Summerset Scene, Autumn 2021 by summerset

Summerset Scene •

A U T U M N

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THE

VOICE FOR NATURE SIR ALAN MARK • GREENER LIVING LEADING THE WAY EYE FOR ANTIQUES ARTY ABODE • AUTUMN HARVEST HEARTY MEALS GREAT INDOORS HOUSEPLANT HEAVEN

COVER Summerset resident Sir Alan Mark talks conservation and controversy. Read his story on page 8. P H OTO Bridget Mark.

Whangarei

Warkworth Parnell St Johns

Milldale Hobsonville

Half Moon Bay

Ellerslie

Manukau

Karaka

Papamoa Beach

Rototuna

More than

6,200

Katikati

Cambridge

Hamilton Taupo

Bell Block

Summerset home New Zealanders call

New Plymouth

Napier Te Awa Hastings

Whanganui Levin

Havelock North

Waikanae Paraparaumu

Palmerston North Trentham

Nelson

Lower Hutt

Richmond Blenheim

Rangiora

Avonhead Wigram

Casebrook

Prebbleton

Aotea Kenepuru

KEY = Summerset village = Planned village

Dunedin

Story to share? We really enjoy telling your stories. If you have an exciting or interesting tale to tell, get in touch with us. We’d love to hear from you! magazine@summerset.co.nz

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Hello from Sara Welcome back to the first issue of Summerset Scene for 2021! As I was collecting story ideas for this magazine, I soon saw a theme developing. Whether it was making sure less litter gets into our waterways, introducing a beehive to the village garden, sharing recycling knowledge, or advocating for nature, I’ve heard from so many of you who are passionate about protecting our environment. So, I decided to make this a ‘green themed’ issue. I was humbled to meet Shona Bowman from Summerset at Aotea, who works tirelessly to clean up rubbish in her community. Shona is getting so well known in her neighbourhood that it’s not uncommon for strangers to stop and give her presents when they see her out with her rubbish bags; read her story on page 4. I also loved chatting with Sir Alan Mark, an ecologist and leading

conservation advocate. Alan was at the forefront of one of the country’s longest and most hotly debated environmental campaigns; read more on page 8.

receive a paper copy, you can read the magazine online. Find it at summerset.co.nz under the Wellness Centre heading on the top right of the page.

You’ll notice a green tinge to some of our regular columns and features too, with natural New Zealand-made beauty products the focus for the style section (page 37), and all the details you need to turn old fabric into a reusable tote bag in the craft column on page 38. Plus, read about Summerset gardener Dulcie McArthur’s village beehive in the staff profile on page 26.

And although it’s off the green topic, I want to draw your attention to the revamped Village People section (page 24) and the new Poet’s Corner in the magazine (page 25). Whether you’re a novice scribbler or you’ve been perfecting your prose for a while now, I would love to read your poems and musings!

It’s also timely to mention that this very magazine you’re reading is printed on environmentally responsible paper certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. If you received your copy in a protective wrapper, these are degradable and recyclable. If you don’t wish to

Enjoy your autumn issue.

Sara Bunny SUMMERSET SCENE EDITOR

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

Contents

Woman on a mission Neighbourhood champion

Standing strong for the cause Environmental advocate

Waste not, want not Recycling stars

A world of colour Collector’s haven

News Meet Scott, Summerset’s new Chief Executive

News Birthday Suprise

News Music for the soul

Let’s talk about Brain health

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

This publication uses vegetable based inks and environmentally responsible paper produced from Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) certified, Mixed Source pulp from Responsible Sources.

Paper produced using Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) and manufactured under the strict ISO14001 Environmental Management System.

Jude on sifting, sorting and resizing

Village people Pics from around Summerset

Poet’s corner Village wordsmiths

Staff profile Dulcie McArthur

Five questions Irene Swadling

Wellness The right mix of exercise

Delicious recipes Tasty ideas

In the garden The great indoors

Style Made in New Zealand

Craft corner Simple tote bag

Book reviews Great new reads

Green update Sustainability goals

Travel log Abel Tasman

Puzzles Test the grey matter

Pets of Summerset Meet Cino

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

WOMAN ON A

MISSION

Fed up with seeing rubbish on the side of the road in her neighbourhood, Summerset at Aotea resident Shona Bowman decided to do something about it. These days, the keen environmentalist has lost track of how much litter she’s recycled, and she wants to inspire younger generations to be kinder to the planet. With her rubbish bags and trusty ‘picker upper’ tool, Shona is often recognised by Porirua locals. She heads out at least twice a week, for two to three hours at a time, to remove rubbish from kerbs and collect cans to take to the local recycling centre.

