AgedPlus Village Business Magazine | February 2025
INSIDE
Cutting the Red Tape pg 8
he village and care sector continues to evolve as demographic shifts, evolving policies, and rising expectations for quality care impact new build and refurbishment decisions.
Rethinking of demand numbers and the need for care in village developments has meant some shifts in the planning by providers to ensure long-term viability.
A key trend shaping the industry globally is the integration of retirement villages within the wider community. Beyond infrastructure, providers are also introducing community engagement programmes to bring people into villages, offering social connection and knowledge-sharing opportunities. Villages are increasingly being designed and operated to be more inviting and accessible to the public, fostering intergenerational connections and social engagement. Many new developments now include cafes, wellness centres, and shared spaces that encourage interaction between residents and the broader community. Arvida is one such example, where many of the
newer communities have a café on site.
The investment in technology, workforce development, and sustainability initiatives to meet the growing demand for high-quality care remain in 2025.
Across the board, addressing workforce shortages and retention issues remains a priority, with providers implementing new training programmes and wellbeing initiatives to support staff in an increasingly demanding sector. Rising operational costs and funding challenges mean that innovation, through technology, partnerships, and service diversification, are becoming critical for success. The path ahead requires resilience and adaptability in embracing change to be best positioned to lead the sector forward.
Tania Walters, Publisher tania@reviewmags.com
PUBLISHER: Tania Walters
GENERAL MANAGER: Kieran Mitchell
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Sarah Mitchell
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Caitlan Mitchell
EDITORIAL ASSOCIATES: Sam Francks, Jenelle Sequeira
With a record amount of nurses flocking to the Australian workforce in numbers previously unseen before, the federal Australian government has made the process of obtaining employment easier and more effective for both nurses and operators.
10 True Cost of Retirement
The Retirement Commission’s latest in-depth exploration of what life is like for retirees in New Zealand has uncovered how many are missing out on essential services like medical appointments, as well as social activities and radically changing their shopping habits to manage the costof-living crisis.
12 Investing in Education
As New Zealand shifts into an unprecedented era where declining cognitive ability will affect one in every four Kiwis, there is a strong need for dementia education within the community.
14 Changing Face for Australian Organisation
The Aged and Community Care Providers Association Australia has decided the time was right for a refresh, promoting the move to change its name to Ageing Australia.
22 Women In Business
18 Celebrating a Milestone
Metlifecare’s Pāpāmoa Beach Retirement Village has marked its 20-year milestone with a celebration attended by more than 200 residents, staff (past and present) and family members.
20 A Fond Farewell
The right time to retire has never been an easy decision to make, especially for those in a well-connected workplace. But for Ryman caregiver Kath Collett, having spent over three decades at Ryman’s Woodcote Village, the time was right.
Anitha Mogilicharla has followed her passion and taken advantage of opportunities when they presented themselves.
24 The Finer Tastes of Life
Located in the heart of Browns Bay on Auckland’s North Shore, Oceania’s The Sands Village has put an emphasis on the finer side of retirement living.
Reducing Single-Use Items in Healthcare
NEW ZEALAND | Bupa has partnered with Health Care Without Harm to outline the importance of reducing resilience on single-use items in healthcare.
As the use of environmentally harmful single-use items (SUI) in healthcare continues to increase, Bupa has partnered with Health Care Without Harm, to launch a global report outlining key principles for
Funding and Resource Concerns for NZNO
NEW ZEALAND | Pressing funding and resourcing issues are at the fore-front of priorities for NZNO heading into the new year.
The New Zealand Nurses Organisation Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa (NZNO) is calling on the Government to properly fund and resource the health sector to create an equitable health system that meets the needs of all New Zealanders.
Following the transition of Simeon Brown as the new Minister for Health, NZNO chief executive Paul Goulter said it doesn’t matter to patients who the minister of health is. “What matters to New Zealanders’ is that the Government accepts its responsibility to ensure we have an equitable health system that works for all New Zealanders.
reducing reliance on single-use items in healthcare, while ensuring the highest levels of patient care are maintained.
The report, which draws on clinical experience in Australia and around the world, provides practical, actionable steps to make Healthcare more sustainable whilst highlighting the need for further research into the health and environmental impacts of single-use materials. Today, healthcare generates 4.4 percent of global emissions and creates millions of tonnes of waste per year with a great proportion of that waste coming from SUIS.
Roger Sharp, Bupa Asia Pacific, Chief Sustainability & Corporate Affairs Officer said climate change is a major threat to human health, and we can’t escape the fact that the healthcare sector is part of this problem.
“There is an urgent need to tackle the waste that the healthcare industry generates – particularly that from single-use items - and this report aims to increase visibility of the issue, spotlight organisations making positive progress, and showcase solutions that are currently available,” said Sharp.
