Plus Living+ Magazine, Otago & Central Otago Issue #2 by Markat

OTAGO/CENTRAL OTAGO E DITION: 2 | 2021

A diet to desire Eating to stay healthy

A guide to ageing well

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READING

Maintaining your motivation Taking tangible steps towards what you want

Battling ageism

The slow march towards egalitarianism

Madelon knows how to get more for your property.

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Madelon White Ray White Dunedin Reliable, supportive and professional, Madelon White embodies the real estate industry’s best qualities. Equipped with thirty years of industry experience, Madelon is your local established realtor in Dunedin, boasting an impressive track record of achieving outstanding results for both buyers and sellers. From first home buyers to seasoned property investors - Madelon treats her clients like her family, going above and beyond to support and guide their real estate journey. As a point of difference, Madelon provides a wrap-around service to alleviate the stress that often accompanies a house purchase or sale. Indeed, buying and selling your home is an incredibly transformative, exciting, and overwhelming process. Friendly and approachable, Madelon is widely recognised for her understanding and empathy when dealing with a wide range of clients. Madelon takes the time to find out exactly what you want to achieve, your time frame, where you want to go, and how she can get you there. Always open, honest, and a great listener; problem-solving is one of Madelon’s greatest strengths.

Madelon takes the time to find out exactly what you want to achieve, your time frame, where you want to go, and how she can get you there.

Also known for her project management skills; Madelon can take control of all areas related to the sale, from tradespeople and local district councils to lawyers and house dressers. With vast industry knowledge and contacts, nothing is too much and office hours never apply. Madelon’s career started in the midst of raising three children; so, you can be rest assured she knows what a difference between a good price and a great price can mean for families.

So often people selling don’t have the family support to alleviate the stress of this process - I will be here to support the move into your next home.

Throughout her career, Madelon has noticed that many agents focus purely on listing and selling. This has been the driving force behind Madelon’s success; disrupting the status quo of real estate agents, and being a force of good that ensures each and every sale benefits her clients and creates the best opportunities for their future. Understanding the needs of like-minded mature members of the community is a personal passion of Madelon’s. “So often people selling don’t have the family support to alleviate the stress of this process - I will be here to support the move into your next home,” she explains. Indeed, Madelon surrounds herself with a top team to ensure her hands-on approach is always available for her clients, leading the way with marketing campaigns and the homes she sells are always presented impeccably. Utilising drone footage, personalised online adverts, twilight images, and much more - Madelon’s process ensures the best price is achieved. Celebrated for her caring nature, Madelon’s brand can often be found in and around Dunedin communities sponsoring local groups. Having Madelon as your real estate agent is “the gift that keeps on giving”. Buying and selling with Madelon not only ensures support for you but support for your community too. Always professional and approachable: contact Madelon White at Ray White Real Estate, any time.

www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 3

Contents

REF#P21D2 OTAGO/CENTRAL OTAGO E DITION: 2 | 2021

Inside

LIVING WELL AND AGEING GRACEFULLY IN A MODERN SOCIETY

Mind over matter It seems as if there are a million sayings along the lines of ‘life is what you make it’ and every one of them falls under the guise of ‘easier said than done’. While that’s undoubtedly true when it comes to navigating the myriad of obstacles life throws our way, it might not be quite as watertight when it comes to our interpretation of those things. With that in mind, this issue of Plusliving kicks off with articles about attitude – namely yours. We start with a guide to aging well entitled, funnily enough, ‘Life is what you make it’ and move onto pieces about maintaining a healthy mind, how to stay motivated, ways to boost your mood, things people use to judge you and the ongoing battle with ageism. There’s also guides to healthy eating, selfdiscipline and being wise with money, plus much more Enjoy.

this issue

JonathonTaylor

Editor

Quaterly distribution: FREE distribution maximises readership Publisher: The Job Agency T|A Markat 38 Lowe Street, Addington, Christchurch 8011 Managing Director: Gary Collins GM of Operations: Kylie Palermo Sales: Angela Elley (03) 961 5184 | sales@markat.co.nz Editor: Jonathon Taylor (03) 961 5098 | editor@markat.co.nz Production: Jessica Ann (03) 961 5088 | jessica@markat.co.nz Accounts: Jo Pritchard (03) 961 5161 | accounts@markat.co.nz

4 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

A healthy headspace

Maintaining your motivation

A guide to ageing well

Ten easy ways to boost your mood

Being wise with money

Battling ageism

Eating to stay healthy

Creating a home office that works for you

West Coast uncovered

Welcome to Plusliving – the magazine dedicated to living well and ageing gracefully in modern society. Aimed at the 50+ age group, you’ll find articles covering all aspects of contemporary life, including physical health and wellbeing, mental health and acuity, home life, working life and finances, technology, travel, self-improvement and more. Our aim is to provide information anyone can use, on any given day, so you can get more out of life.

Does your company have any information or products you would like to feature in an upcoming edition of Plusliving+? Please contact us to discuss getting your business in print Disclaimer This publication is provided on the basis that The Job Agency T|A Markat is not responsible for the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in these articles, nor for any error or omission from these articles and that the firm is not hereby engaged in rendering advice or services. The Job Agency T|A Markat expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of anything and of the consequences of anything done, or omitted to be done, by any such a person in reliance, whether wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication. Advertising feature articles are classified as advertising content and as such, information contained in them is subject to the Advertising Standards Authority Codes of Practice. Contents Copyright 2020 by The Job Agency T|A Markat. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

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Wellbeing

– a guide to ageing well Through our daily exposure to today’s array of information and communication, we are inundated with messages about the merits of ageing well and the processes we can follow to ensure we realise our potential at any age. The concept of ageing well can be perceived in a cosmetic sense, conjuring up images of anti-wrinkle remedies and the revolutionary youth serums which purportedly stall the physical metamorphosis we undergo as part of our evolutionary existence. It’s a lucrative industry selling youth; one which has no expiration date, because the ‘youth in a bottle’ market and everything it encompasses will have life for as long as humans walk the earth and their desire for a life of longevity exists. But ageing well in life cannot be taken at face value alone. Because while the restorative properties of age reversal potions and practises may bring skindeep satisfaction to our lives, ageing well in a holistic sense is what fulfils us in mind, body and soul.

Wise up We have heard the supposition ‘wisdom comes with age,’ time and time again. It is a proclamation that suggests our wisdom well is fuller when our eyes, minds and hearts have absorbed a lifetime worth of knowledge and are more in tune with the way of the world.

6 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

There is much to be said for and learned from the valuable hindsight that belongs to those who have experienced life, although it is important to utilise what intellectual capacity we have now to create a plan to age well. For life’s greatest pearls of wisdom may well be reserved for a moment in time beyond our immediate reach, but making age well plans require the application of today’s wisdom while the wisdom of tomorrow still belongs to the future.

A plan to age well We spend our lives planning. Plans are personal maps for life which we formulate to help us reach milestones, fulfil ambitions and complete tasks effectively. And while a life plan may not grant us immunity from the serendipitous way of the world, the protection, security and direction afforded to us by having a strategic plan, can only contribute to a life of longevity. There is no dictionary definition for ageing well, no textbook manual open for our consultation. Ageing well cannot be mimicked or even learned from others because while peers and family may be able to offer suggestive guidance, our unique genetic blueprint means how we define ageing well and go about it, will require a personal touch. Therefore, a definitive list of steps for entering elder-hood and working towards a life of longevity cannot be given, but recommendations for areas of focus can be provided to help you on your journey.

Wellbeing And like adventure at any age, your physical, emotional and spiritual values should be your guiding intuition.

Sleep is also as important to our health as diet and exercise – without it we cannot function properly and may even become ill.

Physical health

We know when we sleep, our bodies rest – conserving energy and decreasing blood pressure, heart rate, breathing and body temperature, but our brains remain active – laying down memory, restoring daytime mental function and carrying out tasks that lead to physical growth.

We can all remember the physical liberation attached to being young and ailment free. And while it becomes harder to reverse or right the physical wrongs we have committed as the years pass us by, if we are consistent throughout life and honour a balanced and physical lifestyle, we can continue to experience the physical autonomy gifted in youth.

The physical benefits of a balanced diet are also well documented, which is directly associated with healthy ageing.

The saying, “you are only as old as you feel” is applicable to the exercise equation because beyond the aesthetic merits of staying active, physical exercise is also an elixir for staying young in mind and spirit.

When entering any era in which our life profoundly changes, we need to get emotional – in an intuitive sense.

As a combatant for what ails you, the positive effects of a physical lifestyle are further increased with the adoption of other physical practises. In order to beat stress effectively, you need to have a grab-bag of antistressing tools that you use often and proactively before your body’s stress response fully kicks in. The more anti-stressing tools you can learn the better.

Emotional health

As we get older and life presents us with new emotional challenges, understanding our emotional needs and feelings and catering to these, is as importance to our wellbeing as maintaining physical health. Ageing well emotionally is like a quality of life initiative; the different realms of quality of life include physical, mental, social and spiritual factors. Instead of reinventing the wheel, ageing well can be about maintaining what is working now for you and what has worked before in those specific domains and then adapting those to the appropriate age context. Looking after mental health is incredibly important during our latter years in life and older age is most commonly the time in which people reach out to mental health workers or a social network. Grief, dementia and physical, mental or social loss can be the catalyst for seeking out the support and assistance of others and it is in the process of seeking this assistance that people find renewed strength and direction. In conjunction with seeking advice and emotional support from social networks and support systems, following a plan for ageing well emotionally can also involve taking a psychotherapeutic approach through cognitive behavioral therapy. Getting out and about, staying active, having good hygiene and fitness as well as following regular sleeping patterns are all related to this. Asking the existential questions in life, such as: “Who am I? Where am I going? What do I want from my life?” also benefits people’s emotional health and understanding of themselves, as does seeking out the guidance of spiritualists who are open to different denominations and people.

In conclusion Life is what you make it. Plan for tomorrow, live for today and seek out support to help you as you age well physically, emotionally and spiritually throughout life.

www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 7

Disability Services

Serving the Otago community The team at Livingwell provide free disability information and advice and access to resources that support independent living. We are here for people with disability, older people, their whanau and the Otago community. Previously recognised as ‘Disability Information Service Inc’, at Dunedin Community House, we have now moved and are now trading as ‘Livingwell Disability Resource Centre’.

We believe Merits Mobility Scooters are best available in New Zealand, having been in production since the 1980s, these Taiwanese built Mobility Scooters are superior in quality to many of the other scooters on the market.

We offer several services: • Free up to date disability and health related information, helping you connect with services and supports in the community • Assessments for Total Mobility, the half price taxi scheme

Come find us at our new location, which is 10 George Street, corner of George and Bath Streets, opposite the escalators to the Civic Centre. With easy access on the ground floor, close to the Octagon and accessible car parks close by, Livingwell is much more visible and accessible to the community. Livingwell are the sole retailer of the Merits range of Mobility Scooters and Goldfern Electric Uplift Chairs in the region. They come with New Zealand new batteries in every scooter.

Since 1989

• ‘THE DIGEST’, our weekly electronic post, keeps you up to up to date with events and happenings across the health and disability sector, it’s free to subscribe • A Mobile Service covering all the Otago region, providing a unique guest speaker experience for community groups and demonstration of assistive products • Specialist ‘access’ advice if you are looking in improve physical access in and around your home or community • Disability responsiveness training/education • Assistive products for sale and hire.

5% pu dis rch cou n as es t on wi th SCO Go OT E ld Ca R rd

A not-for-profit organisation that provides free disability and health information. We have a wide range of products for sale and hire that support independent living. Come see the friendly team Monday to Friday 9am – 4.30pm. Ask about our Continence Product Service with free samples. MERITS INDIGO

MERITS ROADSTER

SILVERADO EXTREME

ELECTRIC LIFT CHAIR

ULTRALIGHT

PEDAL EXERCISER

UCCELLO KETTLE

Phone 471 6152 or toll free 0800 115 891 | info@livingwellcentre.nz www.livingwellcentre.nz | 10 George Street, Cnr of George & Bath Streets, Dunedin 8 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

Life and Style

Lifestyles

Tanah Pendant Light The Tanah Pendant Light brings lazy, beachside memories right into your home. Perfect for the dining room or living area, the light fixture is made of real cane and is delivered in a natural finish. The suspension is sold separately. RRP: $325 www.cranmorehome.com.au

SMEG BCC02 Automatic Coffee Machine SMEG’s sleek and stylish automatic coffee machine in taupe brings sophistication to any contemporary kitchen. This new number – just announced by SMEG last month in June – promises users it will ‘enjoy the elegance of essential design’. RRP: $1139 www.smeg.co.nz

Piano Bar Stool This burnt orange bar stool from Satara brings the cocktail lounge vibe right to your home. Its dark legs rest on trendy brass footrests with tipped feet. Available in both kitchen seat height (66cm) or bar seat height (75cm). RRP: $1228 www.satara.com.au

Guggenheim Nightstand Inspired by the Frank Lloyd Wrightdesigned Guggenheim Museum, this solid mahogany nightstand showcases classic lines and unique finishes – not to mention a secret drawer. This piece is ideal for those looking for a modern yet high class look for their bedroom. RRP: POA www.bocadolobo.com

Chaves Multi-Functional Table This modern, multi-functional table from Portuguese brand A. Brito can transform in a number of ways to fit your needs, such as a low desk or a coffee table. When open, the lower table coverts to handy storage space, as well as drawers at the end of each table. RRP: $1686 www.gomodern.co.uk DISCLAIMER: Please note prices listed here are recommended retail pricing. Prices are subject to change at the discretion of the seller. The information on this page is for information purposes only. The Job Agency T|A Markat assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon.

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Health Products

Leading a healthier & happier life Here at Health 2000 Oamaru, we understand that your health is your most significant asset.

The mission at Health 2000 Oamaru is simple and easy – to ensure that our clients leave Health 2000 content, and with a complete solution for their needs. To accomplish this, we listen to you and ask key questions to determine the best solution for your individual requirements.

Health 2000 as a franchise has overseen the natural health needs of Kiwis as far back as 1993, and is New Zealand’s most trusted supplier of natural health products - supplements, superfoods, herbal and homoeopathic remedies.

Our team are what makes Health 2000 Oamaru distinct and unique.

While the world around us has changed an awful lot since then, the one thing that hasn’t is our passion for improving the lives of our clients as well as their families. The satisfaction from improving a customer’s health never gets old, and at Health 2000 Oamaru, we take immense pride in knowing we are assisting individuals in their pursuit to lead a healthier and happier life. Making use of quality products sourced from mother nature, we endeavour to help customers live a healthy life – whether that be through helping with illness, or by helping you be proactive and understand that prevention is better than cure.

