SOUTH AND EAST EDITION:AUCKLAND1|2022 FREE SCAN QR CODE HANDS-FREEFORREADING andDollarssense The big financial mistakes older people make connectedstayingonlineThe 13 traits of peoplepersuasive 7stepsto Simple ways to improve your headspace matterMindover How to connect with your inner creativity 5 steps to break free badBreakinghabits emotionalhealth
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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.The Job Agency T|A Markat Lowe Street, Addington, Christchurch 8011 Gary Collins of Operations: Kylie Palermo Angela Elley (03) 961 5184 | sales@markat.co.nz Jonathon Taylor (03) 961 5098 | editor@markat.co.nz Jarred Shakespeare (03) 961 961 provided the basis that The is responsible basis of information nor for any from that the firm is not hereby engaged in rendering Job expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of and of of or to be done, by any such a wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of
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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 Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission. Seven steps to emotional health The 13 traits of persuasive people 6 7 Little changes with big consequences 8 Connecting with your inner creativity 10 Setting yourself up for success 11 Staying safe around the home Financial mistakes older people make Staying connected online 15 14badBreaking22habits18
So, in the spirit of another old saying, “If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em” this first issue of Plusliving for south and east Auckland looks at ways you can act and things you can change, in order to better navigate your way through days of change. We look at simple ways to improve your headspace, how to connect with your inner creativity, the art and craft of goal setting, breaking bad habits, the big financial mistakes older people make, easy ways to stay connected to friends and family online, and much more. Enjoy.
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Navigating change There’s good reason why old sayings survive to be ‘old’ and that’s because they tend to be true. One such utterance is “The only constant in life is change”. If Heraclitus was still with us, he’d probably be a big fan of the last two years due to the constantly moving goalposts, which has resulted in the majority of us, at some point or another, having to adjust some of our most basic, ingrained behaviours.
5075 | amber@markat.co.nz Accounts: Jo Pritchard (03) 961 5161 | accounts@markat.co.nz LIVING WELL AND AGEING GRACEFULLY IN A MODERN SOCIETY Inside thisissue REF#P22E1 AUCKLANDEASTANDSOUTH 2022|1EDITION: FREE SCANQRCODE HANDS-FREEFORREADING andDollarssense The big financial mistakes older people make connectedstayingonlineThe 13 traits of peoplepersuasive 7stepsto Simple ways to improve your headspace matterMindover How to connect with your inner creativity 5 steps to break free badBreakinghabits emotional health EditorJonathantaylor 4 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz This publication is
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RRP: www.delonghi.com$929.99
Designed by Alex Buckman in Wellington, the Colony Pendant is made out of CNC machined aluminium surrounding an LED component. This award-winning 3D-printed shade, consisting of geometric shapes, will wow whether it’s lit or dormant.
DeLonghi La Specialista Manual Coffee Machine in Red
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Life & Style
The Zig Zag wall unit is a modern storage solution to anything you’d like to showcase in your home – books, plants or whatever your heart desires. Made out of white and natural oak and created right here in New Zealand, the Zig Zag shelf and wall storage is available in Danske Mobler stores late RRP:September.
www.danskemobler.co.nz$2,249DISCLAIMER:
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This two-person, handwoven net hammock uses a traditional Mexican weave for a supportive and comfortable experience. Woven in Yucatán, Mexico, the open net ensures airflow, especially when lounging during sweltering hot days.
This new contemporary table from Danske Mobler released post-lockdown is made from solid and veneer oak with a clear lacquer finish and matte black legs. This stylish rendition of a hall table comes from the Oakley line, where it was made here in New Zealand at Danske Mobler’s Mt Eden factory.
RRP: FROM www.hammockshop.co.nz$139.95
The La Specialista brings barista quality coffee to your kitchen. The sleek and modern design packs a powerhouse punch, with sensor grinding technology and active temperature control so your coffee is made to perfection for the best extraction. The advanced latte system lets you choose between hot milk or frothy milk.
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Deep and meaningful relationships, not just with your life partner, but with all those close to you, are important for a fulfilling life. Make a list of all the factors you need for a meaningful relationship, identify what you do not want, and stick to your guns.
1. Prioritise your happiness and health
Persuasive people never win the battle only to lose the war. They know how and when to stand their ground, and yet they are constantly making sacrifices that help their cause. They aren’t pushy
This is must for those in a negative work culture that’s leaving them feeling overworked, uncertain of their future, anxious or stressed. It’s important to know that as an employee you can address the issue with your manager. If you know you can’t, it may be time to look for a healthier work environment.
In fact, it has become accepted by health professionals that most diseases in some way have a stress-related component. It’s surprising, then, that more of us don’t focus on improving our state of mind.
Persuasive people establish their ideas assertively and confidently, without being aggressive or pushy.
3. Deal with toxic relationships
Seven resolutions to improve your headspace:
to emotional health
The13traitsof persuasive people Seven steps 21
5. Review your daily routine
The reason we make resolutions in the first place is to be happier, more creative, more aware of our direction in life and improve our sense of wellbeing. Arguably the largest obstacles to these are negative emotional states. Negative emotions are hugely toxic to our health. It’s now commonly accepted that holding onto stress, resentment, anger and fear for years at a time can lead to myriad health problems, including high blood pressure, thyroid diseases, hair loss and heart disease.
It’s important to decide for your health and happiness as number one. As simple as it sounds, if you don’t have these, you are not in a position to contribute to others or yourself. Everything stems from here.
Persuasive people have an uncanny ability to get you leaning toward their way of thinking. Their secret weapon is likeability. They get you to like more than their ideas; they get you to like them. They’re pleasers
Wellbeing 6 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz
Rather than resolving to spend more time with everyone – which can be exhausting – spend time with people who are naturally positive and uplifting, and who are going in the direction you want to go in. You’ll find these people have an energising effect on you.
4. Reassess your happiness at work
It takes courage to admit there are decisions we ourselves make that deflate us emotionally – from accepting a job with a long commute, to running around too much, to not giving ourselves enough ‘down’ time every day, to spending too much and putting ourselves in financial stress. By resolving to develop a strategy to solve them, you can be in an entirely different place by the end of the year.
2. Spend more time with the right people
You can identify relationships by the way they make you feel. Stand your ground, set your boundaries and make it clear to them what behaviour you won’t accept – even with family. You may need to disengage altogether from particularly toxic people. Your health will thank you for it.
A healthier diet and regular exercise are arguably the most common personal aspirations, but improving your emotional and mental health shouldn’t be ignored, because exercise, diet and other tangible goals are then easier to meet.
6. Don’t let any negative emotions control you Negative emotions – however small – can overwhelm anything positive. Resolve to develop awareness of when you’re feeling upset or frustrated before it spoils your day. Examine what can you do personally to make yourself feel better. Each time you begin to feel down, take a walk in the park or go out in the sun to help centre you. Nature and movement nurture positive emotions.
7. Strengthen your relationships
People like to know you’re listening, and something as simple as a clarification question shows not only that you are listening, but also that you care about what they’re saying. You’ll be surprised how much respect and appreciation you gain just by asking questions.
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An extremely powerful tactic of persuasion is to concede the point. Admit that your argument is not perfect. This shows that you are open minded and willing to make adjustments, instead of stubbornly sticking to your cause. They ask good questions
They use your name Persuasive people make certain they use others’ names every time they see them. You shouldn’t just use someone’s name only when you greet him or her. They form connections No matter how compelling your argument, if you fail to connect on a personal level, he or she will doubt everything you say. They are genuine No one likes a fake. People gravitate toward those who are genuine because they know they can trust them. They know when to pull back Urgency is a direct threat to persuasion, so tread lightly. When you try to force people to agree instantly, studies show that they are actually more likely to stand by their original opinion.
Behaviour www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 7
They aren’t mousy, either On the other hand, presenting your ideas as questions or as though they need approval makes them seem flawed and unconvincing. If you tend to be shy, focus on presenting your ideas as statements and interesting facts for the other party to mull over. They know their audience
Persuasive people know their audience inside and out, and they use this knowledge to speak their audience’s language. They paint a picture Research shows that people are far more likely to be persuaded by something that has visuals that bring it to life. Persuasive people capitalise on this by using powerful visual imagery. They use positive body language Being cognizant of your gestures, expressions, and tone of voice (and making certain they’re positive) will engage people and open them up to your arguments. They smile Persuasive people smile a lot because they have genuine enthusiasm for their ideas. This has a contagious effect on everyone they encounter. They acknowledge your point of view
Meditation minimises disease Meditation is a phenomenal way to instantly take control of your health. Studies indicate that a mere 20 minutes of quiet time a day can halve the risk of heart attack or stroke by reducing high blood pressure and cholesterol. In countries such as India and China, meditation has been used for centuries as a way to lower stress levels and improve concentration. Scientists have found that transcendental meditation, which promotes deeper relaxation through mantras, is even more beneficial for the mind and body. Tests show that sufferers of atherosclerosis were able to reduce their risk of a fatal heart attack or stroke by 47 percent, compared to those who simply followed a healthy diet and programme.exercise
Ideally, all alcohol should be taken with food, such as a glass of wine with a meal, and spirits should be enjoyed in moderation.