Read more online
“It’s now widely accepted that New Zealand has a health system that is under-resourced and under-funded. Patients are waiting too long for the health care they need, or not getting it at all.
“The only response the Government seems to have is further cutbacks. Read more online
UK Aged Care Reforms a Good Sign
UK | Director of Age UK, Caroline Abrahams, said that reforms into social care, sector investment, and an independent commission were a good sign. Age UK has issued a statement in response to the DHSC announcement on social care, which comprised an independent commission, further investment and various reforms. Charity Director at Age UK, Caroline Abrahams, said that far reaching reform and refinancing of social care was long overdue, and this announcement was unequivocally good news. Abrahams suggested that it could potentially break free the logjam that has stood in the way for many years. “We say 'potentially' because while we've no doubt Baroness Casey will do an excellent job, the real question is whether the Government will act decisively on her conclusions. In this respect history is discouraging, but it's imperative that the current administration breaks the mould and puts the commission's recommendations fully into practice.” Read more online
Arvida Lansdowne Estate Celebrate Grand Opening
NEW ZEALAND | Residents and staff at Arvida Lansdowne Estate in Masterton recently gathered to celebrate the grand opening of their impressive new $2 million clubhouse, marking a significant enhancement to the retirement community's facilities.
Masterton District Council Mayor Gary Caffell officially opened the facility, praising Arvida's commitment to providing quality retirement living in the
Disability Rights Commitment
NEW ZEALAND | Disability Issues Minister
Louise Upston has reiterated New Zealand's strong commitment to the rights of disabled people. New Zealand’s strong commitment to the rights of disabled people has continued with the response to an important United Nations report, Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston has announced.
Of the 63 concluding observations of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), 47 will be progressed or considered as part of wider work later this year. A further 16 have been considered and noted, with the New Zealand Government retaining flexibility to reconsider the response to these recommendations at any time.
Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston said that disability rights has become a national priority. Read more online
region. "The Masterton community thanks Arvida for the huge part they have played in making comfortable living available for retirees in this district. This new clubhouse will be a tremendous asset to Masterton," Caffell said during the opening ceremony.
The state-of-the-art clubhouse features an array of amenities designed to enrich residents' daily lives and foster community connection. At its heart is a spacious resident lounge and dining area, complemented by a wellequipped resident kitchen where members can prepare meals and host gatherings. For those seeking recreational activities, the clubhouse offers a full-size snooker table and access to a purpose-built lawn bowls green.
The development includes thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces where residents can socialise and enjoy the landscaped areas which have been created as welcoming spaces for both small gatherings and larger community events. Arvida Chief Executive Jeremy Nicoll expressed his satisfaction with the new facility, noting that residents have already begun making full use of the vibrant space. Read more online
Age UK Call for Financial Help
UK | Age UK has called on the Government to make more financial help available to local charities, as outlined in its "Nothing Left to Trim" report.
Age UK’s financial-related report ‘Nothing left to trim’ has shown the Government’s Budget measures will cost the 69 local Age UKs who responded to a survey from the national charity GBP £6.27 million this year.
Some essential Age UK services, which help highly vulnerable older people and their families and unpaid carers, will be forced to scale down or close as a result of the Government’s decision to increase Employer NICs (from 13.8 percent to 15 percent in April 2025) and to lower the salary threshold at which they become due.
This is the stark conclusion of Age UK’s new report ‘Nothing Left to Trim’, which sets out the findings of its recent survey of local Age UKs and National local Partners In total, Age UK received 69 responses to their survey, giving creditable response rate of more than 50 percent.
Read more online
Cutting the Red Tape
With a record amount of nurses flocking to the Australian workforce in numbers previously unseen before, the federal Australian government has made the process of obtaining employment easier and more effective for both nurses and operators.
In 2024, more than 16,000 qualified nurses moved to Australia from all over the world, three times as many than the 5,600 who joined the workforce in the final financial year before COVID-19.
Of the 27,800 nurses that have registered to practice in Australia int the past two years, nearly 70 percent have come from New Zealand under the Trans-Tasman agreement. An additional 16 percent have earned qualifications from a group of comparable countries that includes Canada, Ireland, Singapore, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.
As a result of this, the government has pledged it will cut the red tape in the way of making the health industry, specifically the aged care sector, more accessible to skilled foreign workers. From March 2025, Australia’s health workforce is set to receive a
major boost by ensuring that internationally qualified nurses from those comparable countries are fast-tracked to register and work in Australia, instead of spending months tied up in needless red tape while waiting for their application to be approved.
Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler said that for too long, highly educated nurses with experience were left waiting on endless approvals before they could work in Australian hospitals, aged care facilities and general practices.
“Australian patients will ultimately benefit from these changes, since these highly educated nurses can start working and providing care to Australians sooner, without waiting needlessly on red tape,” said Butler.
