Skip to content
All articles

Dressed to Impress for the Melbourne Cup!

With the arrival of November comes the thrill of the Melbourne Cup, prompting everyone to don their best hats and dress up for the occasion! At Remuera Gardens, this occasion is a highlight for both residents and staff, combining the excitement of the race with delightful treats, elegant beverages, and an atmosphere filled with friendship and joy.

As talented pianist Max Purdie played lively tunes, residents and staff gathered in the Lounge before the race, mingling over a glass of bubbles, or freshly made cranberry non-alcoholic punch from the kitchen. Many staff members joined in the festivities, including our newly appointed Group Culture, Care, and Quality Manager, Reign Marcial, who made quite an impression dressed as "Remuera's own 007". Reign seemed to relish the celebrations, taking the opportunity to snap pictures with those sporting their best attire.

Pianist Max Purdie is one of Remuera Gardens' favourite performers.
Group Culture, Care, and Quality Manager Reign Marcial thoroughly enjoyed his first Melbourne Cup at the village.

The Melbourne Cup, often referred to as "the Race that Stops the Nation," is always a breathtaking event, and this year, the excitement reached new heights as Irish jockey Robbie Dolan pulled off a stunning upset, riding the 81-to-1 outsider Knight's Choice to his first victory in the Melbourne Cup. Known more for his appearance on "The Voice," Dolan made history by becoming the first widely recognized singer to win the Cup, showcasing his remarkable journey from struggling jockey to celebrated champion.

At 5pm residents and staff watched the race which was followed up with prizes. In the ladies' category, the award for "Bouncing Through the Field" went to Lynette, while June was recognized as the "Classy Lady." Betty received the title of "Little Filly."

In the gentlemen's category, John was honored as "Dapper in the Field," and Craig took home the "WOW" award, with Reign earning the title of "Remuera’s Own 007."

The overall winner of the day was Joy, who dazzled everyone as the "Lady in Red."

Remuera Gardens has been celebrating the Melbourne Cup for years, but it never fails to bring fresh excitement and joy to residents and staff alike. Each year, this beloved tradition continues to foster a sense of community, as everyone comes together to revel in the thrill of the race and the camaraderie it inspires.

If you’d like to know more about joining our community contact Lyn on 021 845 524 or email Lyn.Ellis@realliving.co.nz

Latest articles

All News
Bowls and new friendships
Remuera Gardens
News
Remuera Gardens
News
07 July 2025

Bowls and new friendships

What makes a retirement village truly special? It’s the sense of community that grows within its walls. At Remuera Gardens, our newly opened Avenue Apartments are seamlessly connected by a vibrant hub featuring a bowling green and the Pavilion—the social heart of the village, where friends come together to enjoy a cup of tea (or a glass of wine!) and share good company. Every Wednesday, residents gather for a friendly game of bowls on the green—a tradition that captures the spirit of village life. Want to experience it for yourself?
Read more
Pink with Purpose at Real Living
Pakuranga Park
News
Pakuranga Park
News
18 June 2025

Pink with Purpose at Real Living

When it comes to supporting a good cause, our residents have hearts of gold! The Pakuranga Park Social Club recently hosted a Pink Ribbon Afternoon Tea, raising a sparkling total $2,000 for the Breast Cancer Foundation. The village was awash in a cheerful sea of pink—from the delicious treats to the residents’ vibrant outfits. But the best part? The joyful laughter and sense of community that filled the room as friends came together to support such an important cause.
Read more
"It was exactly what we were looking for"
Remuera Gardens
News
Remuera Gardens
News
06 June 2025

"It was exactly what we were looking for"

It’s not every day you find a home that ticks all the boxes—but that’s exactly what happened to John and Veronica, two of the very first residents at The Avenue Apartments in Remuera. “We’ve never looked back and are loving our new lifestyle in our independent apartment,” they say with a big smile, relaxing in their spacious and sun-filled living area.
Read more