiccated coconut apartment residents. • 1 ½ cups rolled oats • ½ chopped walnuts HOW TO MAKE RUM BALLS INGREDIENTS • 100g salted butter Bring 100mls of double cream and 25 grams of butter to • 1 packet sponge fingers (200g Savoiardi) • 3 tbsp golden syrup the boil in a small pan. Put 300 grams of finely chopped • 500g cold custard (River uses Meadowfresh • 1 tsp molasses milk chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream ‘Thick and Creamy’ custard) • 1 tsp baking soda mix over the chocolate, leave for 1 minute, then stir until • 500g mascarpone • 5 tbsp boiling water smooth. Whisk in 50mls of dark rum then chill in the • 150 strong espresso coffee or 4 tsp good quality • freezer for 5-10 mins, or until firm enough to roll. instant coffee dissolved in 150ml boiling water Mix the coffee and marsala wine (or liqueur) METHOD together in a jug • Preheat oven to 170°C and cooled Cover a baking tray with non-stick baking paper. Roll • Whisk together mascarpone and custard in a bowl • Mix dry ingredients together in a large bowl • 200ml Italian marsala wine (River used Lombardo tablespoons of the chilled mixture into balls in your hands until well combined. • Melt butter, golden syrup and molasses brand) or coffee liqueur if you want more of a kick! and transfer balls to the tray. Chill in the fridge for one • Put a layer of the sponge fingers in the base of the together in a small pan • 250ml cream, whipped with ½ tsp of vanilla hour or until set. In the meantime, melt 120 grams of serving dish and sprinkle with the coffee mix. • Dissolve baking soda in the boiling water and essence and 1 tsp icing sugar dark chocolate in a small heatproof bowl, set over a pan of • Spread with a layer of the mascarpone mix. add to the butter mix • 20g dark chocolate, grated simmering water. Dip the balls into the melted chocolate • Repeat with the sponge fingers and mascarpone until • Add the wet ingredients to the dry • Cocoa powder to dust with a fork, then shake off the excess and roll on a plate all used up, finishing with mascarpone mix on top. ingredients and mix well of cocoa powder (about 3 tbsp). If the cocoa starts to METHOD • Whip the cream with the vanilla and icing sugar and • Roll tablespoons of mix into balls and place get too sticky, add more to the plate. You can also roll the • You will need a serving dish or tray capable of holding spread over the top. onto greased baking trays balls in coconut or chocolate hail. a 2-litre volume. A trifle bowl can work well. There’s • Dust with a thick dusting of cocoa powder (use a • Flatten slightly with a fork no need to grease or line your serving dish. sieve) and sprinkle with grated dark chocolate. • Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden. Put the balls on a plate lined with baking paper and chill • Cut sponge fingers in half and set aside. • Serve and enjoy! • Enjoy! for another hour to set. They will keep for up to a week.

32 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 metlifecare.co.nz 33 - MOTHER’S DAY - Mum knows best! Let’s face it, mums are blessed with a sixth sense, a magical inner wisdom that means they somehow just know stuff. They can take the throb out of a bee sting, cook a gourmet meal using just five pantry staples, and seem to have remedies for everything from sore throats to broken hearts.

o celebrate Mother’s Day, • Forget fancy moisturizers and we’d love to hear about commercial beauty products some of the tips and tricks packed with chemicals. For an Tyou learnt from your mum - those instant skin conditioner and precious golden nuggets that quick age-defying treatment have been passed down through all you need to do is rub extra your family or some of the handy virgin coconut oil onto your skin Drop a couple of denture hints that you’ve passed onto your • after your shower. children. Here’s a few for starters! cleaning tablets into the toilet bowl at night to clean off • Save the fuss of buying different stubborn stains. coloured shoe polish for different coloured shoes. Use Bathroom fresheners and • olive oil and a soft cloth instead. deodorizers are expensive WIN! It’s cheap, easy and works as the and can be bad for the planet. You probably already know ultimate leather conditioner. many of these life hacks – Instead, keep your bathroom and you no doubt have a bunch smelling sweet by adding a few • Prevent soil from escaping more. We’d love to hear them! drops of essential oil to the through the holes in the base of Just fill in the form on the • To prevent your eyes watering • To clean a wooden chopping cardboard bit on the inside of flowerpots by lining them with facing page and be while chopping onions, wipe board, sprinkle on a handful of your toilet paper roll. large coffee filters. in to win a $100 the chopping board with white Kosher salt and rub with half a Prezzy Card. vinegar (which won’t affect the lemon. Rinse with clean water taste of the onions). and dry to ensure it is clean and • Use rubber bands to help open a germ-free. Mother’s Day competition • To prevent potatoes from jar easily. Place one around the budding, add an apple to the bag. My Mum’s handy tip: jar lid and another around the middle of the glass. The rubber • Add half a teaspoon of baking Name: provides friction to prevent your soda to the water when hard- hands from slipping. boiling eggs to make the shells much easier to peel off. • Water straight from the tap Village: becomes cloudy when frozen. • To tell if eggs are fresh, To make ice cubes crystal clear, immerse them in a bowl of allow a kettle of boiled water to water. Fresh eggs will lie on the Phone: cool slightly and use this to fill bottom, while stale eggs will your ice cube trays. float to the surface. *Entries close Friday 30 April 2021.

34 THE VILLAGER | Autumn 2021 By entering this competition, you agree to Metlifecare reproducing your hint in an upcoming publication. Want to Enjoy arts know about and crafts? village events?

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