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
A village with heart
Epsom Village
News
Epsom Village
News
23 January 2026

A village with heart

“I’ve never had a moment’s doubt about my decision to move to Epsom Village.” Like Karen, so many of our residents are so happy with their new lifestyle that they don’t want to keep it to themselves. As a proud New Zealand family-owned village, we offer a level of care, warmth, and personal connection that big corporate operators simply can’t replicate. With only 90 residents, Epsom Village is intimate, charming, and distinctive — a place with real character and soul.
Read more
Innovating Care Through Movement
Remuera Gardens
News
Remuera Gardens
News
14 January 2026

Innovating Care Through Movement

At the end of 2025, Kensington House at Remuera Gardens was selected as a finalist in the Excellence in Care Awards – Innovative Delivery Award, recognising our innovative Holistic Dance Exercise Programme. Created by our Group Culture, Care and Quality Manager, Reign Marcial, the programme blends movement, mindfulness, and rhythm to support both physical wellbeing and emotional connection. Here’s the video we presented at the Aged Care Association Conference: a glimpse into the joy, movement, and connection this programme brings to our residents.
Read more
Twelve Days of Christmas
Remuera Gardens
News
Remuera Gardens
News
18 December 2025

Twelve Days of Christmas

Remuera Gardens truly embraced the festive spirit with 12 Days of Christmas celebrations — from bingo and crafts to concerts, fashion parades, and gingerbread house making. One of the highlights was our much-loved Christmas Market, packed with treats, handmade jewellery, fashion pieces, and beautiful artwork from Uplands Kindergarten.
Read more