News

This year, Real Living proudly celebrates 40 years since opening its first village, Pakuranga Park, in East Auckland. What began in 1985 as a bold new idea has grown into four vibrant, family-owned villages — Pakuranga Park, Epsom Village, Remuera Gardens, and Warkworth Oaks. Guided by a founding vision of dignity, purpose, and companionship, Real Living has remained proudly independent and deeply connected to its residents, creating communities where people truly belong.

Who caught yesterday’s interview on The Breeze with Epsom Village? Robert and Jeanette had a lovely chat with our Village Manager, Lillian, and our superstar maintenance officer, Les. Les was featured in the Unsung Heroes segment of the programme, recognised for everything he does for our residents at Epsom Village and for always going above and beyond in his role. If you missed the programme, don’t worry — we’ve put it all together here for you to enjoy.

Congratulations to the team at Remuera Gardens! We’re proud to share that our care facility, Kensington House at Remuera Gardens, has been selected as a finalist in the Excellence in Care Awards 2025 – Innovative Delivery Award. Our Holistic Dance Exercise Programme has earned this recognition, with the winner announced at the NZACA Conference, 29–30 October in Christchurch.

Can you believe this is what Pakuranga Park looked like 40 years ago? Back in 1985, the idea of a ‘retirement village’ in New Zealand was still groundbreaking. Today, Pakuranga Park is a close-knit community of 400 residents, where staff know everyone by name. Guided by the values of Caring, Integrity, Gratitude, and Community, our team creates a village where life feels rewarding and truly connected.

At Real Living, we love spending time with our residents — so when the opportunity for a commercial photoshoot arose, we knew our talented people had to be involved. To promote the new Avenue Apartments at Remuera Gardens, 40 residents from across our villages stepped into the spotlight and had a fantastic time becoming “actors” for the project.

Our newest residents at The Avenue couldn’t be happier. Take Kenneth, for example. Like many retirees, he wondered if it was too soon to make the move—he was still active, mowing lawns and managing his home with ease. But within days of settling into The Avenue Apartments, those doubts disappeared. Surrounded by new friends, modern comforts, and a welcoming community, Kenneth quickly realised he should have made the move sooner.

Meet Daphne—beloved resident of Pakuranga Park, talented artist, lifelong singer, and now… a centenarian! Daphne just celebrated her 100th birthday with a three-day family celebration, and her story is nothing short of incredible. From singing on the radio at age 7 to creating award-winning artwork in her 90s, she’s proof that creativity and joy don’t retire! Her secret to a long life? “Keep your mind busy… and never waste your talents.

Art in August is back this weekend! Head to the Southgate Room at the Warkworth Hotel and explore an exhibition of over 200 stunning artworks – from captivating seascapes and striking animal portraits to bold abstracts and mixed media pieces. This year’s show brings together renowned local and Marlborough artists, the fresh creativity of talented Mahurangi College students, and the beautiful works of Warkworth Oaks residents, proudly exhibiting for the fourth year in a row. All proudly supported by One Mahurangi.

Wednesdays Are Made for Aqua Fitness! There’s nothing like diving into our heated pool for a fun, energising midweek workout with friends. Aqua fitness is a gentle, low-impact way to stay active—perfect for all fitness levels. Looking to make a move? We currently have a limited number of 1–3 bedroom apartments available—a rare opportunity to join this vibrant, welcoming community.