Updates from Switzer
CEO, Tina Mills
As we move from the quiet stillness of winter into the promise of spring, a preliminary look at the survey results tells me things are looking very positive! I’ve been reflecting on the ways we all support each other’s wellbeing at Switzer. Whether it’s a warm greeting, a shared quiet moment, or a burst of laughter in a household lounge, these small connections remind us why our work matters. We all do such a wonderful job supporting our residents and each other. Thank you all for maintaining kindness and respect towards each other –especially on the hard days.
I’m pleased to report that the first firewall replacement is complete, and work will soon begin on the other end between the Millie Lounge and Kauri Household.
While our community programmes have closed due to transport costs and reduced funding, our commitment to connection remains. We will find new ways to serve our community and continue to grow and be a safe and welcoming space for all who visit.
28 Unit Build Update
We are proud to see Arcline and FNR leading the production of 28 onebedroom units, creating more opportunities for safe and supported living.
Full Team of Registered Nurses
With a full Registered Nurse team now in place, and several staff returning after time away on parental or holiday leave, we feel the strength of our team more than ever.
Innovation Continues to Support our Mission
Our nurses are now in the process of using AI tools like PainChek and ‘Ask Aletta’ to improve pain assessment and clinical decision-making.
Excellent Infection Control Stats
Thanks to the vigilance of our staff, we’ve come through the winter months with no outbreaks; a testament to excellent infection prevention and control across the facility.
Please read on and enjoy this jam-packed newsletter about everything that has been keeping us busy at 71 South Road over this winter / spring season.
Tina Mills | Chief Executive Officer
Claud Switzer Memorial Trust
H 71 South Road, Kaitaia, 0410
( 09 408 1480
* tina@switzer.org.nz www.switzer.co.nz
An Indulgent Affair! Celebra@ng World Chocolate Day
in Exquisite Style
To mark this wonderfully delicious occasion, our amazing staff pulled out all the stops to treat our beloved residents to a chocolate lover's dream!
We set up a fantastic table laden with an irresistible array of chocolate goodies. But that's not all! To make things extra special, we also had a vibrant selection of fresh fruit kebabs, just waiting to be dipped.
The star of the show, of course, was the warm, bubbling chocolate fondue! Residents had an absolute blast dipping their fruity kebabs into the luscious, melted chocolate, creating their own perfect sweet bites. It was so much fun to see everyone enjoying the rich, decadent flavours!
Beyond the dipping, we added a playful twist: a chocolate guessing game! Our residents enthusiastically tried to identify the brand names of the different chocolate varieties on offer. It was a fantastic way to engage their taste buds and memories, sparking lots of laughter and friendly competition.
From the wide smiles to the happy chatter, everyone had a wonderfully sweet time. It warms our hearts to create these special moments, and World Chocolate Day was definitely one for the books!
Giddy Up! We Had a Roo@n' Too@n' Cowboy Day!
Howdy, partners! We're still buzzing from the fantastic time we had recently celebrating our very own Cowboy Day, and we couldn't wait to share the highlights with all of you. It was a day filled with true Western spirit, and everyone got into the swing of things! Our halls were abuzz with excitement as both our wonderful residents and dedicated staff truly embraced the theme. You should have seen the array of cowboy hats on display, everyone looked absolutely splendid and ready for a hoedown. The collective effort in dressing up really set a cheerful and festive tone for the entire afternoon.
The air was filled with the lively sounds of classic Western and cowboy music, transporting us all to the open plains. It was wonderful to see so many tapping their toes and humming along to the familiar tunes. For some of our more energetic residents, the music was an irresistible invitation to hit the dance floor! With smiles all around, they gracefully twirled and swayed, showing off some impressive moves.
To complement the festive atmosphere, residents enjoyed their choice of refreshing beverages, with many opting for a relaxing glass of wine or a cool beer. It was the perfect accompaniment to the music and camaraderie, making for a truly enjoyable and laid-back social gathering.
Cowboy Day was more than just an event; it was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to relax, share some laughs, and create cherished memories together. The joy and community spirit were palpable throughout the day, and it was heartwarming to see so many smiling faces.
Diving into Innova@on: A Recap of the NZSDRT Conference and D&RT Week!
I'm excited to share some highlights from a couple of really important events for Diversional and RecreaGonal Therapy in Aotearoa!
This past August, I had the fantastic opportunity to attend the two-day national conference for Diversional and Recreational Therapists in Auckland. It was a brilliant chance to connect with fellow DTs from across the country and share experiences.