By simply examining a few health facts and implementing some simple lifestyle changes each day can make a difference to your overall health.
According to experts who studied the health of more than 500,000 people between the ages of 35 to 70, it was found that those who drank 30g of pure alcohol a day from beer had a massive 75 percent increased risk of developing stomach cancer.
Just because the label says “100% pure” or “freshly squeezed” does not mean it is true.
Certain liquid laundry detergents contain cancer-causing chemicals. Research shows that these harmful cleaning aids contain around 25 volatile compounds, which may make people sick.
Little changes with big consequences
Healthy Living 8 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz
Reduce beer consumption and drink alcohol in moderation
Fumes from washing machines and dryers release harmful chemicals, such as acetaldehyde, into the atmosphere, which may also find their way into the water supply. Shop for safer, less dangerous detergents, which will help your health and the environment too.
In processing orange juice, for example, most manufactures remove all the oxygen molecules from the liquid, which allows the juice to be stored for up to a year. As this process strips the juices of their flavors, juice companies then add fragrance and flavor additives to the product. Avoid processed, stored products and take the time to juice your own fruits and vegetables as a great kick-start to better health.
Juice your own fruits and vegetables for better health
Replace hazardous laundry detergents
Four simple ways to improve your health 23
Buying a carton of juice from the store can be hazardous to your health.
Heavy beer drinkers risk liver damage and a bigger beer belly.
Worse still, heavy beer drinkers with a particular gene variant in the cluster of three genes that metabolize alcohol have an even greater chance of getting stomach cancer, according to the American Association for Cancer Research.
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Hmmm… thinking. Too much of it can create problems which weren’t there in the first place and too little may mean missing out on a good opportunity. But what happened to a little downtime and those “eureka!” moments?
Pure Bettergoodness,health
Take your mind away from automatic tasks – our inner ninja is ready to pounce on emails, voicemails, messages and paperwork that come our way, and we keep pushing back relentlessly until it’s a full-on workout before you know it.
Free phone: 03 925 8392 | Mobile: 021 276 5700 Email: richard@filtrationcanterbury co nz Alford Forest, RD 1 Ashburton 7771 www filtrationcanterbury co nz Drink Healthy, Stay Healthy Do you know for sure that it’s an acceptable quality? Does it taste good? The water we put into our bodies determines our health to a large extent. The average adult human is made up of 60% water so it better be good!
Self-Improvement
Stimulate your mind and take yourself away for a while: play a game of cards, listen to music, and chat with friends or colleagues, anything that isn’t already in your routine.
Mind over matter - how to connect with your inner creativity
Instead of forcing your brain to conjure up creative genius “on demand” you need to create thinking space where your mind can rest and let the magic flow. Here are a few ideas to get your magic happening: Write – although you shouldn’t expect answers to show their pretty little face immediately after you have asked a question, jotting down your thoughts allows you to de-stress, clarify your thoughts and solve problems (fingers crossed). Writing a pros and cons list can also help to evaluate and make better decisions. Choose a location – it’s been said that some of the greatest ideas are thought of while walking. A simple change in scenery, whether it be a brisk walk around the block, working out at the gym, relaxing in the botanical garden or quiet place, can give you a mental boost and change your mood.
Are you happy with your drinking water?
Avoid “eating al desko” – and don’t pretend you don’t do it. You’re probably reading this at your desk right now, aren’t you? It may be easy to drop your elbows onto your desk and munch away while scouring the Internet for interesting reads, but you’ve just been staring at the computer since 7.30am.
10 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz
Take longer showers – think of a shower as an incubator. It makes you feel all fuzzy with warmth and essentially creates the right conditions to let our minds trigger creative wanderings. It’s an unwritten rule; give it a go and you might be surprised.
Stare into space – we’re not talking about people-watching out of your office window, although this may amuse and stimulate you for a couple of minutes. Concentrating takes a lot of our energy, so we need to focus more energy on doing, actually, nothing at all and generally just let your mind wander for a while.
When writing goals many people tend to focus on only the professional aspects of their lives. It pays to look at the bigger picture, as for many of us, our work and home lives are intertwined, especially if running a business from home. Structure helps us think.
3. Write your goals down. Many people question the significance of this, but the reason for it is that putting your thoughts down on paper forces clarity. Similarly, there is nothing more rewarding or motivating than physically ticking off your goals one by one.
Setting yourself up forsuccess
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 11 Self-Improvement Surface Tiling Ltd. TILING & WATERPROOFING SERVICES We are tiling and waterproofing specialists in East Auckland. We are proud to have featured on The Block NZ and have received a score of 10/10 on Target. SERVICES Proud to be East Auckland’s most referred tiler. We can complete jobs such as: Bathroom Floors | Bathroom Walls | Showers | Kitchen Splashbacks Kitchen Floors | Entrance Ways | Laundries | Pool Surrounds | Courtyards Patios And Any Area That Requires Tiling | Waterproofing Call us now! 021 935 699 www.surfacetiling.co.nz | tony@surfacetiling.co.nz PO Box 82264, Highland Park, Auckland, 2020 Many of us have good intentions or some idea of where we would like to be in 10 years, but only three to five percent of people have clearly defined, established goals set in place. It is crucial to set definitive long-term goals for ourselves to ensure we have the appropriate sailing attire ready for when that sunset finally arrives. If you haven’t yet written your goals down (and it’s the writing down that’s the critical bit) use these steps and get started – it’s easier than you think:
2. Think as far into your future as you can. At least a year out and ideally much further ahead. What do you want your life or business to look like in five or 10 years?
1. Find a quiet spot. Whether it is your office or bedroom or favourite park, you need to be somewhere you feel comfortable and where the ideas will flow. Limit interruptions; don’t attempt it while other people are trying to engage with you, and remember to turn off your phone.
4. Don’t limit yourself. Forget ‘realistic’ for now. Nothing is too small or too large. Dream big. It isn’t your imminent tasks or relatively easy projects we’re interested in at this stage.
5. Be very specific. Goals need to be specific and larger goals should be broken down in to small, achievable blocks that you can work towards on a weekly or monthly basis.
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Self-Improvement Breaking bad habits
Create a plan - Once you’ve acknowledged the problem and got yourself into the right state of mind to tackle the habit, a plan can be useful to disrupt the automatic response to it.
Five steps to break free
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From drinking excessively or routinely staying up all night, resulting in poor performance at work the following day, to procrastination, overspending, swearing, or binge eating - whatever the vice - if it is having a harmful effect on your work and personal life, it is time to break free of the negative behaviour pattern.
We might perceive our habits to be small, insignificant compulsions, but when repeated continuously our actions do have a significant impact on who we are as people. And whether we like to admit it or not, our habits mould us into the people we are.
Here are five tips to help break free.
We all have our own little habits – the good and the bad - and it’s these habits that make us who we are. But whether we are willing to acknowledge it or not, many of us have one (or maybe a few), bad habits that would do us good to break.
Change your environment - If you repeat the same behaviour in the same place every time, then the environment can prompt the undesirable behaviour. Avoiding the environment that triggers your habit can help towards kicking the cycle.
Identify your trigger - Understanding what fuels your bad habit is the key to overcoming it. Identify the trigger, whether it is people or a place, which enables the habit and avoid it.
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Plan your approach by answering the following questions: What day do I start? Will I go cold turkey? How will I hold myself accountable for 1
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Retrain your thoughts - Even if we know a habit is damaging us physically or emotionally, we continue to do it. Why? Because despite the obvious drawbacks, it still provides us with some sort of satisfaction or psychological reward that entices us to repeat the behaviour again and again. Reframing your mind to put emphasis on the negative aspects should, over time, diminish the psychological reward received from acting out the habit. Be patient - Be patient with yourself and don’t beat yourself up too much if you slip up and fall back into the habit – it’s called a habit for a reason. Established habits can be hard to break as they are ingrained into your life. It may take several attempts to make a change so be patient and persist.
my actions? Who else will be involved in the process? What rewards for success will I give myself? A clear plan with create the discipline needed to succeed.
ACC figures show 10,000 people are off work for a week or more because of a fall at home.
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Are you tired of being stuck in the Auckland traffic wherever you drive?
Not looking forward to the pending traffic congestion charging? Are you over public transport that won’t realistically get you to where you want to go in a timely manner?
David Kerr Ray White Real Estate (REAA2008) 0274 750 david.kerr@raywhite.com725
Wipe
• Use
Plusliving+ | 15 Home Life
It’s time to cash up and move to a less stressful and more relaxed lifestyle in provincial New Zealand. My name is David Kerr and I am a licensed sales person at Ray White here in Auckland. With the help of the Ray White agency network, I can connect you to a Ray White agent almost anywhere in the country to help you find your next dream home ! We are blessed to live in one of the most stunning countries in the world where beaches & bays, golf courses & vineyards, and the lakes & rivers await you !