As a result of these changes, assessment and registration will be streamlined, with the time reduced by up to six to 12 months.
Additional examinations or upgraded qualifications will not be required as well in order to gain registration.
the application process for the thousands of highly experienced nurses from comparable countries overseas will go a long way to ensuring Australians can get the best quality care, soonest,” she said.
Kearney added that this was definitely an upgrade to the former system processes.
“Combined with the many scholarships, placements and other programs the Albanese Labor Government provides to support our home-grown nurses, this will improve the availability of nurses in health settings around the country.”
The new standard will apply to internationally qualified registered nurses who have practised for at least 1,800 hours since 2017 in selected comparable countries.
Butler said that in order to ensure that high standards of patient safety and quality of care were maintained, but all internationally qualified registered nurses must still meet the same regulatory requirements as Australiantrained nurses when applying for their registration.
Assistant Minister Ged Kearney said her former career as a nurse has given her a unique perspective.
“I know all too well that Australia’s healthcare system is powered by the sweat, hearts and expertise of nurses. Streamlining
The new registration process supports the implementation of the Kruk Review, which recommended changes to make it simpler, quicker and cheaper for internationally qualified health practitioners to work in Australia.
In the 2024-25 Budget, the Albanese Government allocated AUD 90 million to implement the recommendations of the Kruk Review to grow and support the nation’s health workforce.
This reform represents a collaborative effort between the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, and all Australian governments to address unprecedented workforce shortages while maintaining Australia’s rigorous safety and quality standards for healthcare.
A fast-track pathway for general practitioners from New Zealand, the UK and Ireland began in October 2024. Since then, HPRA has been receiving an average of around 11 applications a week from GPs looking to join the Australian health system. Similar pathways for other specialist medical practitioners will get underway this year.
True Cost of Retirement
The Retirement Commission’s latest in-depth exploration of what life is like for retirees in New Zealand has uncovered how many are missing out on essential services like medical appointments, as well as social activities and radically changing their shopping habits to manage the cost-of-living crisis.
ore than 1450 New Zealand seniors were surveyed as part of this report, which collected qualitative and quantitative research. A key theme throughout responses was the financial climate and growing concern about the cost of necessities.
The research highlighted the fact that 37 percent of seniors surveyed considered their financial situation to have worsened, specifically over the last two years.
Increasing pressures associated with the costof-living have also inflated financial concern, and prompted 46 percent of participants to say they have had to reduce social interactions or activities important to them.
Twenty-eight percent of respondents also said they now buy less food, and 26 percent have put off medical treatment as a result of
their financial situation.
Retirement Commission Research Lead Dr Jo Gamble said the findings were a clear indication of just how tough some New Zealand retirees have found the last few years and the precarious situation people face if they’re not mortgage-free, with additional sources of income.
“We can see that those who are renting, or who have experienced life shocks after 50 or have disabilities or long-term health conditions are finding things the toughest. These groups typically have fewer financial assets and are therefore less likely to be financially resilient,” said Dr Gamble.
“The findings illustrate the significant financial buffer being mortgage-free provides compared to those renting. In addition, people with investments and/or KiwiSaver were nearly twice as likely to feel their financial situation
RETIREMENT COMMISSIONER
Jane Wrightson
was comfortable compared to those without.”
The ever-changing economic climate of the past two years has been particularly harsh for seniors on low incomes, particularly those
completely dependable on NZ Super. For many, it has been more than just having to tighten the belt, and instead moving to day-to-day survival.
One research participant said that their rent increased by $60 twice in the past two years, and it was nearly unaffordable.
“And the house – there’s a lot of stuff wrong with it like it hasn’t been insulated. I’m too scared to complain. Always think that if I don’t have anything to eat, at least no one would know because I live on my own,” they said.
For people on middle incomes, belttightening had generally been sufficient but there was growing unease about when things would return to normal since they were eroding their security/nest egg sooner than they planned to.
This research further highlighted the reliance people have on NZ Super, with 39 percemt of respondents saying their only income is from NZ Super and have no other investments, savings or KiwiSaver. Over a third (36 percent) of working older people primarily do so because of financial pressures.
“There tends to be a ‘golden assumption’ that over 65s today are mortgage-free couples living in relative comfort on NZ Super, but there’s been little research to test whether this is actually the case,” said Retirement Commissioner Jane Wrightson.
“This research provides us with a comprehensive view of what retirement really looks like today and highlights the missing voices of a group that can go largely unheard. It stands as an important reminder that things are not always as ‘golden’ as some may assume. These insights provide us with valuable evidence to help identify practical policies and interventions that could lead to better retirement outcomes for New Zealanders in the future.”