Over the years some very strong relationships have been formed with our customers. Our staff are attracted to the industry because they share our passion for health, and the relationships they form with our customers, are due to one thing: they care. Conveniently located at 187 Thames Street, we can courier out your order or come in to see us for all your natural health needs.

Services offered in store: • • • •

Hair follicle scanning Free blood pressure testing Zinc testing Care pack support.

Free Delivery for Orders over $20 100% New Zealand Owned and Operated

We are Happy to Safely Fulfill Your Natural Health Needs! Monday to Friday: 8.30am - 5.30pm Saturday: 9.30am - 2pm

Phone: 034349663

Email: info@h2koam.co.nz

187 Thames Street, Oamaru 10 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

Wellbeing ??? ???

A healthy headspace It is a topic that remained dormant in our society for many years. Silent whispers were exchanged behind closed doors, but the taboo stigma of the subject meant cries for help were ignored or never voiced. Today, thankfully, the subject of mental health is embraced by society. Campaigns, organisations and the media seek to educate and create public awareness and understanding about the importance of maintaining mental health.

What is mental health and how do we define it? The World Health Organisation says, “Mental Health refers to a broad array of activities directly or indirectly related to the mental wellbeing component and includes – a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing, and not merely the absence of disease.”

Embracing life at any age For older citizens, mental health can still be a difficult subject to broach as old fears or memories attached to dated mental health care and stigmas resurface, making it difficult for them to express their concern. But with people progressively living longer in life, it is becoming increasingly important to look after our mental health because we are seeing retirees living for another 20 or 30 years after they cross the retirement threshold. Mental health care starts with keeping in touch with those who provide our physical health care. Be ready to say to your doctor you would like to spend more than the usual 10 minutes allotted so you can address any emotional issues with them. Simple strategies like taking notice of what is around you, learning new things, being physically and mentally active and even smiling are all important for mental health. Nutrition and exercise also contribute to healthy bodies and general practitioners can suggest where to get advice on healthy eating.

As we grow older, our mental health may be something we become more consciously aware of.

Maintaining dental care and having regular hearing and vision checks is also important as well as attending podiatry consultations.

Life’s little distractions, in the form of domestic duties, employment and an active social calendar may no longer demand as much of our time and therefore we are left to ponder a new direction.

A significant part of being mentally well is also about nourishing our spirit.

And while this is not always the case, the transition into retirement can mark the beginning of a new era, in which we are offered back the independence we exchanged earlier on in life for the responsibilities attached to family and work.

Whether or not this is associated with a religious order, it is another factor that can make us less vulnerable to depression. Music, painting, poetry and other forms of art fill a need in many people’s lives. For some, there is a feeling of peace and happiness in working in a garden or walking on a deserted beach.

The liberties attached to this recovered freedom can open new doors and present fresh opportunities, but they can also leave us feeling somewhat lost and overwhelmed.

We do not stop growing as we age and it is up to us to recognise and seek out the people and activities that help us grow more vigorously and with greater joy.

It is at these times that our mental health may potentially suffer and we need to look at ways in which we can mitigate such feelings of loss or uncertainty.

Social support from friends, family and medical experts can all provide a buffer against mental illnesses like depression and having a support system in place can offer a sense of security and belonging.

www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 11

Wellbeing

Seven ways to improve your self-discipline

Finding success – be it professionally or personally – requires discipline. This is the actual personal disciplines of self-control, correctness, values, ethics, courage, character and purpose. Personal discipline is the path to improving our own performance. Self-discipline develops self-control and character, resulting in an orderly and efficient work and home life. It is discipline, not just desire, which determines success. Discipline is necessary to set and achieve goals. If we have the discipline to do, to act, to listen and to constantly seek ways to improve, we will achieve far greater success in our lives. Focused goal setting on results you really want to achieve is the key. Achieving your clarified and specific goals through being disciplined will give you a more orderly, confident and stress-free work life. As a bonus, productivity will improve and you will also demonstrate a positive impact on others. Attitudes are caught, not taught!

Seven steps to developing discipline in your work life 1

Determine and prioritise your work goals. Know what you want to achieve. Write it down. Be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely.

List your reasons for the goal. What am I doing and why am I doing this? What will I possibly gain from achieving this goal? Why is it important?

Identify any issues or obstacles. Anticipate road blocks that might work against you.

Develop new behaviours. Put in place new behaviours such as using your Outlook as a contact planner. Drink plenty of water every day. Practise reflection.

Have courage – courage to commit to the goals and their achievement.

Be ethical. Treat others as you want to be treated. Use strength based language. Praise publicly and criticise privately.

Stay focused. Read and review your goals daily. Don’t be despondent if you miss one or two. Just reset them and refocus. Don’t give up! Be persistent and diligent.

The price of discipline is always less than the pain of regret.

Kiwilaw

Bereavement is hard - but the pain of the legal work can be softened by Kiwilaw If you want a no nonsense, empathic approach to probate then you should definitely contact Cheryl Simes, Kiwilaw director and lawyer. Following the loss of a loved one, Kiwilaw makes your probate paperwork easier, less expensive, readily accessible, and still legally accurate. Evolving from a lifetime’s interest in computers and systems, communications, and the law, not to mention Cheryl’s commitment to ‘doing things better’, Kiwilaw offers a unique online approach to create the legal probate documents you require. If there’s no will, no worries, the online process is similar but the documents are slightly different and cost a little more to prepare. It really is that straightforward. Answer a series of simple questions online. Any concerns will be followed up, usually via email. Then court-ready documents arrive at your door, complete with instructions on what needs to be signed, how, where, by whom, and by when. With little to no overheads and advanced document automation that saves time, these savings are passed on to you - the client. With Kiwilaw there are no hidden costs.

12 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

Legal Services

Save on estate administration costs with Kiwilaw... It is difficult coping after losing a loved one. Taking care of the estate administration can seem overwhelming and expensive. But Kiwilaw’s online, nationwide probate service is there to make things easier.

Do you need probate?

Probate is the High Court’s approval of the Will and executors. You will need probate UNLESS there is no land (except Māori land) and no more than $15,000 in any one financial institution.

Read the reviews...

Don’t take our word for it, read the reviews and testimonials online at: www.kiwilaw.co.nz/grateful-clients

Does another lawyer hold the will?

Before agreeing to anything, ask them for a clear estimate. Most charge from $1000 to $3000 just for probate, not counting the rest of the estate administration. Remember, you do not have to use their services even if they do hold the will.

Kiwilaw offer a cost-effective probate service - nationwide

It really is straightforward. An initial no-obligation screening checks the will and any complications. If extra fees are required, you are told at that point. To go ahead, you answer questions in a simple online interview. Courtready documents then arrive at your door, complete with instructions on what needs to be signed, how, where, and by whom, and how to send everything to the High Court for processing. Usually, Kiwilaw’s fee is $490 and you pay the $200 High Court fee direct.

www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 13

??? Self-Improvement

Maintaining your motivation By Claire Wright

Staying motivated in your daily life can be tough even when you’re having a good time. Balancing work, relationships and social obligations, as well as your personal goals can be a daunting task. Combine that with the wonders of the internet and Netflix at your fingers, and it’s a wonder anything gets done. Before delving into how to stay motivated and focused, it’s important to note that you as a person are not defined by your productivity or how well you accomplish your personal goals.

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209 King Edward Street, South Dunedin, Otago Freephone: 0800 566 800 • Phone: 03 455 2875 • Mobile: 027 661 1112 Email: mobilityscooters@xtra.co.nz • www.mobilityscooters.co.nz 14 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

Self-Improvement Everyone is worthy of existing and taking a break. Breathing room and giving yourself rest and recreation is one way to stay your most motivated. At the end of the day when you close your eyes, where do you want to be? What do you want to do with your time here? These questions are hard to think about, but keeping them near the front of your mind will help guide you in the direction of how you want to live your life. Whether you want to further your career or you want to dive headfirst into your hobby, you want to make sure you’re not filled with regret when you near life’s finish line.

Base goals on what you want, not on what you think you should want Often times, our loved ones pressure you into goals that aren’t necessarily what we want. You have to make sure that the goal you’ve set for yourself is one you want to attain. Just because your grandad always wanted you to be a doctor doesn’t mean you have to be. If you’re going to spend all this energy going after something, make sure it’s something you want, that’ll make you fulfilled and happy.

Break down your goal into manageable tasks When you look at what you want to accomplish, sometimes the whole idea can seem insurmountable. However, nothing is ever built overnight. Breaking down what you want to do into smaller tasks with deadlines will help you accomplish them since they won’t feel so unachievable.

For example, if you want to start playing the piano, start out with the goal that you’ll learn a few chords to start with. That way they can add up, and when you look back, you’ll see you actually accomplished a lot.

Share your goal with others Share what you’re doing with a few loved ones to keep yourself accountable. Telling them you’re starting your novel is one way to make it a tangible thing – by saying you’re going to do something, you have already put the wheels into motion. That way, they can also check in with you and keep you motivated. Positive reinforcement always trumps negative reinforcement.

Look to others that do what you love Seeing the skill and artistry others have accomplished is a great way to stay hungry for your goal and give you something to strive for. For example, if you want to start roller skating, viewing YouTube videos of people doing different styles of roller skating you’re interested in – jam skating, skate park skating or roller derby – can motivate you to work harder. Be careful not to compare yourself to others. Everyone works at their own pace, and just because you’re not at someone else’s level yet doesn’t mean you’re bad at what you do. Keep at it! At the end of the day, we all want to live a life we can be proud of. Taking tangible steps, even small ones, towards the life we want is a sure-fire way to be more satisfied with our place on earth.

www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 15

Self-Improvement ???

10 Even the most optimistic people can use a mood boost every once in a while. Taking an extra moment for yourself will make your day brighter and give you a healthier outlook on life. Here are 10 simple ways you can bring a little happiness into your life right now:

Just a little bit of exercise can boost your mood and give you a fresh perspective on problems that have been bothering you.

THAT’S SH T HOT! King of Fires

CENTRAL OTAGO 1/17 Chardonnay Street, Cromwell P: 03 428 3197 | E: cromwell@hotspotinstallations.co.nz

www.hotspotinstallations.co.nz 16 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

2 Give it a rest Ditch late-night screen time and head to bed earlier. Increasing your amount of sleep can reduce your stress level and leave you feeling energised to tackle your day when you wake up.

3 Thank someone Acknowledge something that someone has done for you and send a note or a small bouquet of flowers. You’ll put a smile on their face and yours.

4 Compliment a stranger

1 Go for a walk

Because it’s a Blaze King Wood Fire.

easy ways to

Tell someone that you like something that they have and you’re guaranteed to brighten their day. Seeing good things in others will help you start to see good things in yourself.

New technology increases burn time A cosy home is a happy home and a blazing wood fire that lasts all night can make all the difference. Blaze King fires from Hotspot Installations in Southland and Central Otago do just that with new catalytic technology enabling the fire to produce controlled, even heat all day and night long. Blaze King log burners can last 12 or more hours without having to be stoked up and work by using a clean air technology that raises the temperature of the smoke to burning point. Customer feedback has been phenomenal, with customers saying that they never had a fire that heats the whole home and keeps going all night. Even those who live in rural areas and don’t need to meet the low emission standards buy Blaze Kings. They are also very energy efficient

burning about 30 percent less wood than a conventional fire. Blaze King has a 40-year history of making wood fires and a 30-year award winning history of making catalytic wood fires, mainly to heat homes in the freezing Canadian winter. To ensure fires are positioned correctly and the right type for the customer’s needs, Hotspot Installations provides detailed onsite consultations and full installation services. Hotspot Installations Southland showroom is located at 96 Kelvin Street, Invercargill and their Central Otago showroom is located at 1/17 Chardonnay Street, Cromwell. Combined, they have over 20 different types of log and pellet burners on display and the team are happy to provide their expert knowledge to ensure you make the right choice for your home and lifestyle.

Self-Improvement ???

boost your mood 5 Plan a vacation

8 Wear your favourite colour

Getting bogged down with our daily routines can send us into a rut, causing us to look at things negatively. Booking a trip near or far away will give you something to look forward to, and the break from your normal routine will help you to see your life a little more clearly.

Have a passion for red? Love cool blues? Wear your favourite colour and you’ll walk a little taller and smile throughout the day.

6 Buy something silly

Boost your confidence by completing a particularly hard crossword or Sudoku puzzle. Maximising your brain power and doing something challenging will help you to have a more confident outlook on life.

After all, laughter is the best medicine. Pick up something that makes you laugh like a funny picture, book, magazine, or a movie. Giving yourself time to laugh boosts feel-good endorphins.

7 Get a massage Your neck and back will thank you and you’ll feel relaxed the rest of the day – and then some.

9 Tackle a problem

10 Model behaviour Take a photo of yourself doing something you enjoy, like roller skating, skiing, swimming, playing an instrument, or being with friends and family. Place the picture on your desk to remind yourself that you lead an amazing life and have lots to be happy about.

Handcrafting and repairing high quality and durable custom-made dentures in Dunedin and Otago for over 100 years • New dentures • Partials • Bite plate • Denture repairs • Denture cleaning • Mouth guards • Re-line

Danny O’ Sullivan

Phone 03 477 0106 83 Crawford St, Dunedin, 9016 www.otagodentalservice.co.nz www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 17

Rest Homes

SICK of dealing with restaurant

Rosebank Lifecare Rosebank Lifecare has an all-in one wonderful rest home, hospital, serviced apartments, and villas. The staff strives to have a community built around people since it was established in 1992.

staff that just don’t quite understand? 4.1

2.6

5 1.6

3.4

3.7

4.3

2.9

4 3.8

AllergyRate allows you to search/rate restaurants and cafes according to how well and how willing they are to accommodate the needs of people with allergies. FREE DOWNLOAD VIA YOUR PREFERRED APP STORE TODAY!

Waitaki Flooring First Waitaki Flooring First is the ONLY 100 percent truly local flooring store in Oamaru, based from18 Itchen St at the start of the historic area.

We have a large selection of samples for carpet, carpet tiles, vinyl, vinyl planks and tiles, outdoor and garage carpets and speciality wall linings from some of NZ’s major suppliers.

We have been here for five years with current owners and over 30 years with previous owners, so we are not hard to find.

Malcolm and Belgotex to name just a few.