SHONA RECENTLY OFFLOADED 27KG WORTH OF ALUMINIUM CANS

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

While it’s not exactly glamorous, Shona says the reward is knowing she’s making a difference, to both the environment and her community. And judging by the response she gets from passing motorists, her efforts don’t go unnoticed. “People will wave out and say something encouraging, and that’s really satisfying,” she says. “I’ve been given boxes of chocolates from people driving past, and someone has even stopped to give me a $50 Prezzy card!” When it comes to ridding the streets of rubbish, it’s a never-ending job. Shona says plastic bottles, cigarette butts and polystyrene beads are among the most common offenders, while the dirty nappies and discarded dog poo bags can make the clean-up a grim task. “Other people might think I’m bananas, but if I didn’t feel so strongly about it, I wouldn’t do it. I hate seeing mess on the side of the road that people have chucked out of car windows, and a lot of it gets into the drains and ends up in the sea. We need to look after our world a bit better.” Shona takes aluminium cans, plastic bottles and anything that can be recycled back home with her, where she gives each item a thorough wash. She then stores the bottles and cans in her garage until she has a big enough collection to take to the recycling centre. Recently, she offloaded 27kg worth of

Shona Bowman works hard to keep her neighbourhood tidy.

aluminium cans, and any money from the recycling goes towards projects at her church. “We have a double garage, but because of all the cans there’s never enough room in there for two cars! I used to get $1.50 per kilo from recycling cans but recently it’s dropped to $1.20 a kilo. But it’s not about the money. I think we should all be more environmentally friendly. I don’t think people realise the extent of the problem.” Shona, who says her regular rubbish-collecting missions certainly keep her fit, believes education is the key to building on eco-friendly habits. She herself started by asking questions

at her local recycling centre, reading up on tips and simply giving new things, like composting, a try. And while most of us want to do the right thing when it comes to disposing of rubbish, Shona says it’s the younger generations that have the most power to make change. “The young ones are who we need to focus on now, and the children are interested in environmental issues. I volunteer at the local school, and I’ve also taught our two grandchildren all about it! Lots of the kids from the schools see me out collecting rubbish, and I think that helps to educate them too, seeing someone taking action.”

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

Waste not, want not At Summerset at Monterey Park in Hobsonville, Auckland, the village Residents’ Recycling and Repurposing Committee has been a force for meaningful change. Here, we meet two of the founding members and learn some tips for living greener. Founding members of the Residents’ Recycling and Repurposing Committee Maureen Briggs (left) and Fiona Downes (right).

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

When a group of eco-savvy new residents arrived at Summerset at Monterey Park several years ago, they soon started talking about ways to make the village more environmentally friendly. So Maureen Briggs and Fiona Downes formed a village Residents’ Recycling and Repurposing Committee, to share their knowledge and ideas. Most recently, Maureen has been tackling the problem of polystyrene. “I saw a story on TV about a man who was pulling bits of white polystyrene out of the river because it was damaging the eels’ habitat,” she says. “In the background was a truck with “Expol” printed all over it so I decided to ring the company to see what they were about.” The detective work paid off, as Maureen discovered there were a range of polystyrene recycling centres around the country. “Polystyrene is a nasty problem that can often get overlooked among all the other green issues on our radar these days. It’s really important to recycle polystyrene as it takes so long to break down. So much comes into our villages around whiteware and furniture, so it’s good to know that it can be recycled into underfloor insulation.” Fiona Downes is something of an expert when it comes to repurposing and recycling – she’s been doing it for more than 40 years! “There are so many things that can be reused elsewhere, rather than just putting them in the bin,” she says. “If you are new to recycling,

“Schools, kindergartens and community groups can often use everything from milk botle tops to paper towel inners,” Fiona says. “Ice-block sticks become seedling markers, while glass bottles could go to local arts groups for upgrading to something creative and beautiful. Just ask around your local community.”

M AU R E E N A N D F I O N A’S T I PS FO R G O I N G G R E E N E R

quality items they no longer need or use, for others to take for free.

Think ‘resource, not rubbish’. There may be businesses or charitable organisations in your community that would love to take quality used items. Some SPCA centres take old (but clean!) linen and towels, Kings Plant Barn garden centres take back empty plastic plant pots, and City Mission branches will come to you to collect items if there are several residents with goods to donate.

