News

It’s a universal truth that grannies make the best soup, so at Real Living, we’re blessed with some of the best cooks in the country. Diana not only makes a soup that is good for the body and the soul, she’s also one of our most active, social and friendly residents and in her spare time she also writes poems and children’s books.

Real Living has been paying tribute to Queen Elizabeth II with special memorial services in each of the villages. Yesterday the Lounge at Pakuranga Park was totally packed with residents who wanted to pay homage to the extraordinary monarch. At the end of the ceremony the village planted a kowhai tree in recognition of the Queen's 70 years of service.

Spring is finally here so it’s time to renew our wardrobe! At Warkworth Oaks they’ve started with a Fashion Show to get some inspiration for the new season. Four stylish residents volunteered as models in the Parade, organised by clothing store Sophie Pink.

Epsom Village raised $650 for the Cancer Society with a very successful Happy Hour to support Daffodil Day. The event included a Raffle sponsored by local businesses, with Hell Pizza Epsom and the Florentine Tea Room as their top donors. There was also a fierce cocktail competition with the Mighty Margarita and the 80s classic Fluffy Duck fighting for the top spot.

The Art Expo organized by Warkworth Oaks last weekend was a great success. The exhibition, held on the first floor at the charming Warkworth Hotel, attracted a steady stream of visitors over three days. Two of our residents sold their paintings, among many other local artists.

Elaine and Ivan have been living at Epsom Village for more than 12 years, and they couldn’t be happier. They love the location, the gardens, the social events, and the organised trips to the countryside. They’re some of the most popular residents at the village; with their friendly attitude and cheeky sense of humour, they certainly add spice to retirement life!

Shortbread is described by many as the most perfect biscuit ever. It used to be reserved for Christmas and special occasions, but our residents at Warkworth Oaks know that the good things in life should be enjoyed all year around. One of their residents, Mary, bakes a good big batch every few weeks… and she always sells out!

The winter weather can affect our spirits and according to some studies, there's nothing better to lift our moods than to look at cute animal pictures! Real Living's 2022 Pet Competition is full of the cheekiest, funniest, and most adorable animals, they will melt your heart. These pets are not only the best companions for their owners, living in a retirement village they also brighten many residents' lives!

Don’t miss out the new production of Howick Little Theatre, “The Maltese Falcon”, starting the 9th of July. The show’s director is one of our talented residents at Pakuranga Park Village, Laurie Mills, who has directed more than 20 plays during his life.