Remove moss
• Repair
Secure loose cords or wires to the wall.
Toptips
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Secure power cords Get cords out of harm’s way, with cord clips, quick-release power cords or multi-boxes
An injury can completely change your life for a while. It can stop you from doing the things you enjoy, like catching up with friends or playing with your children.
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People often need to take time off work too, affecting their income.
The old expression ‘home is where the heart is’ is well and good, just so long as you watch your step!
Staying safe around the home
What may surprise many is the risk associated with seemingly benign objects, such as rugs and power cords, which can cause a fall-related injury at any time of the year. It’s not just older and younger people who fall at home – over 40 percent of all home falls happened to people aged 25-64 years.
Build new decks with grooved timber.
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• Wipe
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Waterblast, scrub or spray mossy areas with moss removal products Cut trees and shrubs back to prevent shade – conditions which moss thrives in
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Avoid
Secure them with anti-slip tape, or spray on a non-slip coating Use carpet grips for mats damaged carpet on stairs If you’re buying a new rug, look for one with a non-slip backing. using chairs as ladders Use a ladder or step ladder to reach high objects Store heavy, regularly used objects down lower Use long-life smoke alarms and light bulbs so you don’t have to change them often. up spills up spills as soon as they happen, with mops, sponges or cloths floor mats to absorb excess water renovating, install non-slip flooring in wet rooms (bathroom, kitchen and laundry). on creating a safer home
Injuries in and around the home are the biggest cause of ACC claims –accounting for over 40 percent of all new claims received in 2011.
• If
Call me now to book a free no obligation appraisal and discuss your many options!
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Fasten rugs and mats
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Would you choose Coromandel over Banks Peninsula or the East Cape? or Kapiti Coast over Waihi Beach or Ohope?
www.plusliving.co.nz
The good news is there are some simple things you can do around the home to greatly reduce the risk of you or someone in your family having a fall.
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Is it time for you to get a property manager for your investment?
What do the fees include? Not all companies offer the same services, but a typical package should look like the following:
inspections with a full report including photos
Barfoot & Thompson is the industry leader in the Auckland and Northland regions and now Tauranga for property management, with over 18,000 properties in our portfolio. We have an impeccable reputation and operate with the principles of honesty and transparency. Call us today for more information and for an obligation-free chat about all that we offer.
Regular
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In essence the role is meant to protect your property, reduce and eliminate any potential liability and secure the most income possible from your property that the market will support. Your property manager would handle all of the day-to-day management and maintenance on your behalf. They also answer tenants’ queries, oversee maintenance quotes and manage tradespeople. When you have the right company and person looking after your investment, the experience should be worry-free. Handling any uncomfortable situations such as evictions and non-payment of rent, is a major benefit. They also market your property and ensure that you are receiving the most rental revenue possible. Most importantly, they vet tenants checking their ability to meet bond and rent requirements.
• Department
• Tenant selection and vetting processes including checks
It may surprise most people to know that the property management business is unregulated in New Zealand. This means that anyone can set up shop and begin to solicit clients to care for their properties. This often happens without the expertise and knowledge necessary to properly protect a landlord’s precious investment. It can also leave tenants with inadequate service and without even basic maintenance. It is clear that without proper vetting and regular inspections, the wrong tenants can damage your investment. It is critically important that the company you choose is one with a proven track record and a commitment to best practice. Ask for references and for information about their property portfolio so you can be sure that they are already handling comparable properties. Get a list of services and ask about their reporting schedule. Good communication will give you peace of mind.
Monthly and annual financial reports
• routine
• Online listings on the most high traffic sites in the industry such as realestate.co.nz, Barfoot.co.nz and Trademe.co.nz
interviews, reference and credit
Want to know more?
• Representation at Tribunal hearings, if required
• Regular rent reviews and consultation.
Not all property management companies are created equal
You can also visit Barfoot.co.nz/propertymanagement to find out more
All
• All costs related to finding the ideal tenant. This includes signage, print and digital advertising and also the letting fee.
In New Zealand, property has proven to be a great investment opportunity with it rarely decreasing in value. Over time, some people have even amassed a portfolio of properties providing a steady income stream that is especially welcome during retirement years. However, management of properties and dealing with repairs can prove daunting. Not dealing with maintenance issues can lead to depreciation and problems can compound. Is it time for you to consider a property manager? What exactly does a property manager do?
16 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz
of Building and Housing documentation and legislative compliance guidance
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 17 ???
Saving made simple
Worrying too much - The news media will drag you into the mire. Turn the news off and get out and about.
18 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz Money Matters
Believing that you can (or the “experts” can) pick the hot investments - No one can – buy quality and diversify widely. Beware of some apparently wonderful companies as the costs can be too high. After all someone has to pay for their big buildings and glossy brochures – and it will be you.
Dollars and sense
Coffee/lunch - $4.50 for a latte or $8.50 for a panini may not sound like much, but if you’re buying them everyday the total weekly cost is fairly significant. Times this by four and then by 12 and the yearly expenditure comes to around $3,000! Treat yourself every now and again, but think about where you’re better off spending your money.
Don’t be influenced - Will Smith said, “We spend money that we do not have, on things we do not need, to impress people who do not care.” Just because your friend bought the latest flat screen TV doesn’t mean you have to follow suit. Don’t be a sheep and follow your own path.
Dining out - Sometimes we tell ourselves that we deserve a treat and say this at the end of every week just because it’s Friday. Eating out
Not living and spending too little - You can’t take it with you. Get advice and find out how much you can safely spend if you are worried.
Helping children too much and leaving yourself short - Love them or not, they may have 25 to 40 years of working life in front of them, you don’t. Be careful; keep enough money back for yourself.
Not learning enough about investment before retirement - Knowledge is power. Learn about investments as you save for retirement, and probably avoid the disaster some people incurred when they put all their money into one or to finance companies.
Failing to understand what diversification really means - You can’t pick the hot investments; no one can. Rather diversify properly, and you will make good money in good times, and survive the bad times pretty well too.
Spending too much - Pretty obvious, do your homework and budgeting. Be smart and find independent advice to help you monitor how fast you are spending your money. Then if you “live too long” hopefully you won’t have to live out your golden years in poverty.
Spending too much on housing - Not much good owning a $500,000 house and having only $50,000 in the bank to supplement your (rather lean) government super. Don’t get to retirement living in a castle with too little cash to supplement your super.
The big financial mistakes older people make
can be a fine thing, and eating at home takes effort and planning, but at least you know exactly what’s going into your food. And your bank balance will thank you for it.
Not checking what you spend - Many of us probably don’t bother to check receipts and often leave them to decay at the bottom of our bags until we find them a month later and discard them accordingly. If you can’t be fussed handling a draw full of receipts, at least check your bank account online to keep an eye on exactly what you’re spending. If money is leaving your account and you don’t even recognise where it’s gone, be mindful when you spend from now on.
Not getting on-going financial and planning advice leading up to retirement - If you fail to plan, then plan to fail. Get advice – if it costs say $150 to $200 pa that is peanuts compared to what it might do for you. It might get you organised and might even save you tens of thousands.
Whether you’re trying to pay off a debt or build your savings, sometimes saving money is simply about changing your mindset and bad habits to achieve financial freedom in the long term. Here are a few money traps to avoid:
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 19 Established Locally Owned Independent Living Retirement Village We provide the facilities and environment that allow you the freedom to live the lifestyle you enjoy 07 871 2020 | 397 S war br ick Drive, Te Awa mut u www.highfieldcountryestate.co.nz | manager@highfieldcountryestate.co.nz
The Papatoetoe Cosmopolitan Club is a friendly and welcoming club in the heart of the Papatoetoe Community. If you are looking for a place to catch up with mates or celebrate good times, our club is the place to be. We showcase live sports tournaments and offer great meals and drinks during your time with us. We provide a full TAB service area, TAB Pod and five screens. We also have 16 gaming machines in our gaming room. Bistro Our head chef and his team prepare a full range of meals and snacks your family can enjoy. Do not forget to check out our weekly specials on our Facebook and Instagram page
• Ordinary Members (18+): $70. Membership applications are at our front desk or available online: www.papcossie.co.nz
Your local community club where you will always get a friendly welcome
Trading hours
• The best dance floor in town
• Monday to Wednesday: 12noon – 10pm
• Your choice of catering provided by our head chef
• Wednesday to Sunday: 12noon – 8:30pm. Gym Why spend heaps of money on a gym membership when it’s available at your Club! Our gym is open every day 12pm – 8pm.
Functions Our venues are great for birthdays, weddings, social get-togethers, conferences & corporate events.
•@papatoetoecossieclubMondayandTuesday: 5pm – 8pm
The Papatoetoe Cosmopolitan Club
20 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz
Library The perfect, quiet environment for you to wind down and read. Open during trading hours.
• Saturday: 11am – 12am • Sunday: 12pm – 9pm Please note closing times may vary...