There are Expol recycling ‘cubes’ at various Mitre 10, ITM and Carters hardware stores around the country that take polystyrene for recycling. Call Expol on 0800 86 33 73 or email sales@expol.co.nz to find a drop-off point near you.

If you’re comfortable on a computer, have a look online. There are lots of great websites with handy tips. For starters, check out plasticfreejuly.org, lovefoodhatewaste.co.nz, and teracycle.co.nz.

start by referring to your rubbish bin as your ‘landfill bin’, then hold something in your hand for a moment and consider what else you could do with it instead of throwing it out.” With downsizing a common theme among residents, Fiona says getting rid of things is much easier if you know they are going to someone who needs them. For household items in good working order, she points people in the direction of various charities, or for drapes, the local curtain bank.

Do you have items you no longer need but that are too good to throw away? Why not start a ‘give and take’ table, where residents can donate

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

Sir Alan’s work has taken him throughout the Otago high country and Fiordland. Photo: ©Rod Morris

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

STANDING STRONG FO R T H E CAU S E BY SARA BUNNY

As a distinguished scientist and tireless environmental advocate, Sir Alan Mark has dedicated his long career to protecting New Zealand’s stunning natural beauty. Whether it’s standing up for Fiordland lakes or taking a stance against high country erosion, he’s faced his fair share of controversy over the years. But Alan, who now lives at Summerset at Bishopscourt with his wife Patricia, Lady Mark, wouldn’t have it any other way. It was in the late 1950s that Alan Mark, a young scientist in the botany department at the University of Otago, was invited to take a look at an intriguing project. An electricity company wanted to raise the water levels of Fiordland’s Lake Manapouri and Lake Te Anau to boost power production, and Alan had the expertise to advise on how higher lake levels would impact the plants and animals on the shorelines.

At the time, he saw it as an interesting sideline to his other work. Little did he know, it would go on to become the high-profile Save Manapouri campaign, a political hot potato, and a turning point in the New Zealand public’s awareness of conservation issues. “They wanted to raise Lake Manapouri by about 26m, and raise Lake Te Anau as far as they could without threatening the township,” Alan says. “We were really concerned as the lake rising was only going to increase power production by about 5.4% per year, with potentially devastating effects to the surrounding environment. So, we got involved and it soon became a highly contentious issue. “The Save Manapouri petition opposing the lake rising gathered almost 250,000 signatures, which was a record at the time. It became a really political issue, and when Labour won the 1972 election, they announced they would not be raising the lake levels.”

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

“There’s no doubt in my mind that climate change has to be addressed as a matter of urgency”

The campaign went down in the history books as a major win for the environment,

for environmental issues now than when I first got involved, and that’s very

and paved the way for strict management guidelines of the lakes that exist to this day. But Alan’s work didn’t end there – he was made chair of the Guardians of Lake Manapouri, Monowai and Te Anau group, a role he stayed in for the next 26 years.

reassuring.”

Along the way, he became a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, and he and Patricia raised two sons and two daughters. After retirement, Alan went on to chair the Dunedin-based environmental group Wise Response. He’s still involved as a patron of the society, alongside former Prime Minister and Minister for the Environment Sir Geoffrey Palmer. Tales from Alan’s extensive conservation career, which also included once controversial studies into degradation of the Otago high country, were recorded in his 2015 memoir, Standing My Ground. “The title of my book sums it up really,” says the humble ecologist. “You stand by your science, as long as you’re confident your science is sound. Regardless of the attacks you get – and there will inevitably be a range of attacks – you stand your ground. I think there is greater public awareness and concern

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

These days, ensuring young people are supported in studying environmental sciences is top of the list for Alan, who completed his PhD in the United States on a Fulbright scholarship. Last year, he and Patricia made a generous donation to the University of Otago’s ecology fund. “Attending university today is expensive. This was something we could do to help future generations make the most of their potential.” And when it comes to today’s key environmental concerns, Alan says it’s the younger generations that should inspire us all to take action. “There’s no doubt in my mind that climate change has to be addressed as a matter of absolute urgency,” he explains. “We ignore it at our peril. The longer we wait to take appropriate action, the worse the problem will become and the more we’ll throw it to future generations to handle. We want future generations to have as good an environment to enjoy as we have. I believe climate change is of similar or greater magnitude to the current pandemic.”