We have a large selection of samples for carpet, carpet tiles, vinyl, vinyl planks and tiles, outdoor and garage carpets and speciality wall linings from some of NZ’s major suppliers such as Godfrey Hirst, Feltex, Robert

Our friendly, helpful team can look after all your flooring needs from product selection and advice, free no obligation measure and quotes, right through to final install ready for you to live on your new floor.

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Rosebank Lifecare offers a place where families and their loved ones feel safe, comforted, and secure thanks to their friendly and qualified staff. The team accommodates every resident’s needs such as providing a positive environment, a wide range of services, and comfortable facilities. Their values are predominantly based on respect, hospitality, and services. Rosebank Lifecare makes sure everyone lives life to the fullest despite their health or condition. Every resident is treated as the individuals that they are; their stories, values, and experiences will always be respected by others. Staff value the support of family

and friends to achieve the best for their residents. Life is what people make it; Rosebank Lifecare could be the best decision someone’s ever made. The rest home and hospital are proud to be recognised as a finalist in the 2019 Aged Advisor People’s Choice Awards – Best Small Retirement or Lifestyle Village in the South Island. For more information on the rest home and hospitality versus the retirement village, along with testimonials from previous residents and even photos of the accommodation, please visit https://www.rosebankhosp.co.nz/.

To get in touch regarding care please call 03 308 0111 or email Sue Prowse via manager@ rosebanklifecare.co.nz, or contact Sue on the same email address to talk about sales.

Waitaki

Your Local Flooring Experts CARPETS • VINYL • CORK HARD FLOORING • GARAGE

0800 46 47 48

18 Itchen Street, Oamaru FLOORINGFIRST.CO.NZ

Rest Homes

CELEBRATING 28 YEARS

We offer residential care, independent living units and now also full care in our spacious serviced apartments. Our friendly, caring community has been developing for 28 years. We are still growing and welcoming new members to share our common bonds of independence, friendship, and the simple pleasures in life. “We understand that moving anywhere can be a big decision.”

P: (03) 308 0111 E: manager@rosebanklifecare.co.nz

77 Walnut Ave, Ashburton

www.rosebankhosp.co.nz

Let me answer your questions and show you around Rosebank. Our friendly community is just what you have been waiting for. Sue Prowse, General Manager

www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 19

Society

“

Battling ageism

Intentional or not, such comments can be hurtful. However, New Zealanders can address this issue, stop it in its tracks, and uphold the rights of the elderly – this must be everyone’s central concern.

While we are progressively moving towards being a more engaging and accepting society, the existence of certain prejudices within our communities continues to threaten social equality and stifle the opportunity for an egalitarian environment.

”

Discrimination towards marginalised groups, subcultures and identities within society is not new. And while social acceptance is growing and playing its role as a social moderator in New Zealand, as a collective and united body of people we are yet to address and defeat an age-old discrimination.

An age-old issue Ageism, or prejudice towards the elderly is detrimental to our living history; those who represent the wise and courageous individuals who fought for our liberation and voted for our own equality. In the workplace, on the street or in our social institutions, ageism is ubiquitous. In the most obvious sense, ostracising someone because of their age is a breach of the basic rights which should be afforded to all members of a democratic society, the environments in which ageism is manifested, are a catalyst for further inequality. Ageism can manifest itself in many ways. Sometimes it’s direct and other times it’s through ignorance and throwaway comments. Intentional or not, such comments can be hurtful. However, New Zealanders can address this issue, stop it in its tracks, and uphold the rights of the elderly – this must be everyone’s central concern.

Studying society There have been various studies conducted to address and measure the presence of ageist attitudes within society. A 2006 research report commissioned by the New Zealand Rights Commission was undertaken by University of Auckland business school professor Marie Wilson and student Jordan Kan. Wilson and Kan attested that age-based stereotypes distort employment markets and affect perception about the employability, skills and competency of older works. To legitimise the validity of this admission, Wilson and Kan conducted a field experiment where simulation and interviews were used to “assess the selection process from multiple perspectives and enable a thorough consideration of both the process and outcome of recruitment and selection decisions”. Young and older candidates were included in this study and the subsequent results were summarised in a report, ‘Barriers to entry for the older worker.’ This report confirmed that younger workers were perceived by employers as being more suitable candidates for employment opportunities although older people had a plethora of unique skills to offer. “Age-based discrimination undermines both personal and national productivity and limits the growth and productive capacity of firms...

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The assumptions behind age-based discrimination are largely false as well; older workers are not less adaptable, often possess rare and complex intellectual capital, provide longer and more reliable service to their employers and have fewer accidents, injuries and occasion fewer workplaces losses than their younger and often more expensive colleagues.”

Addressing ageism While ageism is on the social issues radar, prevalence is hard to determine as victims of age-based discrimination may not articulate their concerns; meaning it is difficult to develop a definitive understanding about the scale of the issue. When people are committing ageism, many of these offences can be readily identified by listening to general conversation as they are often quite overt acts. Once identified, ageism can be dealt with through education. Victims of ageism can also seek out support on their own accord through organisations like Age Concern. Age Concern focuses on advancing positive ageing and the wellbeing of older people. The organisation endeavours to assist older people who are subjected to ageist attitudes. Addressing and eradicating ageist ideologies is not just about reducing inequality. The wealth of experience and skills possessed by the elderly often go unrecognised although they are invaluable to the betterment of society. It is on the moral conscience of our nation to address this problem through understanding and support. If you or anyone you know is a victim of ageism you can contact Age Concern by logging on to www.ageconcern.org.nz. This website contains a list of regional office numbers you can ring. Alternatively, talk to a friend or family member who can help you address this issue.

Home Decorating

Guthrie Bowron Oamaru Guthrie Bowron Oamaru is your locally owned ‘One Stop Shop’ for all your decorating requirements. We supply Dulux and Cabots paint, selected wallpaper brands, tiles, flooring, curtains, blinds, awnings, shutters and a wide variety of cushions, homeware and furniture. We originally were branded as a Colourplus store and in December 2016, we purchased the Guthrie Bowron store from the North End of Oamaru and amalgamated the two stores into one at the Colourplus site being on the corner of Reed and Eden Streets by the roundabout. We are centrally located and we take pride in offering top service and a wide variety of products. We offer a free in-home measure and quote for curtains, blinds and flooring. The team is made up of two interior design consultants who have a wealth of experience in curtains blinds, shutters and awnings. As we move to more sustainable practices, we here at Guthrie Bowron Oamaru have a new range of 100% wool carpets and a paint range called Ultra Air. Both of these new product ranges work towards a more emission free and environmental friendly decorating experience. Come in store to discuss your needs.

We also have a flooring specialist whose passion is customer service, hard flooring and tiles. She is the first friendly face you will see when you come into the store. We look forward to providing you with top service and advice on all your home decorating needs.

Guthrie Bowron are New Zealand’s home decorating specialists. We offer Kiwis everything they need to refresh their homes, as well as advice from experts in every store. Our vision is to be New Zealand’s most inspiring home decorating destination, helping Kiwis turn their houses into homes.

New Zealand’s Trusted Decorating Specialists

CURTAINS & BLINDS | PAINT | WALLPAPER | FLOORING Phone. 03 578 7900 Email. office@gbblenheim.co.nz www.guthriebowron.co.nz www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 21

Creating a home office that works for you As working from home is a viable and realistic option for many of us, it makes sense to include a home office or home-based workspace as part of your building, renovation or home upgrade plan. It’s not really all that long ago as computers started to infiltrate our home lives, you might have created your ‘office’ in what was perceived as otherwise ‘wasted’ space under stairs or in cupboards. These spaces were fine if all you needed to do was check a few emails (possibly via dial-up) or briefly logon to look up some information, but they were definitely not designed for you to be at your desks for long periods of time.

Light fittings - The trend for light fittings these days tends to be downlights. However, they are not always positioned in the best place for computer screens. If you are planning to install these, see if you can get LEDs with a wide angle and have one positioned above where you are planning to put your desk, so that light goes onto your screen, not into it. Otherwise, you may need to take up space on your desk and use a desk lamp.

Colour schemes - Walls which are painted a dark colour make a room feel smaller and like they are soaking up the light; this makes the room feels dark, which is not ideal for working in, and if the room has a lot of sunlight, lighter colours can make it feel too bright. Head for something which is neutral, warm and feels good to you. You can always increase the colour feel in your workspace with art work.

Usually cramped and deliberately tucked ‘out of the way’ so that you could close the door on ugly computer ware and printers, they were less than ideal for setting Furniture - Many built-in desks in new or newly renovated homes (often up an efficient workstation. seen as a space saver) are frequently built-in too high and don’t allow for any flexibility of positioning. As long as we’ve got decent internet access, we can easily work from home – so realistically, with real work to be done, you don’t want to be tucked under the Some beautiful old desks – used as computer desks – are usually designed for stairs or stuck out on the landing! writing, not typing. There are quite a few things to consider when creating a study or home office Buy a specific computer desk, and if it’s within your budget, preferably one that’s though, and it is well worthwhile doing some planning with your builder/ electrically height adjustable so you can work both sitting and standing. architect, to optimise this space. A decent office chair is also important and these days it can blend in nicely with the rest of your decor. Look for a chair with good padding, adjustable height and Things to consider include: back angle, and one which is easy to adjust.

Location - Consider which room to use for your office, particularly in terms of the lighting. For instance, to reduce glare and heat from the sun at different times of the day, a room with windows which faces east, north or west will need good light control. The size of the window as well as aspect should be considered.

Computer cabling - Make sure that you’ve allowed for appropriate cabling, particularly if you are likely to have high computer use, or more than one computer in your workspace, either now or in the future.

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In conclusion - Finally, if you’re building a home office, even if you only use it occasionally, make sure to create a space you enjoy being in. Not only will it look great and function well, getting elements such as the lighting, furniture type and placement right, means that you will also be more productive in what is your very own work space. It’s your home, and it’s about living, so with a little bit of thought and planning, you can make your office work for you!

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McNab Plumbing McNab Plumbing is all about gas fitting and drainlaying. With four generations of McNab Plumbing so far, the team is well known for providing high-quality services to locals. The team is based in Dunedin, Otago, and is always on time and on the job.

Services include: • Plumbing: repairs, renovations, and new builds ranging from small to larger problems • Gasfitting: central heating/cosy fireplaces, indoor and outdoor, commercial work, and residential projects • Drainlaying: drainlaying, repairs, unlocking, registered drain layers, and emergency callouts

McNab Plumbing also offers affordable prices, professional expertise, great time management, excellent communication skills, and the team is always concise and speedy. Their team has been around for decades and they’re proud to make their customers satisfied when the job is done.

Nothing is too hard for these guys. It’s all about showing up and doing the job right. If a customer has an issue with something, the team will come back to fix any problems to make sure everything is secure. Although the team is fast and efficient, they do take their time to make sure everything has been done correctly before they go. Triple checking their work to ensure their customers are ready to call again next time they need a job done. Posted on their website are testimonials from previous customers who have rated their services (five-star ratings of course!) With comments to prove how fast and efficient Blair and his team are. Together they have a combined experience of 47 years in the industry, so there’s nothing they can’t fix. For more information check out the McNab Plumbing website: www.mcnabplumbing.co.nz To get in touch please contact Blair on 03 455 0899 or 027 431 8086, or email via blair@mcnabplumbing.co.nz.

Dunedin’s Plumber On time, on the job Call us today on 027 431 8086 for free advice and quotes. PLUMBING | GASFITTING | DRAIN LAYING McNab Plumbing provide all services for plumbing, gas fitting and drainage in Dunedin, Otago. We pride ourselves on being punctual, affordable and transparent. With decades of experience and plenty of happy customers - residential and commercial - we get the job done time and again. 2 Bellevue Street, Belleknowes, Dunedin | www.mcnabplumbing.co.nz

www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 23

Money Matters

Being wise with money At some stage in our lives, we have each experienced the pitfalls of living outside our financial means.

Material desire, impulsive indulgence and a lack of ability to differentiate between ‘want’ and ‘need’ can blind our better judgement. Or, quite simply, unexpected bills and expenses can blow the budget. As we get older, budgeting and saving for our future is imperative as is a regular renegotiation of financial priorities and preparation for potential losses of income. It’s about investing in the future you.

The value of wisdom While money is the universal form of currency, wisdom is of equal value, because being rich in savings is inconsequential to the security of your future if you are not rich in the financial wisdom you require to ration those savings. Financial fortune, like life, is subject to change and forgetting that this change is an inevitable part of human existence, can set you up for a financial fall you may not recover from. We only need to look at the pandemic and its effects on the global economy to realise the unpredictable nature of finance, savings and investment.

Finance at every age In acknowledgement of the average retirement age in New Zealand, we generally classify the elderly as 65 and older. But in fact, there are three generations within the 65 to 95-plus demographic. Being wise with money involves recognising which generation of this wider category you fall into and what respective financial needs or obligations you may have. While many elder targeted surveys in New Zealand suggest that those of retirement age manage their money well and that most report living a

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satisfied life in retirement, there are still important factors to consider when being wise with money. Many elderly people in retirement have no chance of increasing their income and cannot be sure of how long they are going to live or what might happen in between.

Get Sorted Establishing relevant financial boundaries is about formulating strategies for protecting yourself and your money. Recognising the importance of a legitimate and age-appropriate investment is also imperative to avoid financial downfall. For example, if you rely heavily on your superannuation or a small investment, the more conservative you need to be. Generally, if something is high interest it is generally high risk. In the ‘life stages’ section of the Retirement Commission’s online initiative the Sorted website outlines the following goals for 60 plus citizens: • Make some quiet time to set your goals • Be specific and write your goals down • Review goals every six months or annually • When you achieve your goal, celebrate and then set a new one. Sorted also offers mutiple checklists, suggestions and common assumptions for your consideration as well as updated information on equity release, retirement villages and how best to spend your savings. For further information on how to be wise with money, visit: www.sorted.org.nz.

Financial Advice

“We partner with our clients to build tailored investment portfolios.” Speak with us today. 03 477 5900 | dunedin@craigsip.com craigsip.com Craigs Investment Partners Limited is a NZX Participant firm. This advertisement is general in nature and is not financial advice. It does not take into account your financial situation, objectives, goals, or risk tolerance. The Craigs Investment Partners Limited Financial Advice Provider Disclosure Statement can be viewed at craigsip.com/tcs. Craigs Investment Partners Superannuation Management Limited is the manager and issuer of Craigs KiwiSaver Scheme. Visit craigsip.com

www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 25

Healthy Eating

A diet to desire

– eating to stay healthy

An apple a day keeps the doctor away – it’s an old saying, but there is more than a hint of truth in it.