Only 14 percent of seniors did not class themselves as ‘retired’, which increased to 20 percent for 65 to 74-year-olds. Over a third of working older people primarily do so because of financial pressures.
Fifty-six percent of participants said they felt financially comfortable or very comfortable, which left 32 percent feeling financially exposed, and a further 12 percent felt as if they were in a financially poor situation.
The research will support the 2025 Review of Retirement Income Police, which the Government requires the Retirement Commissioner to undertake every three years.
Investing in Education
As New Zealand shifts into an unprecedented era where declining cognitive ability will affect one in every four Kiwis, there is a strong need for dementia education within the community.
Hon. Tracy Martin Chief Executive Aged Care Association
he effects of dementia can impact friends and families, as well as the dedicated staff throughout aged care providers.
Aged Care Association Chief Executive, Hon.Tracey Martin, said that dementia has long been a complex and often misunderstood condition, which can bring a sense of guilt, frustration and helplessness and manifest as misguided anger towards care facilities.
“I hear from families regularly about the emotional turmoil they face when placing a loved one in care. They question whether they’ve done the right thing, whether they should have tried harder to manage at home, or whether the care facility will be able to provide the compassionate, individualised care their loved one deserves,” said Martin.
“This guilt, while understandable, can be minimised with better education and
awareness across the entire country. The more we can elevate understanding about dementia - its progression, its inevitable impact, and the role that expert care can play - the more we can ease the burden on whanau.”
Almost 90 percent of residents in care facilities in New Zealand will experience some sort of cognitive decline. Although this is statistically alarming, Martin urged the importance of noting that the majority of residents are managed well within standard care facilities without any need for secure units. She said that this has challenged the dated idea that residents with dementia need to be locked down or separated from other residents.
Martin added that this is a valid reason why the future of dementia care in New Zealand is in need of a refreshed approach. Although she said that secure units have a place within the sector for some residents with acute
needs, she argued they were not the future for everyone living with dementia. She believed in providing a more integrated and holistic environment that can be individualised to their unique needs, which will better support people battling cognitive decline.
The Aged Care Association has a vision to elevate the training and resources available to the local workforce, which will further empower them to confidently manage the complicated tasks associated with dementia care. Martin said that education will help the sector ensure that its carers not only understand the clinical responsibilities of caring for dementia, but also how to interact with empathy, understanding and patience.
“Dementia education needs to go beyond the physical tasks of care; it should encompass communication skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to engage with residents in a way that honours their individuality and past experiences.”
Martin reiterated how vital it is to bring families and communities into the fold of dementia education.
“Whanau need to be supported with accurate information about what dementia is, how it progresses, and how they can continue to be involved in their loved one’s life while navigating the emotional challenges it brings,” she said.
“It is equally important for whanau to understand the model of care at the facility their loved ones are in, as care models can vary between providers.”
The goal of the New Zealand Aged Care Association is not just to care for those with dementia, but to transform the way dementia is approached across the sector. Martin added that by investing in education, it can be reinforced that people with cognitive decline are still part of families and the community.
Time for a refresh
The Aged and Community Care Providers Association Australia has decided the time was right for a refresh, promoting the move to change its name to Ageing Australia.
EO Tom Symondson said that while the name has changed, the Association’s mission has remained dedicated to championing members’ interests and driving reforms to improve the outcomes for older Australians.
“Aged and Community Care Providers Association tries but fails to capture everything we do. A third of our members offer retirement living and seniors housing. It’s also difficult for the media, it’s too long-winded and difficult to remember. They really struggle with the name,” said Symondson.
The name change was announced during the second day of the Association’s national conference in Adelaide, and was favourably received by the conference audience of
around 2,000.
The view that the name change was necessary was shared by many of its members, who agreed the previous name didn’t discuss much of what the Association does.
Symondson said that Ageing Australia was simpler and represented the entire continuum of ageing services, including home and community care, residential care and seniors housing. The change has also aligned with its commitment to representing the aged services.
“Our strategy is to make sure people see retirement living as part of that continuum of services, something that’s a really positive part of the journey for an older person.”
This change will also elevate the Association’s presence on the international stage and better reflect its identity. Symondson added
that there is an established innovation team focused on how Australia can become more involved in global discussions on ageing and aged care at a global level.
“We’re now trying to rebuild our partnerships with overseas organisations because they have innovation suggestions, models and experiences we can learn from, and there a more also plenty of things we can share with them.”
Ageing Australia has already developed a strong relationship with its New Zealand counterpart, the Aged Care Association. Symondson was also in attendance for its annual conference in late 2024, where he joined in on conversations relating to the future of the aged care sector, and specifically the Australasian sector.
At the conference, Symondson discussed the importance of the recent reforms in Australia and how they have addressed the evolving needs and expectations within the sector. He particularly highlighted the positive momentum for the sector and emphasised that, for the first time in years, there was a sense of optimism about meaningful improvements in Australian aged care.