• Bluetooth boombox, Mic system, projector & stereo system available. Restaurant Our restaurant is a relaxing, private area for birthdays, engagements, anniversaries and much more. It holds up to 100 people comfortably, and you can decorate the room however you wish. A wide range of on-site food options is available. A small band can entertain in the corner. Lounge bar Dance the night away on the “best dance floor in Auckland”. Enjoy professional entertainment, top bar facilities and excellent meals and snacks in our large entertainment lounge. Our lounge bar can seat up to 200 people. Our wide selection of menus and on-site catering offers you affordable packages to suit each budget. Our aim is to provide exceptional service to ensure your day is a huge success! Contact our functions manager, Jenny Robinson at operations@ papcossie.co.nz to make a booking today. Sections Our Club offers sections for you to join: 8 Ball | Tennis | Snooker | Darts | Indoor & Outdoor Bowls | Fishing | Golf | League | Punters | Day Trippers | South City Soundz | Table Tennis. Membership Applications
As a member, you will receive discounts and much more freedom with our facilities - cheaper function room hire, membership draws, raffles, prizes from bar promotions, more parking availability and so much more! Our club welcomes new members, current members and their guests, as well as visitors from affiliated clubs. Don’t miss out on any of the opportunities our Club has to offer and become a member today!
• Discounted prices for members
• Thursday to Friday: 12noon – 11.30pm
• Seniors (65+): $35
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 21
One great thing about Facebook Messenger is it’s not limited to just iPhones – anyone with a smartphone and a Facebook account can download it. Once you have an account, sign in and set up your contact list, also known as your Facebook friends. If you don’t have a smartphone or don’t want to download the app, you can also video chat through the website.
Skype - Skype was one of the first video chat websites and apps popularised worldwide. Owned by Microsoft, it comes preinstalled to your computer if you have a PC. If you have a Mac, it’s easily available for download. You can also download it on your Apple or Android device.
If you don’t have an account already, you can create one for free.
Staying connected
Mainly people use WhatsApp for texting, especially while abroad.
So here are different options for online communication that you can use with your computer or on your smart phone, from video chatting to messaging.
Facebook Messenger - With over 2.4 billion monthly active users, Facebook is the most popular social network site worldwide. Beyond the website, did you know that the Facebook Messenger app makes it easy to message, video chat and call your friends?
22 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz Technology Keeping in touch with your loved ones, even when they’re far away, has never been easier. While nothing can quite beat face to face communication, technology has made it so you can connect with who you want in real time.
The best thing about WhatsApp is its ease of use. All you need for your account is to enter your Apple or Android devices telephone number, and it verifies who you are through that. If you change your mobile number, you can change that as well to keep your account up to date.
From there, WhatsApp accesses your contacts for you and connects you to people who already use the app, making it a streamlined process.
FaceTime - From the ever-popular iPhone to devices such as the iPad and MacBook, chances are someone you know and care about uses an Apple device. That’s the beauty of FaceTime, Apple’s video chat software that comes preinstalled on all their devices (at least from 2010 onwards); you can easily video chat with anyone that has an Apple device, no matter where they are in the world.
Alternatively, you can use your Microsoft/Hotmail/Outlook account to sign in. Once you’re all set up, search for friends and family who already use Skype.
WhatsApp - The Facebook-owned app recently hit two billion users worldwide. What makes it so popular was that it was the first to offer messaging, voice calls and more exclusively for smartphones when it arrived in 2009.
Another feature that makes Skype unique is you can affordably and easily make international calls to people who don’t have Skype. For example, 0800 numbers are free to call.
If you have one, open up your iPhone, iPad or Macbook and log into your Apple ID account. If you’ve already set up your device before this, use FaceID or TouchID to log into FaceTime. To make a FaceTime call, either search the name if they’re already in your contacts, or type in their number or email.
An important aspect of this work for the staff at Aroha Funerals is their commitment to eco-friendly practices. Like many of us, they are part of the movement to be more aware of our finite resources and to find ways to minimise our negative impact on the environment. They have many caskets that are made of NZ sustainable produced pine, they drive an electric car, use local florists, caterers and crematoriums and generally do not embalm people – using cooling methods instead.
Phone 0800 276 420
They offer a range of services and options to help families and know that no single approach is right for every family. A funeral is unlike any other event; it must encapsulate so much, in such a short period of time and still reflect who the person was in life.
An occasion to say goodbye
Knowing about the options available, writing down some ideas and meeting the staff can all help put minds at rest. Reducing stress at a difficult time is what the staff here aim to do.
www.arohafunerals.co.nz
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 23 CP1136-V2 Caring for you with warmth, honesty and compassion
They welcome visits to their Takanini and Mt Wellington branches and phone calls from people wishing to know more about funerals, or to make plans.
At Aroha Funerals, the staff believe that death and dying are hugely significant times in our lives.
While death is a natural part of life, it can still be a difficult and emotional time for those experiencing it. Saying a final goodbye can be one of the hardest things to do. They believe it is important to honour and celebrate someone’s life but also to remember that in amongst the celebration, there is sadness and grief. They feel privileged to work alongside families at this important time, and to help them ‘tailor make’ a funeral or farewell, to suit both the loved one who has died and the people who are living. They are committed to making the process as natural and gentle as possible and will help to create an occasion to say goodbye, in a way that is unique, individual and heartfelt.
24 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz Dr John Mutu-Grigg BHB, MBChB, FRACS
Dr Mutu-Grigg has been performing hip and knee replacements for over a decade. He was trained in New Zealand and received fellowship from the world-renowned University of Western Ontario in Canada. He has a specific interest in total hip replacements and uses the Mathys hip replacement, which is the ultimate in Swiss engineering. For his knee replacements he uses 3rd generation computer navigation system during surgery to make sure your knee is placed within 0.5 degrees of perfect. If you have pain in your hip or your knee, don’t continue to suffer, make an appointment to get your life back on track today!
Call Auckland Orthopaedic Surgeons: 09 280 3344 or Email: amanda@aklorthopaedics.co.nz • New Zealand Orthopaedic Association (NZOA) Council • NZOA Speciality Orthopaedic Training Board • NZOA Education Committee • Ngā Rata Kōiwi (Māori Orthopaedic Surgeons) Chair • Royal Australasian College of Surgeons - Indigenous Health Committee • Royal Australasian College of Surgeons - Māori Health Advisory Group - Chair • Australia New Zealand Journal of Surgery Specialty Editor POSITIONS HELD
Orthopaedic Hip and Knee Replacement Surgeon
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 25
Our other key point, is that they do not add fees or mark up any thirdparty property maintenance – which means that you save more and they have no incentive to “fix” more than necessary.
Manukau, the team understand that owning a rental investment can be a lot of work, and choosing a Property Manager to manage your investment can seem overwhelming.
• Preparation of Tenancy agreements
Her goal is to minimise South Auckland’s negative reputation by showcasing the beautiful area, as well as all that reside here.
• Rental
Providing you withpeace of mind
• Exit
• Advertising and promoting
As they have a decade of experience taking care of our own rental investments, they know this gives them the edge needed to provide our property owners the peace of mind that they will look after their investment as if it was their own, and they back this with our guaranteed rent.
26 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz
• Showing available
With this in mind, Propertyscouts Manukau offer you the security of being part of a Nationwide Franchise with the hands on, commonsense approach you need for your rental property to be successful. They have all the depth of the larger companies, offering the latest Property Management Software and years of rental management experience, with the smaller, owner-operator work ethic successful business are grown on.
Propertyscouts Manukau are so confident in their service, that they are one of the few property managers in New Zealand, to offer owners Guaranteed Rent. As they do not sell real-estate, they only manage rental investments, it is the sole focus of their business, and they are specialists at what they do.
tenants • Tenant vetting
Ani and the team at Propertyscouts Manukau pride themselves on looking after investment properties for South Auckland. Feel free to call Ani today to talk about how Propertyscouts Manukau can provide you with peace of mind.
collection • Maintaining a tenancy database • Property inspections including where appropriate organising repairs and maintenance • Payment of invoices
• Rent
Client testimonial: “I had a product recall situation that was in my rental, Ani took over the process and kept me informed the entire time. I enjoy our chats as she is always bubbly and happy in her role. Definitely recommend her and her company.” - Kate
At Propertyscouts
Ani Armstrong is a multi-property investor with over 15 years in Customer Service. After 5 years managing properties for herself and loved ones, Ani decided that it was time to forge her own path by joining Propertyscouts and starting the Manukau Franchise. Having lived in Manurewa for over 30 years, Ani considers herself a proud local, and enjoys being a part of this strong, supportive community. Her goal is to minimise South Auckland’s negative reputation by showcasing the beautiful area, as well as all that reside here.