Keep eating vegetables and fruit The recommended intake for vegetables and fruit is five servings a day (three vegetables and two fruit). These vital foods provide us with heaps of vitamins and fibre, as well as antioxidants and phytochemicals which have anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties.

What you eat has a huge impact on your ability to fight off bugs and infections during the winter months.

To keep your meals affordable, look for vegetables that are in season. Great winter vegetables include carrots, cabbage, cauliflower, pumpkin, yams, kumara and broccoli.

Older people and children need to pay special attention to what they eat during the winter, as they are particularly vulnerable. However, quality, availability and variety of fresh food can be an issue in winter.

Frozen and canned vegetables and fruit can also be great alternatives to fresh food during the winter, so keep plenty on hand. Look for those with no added sugar or salt where possible.

In cold weather, people can be less inclined to eat salads or raw fruit, but there are some cheap and simple steps you can take to make sure you keep your vitamin and mineral uptake up even during these months.

Cook comforting winter casseroles

Start the day with breakfast To get your energy levels up in the morning it is vital to have a good breakfast. Great ideas for warming winter breakfasts include baked beans or a poached egg on toast, a simple veggie omelette, or porridge with fresh, dried, stewed or canned fruit. If using canned fruit, try to buy fruit in its own juice rather than syrup, and try to keep additional sugar to a minimum if you stew your own fruit.

Casseroles are fantastic for keeping you warm during winter and are great for feeding a family on a budget. Look to invest in a slow cooker – cheaper cuts of meat work well when cooked slowly and there is nothing to rival the smell of a home cooked casserole as you walk through the door at the end of the day. You can put almost anything in a casserole, but try to add lots of root vegetables and tinned tomatoes and keep the extra fat used to a minimum. Mustard and worcestershire sauce can give a real flavour kick and canned kidney beans or chick peas added near the end of cooking add great texture and taste to a dish.

Soup, soup, soup! Soup is the ultimate ‘meal in a bowl’. Choose a favourite recipe and make a big batch over the weekend, then freeze individual portions for lunches during the week. Look to spice up traditional recipes by adding lentils, small pasta or pearl barley – they will give great texture and flavour to your dish, as well as making it go further. Pureed or textured, there is nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of soup served with crusty bread, pita bread or toast.

Curried kumara soup 1 tsp oil 2 medium onions, peeled and chopped 1 tsp minced garlic 1 tbsp curry powder or red curry paste 2 medium orange kumara, peeled and chopped 4 cups chicken stock 2/3 cup evaporated milk. Heat the oil in a large saucepan. Add onion and garlic and stir over a medium heat until the onion softens. Add curry powder or red curry paste and cook for a further 1-2 minutes. Add kumara and chicken stock and simmer for 10 minutes or until the kumara is soft. Puree the mixture, add evaporated milk and heat through without bringing to the boil. Adjust the seasonings to taste. Serving suggestion: serve sprinkled with chopped fresh coriander or parsley.

26 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

Easy minestrone soup ¾ cup (135g) pasta spirals or shells 1 large onion, peeled and chopped 6 cups chicken stock 1 x 500ml jar tomato pasta sauce ½ tsp dried oregano 1 tbsp sugar 1 cup pumpkin, peeled and chopped 1 large potato, peeled and chopped 1 large carrot, scrubbed and chopped 1 cup frozen peas, thawed 1 x 425g 4 bean mix, or red kidney beans (drained) 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped. Combine pasta, onion, chicken stock, pasta sauce, oregano, sugar, pumpkin, potato and carrot in a saucepan. Boil uncovered for 15 minutes. Add peas and 4 bean mix and cook uncovered for 10 minutes. Add parsley, stir until hot. Serving suggestion: serve sprinkled with parmesan or grated tasty cheese and bread.

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Experience Te Anau with Aden Motel Nestled beside one of New Zealand’s largest lakes and surrounded by magnificent scenery, Te Anau is the one true gateway to the Fiordland National Park. Conveniently located on Quintin Drive, situated in the beautiful township, your hosts, Irene Benfell & David Herron, welcome you to the Aden Motel.

Ample parking with off street boat parking, guest laundry, playground, car and luggage storage and a BBQ for those lovely summer nights is also available. With easy access to the nearby Fiordland National Park, it provides a convenient base camp to those who wish to catch a glimpse of the glacier-carved fiords of Doubtful and Milford sounds, or explore the many other magnificent sights and sounds that the area has on offer.

“I would stay here again without hesitation.” This comment is just one of the many rave-reviews their Motel has received online from its visitors. Indeed, with a 12-unit, ground-floor complex consisting of seven studio units, three, one-bedroom units and two, two-bedroom units – Aden Motel offers a range of quality accommodation options with all the facilities a guest could possibly ask for. The rooms are decorated with a Kiwiana theme, and are wellequipped with kitchen facilities, comfortable lounge areas and bathroom facilities, as well as free wireless internet in all rooms.

Plus, the Aden Motel also now offer a three-bedroom cottage, which sleeps up to eight people right next to the Motel called Heron’s Cottage.

Let the team help you organise day trips to experience the glowworm caves, horse trekking, jet-boating, and many more activities Te Anau offers. With super friendly staff, superb services and great prices, Aden Motel ticks all the boxes for location, attractions and services and is the ideal place to stay while you’re experiencing this magical part of New Zealand. Book your getaway with them today at adenmotel.co.nz

Experience Te Anau With

RealNZ Special - $279.00pp

• FREE WIFI & BBQ

3 Trips Combo includes:

• LAUNDRY FACILITIES

• Milford Sound Nature Cruise • Doubtful Sound Day Trip • Glow Worm Caves Tour Book via the Motel - Available until 30/04/22 *excludes accomodation

• PETS BY ARRANGEMENT • COOKING FACILITIES • PLAYGROUND • TV IN ALL UNITS & BEDROOMS • STUDIO, 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM APARTMENTS

Architecture

Comfort to die for Shark House boasts bold, geometric angles, unlike most of the traditional boxy homes dotting the Christchurch suburban landscape.

Angular planes and crisp lines overlap and converge in a series of vanishing points that twist around the façade as if the building is forever in motion. No surface is perpendicular to any other yet the offset faces and acute edges of seamed steel come together with engineered precision. Its dramatic design by First Light Studio draws inspiration from the clients’ love of European supercars – specifically the all-powerful Maserati. The inside plays with contrasting materials that create a warm, inviting effect – textured concrete walls embrace rich timber interiors. Black steel accents offset different textures and colours to connect it all together seamlessly. As First Light Studios puts it: “Monochromatic city slickness plays off against the rich colour and warmth of natural materials.” First Light Studios director, Nick Officer says, “This house is indeed a building of dualities: it’s entirely static construction of solid surfaces manage to achieve a dynamic fluidity, sculpted inside and out with hard and durable materials that look soft, tactile and malleable.” This high-end, sculptural geometry takes contemporary homes to another level – a family home anyone could sink their teeth into.

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Photography by Dennis Radermacher at Lightforge - www.lightforge.co.nz

Mowers & Heating

Roslyn Mowers and Heating Much more than just a mower shop in Dunedin, Roslyn Mowers & Heating specialises in outdoor power equipment and wood fires. Roslyn Mowers & Heating was established 50 years ago at the back of a Dunedin service station, where the original owner serviced lawn mowers. Roslyn Mowers & Heating is made up of six hardworking team members who have a wealth of knowledge between them, always going the extra mile where your precise needs are met. Now incorporating Everedi Mowers at 547 Anderson Bay Road, where they have a large showroom and all equipment can be dropped off for repair and servicing at the store. Roslyn Mowers & Heating provides back-up support for all goods in store and stands firmly behind our products. two - five year manufacturers’ waranty on all power equipment. All wood fires come with a 10-year firebox guarantee, with a 12-month guarantee on consumable components such as fire bricks.

Commercial operators such as arborists, tradespeople and road workers appreciate the expert advice found at Roslyn Mowers & Heating. The dedicated team at Roslyn Mowers & Heating can service almost all small-motor equipment.

Residential and commercial customers can take advantage of the following services: • Extensive product range – including pole saws, blower vacs, small engines, water blasters, safety equipment and generators • Lawn mowers, ride-on mowers and lawn tractors including Husqvarna • Lawn mower repairs • Servicing and maintenance of outdoor power tools • Repair work for commercial tools and equipment • Wood fire specialist – Roslyn Mowers & Heating offer advice, sales and installation of Masport Wood Fires

To make an enquiry about our ride on mowers, or other equipment or tools, please contact Roslyn Mowers & Heating today.

• Specialist in Husqvarna Auto mowers. • Unlock hours of free time each year • World leaders in robotic mowers, working quietly and leaving a perfectly cut lawn

P: 03 476 3446 | E: info@roslynmowers.co.nz | www.roslynmowers.co.nz 150G Kaikorai Valley Road, Dunedin www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 29

Property

Beyond the Fees Often the first question we are asked is - What are your Fees? Another, more complete, way to ask the same question is - What do I get for the money that you charge? But we would also want to ask you - Why as New Zealanders do we not value our own time the way other country’s do? Would you not be better to be earning money doing what you do best? Or spending time with family and friends whilst we do what we do best? Property Management is a complex career with a lot of our job happening behind the scenes as we carry out the many tasks required. Because that is what we do. However, we often forget to tell our clients just how much goes on, because all they need to know is that everything is being taken care of and that things are running smoothly. As they should. As a property manager we wear many hats! We’re advisers, mentors, councilors, accountants, handymen, cleaners, project managers and the list goes on! That is on top of actually being a property manager. This week we took on three new build properties and within 48 hours of the first viewing we had signed contracts on them at the

top end of market rent and with excellent tenants moving in the same week. This is the value professional property managers deliver. We also arranged for a full house load of curtains to be installed, Healthy Homes compliance to be signed off (new builds often do not meet healthy homes standards), contacted the local council and arranged delivery of the bins, followed up with the developers to remove port-a-loos and arranged for their cleaners to complete a final clean. This was all only achievable in such a short period of time as we have a team of trustworthy, excellent staff and tradies around you who will drop everything to help you out and know who to contact in order to get things done and ensure the best outcome for our clients. Did we charge for any of these extra items? NO, absolutely not! Our clients are hiring us to be their eyes, ears, and support on the ground. When a client is not based near their investment property, this level of service is invaluable. Many of our clients are based outside of Christchurch, whether that be elsewhere in the country or overseas. They tell us that without us on the ground truly understanding our market, they would not have been able to build their portfolios the way they have.

With the assistance of Quinovic who identified suitable properties for us and sometimes even handled the buying negotiations on our behalf. (Some years later they would also help with the sale of these properties).

Since she took over our portfolio we have benefited from a significant reduction in down time between tenants, increased rental returns and very thorough property maintenance and record keeping.

- C and S Murphy

- E Wilton

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Property

Property Management for Everyday Kiwis

Residential Property Management Christchurch

• Owner Operated • Experienced long term Property Management Team • Nationally recognised Property Management Team • Our property manager have small portfolios equalling exceptional service • Particularly fussy tenant selection • Escort all prospective tenants- We do not hand out keys • Zero tolerance to rent arrears • Our focus is on doing what we say we will do – ASK US ABOUT OUR SERVICE GUARANTEE

Tel: 03 355 0348

quinovic-merivale.co.nz www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 31

Building Services

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Building Services

Hampden 156m

Karitane

156m2

Our latest house plans - now available!

Palmerston 167m2

Moeraki

170m2

Jeffrey Dennison

BUILDERS

027 354 1754

jeff@jdbuilders.nz

www.jdbuilders.nz

Waikouaiti 177m2

• • • •

Let us take care of it all for you . . .

From the initial design through to the complete working drawings. Building consent through your local council. Building and managing sub-contractors. All backed by a Master Builders guarantee. www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 33

For the DIYer, the internet is a hive of information. Websites containing links, videos, pictures or audio of some basic projects can enable you to capitalise on the expertise of others. For the building project, major stores such as Bunnings Warehouse or Mitre 10 offer online brochures and ‘how to’ guides to simplify the process, and staff are trained in what tools are best for what job. While just about everything looks good with a paint job, the colour you use, the type of paint needed and the tips and tools necessary to add quality to the job may make the difference between a good job and one that was best before it was started.

Since the 1950s, do-it-yourself, or DIY projects, have become a growing part of the Kiwi lifestyle. Our number eight wire mentality coupled with a fiercely independent attitude have crafted a DIY culture, and it’s yours for the taking. DIY home improvements, in particular, involve fixing, renovating or adding to a house without the expense of professional contractors. Many homeowners may have a basic understanding of how to use common tools and complete general tasks, and for small projects this is often enough because giving your home a spruce up may be as simple as slapping on some paint or throwing up some curtains.

03 409 0770

www.denturecentre.nz admin@ denturecentre.nz

Major paint stores such as Resene offer colour consulting services and pamphlets on just about every type of paint job, the tools to use, instruction manuals and what paint system to use on what substrate. Note to self: test pots are always the way to go! Landscaping advice can be obtained from most leading garden supply stores and magazines such as Home and Garden can prove invaluable when it comes to planning your dream garden. For the truly passionate, most areas offer DIY classes or more in-depth courses. Community education centres are often a good source, as are local colleges or tertiary institutes. Or you may discover a friend knows how to re-wire a house, or simply has a way with colour consulting, while you are the master of plumbing – and then everyone wins. The best advice is to start simple, get advice and very soon you could have the house of your dreams, for a dream price.

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Providing quality denture services to Central Otago Free consultations | Appointments necessary 34 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

Mini-makeover Remodelling a room can be a big undertaking for the inexperienced DIYer. But even a mini-makeover can be just what you need to spruce up a room or two. The bedroom is always a good place to start. Often thought to be the sanctuary of the home, it has the ability to refresh your mind, body and soul. The first thing to do before the mini-makeover of any room is to de-clutter. The second thing to look at is colour, a powerful tool which can shape moods and emotions – there are many variations of the basic colours. Some colours are more appropriate for particular rooms within a house and should be treated with care. Blue, for example, is a calming, relaxing and healing colour which would be perfect for a bedroom. Yellow, known for stimulating mental activity, would be great in a study, but its ability to keep our minds switched on means it may not be so favourable in a bedroom.