He outlined issues that were in dire need of attention, such as the demand for 200,000 beds in the next 20 years and the seriousness of staff shortages. He also mentioned that seniors could be on a waiting list for up to a year, and that residential providers were 95 percent full across the Australian sector.
He described the work of Minister for Aged Care Anika Wellsa as courageous for putting together a task force for the industry. His optimism reflected a shift toward greater recognition of the importance of innovation and adaptation in care models, as well as engagement in dialogues that shape policy and practical changes within the sector.
Symondson highlighted the reform’s focus on home care, which was aimed at getting people into homecare quicker and allowing them to stay in their own homes for longer. He stressed that it was important for people who could afford it to pay for some of their services.
“If you have nothing, it should be free. If you’ve got money, why shouldn’t you pay for it? “
He also added that the New Zealand sector was fortunate to only have one layer of government, as opposed to across the ditch and its State and Federal Government system. These priorities for Ageing Australia will continue to be a key area of focus in 2025. Symondson said it was hoped that the name change would resonate with the people it needs to persuade and the people it needs to engage: the community, the media, and the government.
Australia’s Aged Care COVID-19 Status Report
As of 30 January 2025, Australia faced 750 active COVID-19 cases across 122 residential aged care homes.
The past week brought 47 new outbreaks and 637 new cases among residents and staff, alongside six resident deaths. In the past two and half years twice as many elderly Australians in residential care have died from COVID than at the peak of the pandemic, though the virus's impact on mortality has dramatically decreased over time.
Experts put the blame at poor vacination rates and vaccination coverage data shows that there is room for improvement. While 70 percent of aged care residents have received a COVID-19 booster in the past year, only 42 percent of residents over 75 have had a booster in the last six months. Recent vaccination rates have softened, with 11,175 residents vaccinated in the past month, down from nearly 13,000 in the previous period.
Read more online
RSL Lifecare Record Surplus
RSL Lifecare has recorded an AUD $3.2 million surplus, which has driven greater support for Veterans and seniors.
RSL LifeCare has announced a AUD $3.7 million surplus for the 2024 financial year, marking unprecedented growth in support for veterans and their families, alongside exceptional care services for seniors.
RSL LifeCare CEO, Janet Muir, presented the results at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting in Sydney, highlighting a remarkable $60 million turnaround following a challenging period of COVID, workforce shortages, rising costs and legislative reforms.
In the 2024 financial year, RSL LifeCare funded more than $12.6 million worth of initiatives supporting veterans, their families and seniors. Read more online
Bupa Australia Partners with Healthscope
Bupa Australia has partnered with Healthscope, having signed a two-year in-principle agreement to prevent additional costs for patients.
Bupa Australia and Healthscope have reached a twoyear in-principle agreement to ensure customers will continue to experience no additional out-of-pocket expenses when receiving care at a Healthscope hospital.
Bupa Health Insurance Acting Managing Director Kate Williams said the agreement confirmed Bupa and Healthscope’s shared commitment to work collaboratively to deliver affordable, high-quality, and innovative care for their shared patients. “We understand this may have caused our customers some uncertainty while we were working towards an agreement, and I want to thank them for their patience and understanding during the past few months,” Williams said. Read more online
Macular Disease Foundation Welcome Treatment Approval
Eye Care Advocacy
There is an important need for a more effective pathway for eye care for Australian seniors, according to Vision Australia.
As the Australian population ages and vision loss becomes more common, the need for a more efficient and effective diagnostic pathway in eye care has never been more important. There is growing recognition that the traditional approach may require some changes, particularly in how GPs, optometrists and eye specialists work together in the diagnosis process.
Read more online
Investment into Aged Care Nursing Students
More than AUD $18 million has been pledged by the Government to support nursing students entering the aged care sector.
The Albanese Government is investing $18.4 million to support thousands of nursing students through the Aged Care Nursing Clinical Placements Program.
Macular Disease Foundation Australia has welcomed the TGA approval for eye injection treatment SYFOVRE.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approval of the new eye injection treatment SYFOVRE (pegcetacoplan) is welcomed by the Macular Disease Foundation, as it will give many people with Geographic Atrophy a treatment option that they’ve never had before to slow the progression of the disease. This is a long-awaited positive development for the macular disease community, who to date have had limited treatment options.
Read more online
This renewed funding will support up to 8,000 nursing students to develop practical skills in the care of older people to manage their unique clinical care needs.
The program provides students an opportunity to experience the benefits of working in the care and support sector early in their career with the aim of increasing the supply of skilled and dedicated nurses in aged care.
The program is available to Bachelor of Nursing and Master of Nursing students and is now also open to Diploma of Nursing students, allowing more students to gain practical skills.