• Corresponding
A snapshot of Propertyscouts Manukau’s services: appraisals rental properties with and meeting potential tenants rental properties to potential (reference and credit checks) and bond on behalf owners (rates, insurance, maintenance etc.) collecting (we have a policy of zero tolerance to rent arrears) inspections and bond refunds.
of
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 27 Ani Armstrong Propertyscouts manage residential and commercial properties in the local area. We are the ‘local specialists’ helping to place quality tenants in rental properties. www.propertyscouts.co.nz Call Our Manukau Team on 0800 765 435 Business Owner/Sales I am a multi-property investor with over 15 years in Customer Service, I know and understand the importance of having “peace of mind”, which is why we purchased this franchise as it resonates with our beliefs and values. It’s our job to save property owners time and money ... to take the hassle out of owning investment property. m 021765435 k ani@propertyscouts.co.nz
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. However, as can be the case with new legislation, there are some changes which have caused concern.
By Jen Baird, chief executive of the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
Modernising ourrental laws
AN15%RECEIVEOFFANNUALMEMBERSHIPUSINGTHECODEONLINE“MJS15”MYJOBSPACE.CO.NZ
28 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz Property Management
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 29 Property Management We’ve got a wide variety of managed rentals suitable for anyone. Ani Armstrong A summary of the main services we offer Property Owners: • Rental appraisals • Advertising and promoting rental properties • Corresponding with and meeting potential tenants • Showing available rental properties to potential tenants • Tenant vetting (reference and credit checks) • Preparation of Tenancy agreements and bond collection • Maintaining a tenancy database • Property inspections including where appropriate organising repairs and maintenance • Payment of invoices on behalf of owners (rates, insurance, maintenance etc.) • Rent collecting (we have a policy of zero tolerance to rent arrears) • Exit inspections and bond refunds www.propertyscouts.co.nz Business Owner/Sales We pride ourselves on looking after investment properties for South Auckland so feel free to call me today and let’s talk about how I can provide you with “Peace of Mind”. New Zealand wide business specialising in property management - NOT real estate. m 021765435 k ani@propertyscouts.co.nz
Why Harcourts Port Property Management?
Choosing the right company to manage your investment property is a big decision. You should feel confident that the company managing your investment is a good fit for you.
Property Management
Changing to Port Property Management is easy – we’ll do the work for you. Contact us today to find out more: Pukekohe – Waiuku – Clarks Beach +64 9 238 rentals.ppm@harcourts.co.nz4243
About Harcourts Port Property Management Harcourts Port Property Management is a trusted real estate agency. We’re committed to providing the best customer service and achieving the best possible outcome for your needs. Harcourts is an independently owned, full-service real estate agency. Our local agents are experts at understanding their local area, including all its features and benefits, as well as what it takes to sell or buy a home there. Harcourts Port Property Management Limited is dedicated to providing outstanding Property Management Service to all customers.
Our team place an enormous amount of emphasis on taking the time to listen and understand clients’ individual needs. Service is important to us and managing one of your greatest assets is a responsibility not taken lightly. We pride ourselves on our prompt and direct communication. The landscape in which we operate is ever-changing, property management has become more than simply coordinating tenancies and rental payments. You need to feel confident that the rental company that you choose to use is across all current legislation so your investment does not become a liability. Our property managers are equipped with the ability to manage the unique balance between helping landlords achieve their long-term financial goals, but also ensuring that they meet their many legal obligations. This means you can be calm in knowing that you have hired the best possible people to manage your property-all the stress taken care off.
30 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz
Not happy with your property manager or management company?
* Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
We have a disciplined, conservative investment approach with a proven track record – in our 25 years we have never lost any investor capital.* We focus on what we know is important to our clients - consistent returns and steady income-focused funds that are accessible when they’re needed.
• Proven consistent returns - our conversative approach means we’ve been able to provide investors with consistent returns for over 25 years.
• Accessibility - your investment is not fixed term - although we do encourage you to invest for medium to long-term growth outcomes.
Peace of mind
We’re here to help you grow your wealth
If you are looking for an investment offering consistent returns, or want to learn more about investing with First Mortgage Trust, contact our friendly team on 0800 321 113 or visit fmt.co.nz
• Regular income – each quarter we distribute returns, or you can choose to have them reinvested.
• Mortgage-backed investment - risk is one of the highest concerns for investors. Our funds are backed by first mortgages with relatively conservative loan to valuation ratios that can help provide peace of mind investing.
investing
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 31
What we offer investors:
• Flexibility – start with a minimum investment of $500 and after that you can make further contributions at any time that suits you.
Since 1996 First Mortgage Trust have been helping New Zealanders protect their nest egg and grow their wealth.
From the top of the north to the bottom of the south - we’ve been there, done that, plus some more.
32 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz
100 Marine Parade 0800 84 74 napiernz.com88 Give us a call!
Some people seem to take as much pleasure researching and booking trips as they do with their destination – but if you’re not one of them, it may be time for you to get in touch with the friendly and well-informed staff at Napier’s i-SITE. They have many years of experience in the industry and knowledge between them, says manager Jane Libby, and they have visited almost every corner of Aotearoa. With all this first hand knowledge about places to go and things to do, you can trust the advice you’re being offered is sound.
Is it time to start planning your next Kiwi holiday?
Looking after our local community and domestic travellers is a top priority, says Jane. “Apart from flights, we can help you whatever your needs – if you’re curious about a farm stay or a particular rail trail, prefer luxury or no frills, easygoing or thrillseeking adventures,” says Jane. “Once you’ve told us a little about what you like, or prefer, we may also be able to suggest some hidden gems, the ones that are well worth checking out but for whatever reason tend to fly under the radar.” With all this first hand knowledge about places to go and things to do, you can trust the advice you’re being offered is sound.
For your convenience the i-SITE, located on Marine Parade, is open 7 days a week, 9am to 5pm. Or give them a call on 834 1911, or email info@napiernz.com.
Meet Marion. Let her book you on a Great New Zealand Walk. Meet Manette. She can plan a trip for you to the Bay of Islands, including the best scenic photo locations.
As specialists, they can tailor your bookings just for you, book any activity, tour or accommodation nationwide – all with no booking or credit card fees. They can cater for every need, whether you’re travelling as an individual, a duo, a family unit or in a group. They are definitely in the know when it comes to special deals, including combos and multitour booking discounts.
Napier i-SITE
Our local experts will have your next NZ getaway sorted!
100 Marine Parade 0800 84 74 88 napiernz.com Give us a call! Meet Manette. She can plan a trip for you to any destination in New Zealand, including the best scenic photo locations. Meet accommodation.exploringHeRichard.lovesandspecialisesin
Could you use a helping hand –one which won’t cost you a thing?
Our local experts will have your next NZ getaway sorted!
From the top of the north to the bottom of the south - we’ve been there, done that, plus some more.
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 33 0800 278 479 | www.rvmega.co.nz Open 7 days | 101 Hewletts Rd, Mount Maunganui New and pre-loved caravans and motorhomes for sale. 2,000m 2 retail shop stocking over 5,000 parts and accessories. On-site, 24 bay, workshop for professional renovations, alterations and installation of accessories. www.rvshop.co.nz for online parts and accessories purchases.
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:
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.
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.
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 Greatconfidence.agentscan achieve a better price for your property by understanding the best strategies according to different market conditions.
Real Estate
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.
Your home is often your largest personal asset, so selling it can be both exciting and stressful at the same time.
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.
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 Whentime.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?
What to look for in a real estate agent
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.
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.
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.
By Jen Baird, chief executive of the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand
• 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.
• 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
My real estate career began here in Waiuku in March 1998. Prior to real estate, I worked in finance and customer service roles. I enjoy meeting people, introducing them to our town, assisting with a purchase or sale of a property and welcoming them to our Aftercommunity.eightyears of successful selling, I stepped up and took on the role of Manager for the Barfoot & Thompson Waiuku office. After seven years of leading the team, I desired more freedom so returned to my passion. With a friendly personality and empathy for others, I love working with people offering a professional client-centred experience to achieve a smooth transition to their next stage of home ownership.
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 35 Real Estate I am local and have 24 years of knowledge in Waiuku Real Estate. With empathy and a gentle manner, I am happy to assist you with the sale or purchase of your home. 027 457 8045 DEBORAH ANDREW Residential/Rural Sales Waiuku BARFOOTWWW.BARFOOT.CO.NZ/OUR-PEOPLE/D.ANDREWBranch&THOMPSONLTDISLICENSEDUNDERTHEREALESTATEAGENTSACT2008
Being involved in the community as I am, I not only know the area but also the people. I currently live on the outskirts of Waiuku and enjoy the semi-rural aspect of growing trees and my own vegetables.
My wide knowledge of Waiuku and the surrounding area including the Awhitu Peninsula, is invaluable to my clients. As a real estate professional, I commit to developing great relationships and delivering on expectations. Call or email me at Barfoot & Thompson Waiuku. I look forward to showing you around and finding your place in our community.