You may prefer to stick to neutral colours. These allow you to jazz up and change the feel of the room with just some new cushions or a throw rug; think deep warm reds cushions in winter or cooling blue or green hues in summer. When decorating an area, the complementary colours and their variations should be remembered and combined with our main choice of colour by way of soft furnishings and art works. Changing handles or knobs on furniture is a simple way to update a room. Keep in mind the ‘era’ or style you want to convey in the room. For a contemporary look add simple stainless-steel handles, or for a more traditional look consider a more opulent look of fittings. Maybe you’re not ready for a complete over-haul of your entire house. But by adding one, some or all of these mini-makeover tips, you can get the fresh, new room you’ve been waiting for, or even just that little pick me up to get you through the winter blues.

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Smart storage solutions Stairs - Ever thought of storing items in the stair risers? Or place drawers inside the steps so you can pull them out when you need something? It’s a great way to hide items and a bonus that it adds visual interest to your home.

Furniture - Ottomans, window seats with a lid, sofas with drawers in the bottom, beds with in-built storage, and trunks. These furniture pieces not only work as storage but it adds character.

Find storage in the stairway wall and under the stairway by adding shelves or a shelving unit that can be pulled out from under the stairs.

Closets - Build rows of shelves inside the closet and additionally, add rows of hooks to hold handbags or jewellery on the inside of the door. Hang an overthe-door rack or hook to keep things organised and out of sight.

Ceilings - Overhead storage is not always the most obvious place you would look to store items, but it’s surprisingly suitable. Narrow hallways are ideal and if you don’t mind a bit of DIY, attach shelving onto the ceiling to make the most out of your ceiling space. Under floor storage - If you’re not looking up, look down. Find storage under the floor boards where you can store everything from precious possessions to jewellery and clothes.

Plumbers, Gas fitters & Drainlayers 021 382 586 admin@notjustplumbing.co.nz 36 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

Walls - Fringe your hallway with shelves or cabinets, particularly if you have a wide hallway. For something creative, add character with a wall decal. Want to store some books on a shelf? Apply a tree wall decal and attach the shelves high up in the tree. Remember: look up, look down, look inside and look behind for unused storage solutions around your home.

 RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL  NEW BUILD & REPAIRS  WALL & FLOOR TILING  INTERIOR & EXTERIOR Call us to fix or install all any types of tiles. Whether using natural stones, ceramic, porcelain or mosaic tiles, we will deliver a beautiful finish, in every detail and at great value for money.

Mob: 021 284 5377 Email: tiling.plus@yahoo.com www.tilingplus.co.nz

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Everest Painters

care about the details

A poorly maintained property or commercial space is one of the first things onlookers will notice.

We are more than happy to work around your busy schedule to get the job done well, and get it done right. Rest assured, we will consult with you on all aspects of colour selection and colour coordination for your project to ensure that everything is completed according to your preferences.

That’s why it’s crucial to hire the correct painters to provide a costeffective solution to your ongoing maintenance needs. Here at Everest Painters, we are consistently committed to delivering customer service that is remembered long after the job is completed. As Wanaka’s premier painting contractor, we always strive to provide honest, reliable, residential and commercial painting services that meet all of our clients’ needs. We offer an extensive range of services to meet your residential and commercial painting needs, from interiors and exteriors to residential and commercial builds – we cover all areas. At Everest Painters we care about the details. Indeed, we combine the industry’s best paint with our passion for precision to exceed your expectations.

You can feel comfortable knowing that the team will get the job done to the highest professional standards.

When you choose Everest Painters, you can feel comfortable knowing that the team will get the job done to the highest professional standards. No matter how big or small your job may be, the team have got you covered from start to finish. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch today.

Everest Painters & Decorators Ltd New Builds • Repaints • Exteriors Commercials • Work Covered

www.everestpainters.com 0210 863 8636 • info@everestpainters.com WA N A K A , O TA G O R E G I O N , N E W Z E A L A N D www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 37

Roofing

Edwards & Hardy Roofing Edwards & Hardy Roofing has been providing roof treatment and maintenance services since 1959 and we are New Zealand’s largest roof maintenance and re-roof company. A family-owned business that is personally committed to supporting New Zealanders in maintaining their properties; we aim to provide the best possible service, to economically maintain existing roofs, at the best possible price, with satisfaction guaranteed. As we grew, we were often asked to repair and replace roofs and we have developed close and long-standing partnership relationships with a number of respected New Zealand roofing manufacturers and suppliers, and now employ over 300 people and contractors across 13 branches. We are proud to be New Zealand’s biggest roof maintenance and re-roof company. We provide nationwide support in the cleaning, repair and maintenance, re-coating and re-roofing of residential and commercial long run iron, metal tile and concrete tiled roofs.

We can also offer a number of other support services including gutter installation and cleaning, exterior wall and pathway cleaning, brick and block wall sealing and spider control. All and all this adds up to a wide range of roofing support, advise and services in which we offer nationwide. We are currently helping over 3,000 happy New Zealand customers per month with their roofing and property needs. We are totally committed to supporting homeowners in maintaining their properties and it is our people, and their knowledge, understanding and expertise, that has been the key to our success.

Services: • Guttering • Roof cleaning • Roof repairs • Re-Roofing • Roof protection

• • • •

Roof painting Exterior cleaning Brick and stone wall sealing Asbestos removal.

So, what are you waiting for? Call us today on 0800 666 677 for all your roofing-related needs.

New Zealand’s Local Roofing Company

Guttering

Roof Cleaning

Roof Repairs

Re-Roofing

Edwards & Hardy Roofing is New Zealand’s largest roof maintenance company, proudly New Zealand owned and operated.

Call us at 0800 666 677 admin@roofguard.co.nz 38 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

www.edwardsandhardyroofing.co.nz

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Leave no spot unchecked with a Full Body MoleMap Worried you’ve spent too much time in sun? Or concerned about a new or changing mole? Give your skin its best chance with an expert skin cancer check by MoleMap.

combines a head-to-toe skin check and total body photography by Melanographer nurses with expert diagnosis of any suspicious moles by specialist Dermatologists. When it comes to detecting melanoma early, it’s your skin’s best chance. MoleMap appointments are available in Dunedin weekly Mon to Thurs. Clinics are also held regularly in Balclutha, Gore, Invercargill, Queenstown, Clyde, Wanaka, Oamaru, Timaru, Fairlie, Twizel and Ashburton.

Melanoma is fast growing and can quickly become deadly.

SuperGold cardholders get $50 off a Full Body MoleMap.

1. Around 4,000 New Zealanders will be diagnosed with it this

year alone.

2. Approximately 70% of those cases will be in people aged

Simply book online at molemap.co.nz or call 0800 665 362 and use the promo code ‘GOLD50’.

50 years and older.

3. However, the good news is that melanoma is almost always

preventable if it’s detected early enough.

That’s why MoleMap uses specialist technology that’s designed to look deep inside a mole’s structure to detect any early signs of potential skin cancer early. And why our proven skin-mapping system

References: 1. https://www.melanoma.org.nz/early-detection 2,3. https://www.melanoma.org.nz/facts-risk-factors

Are you at risk of melanoma? Did you know that New Zealand has the highest rate of melanoma in the world? Every day, around 7 New Zealanders are diagnosed with melanoma - it’s the most serious form of skin cancer and it can quickly become deadly. 1,2

That’s why MoleMap’s proven skin-mapping system is designed to detect skin cancers such as melanoma early – when it’s most treatable. 3

Special offer for SuperGold cardholders. Know that your skin is in check with $50 off a Full Body MoleMap for SuperGold cardholders – simply book online at molemap.co.nz or call 0800 665 362 and use the promo code ‘GOLD50’.

0800 665 362 | molemap.co.nz References: 1. Health Promotion Agency and the Melanoma Network of New Zealand (MelNet) 2017: New Zealand Skin Cancer Primary Prevention and Early Detection Strategy 2017 to 2022. 2. https://www.melanoma.org.nz/facts-risk-factors 3 . https://www.melanoma.org.nz/early-detection

www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 39

Destination Westland

West Coast uncovered: one coast, six ways to discover By Shona Cobham

Tantalisingly close, but a world apart in other ways, the West Coast beckons as a holiday destination.

One coastline extending from Buller to Haast over more than 500kms and sandwiched between mountains and sea, the West Coast covers almost nine percent of New Zealand’s total land area — a diverse region of wonders, landscapes, and experiences.

Not familiar with this naturally spectacular area? There’s no better time than now to discover what sets this place apart from the rest of New Zealand. Based on six significant natural icons, there are six different sides of the Coast people may not be aware of, and that’s before they factor in meeting the locals.

Oparara Arches: Off the beaten track There’s only one road into Karamea and there’s definitely a final frontier feel about this place. Head North from Westport and as visitors approach the end of Highway 67, they’ll find a world that feels primeval both above and below ground. About a 45-minute drive from Karamea, the moss-covered, dense forest of the Kahurangi National Park gives way to the Oparara Basin and its 35 million-year-old cave system. The largest and most iconic feature, the Oparara Arch, can be accessed via a short, well-formed track. But to see the sub-fossil remains of nine types of moa and giant hokioi (Haast’s eagle) visit the Honeycomb Hill Caves. The now-extinct birds fell through holes in the limestone cave ceilings, creating the intact fossilised skeletons there today. To protect this special taonga, access is by a guided tour only (book at the Karamea Information Centre). An alternative route into the area is via The Old Ghost Road, a longforgotten gold miners’ road revived as an 85km mountain biking and tramping trail from Lyell to Seddonville. It’s an epic backcountry adventure and an insight into the challenges faced by early pioneers. A more family-friendly activity is the short but scenic Cape Foulwind Walkway. See the westerly swells pounding the rugged coastline and spot New Zealand fur seals all year round.

40 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

Destination Westland

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes: Blow those cobwebs away While Pancake Rocks and Blowholes is the West Coast’s most visited attraction, there are many unmissable highlights on this part of the coast — from short walks to a Great Walk in a national park, to lonely beaches and little towns bubbling with history and amazing stories. Let’s start with the Great Coast Road proclaimed by Australia’s major travel guide Lonely Planet as one of the planet’s best scenic drives. Running between Westport and Greymouth, this 100km of spectacular ocean views takes about 90 minutes to drive without allowing for photo stops and visits along the way. About halfway along this route, there’s much more to Punakaiki than a quick stop at the rocks. The bustling little tourism resort has a great collection of nice and quirky bed and breakfasts, eco-stays, cabins, and holiday homes for hire, a beautiful waterside hotel, and a campsite. Staying over is recommended as it’s worth timing your visit for high tide when the blowholes perform a mesmerising spectacle bursting up through the pancaked limestone formations.

Hokitika Gorge: Find your cool in Hokitika No two ways about it, Hokitika deserves the title of the Coast’s coolest little town. There’s a distinct arty vibe to the Pounamu capital from the iconic driftwood artworks on the beach to the jade carving workshops in town. There’s even a glassblowing studio, a lively food culture (unsurprisingly in the town of the Wildfoods Festival), and a range of accommodation. Photographers love the Hokitika Gorge for its stunning turquoise blue waters contrasted against lush green bush and rocky white limestone banks. Half an hour’s drive from town towards the hills, the short trail is a gentle, accessible walk with a spectacular pedestrian swing bridge across the gorge. Languid lakes and wetlands are a constant feature of the landscape around Hokitika. Serene Lake Kaniere is often referred to as the Coast’s most beautiful lake, eclipsing many other stunning lakes and waterways.

When people can tear themselves away, just across the road there’s the Paparoa National Park visitor centre.

Further South, Lake Mahināpua is a shallow inland lagoon, sacred to Māori, surrounded by forests, and part of a network of waterways through the wetlands.

Lake Brunner / Moana: All aboard

Glacier Country: Outstanding adventures

Stay a day or stay a while, tranquil Lake Brunner and the tiny settlement of Moana are more than just a scenic stop on a spectacular East-West train journey.

A region of superlatives New Zealand’s highest mountains, longest glaciers, and tallest forests.

Lake Brunner’s deep waters are home to so many wild brown trout, they’re said to die of old age. Fishing season is year-round with boats and guides available for hire. Photographers will love how the snow-capped Southern Alps are mirrored on the water’s inky surface.

In Glacier Country, people can venture into some of New Zealand’s most untouched nature during the day and relax in luxury at night. Out of more than 60 in Westland Tai Poutini National Park, twin glaciers Fox and Franz Josef are the most accessible.

In summer the lake is a great place to kayak, swim or just relax on sandy beaches sandwiched between pristine waters and ancient forests.

Visitors can spot the creeping ice flows from local look-out points, but for a truly overwhelming experience, take a guided heli-hike on the luminous blue ice.

Otherwise, explore lakeside trails such as Bain Bay Track and the short but photogenic Carew Falls Track. On a clear day, the hike up Mount French is rewarded with views of Lake Brunner and the Southern Alps.

Been building up the courage to skydive, why not do it there? Carbon-zero and awarded for their community commitment, Skydive Franz Josef and Fox Glacier offer jumps with stunning views from the glaciers and Aoraki Mount Cook to the Tasman Sea.

www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 41

Destination Westland

Haast World Heritage Area: Into the wilderness A little town on the edge of wilderness, Haast is the western gateway into Te Wahipounamu South West New Zealand — the vast UNESCO World Heritage area, encompassing the four southern national parks, home to rare marine and alpine wildlife and recognised as one of the world’s most outstanding natural treasures. Certain parts of this wild coast are more accessible than others. Travelling South from Fox Glacier, there are a series of tiny settlements and scenic spots where short walks reveal lakes

West Coast Cycle & Tours

and deserted beaches still shrouded with towering stands of native forest. For the intrepid, there are longer trails and multi-day tramps (such as the Copland Track) into the mountains.

To find out more visit:

Destination Westland - Hokitika ISite (03) 755 6166 enquiries@hokitikainfo.co.nz www.hokitikainfo.co.nz

West Coast Cycle & Tours West Coast Cycle & Tours is a bicycle rental service - a local family-owned business close to the beautiful beach, located on 75 Fitzherbert Street, Hokitika. The company offers bike hire, trail information, tour planning, shuttles, and luggage transfers.