The line-up of speakers was truly inspiring, with experts from different continents bringing fresh perspectives on some really innovative topics. We delved into fascinating subjects like Creativity for Pain, the exciting potential of AI-Assisted Recreation Therapy, Sexual Wellbeing, and Strengths-Based Approaches to Recreational Therapy. These discussions provided some incredibly valuable insights that I'm keen to explore for our future activity programmes. A huge thank you to Switzer management for supporting my attendance at this enriching event!
Following the conference, the New Zealand Society of Diversional and Recreational Therapists (NZSDRT) celebrated Diversional and Recreational Therapist Week from September 18th to 24th. The theme this year was "He Kakano, He Tipu: From Seed to Growth," which perfectly encapsulates our profession's journey. This week is all about spreading awareness and helping people understand what diversional therapy is all about and the vital role that Diversional and Recreational Therapists play in enhancing the lives of individuals. It's a fantastic time to shine a light on the positive impact we make every day.
- By Randolph Colas | Registered Diversional and Recreational Therapist
A DelighRul Riverside ASernoon at Awanui
A wonderful recap of our recent ouGng, where our residents embarked on a lovely van ride to the charming Riverside Cafe in Awanui.
The lifestyle team had such a fantastic time accompanying everyone, and it was truly heart-warming to see so many smiles throughout the afternoon.
Upon arrival, the cafe's inviting atmosphere immediately set the tone for a relaxing visit. What truly captured everyone's attention was the picturesque outdoor setting. Our residents settled in comfortably, enjoying the gentle breeze and the serene view of the river. particular highlight was watching the eels gracefully glide through the water – it was quite a sight and sparked some lively conversation!
Of course, no cafe visit is complete without some delicious treats. Our residents indulged in a delightful afternoon tea, choosing between a warm cup of coffee or a comforting tea. These were perfectly paired with a savoury snack that, by all accounts, was exceptionally tasty. The plates were certainly cleared with enthusiasm!
Beyond the beautiful scenery and the delightful refreshments, the best part of the day was undoubtedly the vibrant socialising. Residents thoroughly enjoyed each other's company, sharing stories, laughter, and warm conversations. It’s always so special to witness these moments of connection and friendship blossoming amongst our community.
We believe these outings are incredibly important for fostering joy and camaraderie, and this Café visit was a resounding success. We’re already looking forward to our next adventure and creating more cherished memories together.
Staff Profile: Meet Lisa
Kia ora, I'm Lisa, your Resident Wellness Coordinator at Switzer!
I was born in Auckland and moved to Taranaki at the age of eight, where I spent my childhood and teenage years. My heritage is something I’m proud of; my mum is from Niue and my dad is English, which has given me a rich cultural foundation and a deep appreciation for diversity.
My career began at Taranaki Medlab, where I trained on the job as a laboratory technician. I spent four rewarding years there, working hands-on with blood samples and all the fascinating aspects of the human body. It was a role that taught me precision, care, and the importance of human connection.
In 2008, I embarked on my OE, starting in Melbourne and eventually settling in London for two and a half years. After returning to New Zealand, I spent time in Tauranga before relocating to the South Island in 2017. I lived in Waimate and worked as a Senior Lab Technician at Oceania Dairy. During that time, I also had the privilege of serving as a youth leader in our local church, a role that deepened my passion for community and well-being.
Outside of work, I love staying active with Zumba, experimenting in the kitchen, getting lost in a good book, and spending quality time with my beautiful family, including Albert, our beloved dog. My newest adventure is learning to play the piano, which has been both humbling and joyful.
I’m genuinely thrilled to be stepping into the role of Resident Wellness Coordinator. It’s an honour to support the wellbeing of our residents and contribute to the vibrant culture here at Switzer. If you see me around on a Thursday or Friday, please don’t hesitate to say hello, I’d love to meet you.
Hydra@on for the Win!
HydraGon is the key to healthy ageing. As we age, our bodies become less efficient at signalling thirst, which means older adults are more prone to dehydraGon - even when they don’t feel thirsty.
Staying hydrated is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to support overall health and wellbeing in aged care. Read on to find out more about why hydration matters, the signs to watch out for, and easy ways to boost your fluid intake as the weather starts warming up!
