News

Craig instantly fell in love with Remuera Gardens after his first visit. Drawn by the welcoming, inclusive approach, he was looking for an easier lifestyle—one where he could relax without the responsibility of maintaining a home or garden. By August, he was celebrating his first anniversary at the village with a real sense of fulfilment: “It’s more than I ever expected. Remuera Gardens is ticking all the boxes I hoped it would. It’s taken away a burden of responsibility I didn’t need anymore.”

At Real Living we know that life doesn’t stop when you retire, but quite the opposite. Our villages offer a wide range of activities to keep you busy, including a big selection of cultural events. At Remuera Gardens they organise regular trips to shows, museums and libraries, and if you prefer to stay at home, they also have a 45-seat tiered cinema for you to enjoy.

When we say that Remuera Gardens is a feast for the senses, we’re not exaggerating! The village has around 130 different varieties of camellias which flower during the autumn and winter months. The residents love walking around their little slice of paradise and they always stop and talk to Aaron, the village’s most devoted gardener. Aaron has spent the last seven years cataloguing every plant and believe it or not… he hasn’t finished yet!

At Real Living we have many residents with remarkably successful careers. At Remuera Gardens we are very proud to have Nan Gibson-Brine among our residents. Working under the name of Nan Gibson, she is an accomplished concert pianist who has performed in England, Australia, SE Asia and New Zealand. Nan is so passionate about her music that for many years she shared her talent with the village organising delightful concerts and sing-alongs for her neighbours.

Shaun Wallace, aka “The Dark Destroyer” from The Chase, is touring New Zealand and we’re so thrilled that his first stop was Remuera Gardens! Did you know that he loves New Zealand and he’s a big fan of… kiwi onion dip? Yesterday Shaun fulfilled one of his dreams: to meet the inventor of our most famous dip, Rosemary Mount, who happens to be one of our residents at Real Living!

Did you know that Remuera Gardens has a Men’s Club with a monthly outing to amazing locations such as Maraetai Beach, the Maritime Museum, or Hallertau Brewery? The Men’s Club is not only a great deal of fun but also the best way for their members to stay active, engaged and connected with their peers.

What a spectacular village party we had on Friday at Remuera Gardens! The residents had a blast listening to the Madeleines, a vintage vocal trio who sing jazz and swing from the 20s to the 60s. For the residents it was a great occasion to gather with their friends, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and get their feet tapping to sophisticated tunes.

One of the most popular events at Remuera Gardens are the Quiz Nights. They’re run by a professional quiz master, Brendan, who has been hosting quizzes for more than 25 years. Around 50 people attended this week’s competition that was full of thrilling moments and lots of laughs. Next month’s one will be even more exciting: it will have the virtual participation of Shaun Wallace from “The Chase”!

During uncertain times like the ones we’re living, it’s more important than ever to have caring staff who will go above and beyond to keep our residents safe. Megan Batra is one of our most valued employees. Being Remuera Gardens Clinical Manager, she oversees the running of the rest home with health and safety protocols at the top of her priorities.