Bicycle Rental Service in Hokitika Our Bespoke family business offers bike hire, trail info, tour planning, shuttles and luggage transfers. Business Hours: Mon - Sun: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM

www.westcoastcycletours.com

Call us now! 027 567 7139 75 Fitzherbert Street, Hokitika 7810, New Zealand 42 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

The staff provides friendly and professional advice. Customers can hire bikes or bring their bikes for staff to put in their company shuttles. They can also help customers with any bicycle issues and sort out the logistics of transporting customers to where they want to go. Their goal is to deliver only the best customer service on the West Coast, so it’s a memorable and enjoyable experience. There are packages set so customers can choose or reach out for their own custom-made

exclusive experience. Find photos on their website gallery to see just how beautiful the views are on the West Coast. The website also provides testimonies for those interested in seeing what other customers had to say (five-star ratings of course!). The website also has updates to let their customers know what’s going on every so often. For example, staff can offer a free E-Bike upgrade for groups of four or more with “Our Backyard Tour,” which includes; overnight accommodation, shuttles, bag transfers, trail support, and their knowledge of the place. Show this code at the store: Ebike Free. For more information call West Coast Cycle Tours now on 027 567 7139 any day of the week from 8 AM-6:30 PM.

Destination Westland ???

Coastal paradise on your doorstep We live in paradise here on the West Coast and I think after the unprecedented last couple of years, we appreciate it more than ever. We have enjoyed hosting our domestic tourism market and I believe that we have been discovered as more and more Kiwis find out just how much beauty they have on their doorstep. The Grey District is the perfect base to explore and is at the start or finish of one of the top 10 train trips in the world, the famous Tranz Alpine, which is now back on track and gearing up to launch its premium experience. A stopping point for the Tranz Alpine is Lake Brunner - the jewel in the crown of the Grey District, and at Moana the local hospitality, fishing, water sports and outdoor activities is pleasure in this untamed natural wilderness. The majestic, rugged Coast Road that connects us to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes is classified as one of the top 10 drives in the world.

We have heard from real estate agents that people around the country are moving here and bringing their jobs with them and working remotely - something that has been made possible by the major technology upgrades in rural connectivity that we have seen this year on the West Coast. The Wildfood Festival taking place in Hokitika in March 2021 has announced that Stellar will be their lead act and Greymouth has also secured the Spring Challenge for next year. So, come and visit us and see for yourself what we have to offer. Article kindly supplied by Grey District Council Mayor Tania Gibson.

From Punakaiki you can now enter the Paparoa Track, the new addition to New Zealand’s Great Walks which is dedicated to the miners and families of the Pike River tragedy. The track connects to Blackball, one of our historic mining towns where you can find the famous Blackball Salami and Formerly the Blackball Hilton. By basing yourself in Greymouth there are many other beautiful places you can visit. Take in our local hospitality and rich pioneering history however, the West Coast is also on the look-out for skilled workers in many areas including healthcare, primary industries, engineering, education and trades. With the average house price averaging $250,000 it is possible to have your own slice of paradise on a lifestyle block with a very quick daily commute, and you could be the only person on the beach or have just a 10-minute drive to the bush.

Grey District Council (03) 769 8600 info@greydc.govt.nz www.greydc.govt.nz

Warm Friendly Welcome

Spacious Comfortable Accommodation

The perfect base for your West Coast Adventure Twelve Superior Studio, One and two bedroom units, situated in the heart of Hokitika

www.fitzherbertcourt.co.nz

03 755 5342

fitzherbert.court@xtra.co.nz

0800 77 55 34

www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 43

Hokitika Wildfoods Festival:

a taste of the wild

Just about anything and everything is on the table for the annual Wildfoods Festival, New Zealand’s premier opportunity to taste indigenous wild foods. Hokitika’s headline-grabbing Wildfoods Festival will be back for its 33rd edition on Saturday, 12 March, 2022, promising a feast of fantastic Kiwi headline acts served up alongside some of the country’s most outrageous gastronomic delights. Often featured in international media, the quirky annual festival is the West Coast’s biggest day out, attracting thousands of outof-towners and locals to Hokitika’s Cass Square, where food is the excuse for a light-hearted celebration of ‘Coasters and their regional culture. Top line entertainment for 2022 will feature Kiwi music icons Sir Dave Dobbyn and rock band ZED headlining the main stage, with singer-songwriter Greg Johnson and his band, and up-and-coming Cassie Henderson also performing. While the menu for the latest festival is still being cooked up, around 50 stall-holders will be on the job to keep everyone fed and watered with an eclectic range of delicacies. Highlights from previous years have included everything from the classic huhu grubs harvested from rotten logs and served either ‘au naturel’ or cooked on a barbecue, to Westcargots (local garden snails), mountain oysters (sheep testicles), jellied fish eye shots, bovine colostrum milkshakes, wasp larvae ice cream and gorse flower wine — and that’s just a few. As with all things on the ‘Coast, there’s a welcome and something for everyone. So, good news for those whose culinary curiosity is not quite up for the ultimate challenge, there are other more traditional offerings that typically include whitebait patties, seafood and venison, sandwiches, burgers, chips, wine and beer to wash it down with. And this once essentially “meaty experience” now even goes so far as to embrace plant-based eating by encouraging stall holders to cater for vegetarian and vegan diets. They’re all invited to provide a foraging element in their offering to highlight sustainable ingredients found and gathered in the natural environment.

44 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

The festival programme includes cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs and creative competitions. The most highly contested is the signature ‘Feral Fashion’ design competition — a wearable arts style contest modelled on the racing circuit’s ‘fashion in the field’ best dressed concept, where creative contestants forage in their surroundings, and create a wild alterego to wear to the festival. The Wildfoods Festival takes place on Saturday, 12 March, 2022. Gates open 11am and close at 7pm. For more event information: https://wildfoods.co.nz/ Tickets are available online or at Hokitika iSite: https://www. eventfinda.co.nz/2022/wildfoods-festival-2022/hokitika

Travel Tips: Visiting Hokitika Hokitika undoubtedly deserves the title of the Coast’s coolest little town. There’s a distinct arty vibe to the ‘pounamu capital’ from the iconic driftwood artworks on the beach to the jade carving workshops in town. There’s even a glassblowing studio, a lively food culture, and a range of accommodation from backpackers to campgrounds and a 5-star beachfront hotel. Out of town, photographers love the Hokitika Gorge for its stunning turquoise blue waters contrasted against lush green bush and rocky white limestone banks.

Destination Westland

www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 45

Hokitika Firestation boutique accommodation

Hokitika is a great little town on the West Coast and embodies the best of what the district has to offer.

Each of the five apartments is proudly named after a fire chief who once led the Brigade. A spacious main room sits at the heart of each apartment with either a kitchenette or full kitchen and a modern ensuite bathroom.

Filled with captivating historic gems and a distinct charm with welcoming and friendly locals, Hokitika is a great place to visit no matter what age, and families seem to especially love the educational aspect.

Apartment Chief Millard has full wheelchair access. Guests have 24/7 access to their apartment through a secure keypad and full use of clothes washing/drying facilities and bike storage.

Only a three-hour drive away from Christchurch this is a great long weekend or school holiday destination.

We have one large family apartment that can accommodate six people with the other four apartments, each sleeping four— a grand total of 22 guests for group bookings.

The Hokitika fire station boutique hotel offers an accommodation experience like no other with a gorgeously unique building for these apartments. The freshly constructed, self-contained apartments are set in Hokitika’s historic fire station. It’s the perfect location to immerse yourself in a little piece of Hokitika history and a stone’s throw from stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, the West Coast cycle trail and the Hokitika Gorge.

The apartments being so centrally located means you are in walking distance of fantastic food options or simply relax about town. Time your trip correctly and you could go check out the iconic Wildfoods Festival or hit the slopes at nearby Mt Cheeseman. Whatever you like to do, staying at the Hokitika fire station is a memorable experience in itself, get in contact with us we would love to have you stay.

9 Hamilton Street, Hokitika CBD 7810

46 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

Real Estate

What to look for in a real estate agent By Jen Baird, chief executive of the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand

Your home is often your largest personal asset so selling it can be both exciting and stressful at the same time. That’s why having an agent that you can trust to help you achieve the best price and conditions possible for your home – all while being transparent and ensuring all parties are comfortable and aware of the processes, will make a big difference. Certain attributes differentiate a great agent from a good agent. We recommend that you look for agents who demonstrate a great deal of professionalism, local knowledge and have a good reputation. Look for someone who understands the kind of people who will be interested in your home. This will help with the marketing of your home and communicating the benefits of your property to potential buyers. Local agents often have a network of potential buyers that they have been working with or regularly communicate with, who are ready and able to provide the best price for your home.

Great real estate agents are well connected, therefore asking family and friends if they know an agent they would recommend is a great start; referrals are often the best way to find an agent with a proven track-record, and not just someone who knows how to say the right things at the right time.

Madelon knows how to get more for your property.

Our Promise, we Deal with NZ’s widest range of banks and lenders that you know & trust Are experts in bridging finance, if needed Understand and can explain how reverse mortgages work Provide advice and care for you through the process to remove all the stress

Brian Greer Ph 03 471 8825 Cel 0274 710108

Email brian.greer@loanmarket.co.nz

FIND THE RIGHT LOAN https://www.loanmarket.co.nz/brokers/loan-market-dunedin www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 47

Real Estate

When asking for recommendations, remember to ask what factors their recommendation is based on. Did they get the level of communication they wanted? Did they think the agent used the marketing spend effectively? Did they manage any challenges through the process well? Agents are usually more than happy to come to your property, share their knowledge and talk you through your options for selling. We recommend meeting a few agents before you choose who to work with. Try visiting open homes they are hosting to understand how they present their vendor’s property. This will help you get a feel for how they will work to get the best for your property. Take a look online and see how agents are using social media and digital marketing to increase coverage for the properties they are selling, and therefore see what you could expect for your home. Many agents will also use advanced technology to help market and sell your home, which can often reach a broader audience, for example:

• Virtual Reality tours or 3D walkthroughs are one of the options that increase the accessibility of an open home to a wider range of potential purchasers in the first instance, particularly out of town buyers • Augmented Reality is another option that can help potential purchasers rework the layout of furniture in the home, so they can better picture themselves and their belongings in the home. Try not to select an agent based solely on their commission fee, but it is important to understand what the fees are. While these do vary by agency, our advice is to choose an agent you trust and whose previous work gives you confidence. Great agents can achieve a better price for your property by understanding the best strategies according to different market conditions. At the end of the day, the person you choose is going to be a big part of your life while you sell your home, so it is important that you feel comfortable with them and that you can trust them to get the job done.

Mel Kenny

Harcourts Balclutha Passionate about connecting with her clients, Mel Kenny from Harcourts Balclutha has extensive property knowledge and wideranging experience in buying and selling real estate, both attributes that have seen her become an award-winning agent.

Sales and Marketing Consultant a n good and great is The difference betwee little extra effort.

Kenny

P: 03 418 1990 M: 021 278 5287 E: mel.kenny@harcourts.co.nz

Harcourts Highland Real Estate Group Ltd Licensed REAA 2008 - 39a Clyde St Balclutha 48 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

With a relaxed manner that instantly puts you at ease, you’ll find it’s easy to build a comfortable rapport with Mel. In her spare time, you’ll find Mel cheering on her local rugby team or indulging her passion for nice cars, old and new, in her spare time. Genuine to her core, Mel sincerely cares about the results she achieves for her clients; it’s her utmost priority to consider their best interests.

By fostering strong relationships with her clients, Mel’s become one of the most well-regarded real estate professionals in the region. Operating since 1888, Harcourts’ focus is firmly on the future and continuing to offer clients the highest levels of personal and professional service, while achieving the best possible results. Indeed, Harcourts International Ltd is the largest Real Estate group in New Zealand and the fastest growing Real Estate group in Australasia. Time and time again, satisfied clients recommend Harcourts agents, such as Mel, to their friends - with over 94 percent of clients reporting that they would endorse the real estate company.

Real Estate

Managing your property portfolio Property investors are rotating their portfolios selling off older properties to buy newer ones as they seek to manage their investments against changes to property tax rules and healthy homes standards. Lodge Real Estate director, Jeremy O’Rourke, says Lodge agents had noticed a trend over the last few months of property investors “rotating” properties in their portfolios - bringing older properties to the market and seeking to buy new ones. He believes this trend is being driven by government changes to property tax rules, which mean investors will no longer be able to deduct interest payments on their rental properties from their taxable income. Interest deductibility is being phased out until March 31, 2025.

The rule change does not apply to property which received its code of compliance after 27 March this year and investors with properties falling into that category can continue to deduct interest payments for 20 years. In February 2019 the government announced the healthy homes standards. These standards are now drafted into the Residential Tenancies (Healthy Homes Standards) Regulations 2019 and place specifications around provision of heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture, drainage, and draught stopping in rental properties. Jeremy believes this is also impacting investors decisions to sell off older homes. “There are certainly some investors who are choosing to sell off their properties and buy ones where this work has already been completed. “We certainly haven’t yet seen people spooked by the OCR increase. This may be because we haven’t seen the full flow through to interest rate rises at the retail banks yet.”

A stress-free transition Retirement is a transitional time for many people, and deciding where and how you want to live are big factors. In the Otago region, especially Queenstown and surrounds, we’re seeing more retirees staying in the area rather than selling up and moving out. This is partly due to the development of comprehensive new retirement villages - such as the Queenstown Country Club and Arrowtown Lifestyle Village, which have provided more options. With retirement village design becoming more sophisticated all the time, people are drawn to the ease of lifestyle as well as high-quality and varied housing options. The central facilities, such as retail, hospitality and entertainment, as well as on-hand medical facilities and various levels of care mean people just don’t need to seek out all of those things within the wider community, they

can get it all in one place and make retirement much smoother and easier. Selling a house to move into a retirement village or to take the next steps towards your retirement lifestyle can be daunting, but Tall Poppy removes the stresses by offering New Zealand’s fairest real estate model, with flat fees that don’t change, and a valuable, free in-house marketing package. Coupled with the best industry advice about selling property, using Tall Poppy means being able to plan ahead and know where you stand. With some retirement villages having waiting lists and high demand, this extra assurance in the selling process can make all the difference in decision-making. For more information visit www.tallpoppy.co.nz.

Thinking of selling? Talk to our lower South Island team today! Queenstown Ron Blunden Business Partner & Sales Consultant

027 305 1294

Central Otago Peter Hishon Business Partner & Sales Consultant

027 534 1030

Dunedin Andrew Berryman & Leona Munro Business Partners & Sales Consultants

A 027 698 4373 | L 027 455 0378

BULSARA T/A TALL POPPY LICENSED UNDER REAA 2008

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Leona Stretch

Professionals North Otago

A passion for people and their real estate goals drives Leona to strive for the best outcomes for all her clients. This dedication is backed by her clients’ testimonials. Leona is friendly and approachable with a no bull policy, allowing her integrity to shine through. Having lived in North Otago for the last 18 years, after moving from Southland, Leona is a South Island kiwi through and through. Having raised her family, she knows that different life stages bring different housing needs and that sometimes, your housing journey is shared with your family, even if they are grown up now. Leona’s background is in hospitality and management; Real Estate puts this to good use accompanied with great time management, these are not just skills, but natural personality traits honed by experience.