Why HydraGon MaRers
Water plays a vital role in nearly every function of the body. For older adults, proper hydration can:
- Improve cognitive function and alertness
- Support kidney and digestive health
- Reduce the risk of urinary tract infections
- Help regulate body temperature
- Prevent constipation and dizziness
Signs
of DehydraGon to Watch For
- Dry mouth or cracked lips
- Confusion or irritability
- Fatigue or weakness
- Dark-coloured urine or reduced output
- Headaches or light-headedness
Easy Ways to Boost HydraGon
- Offer water regularly; even small sips help
- Provide a variety of drinks: herbal teas, diluted juice, milk, or broths and soups
- Make it social: hydration rounds with a smile and a chat, or enjoying fun drinks as a group
- Use colourful cups or straws to make drinking more appealing and fun
- Include water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumber, and other raw fruits and veggies.
- By Venus Valdez | New Zealand Registered Nurse
Celebra@ng Māori Language Week
From September 14–20, Switzer proudly celebrated Te Wiki o te Reo Māori – Māori Language Week, embracing the richness of Māori culture through language, connecGon, and kai.
One of the highlights of the week was a special event featuring Paraoa Parai, or Māori Fry Bread. Staff transformed the café area into a lively cooking station, where the delicious aroma of freshly fried bread filled the air. The dough was lovingly prepared by one of our amazing team members, and several residents joined in the fun,helping to shape, cut, and cook the bread alongside staff.
It was a beautiful moment of collaboration and joy, with residents sharing stories, laughter, and a few words in te reo Māori. The fry bread was served warm and golden, with a choice of butter and jam or a sweet chocolate spread. The simple yet comforting treat brought smiles to many faces and sparked conversations about family traditions and favourite recipes.
Events like these are more than just celebrations; they’re opportunities to honour the heritage of Aotearoa, foster community spirit, and create meaningful experiences for our residents. We’re proud to support cultural inclusion and to continue learning and growing together. Ngā mihi nui to everyone who helped make this event special!
Neryl’s (Not-So-Secret) Rhubarb Cake Recipe
This rhubarb cake is one of my family favourites, great for morning tea with whipped cream or as a dessert topped with custard and/or ice-cream.
Ingredients
Rhubarb Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 ¼ cups white sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 cups diced rhubarb
Streusel
- 1 cup white sugar
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, or to taste
Method
1. Preheat the oven to 175 Celsius. Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Stir together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
3. Stir in eggs and sour cream until smooth, then fold in rhubarb.
4. Pour into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
To make the streusel
1. Stir together sugar and butter in a medium bowl until smooth. Stir in flour until mixture is crumbly.
2. Sprinkle mixture on top of cake, then dust lightly with cinnamon.
3. Bake in preheated oven until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean, about 45 minutes.
4. Serve hot for dessert or allow to cool for a delicious morning tea cake.
Staff Profile: Welcome back to Karen!
Hi, I’m Karen Williams, and I’m excited to be re-joining the Diversional Therapy Lifestyle team here at Switzer! Yes, some of you might recognise me from a short Gme I spent working at Switzer about a year and a half ago; it's lovely to be back!
I was born in Adelaide, Australia, and I’m married with six amazing children: Jordan, Elijah, Ethan, Naomi, Grace, and Ruby, who range in age from 24 down to 10.I’ve just recently returned from living on the Cocos Keeling Islands a remote and stunningly beautiful group of islands in the middle of the Indian Ocean, approximately 3000 km north west off Perth. In Cocos I lived on West Island, which is home to a small community of about 120 people (with nearby Home Island community of around 550 Cocos Malay residents). Cocos is known for its Cocos Malay heritage, stunning marine life (that includes manta rays, dolphins, turtles, and a huge variety of colourful fish!), snorkelling, boating, kite surfing and crystal clear lagoon waters.
My professional background is in Occupational Therapy, and I completed my qualification in Diversional Therapy in 2024. I have a deep passion for the creative arts, especially music and visual arts. I love singing, photography, and illustration; anything that allows for creative expression!
What draws me to Diversional Therapy is its focus on meaningful activity and helping individuals connect with activities that align with their interests and strengths. I'm really looking forward to getting to know you all and being part of the Switzer team and contributing to the wonderful work being done here.
Art, Coffee, and Great Company at Kā Uri!
Our lifestyle team whisked away six of our residents on a special van ouGng to the wonderful Kā Uri Cafe and Gallery in Awanui. What a day it was!
The gallery itself is a true gem, and we were all captivated from the moment we stepped inside. It's a vibrant showcase of both traditional and contemporary Māori art, filled with breath-taking handcrafted pieces and inspiring works that truly tell the unique stories of the Far North.
Our residents absolutely loved taking their time, reading each story behind the art, and discovering the names of the incredible creations. It was amazing to see them so engaged and connecting with the rich culture on display. So many beautiful pieces and fascinating narratives!
