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1400 days ago

A supportive and social village life for Alan

Bupa Fergusson Retirement Village

Alan sadly lost his wife Phyllis just before the first lockdown in 2020, after the couple moved into the village five years ago.

“They have all been so supportive when I really needed it most. I wrote them all a personal letter to thank them.”

The 90 year old, who has spent his entire life in Christchurch, says his regular expenses are down due to village living and was immediately taken with the apartment opportunity after a tour.

“The security of this place appealed to me, and it was very warm. I also liked that there’s nothing to worry about, you don’t have to think about getting a plumber in for example.”

The couple’s two daughters and son helped them both move into the village, a downsizing that was far easier than Alan thought it would be. Now with a two bedroom apartment, Alan says he really enjoys having a dwelling more compact than his original family home.

“You’ve got to adapt haven’t you, and an apartment is just so easy to keep clean and tidy. I still have a small garden and I like to grow runner beans.”

With a wool buying background and a stint as a golf professional too, Alan has had a busy career but says he prefers the quieter life these days with enough social activities, like bowls and mahjong, to keep him entertained.

Alan helped to start a village choir that now has 24 members and regular practice sessions to prepare for upcoming recitals. The grandfather of five grandchildren and six great grandchildren (pictured with artwork from one of his great grandchildren Tabitha) says he’s always open to welcoming new residents as neighbours.

“To be free of all that worry of maintenance at my time of life is a relief. Plus we could do with a few more in the choir too.”

Get more info about Bupa Fergusson: www.bupa.co.nz...

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2 days ago

Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.

How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.

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How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
  • 28.6% With a city-wide public fireworks display
    28.6% Complete
  • 19.7% Small fireworks displays in each community
    19.7% Complete
  • 8.1% Keep it as is
    8.1% Complete
  • 32.9% We shouldn't celebrate it!
    32.9% Complete
  • 10.4% Anything but fireworks
    10.4% Complete
  • 0.4% Other - I'll share below
    0.4% Complete
2273 votes
15 hours ago

Brain Burn Alert! Today’s Riddle Will Make You Think Twice!

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

What is seen in the middle of March and April that can't be seen at the beginning or end of either month?

Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.

Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.

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2 hours ago

International Volunteer Managers Day

Olivia from Volunteer Wellington

Yesterday marked International Volunteer Managers Day. So throughout this week we will be spotlighting several amazing volunteer managers from across the Wellington region.
Liv has recently started managing a diverse team of volunteers at The Free Store Wellington. Here are some words about what she loves about her role!