Supported by a business owner with over 21 years in the Real Estate industry, Leona has been encouraged to continue her education. She is qualified in the next tier of Real Estate (branch management) and completed these papers while working to achieve top performance results year on year. Leona continues to channel her passion into improving herself, her work and her clients’ experiences with her, which is evident in the client feedback she receives. “Leona was brilliant, there when we needed her, always helpful, knowledgeable and friendly! We feel like we have made a new friend! Would absolutely recommend her and will!” “Leona went out of her way to help us, she has a instinct for matching people and properties.” “Leona went well over and above what we thought was good service. She worked tirelessly on our sale and purchase. She is the sort of person you can’t help but have connection with. I would without a doubt recommend her to future sellers.”

A passion for people and their real estate goals drives Leona to strive for the best outcomes for all her clients.

LEONA STRETCH Licensed Salesperson

027 482 0908 | leona.stretch@professionals.co.nz Es sential Realty Limited L ice n se d Re a l Est a t e A g e n t REA A 20 0 8

9 9

T H A M E S

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S T R E E T ,

O A M A R U

9 4 0 0

ALTOGETHER TRUSTED

“The asset I have as a salesperson is honesty” Katie has had a lifetime interest in and passion for residential and lifestyle properties. Her years of working closely with building managers and designers ensure Katie is familiar with home interior trends and section development. Katie’s natural gift for easy communication with everyone and her knack of styling a property to your best advantage make her a very well rounded sales woman.

Contact Katie today for all your property needs. Katie Seymour 027 827 6682 katie.seymour@bayleys.co.nz QUEENSTOWN AND SOUTHERN NZ REALTY LIMITED LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008

Bannockburn 11 Short Street

Cromwell 11 Aurum Court

Cromwell 61 Gair Avenue

Bannockburn 42 Cornish Point Road

Cromwell 110 Neplusultra Street

Cromwell 3 Wardens Court

November 2020 with the Christmas deadlines looming- out of the blue I decided I wanted to buy a property Katie had listed. Katie gave me a realistic appraisal of my property & advised the best way to present it to the market. She carried out an intensive marketing plan, rigorously followed up all leads, and kept me fully informed of progress. Katie’s efforts successfully achieved the sale of my property, and the transactions all happened smoothly. I found her excellent to work with - she is a professional & hard-working real estate agent with a can-do attitude. Vendor Testimonial

Real Estate

Our biggest reward is our happy customers, but these are nice too... We are committed to getting our clients the absolute best results and that’s never going to change. When results matter, you’ll want to talk to us 0800 367 5263

Finalist Large Agency - Property Brokers Large Residential Office of the Year Medium Residential Office of the Year Medium Residential Office of the Year - Volume Small Residential Office of the Year - Volume Small Rural Office of the Year Small Residential Property Management Office of the Year Residential Rising Star Personal Assistant of the Year Property Manager of the Year Winner Small Residential Office of the Year - Volume Medium Residential Office of the Year - Volume Large Residential Property Management Office of the Year Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008

52 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

Real Estate Advertorial

Proudly provincial, proudly property. Right from the start, provincial New Zealand has been the place where we feel most at home. We thrive in areas where relationships and trust count for everything, a deal is done on a handshake, and locals judge you on how long they’ve known you. In a little over 30 years, we’ve built our family business into a company that stretches from Northland to Southland, and we’ve done it the provincial way: through hard work, discipline, friendships, and a powerful sense of family. Our ties with families and towns runs deep because our business is personal. Our 100% Kiwi-owned family business is now over 850 strong, operating in more than 80 locations throughout provincial New Zealand. Still doing business with a handshake, we sell thousands of properties a year, combining our local knowledge and passion with market-leading expertise and reach – both nationwide and across the globe. As members of the NZ Realtors Network, we have access to a vast referral network of buyers and sellers to help get you the best the market can offer. We are also proud to be part of the exclusive Leading Real Estate Companies of the World network, giving us global connections to buyers interested in provincial New Zealand. Our strategic partnership with Farmland’s Co-operative gives our customers exclusive access to 70,000+ shareholders and benefits to Farmland’s shareholders. We have experience and expertise across all your property needs: residential, lifestyle, rural, commercial, and property

management. So, no matter what area of real estate you need help with, you can deal with the same company with the same high level of service, the same values, and the same True Team approach. And because we are talking to more people, our networks are more extensive, giving our valued clients more selling power. No one knows property in the regions better than us. To really know a market, you need to live in it. You can’t service it from a distance. Our heartland connection means we have the insights to bring the right people together, so you get the most value out of your property. Our whole family works for yours. We’re immensely proud to live, work and play in the communities and regions we serve. We value commitment, community, family, and fun, and we are loyal to where we live. That’s why you will often find Property Brokers’ people quietly putting enormous effort into all sorts of local sports, cultural, charity, and community events. It’s our way of saying thank you to all the people who trust us with such a big decision every year. We love what we do. And it shows. We have received numerous awards over the years and believe it’s a result of our commitment to always putting our clients first and getting them the best results. And that is never going to change. Let us show you a better real estate experience. Looking to buy, sell, invest, or have your property managed? Talk to Property Brokers today.

0800 367 5263 | pb.co.nz/rent

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Plumbing

Oakleys Plumbing Supplies As the South Island housing market steadily grows, Oakleys Plumbing Supplies maintains its market position with a roll out of new showrooms. There have been several significant events in the South Island in past years that have shaped the construction industry and the housing market into what it is today. The Christchurch and Kaikōura earthquakes, Auckland’s increasing costs of living and the Covid pandemic have all provided opportunities to rebuild, modernise and invest in the South Island. At the forefront of any building project is an emphasis on the most functional spaces: bathrooms. Bathrooms are a place of relaxation and escape, a place to pamper oneself and revitalise and are being paid increased attention during design phases. Oakleys Plumbing Supplies’ four showrooms are sharing in the current building boom. Oakleys’ consultant’s report that customers are not shy about achieving the best results they can, with the demand for top-quality bathroomware and plumbing systems higher than ever. People are not only building for function, there is an aspect of comfort and pride in their projects too. As a result, the Oakleys Group is in the midst of a showroom rejuvenation programme. Both Nelson and Cromwell stores have their state of the art showrooms open with Dunedin’s renovation currently in design and Christchurch’s to follow. Designed by award-winning designer Davinia Sutton, the showrooms introduce a standard rarely seen in New Zealand showrooms before. The Nelson showroom has nine concept bathrooms, ranging from ultra contemporary to ornate English styling, catering to the region’s new home boom and traditional villas of yesteryear. There is a powder room with gold accented tapware, a wellness spa and a

54 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

European suite. There are ensuites and family bathrooms, which are realistically the size and scope of most people’s bathrooms, a working kitchen and wet area where customers can test products. Visitors to the Cromwell showroom reference the calming and peaceful nature of the space. The layout includes six concept bathrooms designed to introduce both classic and current looks that compliment Central Otago architecture. Working shower displays demonstrate the luxury of overhead showers and body jets. Both showrooms have extensive tapware displays, including from top German manufacturer Hansgrohe, and the Danish designed Vola range, the latter of which is sold exclusively via Oakleys in the South Island.

Designed by award-winning designer Davinia Sutton, the showrooms introduce a standard rarely seen in New Zealand showrooms before. Davina has created the concept bathrooms with the company’s amazing product lines and teamed them with impressive lighting, and beautiful tile, wallpaper and paint choices to showcase exactly what is achievable in today’s bathroom design world. Oakleys’ dedication to design, workmanship and service has been evident since the company was established in 1875. When Henry Oakley and John Morgan Taylor founded Taylor & Oakley Plumbers Iron and Tinplate Workers, Gasfitters and Bellringers, Christchurch was a newly established city and their products were the preferred fittings by reputable plumbers. Now 145 years later the company proudly maintains its locally owned and operated status with the owner of each branch found on the shop floor every day. This dedication to locals helping locals is at the forefront of the exceptional Oakleys’ service.

Plumbing

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Mental Health

Alzheimers Otago

Supporting families living with Dementia Did you know that most cases of dementia are never diagnosed? New research has revealed the astounding fact that 75 percent of all dementia cases worldwide, over 41 million cases, go undiagnosed, making effective support for families living with dementia much harder. The above findings are included in the 2021 World Alzheimer’s Report, compiled by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI). The number of people in New Zealand with Dementia is growing rapidly. More than 60,000 New Zealanders have dementia, and this number is forecast to reach 170,000 by 2050. Dementia is not a specific disease but rather an umbrella term to describe a group of symptoms that affect how well our brains work. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common, affecting up to 70 percent of all people with dementia. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that damages the brain, resulting in impaired memory, thinking and behaviour, and gradually worsens over several years. In its early stages, memory loss is mild, but with late-stage Alzheimer’s, individuals lose the ability to carry on a conversation, respond to their environment and perform daily tasks. Of course, we all forget things from time to time: we often say our memory isn’t what it used to be. But this doesn’t mean it is dementia. Memory loss from dementia is quite different to occasionally forgetting things. Dementia is not a normal part of ageing. Alzheimers Otago is a not-for-profit organisation and a member of Alzheimers NZ. We empower our clients and their caregivers to enable them to better support themselves independently through their dementia journey. Our core service is supporting those caring for people with dementia by working directly with families to ensure people with dementia and their carers can access the right support at the right time. We support people with all types of dementia and cognitive decline in the early onset of diagnosis. We offer faceto-face non-biased information, support, and advice to the carers and those with dementia by way of groups and home visits. We provide community education and training sessions, carer support programmes and programmes for people with Dementia. We have offices in Dunedin, Alexandra, Queenstown Lakes and Oamaru.

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One of our strategic focuses is to further educate our communities about dementia and those impacted by it. Our 20 minutes online ‘Dementia Friend’ course helps to raise awareness, grow inclusion, increase understanding of dementia and reduce the stigma and discrimination. A ‘Dementia Friend’ learns about what it is like to live with dementia and makes a commitment to help those impacted by dementia to live well. Actions can range from simply getting a better understanding and appreciation of dementia, to wearing a badge and wristband to let people know you are a ‘Dementia Friend’, through to perhaps actively helping someone with dementia to do something they might enjoy or need help with. https://alzheimers.org.nz/explore/dementia-friendly-nz/ become-a-dementia-friend You can support us by signing up for a membership or donating via our Givealittle page: https://alzheimersotago.org.nz/media/1lkb0lli/membershipform-2021.pdf https://givealittle.co.nz/org/alzheimers-society-otago-inc Contact us at 03 471 6154 or manager@alzheimersotago.org.nz www.alzheimersotago.org.nz or https://www.facebook.com/ alzheimersotago/

Mental Health

If you, or a loved one, are living with memory loss, cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s Disease or any type of dementia, we are here for you! Alzheimers Otago delivers a range of programmes and service for people with dementia and their carers across all of Otago, including Central Otago, Queenstown Lakes, North Otago, Dunedin and surrounds. Contact us today for information, support groups and programmes.

03 471 6154

manager@alzheimersotago.org.nz

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Flooring

Quality flooring solutions The investment into new carpet can help alleviate allergies, eliminate odours, increase warmth and also increase home value. Mosgiel Flooring is a locally owned and operated family business, with years of experience flooring both residential and commercial builds. Whether you’re a new build or just ready for new floors, we have you covered with our carpets, garage carpets, vinyls and planks. We like to make it simple. Our process begins with a free measure and quote. We will then guide you through our products. In store you will be able to feel our quality flooring, as well as take home samples to compare in the space. We can point you in the right direction to getting the perfect floors. With our extensive ranges, we have plenty of options. Whether it be odour proof for the pets or fade free, we have it covered! Once we have the selection process complete, we install it. Located at 26 Gordon road we have recently converted the space into our showroom, there you can see our ranges including what we can order in for you, our toasty fire makes the perfect place to get the ball rolling on new flooring. We would love to see you in-store!

Great service from Tracee. Great price too. The carpet layers were great to deal with and very efficient. They did an excellent job of laying the carpet. Appreciated.

Jessika was a dream to work with when we had our house carpeted, she was extremely professional and knowledgeable. Jessika made the whole process easy and enjoyable and I just love my new carpet.

26 Gordon Road, Mosgiel P: 03-489 0301 E: mosgiel.flooring@gmail.com

YOUR LOCAL FLOORING SOLUTIONS CARPETS-VINYLS-PLANKS & MORE 58 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

Modernising our rental laws By Jen Baird, chief executive of the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand

The Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) was introduced in 1986 when the world was a very different place. Most people owned their own homes and only a relatively small proportion of people rented. Fast forward nearly 20 years and more people rent than ever before (around 35 percent), which is why the Government announced a number of changes via the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2020, most of which came into effect on February 11, 2021. The amendments introduced a number of positive changes for those renting, including a ban on rental bidding, limiting rent increases to once every 12 months, and making rental properties safer and more liveable for tenants. This has given tenants more certainty than they had in the past.

Property Management The removal of the 90-day no-cause termination notice will influence landlords and property managers’ decisions around choosing tenants, including tenants who have caused only minor issues in past tenancies. In the vast majority of circumstances, landlords used “no-cause” termination notices as a way of bringing a tenancy to an end for serious issues. Competent landlords always prefer to have a property tenanted, and would prefer to fix problems raised by tenants and work through issues proactively, so in the past they would have only used the 90-day notice when absolutely required. The changes will have already caused huge administrative costs for property managers/landlords over the last several months, plus the time it takes to completely understand the changes, has likely meant that some landlords have been deterred from leasing properties at all. REINZ considers a better approach would have been to provide higher exemplary damages, to penalise landlords who abused the no-cause terminations. The other key change causing concern among industry professionals is the automatic conversion of fixed-term tenancies to periodic tenancies. Under this change, tenants have up until 28 days before the end of a fixed-term lease to let the landlord or property manager know whether or not they are wanting to stay in the property and convert to a period agreement.

However, as can be the case with new legislation, there are some changes which have caused concern.

Essentially, this decision is up to the tenant; the landlord no longer has the automatic right to end the tenancy at the end of the fixed term agreement – this can now only be done via the same processes that one would go through to terminate a periodic tenancy.

The most significant and controversial proposal was the recommendation to end the no-cause 90-day notice. For many landlords, the 90-day notice was only used as a last resort when there was antisocial, aggressive or threatening behaviour by a tenant (or those they associate with). Often that behaviour has a detrimental impact on others living in the neighbourhood.