After soaking up all that artistic goodness, it was time for a well-deserved break! We then headed over to KA URI's super nice cafe, which boasts some lovely outside seating, perfect for enjoying the beautiful weather. Everyone settled in comfortably and enjoyed a delightful morning tea, complete with warm coffees, comforting teas, and scrumptious muffins.
It was the ideal way to unwind and chat after our gallery exploration.
The best part? Our residents absolutely cherished each other's company, sharing laughs and stories while sipping on their hot drinks. It's these moments of connection and shared joy that make our outings so special.
Celebra@ng Senior Ci@zens Day with a Refreshing Twist!
In celebraGon of Senior CiGzens Day, the staff came together to honour our wonderful residents with a though`ul and refreshing treat, a healthy lemonade staGon. The iniGaGve was a beauGful blend of community spirit, wellness, and joy.
Thanks to the generous donations from kind-hearted members of our local community, we received a bounty of fresh lemons. Staff members set up a station where these lemons were carefully sliced and squeezed to prepare homemade lemonade tailored to each resident’s preference.
Residents had the option of enjoying their lemonade with either hot water or ice water, depending on what felt best for them. To add a hint of sweetness, a few drops of honey were stirred in, making the drink not only delicious but healthy!
The atmosphere was lively and filled with smiles as residents gathered around, chatting and sipping their custom-made beverages. Many shared fond memories of making lemonade in their younger days, while others simply enjoyed the refreshing taste and the care that went into each cup.
This meaningful gesture reminded us all of the importance of celebrating our seniors not just with events, but with thoughtful experiences that promote health, connection, and happiness. The lemonade was a hit, and served as a reminder that sometimes, the best moments come from the simplest ingredients: fresh fruit, warm hearts, and shared laughter.
Cheers to the Wonderful Fathers at Switzer!
Here at Switzer, we believe in celebraGng every special occasion, and Father's Day was certainly no excepGon! We were absolutely delighted to host a heart-warming and joyful Father's Day celebraGon, bringing smiles and cheer to our beloved male residents.
Our special "Happy Friday Happy Hour" was transformed into a festive tribute to fatherhood. The atmosphere was buzzing with camaraderie as our male residents gathered to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. They had their pick of refreshing beers and fine wines, clinking glasses and sharing stories in good company. It was wonderful to see everyone unwinding and enjoying themselves.
Adding an extra layer of warmth to the occasion, many of our residents were joined by their loving families. The presence of sons, daughters, and grandchildren truly made the day even more memorable, filling our common areas with laughter and affectionate greetings. It’s always a treat to witness these special family connections flourishing within our community.
A truly touching highlight of the celebration was the thoughtful gesture from our female residents. With creativity and care, they crafted beautiful Father's Day cards, each one a unique token of appreciation. These handmade cards were then personally presented to our male residents. The joy on their faces as they received these heartfelt messages was priceless.
Throughout the afternoon, delightful music filled the air, providing the perfect backdrop for conversation and relaxation. Residents, both with and without their families, savoured their drinks, tapped their feet to the tunes, and cherished the opportunity to connect with fellow residents and loved ones.
Hope in Full Bloom: Raising Awareness on Daffodil Day
In recogniGon of Daffodil Day, our residents and staff embraced the colour yellow to raise awareness and show support for those affected by cancer across New Zealand.
The day was a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, education, and community in the fight against cancer. Yellow outfits, daffodil-themed decorations, and heartfelt conversations filled our space with warmth and solidarity.
Daffodil Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and the collective effort to support cancer research and care. We are proud to stand together in support of this vital cause and thank everyone who participated in making the day meaningful. Your enthusiasm helped shine a light on the journey of cancer patients and the importance of ongoing awareness.
Resident Spotlight: Meet Drago!
Meet one of our newest residents, Drago. Born in 1931 right here in Kaitaia, Drago’s life has been full of energy, culture, and community spirit. Drago’s story is one of dedicaGon, culture, and joy. We’re proud to have him as part of our community.
Drago spent his early years on the Gumfields before starting school in Ahipara at age 8, later moving to Awanui for primary school. Though he describes himself as “athletic but not scholastic,” his talents shone brightly in sports and the arts. Drago’s family ran a boarding house in Awanui, where he helped with meals and developed a love for billiards. He had three sisters - two who sadly passed away as babies and one who lived to 67 - and a younger brother who still resides in Auckland’s North Shore.