Barfoot & Thompson has been my business partner for 21 years. For clients listing with the Waiuku branch, their model allows any of the company’s 1,700+ salespeople to introduce buyers and share information on any property that is listed. This increases the reach of clients’ property campaigns that Barfoot & Thompson staff are successfully marketing. Our buyers are discovering a more attractive slice of life here in Waiuku. At present, Barfoot & Thompson hold the market share for the Franklin district, so listing with myself and the team at Waiuku, has greater odds of finding and creating competition for your property sale.
Deborah Andrew Barfoot & Thompson
Achieving excellent outcomes Real Estate
Shirley Leonard joined the Real Estate industry in 1994, bringing with her considerable skills that she was able to utilise to quickly thrive and succeed. Having lived in the Papakura / Manurewa area for a long time, she had excellent local knowledge coming into the Real Estate industry. Because of this long-time personal commitment to the area, she has continued to keep up to date with both issues and developments with the district – this is of huge benefit to all of her clients. Still to this day, she is involved in local business groups to keep her finger on the pulse! Throughout her career, Shirley has worked through many different markets and difficult situations and she prides herself on achieving excellent outcomes. Focused and honest – and partnered with Barfoot & Thompson, she ensures her clients are her priority. Shirley is able to bring a friendly, affable personality and customer-focused approach to all of her transactions – Let her work for you!
36 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz WWW.BARFOOT.CO.NZ/OUR-PEOPLE/S.LEONARD BARFOOT & THOMPSON LTD IS LICENSED UNDER THE REAL ESTATE AGENTS ACT 2008 101-103 Great South Road, Papakura, Auckland 2110 Shirley Leonard 027 papakuras.leonard@barfoot.co.nz4755795092988029
“Energetic Enthusiastic Encouragement Empowers Action!”
Testimonial: “Early in 2022, my husband and I needed to sell our comfortable home and move closer to our family for age related reasons. Shirley listened and understood our needs perfectly and reassured us that she would sell our house and keep us updated throughout the process. This she did perfectly! We felt relieved and confident at such a time, to be able to leave the details of house-selling in her experienced and capable hands, while we concentrated on down-sizing and organising the move. Thank you, Shirley.”
For more information contact
- Lesley Flinn
Licensee
“Victoria was easy to deal with and always followed up when she said she would. She kept us up to date with how everything was going.” - Vanessa Hales
“I have been treated very special. Agent was extremely cooperative and clear. I would highly recommend them.” - Muhammad & Arooj Taffazal
RayWhite Eastern Group
SuperGold Card 10% Discount Michael Ellse 021 978 344 Victoria Carter-Ellse 027 274 9172 Five AM Realty Ltd Licensed (REAA2008)
“An excellent hard working woman who bends over backwards to achieve and making things happen. Nothing is too much for her to help her clients to their goal. A very happy people person, thank you Victoria!” - Gwenda Lunn
Introducing Victoria and Michael salespersons from Testimonials
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 37 Real Estate YOU CAN PUT YOUR TRUST IN US
and
With a successful real estate career credited to both business acumen and professionalism this is a team with a personal approach which continues to maintain an enviable reputation.
“Victoria visited me personally and didn’t just talk over the phone when I first made contact. She was prepared to not just present any offer, so. I felt she was working for my best “Michaelinterest.”andVictoria went out of their way for us and gave 100% on selling our property. They kept us in the loop about what was happening all the time.” - Clive Kerr
Michael, Victoria and their team pride themselves on being locals providing the best possible service to achieve excellent results for their clients. Being involved in the local community giving back is a part of the Team culture. We are always available for a confidential chat about your Real Estate needs.
An award winning team with over 30 years experience in the Eastern Beaches area, Victoria and Michael are dedicated to providing the best possible service to their clients.
Thinking of selling? Want to know how much your home is worth? Contact Victoria and Michael today!
Natural passion for real estate
Having run numerous and successful high profile auction campaigns this is a team exuding knowledge in this specialist field of the industry. With a natural passion for real estate and an enthusiastic, professional approach, Victoria and Michael are always working extremely hard to achieve excellent results for their clients and continue to achieve Alan White Elite performance.
38 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz Real Estate We have a heart for our area and our clients. Having lived in the district for decades and raising 8 children here, we know better than anyone what a great this is to live; to raise a family. We have a proven track record and a skill set for creating results for both our sellers and buyers. Our repeat and referral business is impressive and we manage our business with a balance of professionalism and integrity. We have chosen to work with Barfoot & Thompson because this company aligns with our 4 core Teamvalues:Groom We’re YOUR expert Megans.groom@barfoot.co.nzShane“IhavefoundShaneandMeganamazing.Theyhavebeenverysupportive,encouraging,efficientandunderstandingthroughouttheprocess.Ibelievetheygenuinelyhavetheirclientsbestinterestatheart.Infact,Ifeltlikeafriendnotaclient.“Groom:021919301MeganGroom:0277034946m.groom@barfoot.co.nzShanehasanaccountinghistorywithafinancialskillsetthatcomesinhandywhenassistingclientswiththeirdecisionmaking.hasbeenintheindustryfor17yearswithexperienceinallrealestatemarkets.YoucanbesurewhenyouchooseTeamGroom,youmaketherightchoice.WeareYOURrealestateexperts!Diversity-DeeSmithCommunityFamilyPeople
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.
Don’t let another year go by without truly discovering what digital marketing can do for your business.
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.
0800 FATWEB | www.fatweb.co.nz
Let’s start with the basics
Right now there are people looking for a business just like yours.
With over 15 years’ experience - we know what we’re doing.
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.
However, if you don’t have AdWords, there’s a very good chance they’ve just clicked one of your competitors’ websites.
- 38 Lowe St, Addington, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand - Level 6, 3-13 Shortland Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010 Call 0800 FATWEB, or email enquiries@fatweb.co.nz to book a FREE consultation.
This can sound complicated – but it doesn’t have to if you talk to the right people.
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.
With years’ of experience and having delivered outstanding results, we have some of the best digital experts in the business.
We have offices throughout New Zealand and can discuss your needs over the phone or by Skype.
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.
form of advertising you can measure, then increase or decrease, so you can manage your workflow accordingly!
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.
If you would like to be our next success story, please call or email: enquiries@fatweb.co.nz
Did you know you can also bring your own containers?
Be it your clothes – a hole in your pants, a button pops off – or your clock stops working, spend a few minutes checking to see if you can fix it rather than throwing it straight in the bin.
Polish copper with tomato sauce
Did you know that every Kiwi produces 3,200kg of waste per year? In total, that’s 12.5 million tonnes of waste each year, according to Recycle NZ. As a nation, we only recycle 28 percent of this waste.
Home Life
Some people like their wine glasses face up, while others like theirs facedown. Why not both? By alternating your glasses by top and bottom, you can nestle a lot more wine glasses closer together.
Suspenders to keep a fitted sheet in place
One of the biggest ways you can lessen your impact on the planet is reducing your waste and reusing – or upcycling – the things in your home. With that, we can minimise our impact on the planet and keep New Zealand beautiful, especially as China stopped accepting our recycling in 2018 due to China’s National Sword policy banning the import of most plastics and materials heading for recycling processors.
When your copper is looking tarnished, put some tomato sauce on a rag with some salt on top. Rub it on your copper item and repeat until you’ve covered the whole surface. Rinse it off and it’ll look brand new!
Bring your own containers
Wasteless ways
Remaining conscientious and aware of the waste you create every day is the best way to reduce your waste and impact on this place we call home.
Remove small furniture scratches with toothpaste Instead of getting your couch refinished, try using toothpaste to get the marks out. Use a pea-sized amount of non-gel toothpaste and rub the scratch in a circular motion until buffed out. Clean the remainder up with a damp towel.
All the supermarkets in New Zealand have moved to a zero plastic bag policy, reminding shoppers to bring their own reusable bags to take their groceries home. However, there is still a lot of plastic waste from the way meat is packaged to the way we bring home vegetables in little plastic bags.
Flip your wine glasses for more space
In the era of the disposable, we’ve lost this way of thinking and instead have been throwing out things that could be easily fixed instead of repairing them.
A life hack is a clever technique adopted in order to manage life’s tasks in a more efficient way. Below are some life hacks for your home to give you some much-needed short cuts to free up your time.
Clean HVAC vent registers in dishwasher
Back in the good ol’ days, our parents would make sure they got the most use out of something before throwing it away.
To keep your ventilation and air conditioning fresh and clean, put your HVAC vent registers in the dishwasher. Put them through a quick rinse cycle and then dry them thoroughly before reinstalling.
When you visit the deli or butcher’s, bring your own containers to take your meat home in. That way, you can drastically reduce the amount of plastic you’re collecting from the supermarket alone.
Repair your things
This paradigm shift can take a bit to get used to, but being mindful of how we interact with objects and waste is the best way to keep New Zealand green.
Your fitted sheet slipping off the corners of your bed is an annoyance that can be perplexing to fix. An easy way to solve the problem is to take a pair of braces for your trousers and clip each end to each corner under the mattress. That way, you sheet will definitely stay put.