REINZ continues to provide feedback on the implications of the changes to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, and will continue to work with the appropriate government agencies to help streamline the transition and provide clear messaging on the changes.

We have many success stories where people have thought marketing is a waste of money, but have finally found something that gives them a transparent Return on Investment. If you would like to be our next success story, please email: enquiries@fatweb.co.nz We have offices throughout New Zealand and can discuss your needs over the phone or by Skype. Don’t let another year go by without truly discovering what digital marketing can do for your business. With years’ of experience and having delivered outstanding results, we have some of the best digital experts in the business.

form of advertising you can measure, then increase or decrease, so you can manage your workflow accordingly! You’ve probably heard people talk about digital marketing, Google AdWords, online traffic, SEO and social media. Then on top of all that, you need to have a lead generating web presence with good traffic etc. This can sound complicated – but it doesn’t have to if you talk to the right people.

Let’s start with the basics

We are so confident, that if you aren’t 100% happy after the first month, you won’t pay a cent for the management fee. And if you mention this ad, set-up is free – a service other companies charge up to $3,000 for. FREE call tracking, which means you can actually hear recordings of the phone calls coming into your business to see if your staff are doing things correctly or if they need more training. This tool can make a massive difference to the FAT on your bottom line. Available to the first 25 people who book a consultation.

With 15 years’ experience - we know what we’re doing. Call 0800 FATWEB, or email enquiries@fatweb.co.nz to book a FREE consultation.

Right now there are people looking for a business just like yours. However, if you don’t have AdWords, there’s a very good chance they’ve just clicked one of your competitors’ websites. Most businesses would benefit from Google AdWords. It’s simple to set up, it’s fast, you set the monthly budget, and you can see the results immediately. Included is a complimentary call tracking service to measure daily results, plus you get a monthly report that’s explained in as much detail as you like.

0800 FATWEB | www.fatweb.co.nz

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Property Management

With guaranteed rent, we’re keeping Julie and her investment property on course.

We stand by our service guarantee, with no rent arrears, guaranteed tenancy, and great service every time, or we’ll pay. We’ll save you time and money, so you can make the most of yours. For provincial property management, talk to us today 0800 367 5263 | pb.co.nz/rent *Terms and conditions apply | Property Brokers Licensed REAA 2008

60 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

Property Management

Advertorial

How do we measure success? The Healthy Homes Standards were introduced in 2019 to lift the standard of rental properties throughout New Zealand. The Healthy Homes Standards cover five areas of the property: ventilation, draughts, drainage, insulation, and heating. The regulation is about providing a better standard of living, which everyone supports. It doesn’t matter who you are; you should live in a warm, dry home. And, the chances are good that tenants would stay in a warm, dry home for longer. The idea of regulation and innovation sometimes don’t go hand in hand. At Property Brokers, we see regulation as an opportunity to provide innovative solutions. Across Property Brokers now, the average tenancy is 26.7 months, and in some regions, like West Coast, Wairarapa, Hawke’s Bay, it’s 33 months.

History has shown that the goalposts move, and this is why we use innovative solutions to take back a bit more control and do not outsource the assessment of these properties. We can go through a property, use some intelligent solutions to assess it, look at the five HHS areas and provide a certificate or a report of things that need to be done. We go through properties every three months to do routine inspections. Ninety-nine percent of insurance providers require quarterly inspections. Why would we not tack on the assessment while we’re going there to do it? Fifty percent of the working week for any agency is spent inspecting properties. We add value. If you go to a good accountant, their fee is offset because they will save you that amount of money. If you come to a good property manager, a management fee should be offset for that year because we’ve helped you to make good decisions. That’s our goal, and that won’t change.

As properties continue to become more expensive, the average tenancy period continues to increase, which is absolutely fine but to underpin that change, you need to ensure that they’re getting treated fairly and renting good properties.

Do you know if your property meets all the standards? If you’re uncertain, it’s worth talking to a professional property manager. With a wealth of knowledge in both the local market and the new regulations, we can provide you with valuable insights to ensure your rental ticks all the right boxes.

Rather than just going with a one-stroke solution, Property Brokers provides an evidence-based answer. Compliance is not something you can dodge; either you’re in the confines of the law, or you’re outside the confines of the law.

Talk to our award-winning property management team; we offer free rental appraisals to landlords who want to check the health of their rental and specialise in finding new ways to maximise its return.

0800 367 5263 | pb.co.nz/rent

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Villages and homes

with heart at Enliven

Our homes, villages and community programmes are places where you can bring your passions and hobbies to life every day. At Enliven’s Wanaka Retirement Village, Robin and Bruce have discovered the (piano) keys to a good party! Robin and Bruce enjoyed sharing their latest build in the Village lounge with friends at fellow resident Roy’s 90th birthday party . When asked about their next project, Bruce said they were taking a wee break after this project “A bit of a slow down is required!”, he laughed. At Enliven, there ‘s time to do as much or as little as you like. This is your time, and your choice!

Roy celebrating 90 years young

“We’ve built 23 Lego technic models and a range of precision laser machined wooden models from UGears in the Ukraine. This working model of a grand piano took us a couple of hours each day for five weeks..”

Robin and Bruce, Enliven Wanaka Retirement Village

Enliven services are operated by Presbyterian Support Otago, a charitable organisation founded in 1906.

Enliven Services Otago

Our vision is that every person is valued and grows in a safe and strong community.

Enliven care homes Ross Home, Dunedin

03 473 0029

Enliven values:

St Andrews, Dunedin

03 455 4396

Respect

Taieri Court, Mosgiel

03 489 6044

Iona, Oamaru

03 437 1870

Holmdene, Balclutha

03 418 1468

Ranui, Alexandra

03 448 8280

Elmslie House, Wanaka

03 443 7899

Connections with family and friends

Aspiring Enliven, Wanaka

03 555 3010

Security

Retirement Villages

Honouring the personal rights and dignity of people

Relationships

A feeling of safety, being well supported and a feeling of belonging

Choice

Columba Court, Oamaru

03 437 1870

Wanaka Retirement Village

03 443 4474

Ranui Court, Alexandra

03 448 8280

Expressing your own style, opinions and culture

Contribution Participation in day to day activities of the home and community

Activity Participating in a way that is meaningful for the individual and focuses on what people can do Enliven offers you choice. Whether you are looking for retirement living options, activities in your community or supported living facilities, Enliven is here to bring your plan to life.

To make an appointment or find out more about Enliven services in Otago: call 03 477 7115 email enliven@psotago.org.nz web www.psotago.org.nz/enliven

Community based services for older people Individualised Funding

03 477 7115

Visiting Volunteers, Dunedin

03 477 7115

Club Enliven, Dunedin

03 477 7115

Club Enliven, Taieri

03 489 0075

Club Enliven, Alexandra

03 448 8280

HomeShare, Alexandra

03 448 8280

Rental Cottages Ross Home Cottages, Dunedin

03 473 0029

Iona Cottages, Oamaru

03 437 1870

Milton Cottages, Milton

03 477 7115

www.psotago.org.nz/enliven

Funeral Directors

Afarewell meaningful By David Moger, Funeral Directors Association NZ CEO

Covid has taught us many things as it has impacted upon so many areas of our lives over the past 18 months, however not all the lessons have been new ones. The classic one is also the line in Jodi Mitchell’s song Big Yellow Taxi, “You don’t know what you’ve got ‘til it’s gone”. Last year, Covid reminded us of this very starkly when at Level 4 Lockdown, funerals were not allowed. To make matters worse, neither were viewings. In fact, the reality for over 4,000 families was that they were unable to say goodbye to their loved ones in the way they wanted to. They were denied the basic human right of grieving with the deceased, of seeing a loved one laid to rest, of placing a flower on a coffin surrounded by family and friends.

From research, we know that to deny a meaningful farewell leads to a poor grieving process and subsequent issues with mental well-being. The New Zealand Influenza Pandemic Plan recognises this, stating that funerals should not be cancelled because of the medium to long-term mental health impact. Yet they were, and only time will tell if the price those families paid was worthwhile. The line of that song rang true for them as much as it has done for other families in recent times. We have all seen the desperation of the Pike River families to be able to farewell their loved ones, something currently denied to them. We saw the bravery of the New Zealand Defense Force personnel venturing back to Whakaari/White Island to try and recover the bodies of those lost in that tragedy. History is littered with examples of people determined to be able to farewell their loved ones and yet still that line from Big Yellow Taxi haunts us.“Stick me in a box and throw me over the side”. “Don’t waste my money on my funeral - use it more productively”. “Don’t bother with a grave or a headstone. I’ll be gone, just move on”. These are all phrases that we hear regularly from people talking about their own funeral and it is this that has driven the rise of a term over recent years called “direct cremation”. Direct cremation is as basic and raw as it gets. The body is removed from the scene of death, put in as cheap a box as possible, burnt and the ashes put in a container and given back to the family. Usually within 24 hours. That description makes it sound brutal and it is. Brutal for the person who has died and whose memory is extinguished so abruptly, but even more brutal for the family left behind. Ask Jane Godfrey (see her video here: www.funeraldirectors.co.nz/aboutus/takethe-time-to-talk. )

Helping Families and Friends Honour their Loved Ones With You Every Step of the Way • Pre-planning • Arranging a Funeral • Personalised Services • Uncompromising Quality

Phone: 03 434 8266

Email: admin@oamarufuneralservices.co.nz www.oamarufuneralservices.co.nz 64 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

Jane’s mum used very much the sort of phrases above and was insistent that there be no funeral for her. Jane and her family followed her wishes and paid a price for the following five years, struggling to come to terms with the loss. When her dad was taken ill, he said the same thing and Jane said “no, that’s not fair!”. Fortunately, her dad listened and Jane was able to plan and prepare a meaningful farewell for her and her family. She speaks passionately about the need she had for that and the difference it made to her grieving and mental well-being. Someone else I know also used those same phrases – me! Before joining the Funeral Directors Association, my family were under no doubt – “stick me in a box and throw me over side and if you can get away without a box, all the better – it doesn’t matter to me, I’m gone, so save the money and spend it on something else”. This was a statement I made regularly to my wife and two sons. I am a reasonably intelligent person, reasonably well travelled and reasonably thoughtful, but I now realise how wrong I was. Fortunately, I have found out in time. I have now said to my family that they need a meaningful farewell and that can be whatever they want and not what I want. When I shared this with them, my wife cried because she did not want to throw me over the side and my two sons went quiet. Later that week, my eldest son called, “did you mean what you said, Dad?” he asked. “Yes, son,” I replied. “Good,” he said.

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Gillions Funeral Services

Helping you plan for your final farewell

When you choose the Gillions team to help you with pre-planning your final farewell, it means you are choosing experience, commitment and professionalism and those things really count. It also means that we can look after all the arrangements so that your family can focus on spending precious time together in the days before the funeral.

What do we actually do? We organise the transfer and mortuary care, meet with your family as often as needed, offer viewing if required, arrange all the medical documentation and cremation or burial arrangements, the casket selection, contact a celebrant and musician if required, design and

print service sheets, scan and digitise photos, arrange music and photo tributes, live streaming and recording, organise catering, flowers, newspaper notices, the structure of the service, registering the death, bereavement support, manage genealogy enquiries and organise monumental work. We also arrange payment of all these components so that when the funeral account is finalised it is only one invoice rather than many. And because Gillions are members of the Funeral Director’s Association of New Zealand Funeral Trust we can help you pre-pay for your funeral as well. That means peace of mind for you because the trust is secure, the funds are available soon after the funeral, any funds left over go back to the estate and up to $10,000 is exempt from asset testing for residential care. The other good news is that the Trust is now fees free! You can contact the friendly team at Gillions by phoning us on 03 455 2128, popping into our office at 407 Hillside Road, South Dunedin or emailing support@gillions.co.nz

Looking into Residential Care?

If yes, you might be interested to know that a pre-paid funeral of up to $10,000 is excluded from asset testing Pre-planning a funeral lets you have your say and it makes it easier on your family too. If you’re applying for residential care, there are significant benefits in pre-planning at the same time.

N ow f e e s f re e !

For more information contact the team at locally owned and operated Gillions Funeral Services today.

Phone: 03 455 2128 Email: support@gillions.co.nz 407 Hillside Road, Dunedin. www.gillions.co.nz www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 65

Funeral Directors

Leishman Funeral Services

For over 30 years, Leishman Funeral Services (formerly Doug Nesbit Funeral Services) have been providing professional, thoughtful and relaxed funeral services to the Balclutha and the wider South Otago Community.

Owner, operators Stan and Bronwyn Leishman purchased the business back in August 2021, continuing with the same caring, approachable, thoughtful team with over 20 years experience in the funeral industry. The team continues to provide commitment to assist grieving families, to listen and take care of them throughout the planning and funeral process to ensure the farewell service is a full, respectful, appropriate and financially affordable funeral service with attention to detail, thinking outside the box if required. The team can guide you through all options available. These days funeral services can be arranged in many forms - traditional or untraditional - we can provide a service for all budgets. We can discuss with you the WINZ funeral grant application. We can discuss with you our direct cremation package option - just ring our office to discuss options that would best fit you and your family. Anything is achievable once all the options are discussed.

Keeping up to date with new technologies, our team can provide links to livestream funeral services for those not able to attend in person. Personalised caskets, service sheets, photo slideshows, video recordings, in-house or outside catering can also be arranged. Families tell us what they would like and we endeavour to make it happen. Prepaid or pre arranged funerals are something we can discuss with families that wish to plan ahead. Today more and more people are realising it makes sense to make provision for a prepaid funeral. Individuals are legally entitled to put away up to $10,000 into a pre paid funeral trust. Leishman Funeral Services can arrange this on your behalf in a Trust with Trustees Executors. Here funds remain safely invested, collecting accured interest until required. Any funds left over after payment of the funeral account will be refunded to the Estate - all managed by Trustees Executors. No matter where you go in NZ, on death, your estate will always have access to these funds. If you have any questions or wish to discuss any of these options further, we would love to hear from you. Give us a call and one of our team members will talk you through any queries you may have. Answering questions regarding a funeral service is our passion so give us a call on 03 418 2814 or email us at office@leishmanfunerals.co.nz. Go to our website at www.leishmanfunerals.co.nz for more information about our services.

Ph: 03 418 2814 12 James St, Balclutha office@leishmanfunerals.co.nz

FUNERALS

ENGRAVING

www.leishmanfunerals.co.nz 66 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz

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