At Kaitaia District High School, Drago excelled in athletics, especially running and long jump, and played rugby with passion He also joined concert parties in Awanui, performing dances and sketches, and developed a lifelong love for ballroom dancing; especially the foxtrot and tango. A cherished memory is demonstrating the “Queen Elizabeth Waltz” at the RSA when Queen Elizabeth was crowned.
Drago is a proud founding member of the Dalmatian Cultural Club (est. 1954) and has played in the Tamburitca band since 1959. He continues to enjoy Dalmatian cuisine and music to this day. Drago’s other interests include woodworking; he’s built a coffee table and even a 12-foot boat - and gardening, a skill passed down from his father. One of his most memorable moments was playing billiards with champion Clark McConachy, (even though he didn’t win).
In 1959, Drago married his beloved wife, whom he sadly lost nine years ago. Though they had no children, their life together was filled with love and shared passions. Drago’s commitment to community is evident in his 50 years with the Kaitaia Rotary Club, where he served as president multiple times and was honoured with three Paul Harris Fellow awards. He attended conferences in Sydney and fondly remembers traveling to Yugoslavia four times as an interpreter and assistant manager for the Yugoslav Rugby team Drago also worked as a barber for an incredible 58 years! Please say hello to Drago when you see him around Switzer
Cheers to Beer Day
In celebration of Beer Day, our residents enjoyed a delightful selection of beers during an extra lively Happy Hour. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and good cheer as everyone sipped their favourite brews and snacked on crispy chips.
To top it off, upbeat music played in the background, adding to the festive mood. It was a wonderful way to unwind, socialize, and enjoy the simple pleasures of good company and great refreshments!
Sending Love on Friendship Day
In celebration of Friendship Day, the staff organised a special cardwriting table for residents to share love and connection with their friends around New Zealand.
With gentle support from our team, residents crafted heartfelt messages, reminisced about cherished memories, and wrote beautiful cards to be posted to their loved ones near and far. It was a joyful and meaningful activity that brought smiles, laughter, and a sense of togetherness to all involved.
Shakin’ it up on Milkshake Day
Milkshake Day was a sweet success as our dedicated staff set up a vibrant milkshake station for our residents to enjoy. The atmosphere was filled with smiles and laughter as everyone indulged in delicious, handcrafted milkshakes made with creamy vanilla ice cream and a choice of chocolate or strawberry flavouring.
Each milkshake was topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed chocolate powder, and a decadent chocolate drip, making it a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds.
New volunteers always welcome
Got Kme to spare and hobbies to share? Come on down and find out about being a Switzer Volunteer or email Randolph for an info pack:
randolph.c@switzer.org.nz
SWITZER BOARD MEMBERS
• John Carter (Chair)
• Paul Reeves (Trustee)
• Jack Rogers (Trustee)
• Eddie Aitken (Secretary)
( (09) 408 1480
* recep-on@switzer.org.nz
The 10 Eden Alterna@ve Principles
1. The three plagues of loneliness, helplessness and boredom account for the bulk of suffering among our Elders.
2. An Elder-centred community commits to creaKng a human habitat where life revolves around close and conKnuing contact with people of all ages and abiliKes, as well as plants and animals. It is these relaKonships that provide the young and old alike with a pathway to a life worth living.
3. Loving companionship is the anKdote to loneliness. Elders deserve easy access to human and animal companionship.
4. An Elder-centred community creates opportunity to give as well as receive care. This is the anKdote to helplessness.
5. An Elder-centred community imbues daily life with variety and spontaneity by creaKng an environment in which unexpected and unpredictable interacKons and happenings can take place. This is the anKdote to boredom.
6. Meaningless acKvity corrodes the human spirit. The opportunity to do things that we find meaningful is essenKal to human health.
7. Medical treatment should be the servant of genuine human caring, never its master.
8. An Elder-centred community honours its Elders by de-emphasising topdown bureaucraKc authority, seeking instead to place the maximum possible decision-making authority into the hands of the Elders or into the hands of those closest to them.
9. CreaKng an Elder-centred community is a never-ending process. Human growth must never be separated from human life.
10. Wise leadership is the lifeblood of any struggle against the three plagues. For it, there can be no subsKtute.
The core concept of the Eden AlternaKve is simple: Care environments are habitats for human beings that should promote health, wellbeing and growth rather than faciliKes where the frail and elderly stagnate and decline.
Switzer believes that providing human companionship, animals, children and plants help to provide opportuniKes for a meaningful life
As you enter recepvon, you will novce there has been a change! We have tried to use the space in the best way possible, with a lovely seavng arrangement where residents can get together for a chat or to read the paper, vdier wheelchair parking, and all the while feeling more spacious!