Home hacks
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 41 Commercial – Residential Scaffolding in Auckland, Waikato and Northland. 0508 SUMMIT (786648) or summitscaffolding.co.nz09-525-0767info@scaffolding.org.nz Delivering projects to the highest standards across the whole range of scaffolding requirements.AUCKLAND • NORTHLANDWAIKATO 0508 SUMMIT Here at Summit Scaffolding Ltd, we pride ourselves in having an exemplary work safe record, high-profile calibre and scale of jobs completed for residential, commercial, industrial and civil requirements. You can find us at our Local offices in Auckland, Hamilton, Waikato, Northland and Bay of Plenty. When you contact Summit Scaffolding, you will not be dealing with a sales rep. Summit scaffolding only employ career scaffolders to deal with your design and costing solutions!
SuperGold - or the ‘gold card’ as some people know it - gives you golden opportunities to stretch your money further. There are thousands of instant discounts and special offers. You will find all sorts of ways to make instant savings every day near you across New Zealand and in Australia.
Applying for a SuperGold Card
Office for Seniors
Visit: www.officeforseniors.govt.nzCall:0800254565
SuperGold helps you stretch your money further, offering instant discounts, special offers on everyday essentials and more. Explore the many ways you could save locally and nationwide.
Super savings with SuperGold
• Free off-peak public transport.
What is the SuperGold Card?
Getting the SuperGold Card
Once your Veteran’s Pension has been granted, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will automatically send your SuperGold Card in the mail. This usually only takes a few weeks, but you may have to wait a month or two if you apply for New Zealand Superannuation prior to your 65th birthday.
Get the SuperGold app
The card gives you:
Call: 0800 25 45 65 (Monday – Friday, 8am-5pm) Email: Veteranwww.supergold.govt.nzWellingtonPOSuperGoldinformation@supergold.govt.nzCentreBox50546145SuperGold
Veteran SuperGold is a specially branded SuperGold Card to recognise service to our country in the Armed Forces.
Once your New Zealand Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension has been granted, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will automatically send your SuperGold Card in the mail. This usually only takes a few weeks, but you may have to wait a month or two if you apply for New Zealand Superannuation prior to your 65th birthday.
If you do not receive or are not eligible to receive New Zealand Superannuation, you can still apply for a SuperGold Card. You must be 65+ years old and be a New Zealand resident. Simply fill in the SuperGold Card application (PDF 255KB) and return it to us.
The Office for Seniors is working to improve the lives of older people across New Zealand. Their website and regular email newsletter provide helpful information, news, and stories for older people.
Super Gold Card
Aotearoa.
• Instant savings on everyday essentials like electricity, insurance, food and healthcare
Getting an automatic SuperGold Card
SuperGold is one way the New Zealand government and business communities can say ‘thank you’ or ‘tēnā rawa atu koe’ to older New Zealanders for the work they have done raising families, supporting communities and contributing to
The fast and easy way to find discounts and offers when you’re out and about is to use the SuperGold app. If you have a smartphone or tablet, download the SuperGold app from the Apple Store or Google Play.
• Discounts on entertainment, travel and in retail stores
• High value special offers
(Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm)
Email: information@supergold.govt.nz
How does the Community Services Card work with SuperGold?
You will be automatically issued a SuperGold Card when you’re granted New Zealand Superannuation or a Veteran’s Pension or a main benefit at age 65 or over. Your New Zealand Superannuation will need to be approved at least three weeks before turning age 65 if you wish to receive your SuperGold Card by your 65th birthday.
What if I am already receiving a main benefit?
Is SuperGold connected to my New Zealand Superannuation?
Since May 2010, the only SuperGold cards with an expiry date are those which double as both a Community Services Card and SuperGold Card. These ‘combo cards’ have an expiry date because entitlement to a Community Services Card can change over time. If the back of your card includes an expiry date (EXP) and this date has expired, call 0800 25 45 65 or email information@ supergold.govt.nz to arrange a replacement card.
When will I receive my SuperGold Card?
Can I still get SuperGold if I am not a resident?
Frequently asked questions about SuperGold
How do I order a replacement card? If your SuperGold Card is lost, stolen, damaged or if you change your name, call or email us to order a replacement card. You will need to let us know your full name, date of birth, current residential and postal address and SuperGold Card client number if you have one (found on the back of your SuperGold Card). You should receive a replacement card within three weeks – free of charge.
Information provided courtesy of and copyrighted to the Ministry of Social Development: www.supergold.govt.nz. www.supergold.govt.nz
If you are turning 65 and receiving a main benefit from the Ministry of Social Development, your SuperGold Card will arrive at least three weeks after you are granted New Zealand Superannuation on your 65th birthday. If you are not applying for New Zealand Superannuation then you will need to call or email us to advise you have turned 65 so the MSD can send you a new SuperGold Card.
Once your New Zealand Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension has been granted, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will automatically send your SuperGold Card in the mail. If you do not receive or are not eligible to receive New Zealand Superannuation, you can still apply for a SuperGold Card.
If you are not normally a resident in New Zealand and do not intend to stay here, you will not qualify to receive a SuperGold Card.
If you have a current Community Services Card at the time you are granted New Zealand Superannuation, and you may continue to qualify for a Community Services Card, you will need to complete a Community Services Card application form to get a new SuperGold/Community Services Combo Card. It will have the initials CSC on the back and an expiry date. Your new combo card’ replaces your Community Services Card. You can use this card for both health subsidies and SuperGold discounts. Does my SuperGold Card have an expiry date?
Can I use my SuperGold Card to travel free on public transport? Yes. Most areas off-peak is usually 9am to 3pm and from 6.30pm to the end of service on weekdays, and any time on weekends and public holidays. In most areas you will also need a smart card from the Regional Council to access free off-peak travel.
South Northour own backyard
Hidden gems in
The Whangaroa Harbour is an old river system, drowned when the sea level rose about 6,000 years ago. Ancient volcanic rocks make up its steep rocky outcrops. You can visit the harbour two ways – by land or by sea – and it has three wharves, as well as two boat launching ramps. It’s home to small but important areas of mangrove and saltmarsh wetlands, as well as tidal rivers.
Whangaroa Harbour - Located in Northland, Whangaroa in the Bay of Islands is a staggering place to explore by boat or through the various walkways and trails.
The Putangirua Pinnacles also feature as a backdrop in the Lord of the Rings: Return of the King film, where Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli ride to meet the Army of the Dead.
There’s never been a better time to explore our own backyard.
44 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz Travel
For more information on Whangaroa Harbour, visit: www.whangaroa.co.nz.
For more information on the Putangirua Pinnacles, visit: www.wairarapanz.com.
New Zealand is home to a diverse range of climates and microecosystems, from subtropical places in the far North Island during the summer to snowy alpine areas inland on the South Island during the winter. We all have our favourite haunts, but how many times have you stepped off the beaten track to find some place new? We’ve curated a few suggestions for you below.
Putangirua Pinnacles - In the southern Wairarapa area only a short drive from Wellington sits the Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve, the “badlands erosion” where the Putangirua Stream has exposed ancient layers of gravel through rain and flood, forming “hoodoos” or individual pinnacles.
Nearby sits Motunau Island, a crucial refuge for many creatures including seabirds, geckos and over 5,000 little blue penguins. Access to the island is restricted to research only – permits issues by DOC – but you still view the island from afar on the beach or by boat. For more information about the area, camping grounds and more, visit: www.hurunui.govt.nz.
Curio Bay in particular showcases lush marine wildlife and glimpses of the past – like yellow-eyed penguins, Hector’s dolphins, fur seals and sea lions – as well as a 180 million-year-old Jurassic fossil forests. It’s one of only three accessible fossil forests in the world.
Motunau - Located in the Hurunui district just over an hour north of Christchurch, Motunau is a sleepy village with a beach unlike those seen on postcards and in travel magazines. It’s less tamed, with giant cliffs and rock fragments, as well as the Motunau River that runs next to its only campsite.
For more information about Curio Bay and the Catlins, visit: www.southlandnz.com.
Curio Bay, the Catlins - The Catlins, located at the bottom tip of the South Island, boasts stunning views in a remote region. With abundant wildlife and a wide range of waterfalls, forests, beaches and farmland, the area has a lot to offer with less foot traffic.
Having a meaningful farewell allows your loved ones to gather, support one another, remember, and celebrate your life and begin the journey of saying goodbye.
What to look for when selecting a funeral director
One of our most precious gifts to our family when we go is a meaningful farewell to help them along that journey.
You can find funeral directors who meet these four simple requirements and can be your assurance of a meaningful farewell. Make sure that precious gift is all you want it to be, and your family needs it to be.
By Gillian Boyes, Funeral Directors Association CEO.
A meaningful farewell makes a positive contribution to our grieving and our mental well-being. We need to remember that a funeral is for the living.
Funeral directors have a complex and vitally important event to organise and run for a family who are highly emotional with Funeralsgrief.are a one-off event and cannot be rerun if something is not right and what is more, we are only just beginning to discover the long-term harm of a poorly run funeral or indeed no funeral at all.