Students are supported by trained clinical facilitators and have access to an online resource hub throughout their placement. These dedicated resources enable students to further enhance their skills in gerontological care.
Funded organisations include the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association, Pop-Up Health, University of Canberra, Hunter Primary Care and Brightwater Care Group.
Minister for Aged Care Hon Anika Wells said that it was essential to support nurses in aged care.
Read more online
Celebrating a Milestone
Metlifecare’s Pāpāmoa Beach Retirement Village has marked its 20-year milestone with a celebration attended by more than 200 residents, staff (past and present) and family members.
ore than 200 residents, staff past and present, and family members gathered at Metlifecare’s Pāpāmoa Beach Retirement Village to celebrate its 20th birthday.
The major milestone saw Mayor of Tauranga, Mahē Drysdale, joined by three of the village’s first residents from 2005, unveil a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion, as well as cut a special anniversary cake baked by village kitchen manager and renowned local chef, Stephen Barry.
Drysdale said that the village had been integral to shaping the local area’s cultural fabric and identity, as well as being a vital
resource for local seniors.
“In the last six months as Mayor, I’ve been really impressed by the breadth of community in Tauranga. It enriches the culture of the city in many ways.
Communities like yours, and what this village provides is a really big part of that –by providing that connection and sense of belonging,” Drysdale said.
“Building friendships and that is certainly something we’ve seen today, is part of what makes both our city and country such a great place to live.”
Since it was opened in early 2005, the Pāpāmoa Beach Retirement Village has grown to house more than 220 independent
residents across nearly 170 villa, as well as its onsite residential care home that accommodates 40 beds.
Known as ‘The Pioneers,’ Pāpāmoa Beach Retirement Village early residents John Morris, Brett Murrell, and Brian Fawthrop shared their early days in the village.
Morris, now 98, recalled being known as ‘The Barman’ in the early days, taking it upon himself to serve drinks at their early BYO happy hours. A talented wood crafter, a handmade wooden plaque he made in his early days at the village still hangs in the village pavilion.
Fawthrop shared how he became part of the village community before officially moving in. Attending village happy hours and social outings, he formed strong friendships with the residents. The decision to move in was an easy one as all his furniture fitted into the unit well.
Through guest speakers, including past and present Village Managers, and Bay of Plenty Regional Councillor (and former Mayor) Stuart Crosby, sharing their cherished memories, the event celebrated the village’s strong community spirit and honoured the people, both past and present, who helped shape its vibrant culture.
Guests reflected on its humble beginnings as a small cluster of homes surrounded by paddocks, its 20-year history, and its transformation into the thriving village it is today.
With activities like line dancing, ukulele sessions, and themed dinners, the village remains a lively and vibrant community.
A Fond Farewell
The right time to retire has never been an easy decision to make, especially for those in a well-connected workplace. But for Ryman caregiver Kath Collett, having spent over three decades at Ryman’s Woodcote Village, the time was right.
escribed as compassionate and resilient with an infectious sense of humour, Collett stepped back from her duties just days before her 65th birthday. The village said she has left an enduring legacy on both staff and residents.
Following a life-altering car accident in 1988 at the age of 28 completely changed her perspective on life, leaving her hospitalised. Inspired by the caregivers during her recovery, Collet was driven to offer support to others as she had received herself. This initially set her on the path to becoming a caregiver.
“They showed me what true kindness looked like,” she said.
After her recovery, Collett soon replied to a job advertisement for a caregiver at Ryman’s Woodcote Village in Hornby, where she quickly became a beloved team member. Her sharp wit and sense of humour were her trademarks, bringing joy to residents and
colleagues alike.
Once recovered, Collet quickly became an invaluable and beloved team member at Ryman’s Woodcote Village in Hornby, where her quick sense of humour and sharp wit developed into her signature trademark and brought joy to residents and colleagues.
Sheila, a resident at Ryman’s Woodcote Village, described her as, “one-of-a-kind.”
“I honestly don’t know what I’ll do without her, she’s just wonderful and makes us all smile.”
Collett’s humour was often a source of comfort for residents, and lifted their spirits during challenging times.
“For some people, you’re their main contact for the day. Sometimes all it takes is a terrible joke to brighten their worldthankfully, I have plenty of those,” Collet said.
Woodcote Village Manager Nicky Anderson said Collett had an immense dedication to her job.
“Combined with her wicked sense of
Kath Collett and Nicky Anderson
humour, she’s a force to be reckoned with and her absence will be felt widely.”
Collet’s 33-year tenure at Ryman saw her experience some of the biggest events of recent history, such as the two Canterbury earthquakes, the COVID-19 pandemic, and countless moments of change. Despite it all, Collet has continued to have a steadfast passion and belief in the importance of her work.
