Skip to content
All articles

"Everybody's heart is in the right place"

David Kelsall is the newest member of Real Living’s close-knit team. He was appointed as the Group Sales and Marketing Manager in February. Only a few weeks into the job he’s already participated in the big launch of our brand new Ruru Apartments. On the 11th of February, around 160 people checked out the stunning Ruru complex at Pakuranga Park, an architectural designed four-storey building with high specification residences. David walked along with the retirees to show them the apartments and chat with them about the “Lock up and Leave” lifestyle that Ruru offers.

Ruru apartments have an open plan kitchen dining area, ideal for entertaining.

Having the opportunity to meet some of the residents is one of the things that David most enjoys about his job. He has 20 years of experience in the retirement industry, from big corporations to smaller companies, and he prefers the closeness that he can find in our villages. “The reason I like the smaller companies is that you really get involved in more than just the sales. You have a really good all-round understanding and knowledge of the whole business as opposed to just your particular area. Also you get to know the residents which is a great part of the job. “

David is chatting with two of Pakuranga Park’s most recent residents, John and Mary Ann, in front of Ruru’s four storey mural.

David’s office is in Epsom Village but he travels regularly to the other villages. He has already established a strong rapport with the Village Managers and Sales Managers which is very important for the success of his role. “By being a family-owned business, it means that the communication is easy and clear, and everybody’s heart is in the right place, everybody is pulling in the same direction to enhance our residents’ lives. From a sales perspective, it means happy and satisfied residents, that’s the best marketing we can have.”

David really enjoys the outdoor areas of Real Living’s villages such as the central garden area at Epsom Village.

David is part of a big family and he enjoys going for regular walks with his wife, especially to the beach. When he’s not at Real Living or with his family, you will find him watching sports. He declares himself a big sports fan across all disciplines. “But if I have to pick favourites, it would be football, rugby and cricket.”

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