We find someone who knows what they are doing and ask them to do it. So how do we find such a person and how do we know if they do know what they are doing?
3. Find a funeral director who is subject to an independent complaints process. If something goes wrong or just isn’t quite right, you need someone you can go to, to get advice or help and who has the power to do something to make it right. That someone must be independent to make the process worthwhile and the funeral director must submit to that process.
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 45 Funeral Directors
Mental wellbeing is not something we fully understand, and grief is one of the most powerful emotions that can negatively impact on our mental well-being if it is not managed well.
It is the start of the process where a family comes to terms with the sudden loss of a loved one and starts to understand how life will now be different with that person not being physically present as they were.
For your assurance of a meaningful farewell, visit www.funeraldirectors.co.nz, to find your local Funeral Directors Association member.
So how can we avoid the scammers, the cowboys, and also make sure that we leave our loved ones with the precious gift of a meaningful farewell?
2. Find a funeral director who is subject to a regular inspection process to make sure that they are complying with the standards they have.
4. Find a funeral director who is part of a national organisation that provides training and professional development so that the funeral director keeps up to date with current legislation and the latest thinking on how to make a farewell meaningful. Quite frankly, there are no real surprises in this list, and it is what you should expert when dealing with any professional or trades person.
1. Find a funeral director who is committed to a written set of standards with ethical principles and ask for a copy. This provides the evidence that they know what they are doing because it is written down. As part of that also ask to see a copy of their contract for service. This sets out what they will deliver and what you or your estate will pay for. Finally ask for a written estimate so you know the cost before the event and not have it as a surprise afterwards.
The death of someone close is a time of sadness when a range of emotions are experienced.
Part of the community
Part of the South and East Auckland communities for over two decades, Resthaven Funerals has gained a reputation for caring and professional staff and service. Locals who have grown up in their communities and who are passionate about the families who reside there, Resthaven Funerals was established by Raewyn Proctor and Rachel Benns in 2000, both qualified funeral directors and both actively working in the business today.
The fruit of love is service, which is compassion in action
Ladies Lunch, sponsors of Homai Bowls, Manurewa Cosmopolitan Club Bowls, Howick Bowls, Howick and Pakuranga Croquet, fundraising for Hospice at malls and market days as well as hosting Pink Ribbon morning teas and holding talks to Age Concern, Diabetes Auckland, Probus Groups and Retirement Villages residents and staff.
Supported by a dedicated, qualified team, Resthaven Funerals locations are in Great South Road, Manurewa and Cnr. Picton & Walter MacDonald Streets, Howick. Members of FDANZ which mandates high values and standards are adhered to, Rachel was elected as president this year, the first female president in its history and a huge honour for the predominantly female team at Resthaven. Their strong community presence is felt across the isthmus; members of Howick Click, Venus Women’s Network Group, inaugural sponsors of Totara Hospice
Tailored to your individual needs
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46 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz ??? These words come from the benevolent and ever humble Mother Teresa whose work with the poor and dying for over five decades is Theyrenowned.couldequally describe the team at Resthaven Funerals who serve their community with care, compassion and respect. When the team at Resthaven take your loved one into their care, they become part of the Resthaven family, cared for with respect and dignity and farewelled in a way the family will remember fondly and with love.
Guiding Family and friends
The Resthaven team all bring a variety of strengths to their role as Funeral Directors, however they all embody care, empathy and a dedication to support families, in their time of need, in a down-to-earth manner. They work extremely hard to ensure you have the available options for you and your family to make the right decision that will lead to a funeral that is both meaningful and immensely personal to each and every family and extended family member. It’s normal to need time to think when someone dies and Resthaven do just that, giving you the time to think, without rushing, to plan a funeral. Once you’re ready, they sit with you and gently discuss what matters to you, reinforcing the importance of a funeral to say goodbye to your loved one. The opportunity of honouring your loved one, whether in the form of a large gathering, or simply a few family members, assists in the grieving process. The Resthaven team guide you through choices like cremation or burial, respecting and celebrating cultural diversity and catering for the needs of all ethnic groups. They cover things you may not have thought about, like who will carry the casket, or the tone of the celebrant. They may assist you in writing the eulogy, whatever the questions, or uncertainty, the Resthaven team provides the answers or options with the utmost consideration and care.
The Resthaven team understand that people are different, they are all individuals and their wishes are too. The most important thing is that the funeral is right for you and your family, and honours and respects your loved one’s life well lived. The Resthaven Funerals team understand their community because they are part of it. They live in the South and East Auckland communities and have done for over 20 years. They are immensely proud of the professional, caring services they provide to their community. 88 Great South Road, Manurewa (09) 267 2530 Cnr. Picton & Walter MacDonald Streets, Howick Phone 24 hours: (09) 533 7493 www.resthavenfunerals.co.nz
Some people want a simple, no fuss affair. Other s, something more colourful and unique reflecting their loved one’s personalit y There’s no right or wrong.
Planning a funeral for a loved one is a difficult process. Whether you prefer a traditional religious service, or an informal life celebration, your farewell can be as individual as your loved one. Our dedicated team of qualified funeral directors will provide a farewell of dignity and respect, a true celebration of a life well lived. 88 Great South Road, Manurewa | Phone 24 hours: 09 267 2530 Cnr. Picton & Walter MacDonald Streets, Howick | Phone 24 hours: 09 533 7493 resthavenfunerals.co.nz
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 47
Honouring CelebratingandLife
48 | Plusliving+ www.plusliving.co.nz Funeral Directors
Yes, this can really help your family when the time comes! You can download an information pack from our website to get some ideas and you can record your wishes here. Alternatively, you can phone one of funeral directors, they will talk you through all your options.
The high standard of service that Fountains is known for is down to our team of funeral directors. Wendy, Rav, Ross, Brett, and Ben bring their own unique experiences, personalities and expertise to their roles. While they are all dedicated, professional individuals, it is their compassion and care for families that make them so good at what they do. They care for people in the way they would like their own loved ones to be cared for.
At Fountains, we do not take a “one size fits all” approach to funerals but help the families we care for to say goodbye to their loved one in a meaningful way. We are all unique individuals and each of our lives is like a tapestry into which the lives of the people we have touched are woven, so it makes sense to say goodbye in a way that is as special and unique as we are. Our team will really listen to you, give you the guidance and advice you need and take care of all the details.
Our unique experiences shape us into the people we are. Do your family and friends know the stories from your past? If not, when we die, these stories can be lost to the people who love us the most. Taking the time to record your stories and your wishes for your funeral can really help your family during a painful time of loss. Can I plan my own funeral?
Why even have a funeral?
Stories from the past weave us into the bigger picture.
This is a question that we get asked a lot. A good funeral not only gives us the opportunity to express our love, our grief, our support and to share our memories but also helps us begin to come to terms with our loss. While a funeral can be a very a sad occasion, it can also be a true celebration of a life well lived.
Where should a funeral be held?
A funeral can be held anywhere - in a chapel or a church, in a private home or garden, on a beautiful beach, in clubrooms or a hall, anywhere, in fact, that has been a special part of a persons’ life. It doesn’t even have to be during daytime – a twilight ceremony with an array of glowing candles is amazing! We have a beautiful chapel with a capacity for 200 at our Papakura branch and our new-renovated classic bungalow in Pukekohe is perfect for more intimate farewells.
We are always happy to talk things through and answer any questions you may have, so give us a call at any time.
We are all unique individuals and each of our lives is like a tapestry into which the lives of the people we have touched are woven, so it makes sense to say goodbye in a way that is as special and unique as we are.
35 Wood Street, Papakura Ph 09 298 2957 93 Edinburgh Street, Pukekohe Ph 09 238 www.fountainsfunerals.co.nz2221
What makes Fountains Funerals special?
www.plusliving.co.nz Plusliving+ | 49 Plan your funeral. Then enjoy your life. Planning your own funer al is never an easy thing to do. However, almost ever yone says, that once they’ve taken care of these essential arr angements, a weight has been taken off their shoulder s. With premises in Papakur a and Pukekohe , we’ve been par t of the South Auckland community for over 60 year s. Whatever your choices, whatever your tr aditions, whatever your budget, the Fountains team are here to help you celebr ate the life you lived, your way. Cnr Wood & Elliot St, Papakura | Phone 09 298 2957 93 Edinburgh St, Pukekohe | Phone 09 238 2221 fountainsfunerals.co.nz
visit our homes in
YES YES YES Platinum Homes says YES more often. Solar FlyLatestUnderHeatDVSWiSuperiorLow-EPower..........................................MaxxDoubleGlazing...............Insulation...............................redforCarCharging.......................System..........................................Pump...........................................FloorHeating............................SmartWiring.............................ResistantPaint................................ What have these houses got? YESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYES All Platinum Homes are built with quality and space in mind. Contact our team to find out more about our completed Platinum Homes, available now in the highly desired community of Paerata Rise. Murray Taylor 02102562331
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