“Kath has shown immense dedication to her role over the past 33 years. We thank Kath for her outstanding contribution and wish her all the best in her retirement,” said General Manager of Operations Diana Hanafin.
“On a more personal note, thank you, Kath, not only for your contribution to Ryman but for looking after my own mother while she was in care.”
Now retired, Collett is looking forward to slowing down and spending time with her husband, Mark, and visiting family on the Gold Coast.
Ryman Healthcare’s commitment to care is reflected in the dedication of its caregivers, including the longest-serving at Yvette Williams Village, who has achieved an extraordinary 45 years of service. Nationwide, over 270 caregivers have been working in Ryman villages for more than 10 years, a testament to their passion and the supportive environment that fosters longterm dedication.
Combined with her wicked sense of humour, she’s a force to be reckoned with and her absence will be felt widely.
Sheila and Kath Collett
Anitha Mogilicharla has followed her passion and taken advantage of opportunities when they presented themselves.
hen Mogilicharla first started working as a healthcare assistant, the aged care workforce was primarily made up of staff who had been in the profession for years. Many of them entered the field without formal qualifications but had a deep understanding of the work through hands-on experience. Their care was driven by passion and a genuine calling to serve the elderly.
Despite rising to a senior position in her career, the aged care sector was never a profession that Mogilicharla considered herself entering.
Having migrated to New Zealand in 2008 with a background in agricultural sciences,
Mogilicharla envisioned a future aligned with her academic expertise.
With the knowledge that New Zealand had a strong agricultural industry, and with their university qualifications, Mogilicharla and her husband believed they could seamlessly transition into the industry, but soon realised that agriculture here was vastly different to what they had studied and experienced in India.
Determined to establish herself in the industry, Mogilicharla took up work in a grapevine nursery, grafting vines while navigating the immigration process. But once she secured permanent residency, it was time to rethink her long-term career paths. That turning point came from an unexpected source - her general practitioner who suggested nursing, given her background in science. He informed her about the promising career opportunities in healthcare, and after careful consideration, she decided to take the leap.
Mogilicharla enrolled in a Bachelor of Nursing and, to support herself financially and professionally, started working as a healthcare assistant at Oceania Healthcare. She said this was an invaluable experience, and that studying and working in the healthcare sector simultaneously allowed her to witness real-time medical events and learn from practice. The theory and hands-on experience complemented each other perfectly.
After graduating, Mogilicharla smoothly transitioned into a Registered Nurse role at the
Anita Mogilicharla Oceania
same Oceania facility where she worked as a healthcare assistant. Over the next few years, she steadily climbed the ranks, taking on a Nurse Manager role at a smaller site. That role gave me greater insight into the operational side of healthcare, preparing me for leadership positions ahead.
Mogilicharla said that Oceania had become like a home to her.
“My journey then came full circle when I returned to Oceania - an organisation I always consider as my “parent company” in nursing. I stepped into the role of Clinical Manager for a brand-new site in Browns Bay, an opportunity which is a very rare and rewarding experience to be part of the commissioning team for a new facility.”
After three years in this role, her responsibilities expanded. She became a Senior Clinical Manager, supporting colleagues across the region. Soon after, she was promoted to Regional Clinical Manager for the Northern Region.
Throughout her career progression, education has remained a priority. She has completed a postgraduate certificate, a diploma, and a master’s in health sciences. Additionally, her growing interest in infection prevention and control (IPC) led to her pursuing a postgraduate certificate in the field. Today, she serves as the lead IPC coordinator for the organisation, supporting the wider team in maintaining best practices in infection control.
Beyond her professional life, She lives with my husband, who has been her classmate and colleague since 1999, and her daughter who is in high school. Mongilicharla has been actively involved in local organisation, contributing to various initiatives that support immigrant communities. In her free time, she has enjoyed engaging in craftwork and playing badminton to stay active.
She said that in her professional world, Oceania has provided an environment where people are heard, ideas are nurtured and aspirations are encouraged.
“I consider myself fortunate to be surrounded by colleagues and leaders who inspire and support growth,” Mongilicharla added.
“Beyond the clinical space, I have had the privilege of working closely with a wider team of individuals from various domains across
the organisation, who possess a wealth of knowledge and are always willing to share and guide. Their expertise and willingness to support have been invaluable in broadening my perspective and professional capabilities.”
The COVID-19 pandemic was a pivotal moment for Mongilicharla, who said it exposed vulnerabilities in healthcare systems all over the world, and highlighted the importance of infection prevention and control. She said it also taught he industry resilience and the importance of preparedness.
In the future, Mongilicharla said the aged care sector was facing big challenges, with more elderly people needing care, a shortage of workers, and a growing demand for better, more personalised services.
She said the industry must adapt to ensure quality care continues.
