Shaun Wallace, a big fan of Remuera Gardens… and kiwi onion dip!
Shaun Wallace is an English barrister who shot to fame in 2004 when he won the BBC’s legendary Mastermind. In 2009 he became a “chaser” on the UK television series The Chase, where contestants play against a professional quizzer who attempts to prevent them from winning a cash prize.
Shaun is currently in New Zealand as part of a tour organised by Quiz company “Believe it or not”, participating in five events to raise money for local charities. On Tuesday, a few hours after landing in New Zealand, Shaun paid a surprise visit to Remuera Gardens, one of the villages that regularly hosts “Believe it or not” quizzes. Residents from all Real Living villages were invited to participate in Shaun’s Q&A, followed by a Meet and Greet where they had the chance to take pictures with him.
The New Zealand company “Believe it or not” was established in 1998 and pioneered the Quiz industry in New Zealand. Owner Brendan Lochead, who is a very good friend of Shaun Wallace, has a special connection with Remuera Gardens since his mother-in-law, Wendy, is one of the village’s beloved residents. Brendan was at the village with Shaun on Tuesday and they both had a lovely afternoon mingling with the residents at the Beattie Lodge, which was at full capacity.
Shaun Wallace confessed to the audience that he loves New Zealand and he’s a big fan of kiwi onion dip. He was thrilled when he discovered that among the audience there was Rosemary Mount, the lady who invented the iconic dip, who lives in one of Real Living’s villages. Shaun ran to hug Rosemary and they both shared their admiration for each other.
Shaun also revealed that he’s 63 years old, so the residents quickly invited him to retire in New Zealand. Some of them let him know that Real Living’s entry age is 55 so he could move to our villages anytime he wishes to. Shaun said he was not ready to retire anytime soon but he would consider the offer… since New Zealand would be a great place to retire!
On Wednesday night Shaun will host his first charity event at the Grand Hall in Eden Park. His tour around New Zealand will take him to Hawke’s Bay, Wellington, Invercargill and Kaiapoi. Shaun is hosting a series of quizzes in these locations to raise money for different charities, such as the Cyclone Relief Fund, Lifeflight and Youthline Southland.
If you’d like to know more about joining our community contact Lyn on 021 845 524 or email Lyn.Ellis@realliving.co.nz