“Aged care should focus on treating residents with dignity and respect, ensuring they feel valued and cared for,” she said.
“Good care is only possible with skilled, motivated workers. To improve aged care services, we need better pay and working conditions to keep staff in the industry, Training that covers both medical skills and emotional support, Career growth opportunities to retain experienced staff, Strong leadership to support and guide teams.”
A career highlight for Mongilicharla was receiving the Better Leader Award and the Aged Residential Care Nursing Award from Auckland DHB.
“This recognition reaffirmed my commitment to excellence in aged care and leadership. They serve as a motivation for me to continue striving for better outcomes, both for the teams I support and the residents under our care.”
The inner drive has continued to motivate Mongilicharla, as well as her unwavering commitment to excel in everything she does.
“I take great satisfaction in both the process and completion of my work, finding fulfillment in continuous improvement and achievement,” she said.
“I believe in the power of excellence and actively work toward it while empowering those around me to grow and succeed alongside me. Meeting new people, embracing new learnings, and gaining fresh experiences energises me, driving my passion for both personal and professional growth.”
The Finer Tastes of Life
Located in the heart of Browns Bay on Auckland’s North Shore, Oceania’s The Sands Village has put an emphasis on the finer side of retirement living.
or Executive Chef Leigh Lambert, this is reflected in the culinary offerings as well. Having worked in diverse areas of the hospitality industry over the past three decades, from boutique dining restaurants in central London and Riviera eateries to country house estates, pubs and golf clubs, Lambert has developed a diverse range of culinary skills that are ideal for the aged care sector.
Now in his sixth year with Oceania, Lambert’s belief, commitment, and drive to create more in order to develop the brand is stronger than ever.
“I am able to draw from every aspect of my background in my role at Oceania, running the food and beverage offer at their most prestigious Auckland beach location. My role includes recruiting for key roles, creating care menus, chairing the Oceania café group, writing operating manuals, site support, mentoring other staff and auditing,” he said.
One piece of advice Lambert was told early in his career was that fresh is best. He said chefs shouldn’t cook to freeze, and that maximising the nutritional value of fresh food when it’s at its best can allow chefs to take advantage of seasonality.
The Sand’s dining area is an open kitchen
with a picturesque backdrop, where a wall of windows overlooks a well-kept garden and the vast expanse of the Hauraki Gulf from Little Barrier, Rangitoto and Rakino out to the Coromandel.
Lambert said the location and view provide inspiration for his dishes, whether it be light and fresh summer seafood, barbeque alfresco evenings looking out at the huge Norfolk pines or a hearty, feel-goof winter banquet while the waves crash on the beach.
“We entertain our village residents with regular dining experiences from à la carte Fridays, themed buffets, Chef’s table, brunch
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buffet, morning tea celebrations and more. We also cater for tailor-made occasions.”
Lambert said that, without a doubt, there are many considerations to remember during service, such as residents’ wants, needs, necessities, textures, ingredient quality, portion size, spice balance, and familiar flavours all play
a part. He likes to keep it simple and obtain the best and highest quality ingredients so the dish can nail every component, every time.
Current varied favourites on his menu include chicken tikka brochettes and pork belly with blue cheese and tree fruit, not to mention the weekly favourites - fish and chips and his freshly made pie selection in the café cabinet.
Over the past few years, Lambert has witnessed huge improvements in the modernisation of the food on offer within aged care facilities. He said that The Sands provides the ever-changing and varied menus that its residents expect.
He said that food innovation may have been guilty of taking the expectations of the aging population for granted. However, the opposite is now true, and the industry must keep up with the senior demographic’s needs and the level of food and delivery they demand to stay competitive in the market.
Lambert acknowledged that New Zealand’s ageing population is expected to have 1.2 million people over the age of 65 by 2034. He said that culinary offerings within aged care will need to stay on top of the ever-changing mindful eating habits of its residents, whereby there is increased awareness of where the food on the plate has originated.
Lambert likes to bring his A-game to work every day and said many can underestimate how switched on they need to be in order to work in the sector.
“There’s also sometimes the outdated perception that aged care dining is boiled stews, nutrient-exhausted plates of mashed everything washed down with a cup of wish wash, etc. This is no longer true. Residents have a huge range of serious dietary requirements. Failure to deliver is not optional, no matter what the reason, you can never miss a deadline, never make a mistake and never not deliver.”
Over the last 30 years, we have supported tens of thousands of aged care staff to achieve life changing and nationally recognised qualifications, all via our work-based learning programmes. Employers have the confidence of knowing that their staff have demonstrated the required competencies, and ultimately deliver a better standard of care to residents. For 15 reasons why you should entrust your workforce development to Careerforce, check out careerforce.org.nz/careerforce-difference careerforce.org.nz/aged-care 0800 277 486 YEARS Celebration 1994 - 2024
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