Sir Alan Mark at work at Mt Burns, Fiordland (top left), and Omarama (bottom). Patricia, Lady Mark (top right), is also a scientist, and has worked with the Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust and the Otago Natural History Trust.

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

A world of colour Anna Kennett is a traveller, collector, crafter and creative, and a fan of all things ‘bling’. She and her husband Murray have turned their Paraparaumu villa into a haven of antiques and arty creations.

When people first step inside Anna and Murray Kennett’s villa at Summerset on the Coast, the reaction is often the same. “People just stop and look around, taking it all in,” Anna says. “They can’t believe it! There is a lot going on in here, especially for a small villa.” As a self-described ‘maximalist’, Anna likes to surround herself with the treasures she’s collected on her extensive travels, at auctions and in second-hand shops both here and overseas. There’s a pair of giant urns the couple brought back from Malaysia, a collection of prints picked up in Paris, and a series of huge wall panels inlaid with mother-of-pearl that once adorned the American Embassy in Wellington. Then there are the Buddha statues, a cache of intricate candle holders, antique ginger jars and a leopard sculpture crouching beside a regal-looking armchair, as well as the vibrant knitted and crocheted throws that Anna handcrafts. And that’s just for starters.

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

Anna with one of her vibrant handmade quilts.

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

“I like over-the-top things, and I like ornate things,” she says. “When we first moved to London we were in a minimalist flat and I actually felt quite stressed. I just don’t do minimalism! We were renting near Chelsea and they would put free things out on the streets. I used to be a like a Womble and bring things home! I wasn’t happy until I had ‘stuff’.” In addition to the stint in London, Anna and Murray spent four years living in Malaysia and have travelled extensively throughout Europe and Asia. With Anna’s eagle eye for antiques, coupled with Murray’s furniture restoration skills, the pair were able to hunt down quirky finds and stylish steals wherever they went. “In Malaysia we would go around the markets, and the out-of-the-way places that tourists don’t go to,” Anna says. “I love how you barter for everything there, and they would often give New Zealanders and Aussies a good price. I

have always been drawn to Asian-themed items; I think they are beautiful.” Alongside collecting, Anna gets in touch with her creative side by crafting quilts. Some are knitted, while others are crocheted, but every piece reflects her love for detail and design. When she’s not creating quilts, she’s usually busy making tea cosies, baby booties and cot covers, placemats and jerseys. Anna has held classes to share her knitting and crocheting skills with beginners, and as well as mastering a design, she says mixing and matching the colours for each creation is a big part of the appeal. “I just love colour; I think it’s because I have Italian in me! I’ve always worn a lot of colour. In England it was a bit of a challenge, especially when you work in the corporate world where they like you to be quite conservative. I wear a

Above: Some of Anna’s collection, including a set of decorative panels from the American Embassy (pictured bottom left).

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

lot of bling and they would ask me to tone it down! But I’m a bling girl. Sometimes it’s just the way you are!” And when you’re also an avid collector, finding room to put things can get tricky. While many downsize to shift into a villa or apartment, Anna and Murray found themselves with 150 packing boxes on moving day, which were stacked to the ceiling in several rooms of their new home. To free up some space, they had to part with a wind-up gramophone and some records, and Anna’s collection of Sicilian crockery is still stored in the garage as the kitchen cabinet is full to the brim. She might visit auction houses less often these days, but she is still thrilled with the occasional special find. “If I see something and really love it, I always find a space for it,” Anna says, laughing. “It’s just as well Murray likes collecting things as much as I do, as it really wouldn’t work otherwise!

“I like over-thetop things, and I like ornate things” Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

OUR NEWS

ME E T S COT T S U M M E R S E T ’S N E W CHIEF EXECUTIVE

I N M A R C H , S C OT T S C O U L L A R TA K E S T H E R E I N S A S T H E NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE O F F I C E R AT S U M M E R S E T. While he might be new to the top job, he already knows all about the things that make Summerset so special, having been Chief Financial Officer for the past six years and Deputy Chief Executive for three years.

“I really enjoy the village atmosphere, and everyone I’ve met so far has been so warm and welcoming.” Scott says that taking on the Chief Executive role is a privilege. “It’s a great honour and a great opportunity to lead one of New Zealand’s largest retirement village providers into its next phase of development. The possibilities as we begin building villages in Australia are exciting, and many of the things we’re doing here in New Zealand are groundbreaking. At Summerset, we are fortunate to play such an important part in people’s lives.”

Meet Scott, Summerset’s new Chief Executive With the Summerset community continuing to expand, Scott’s thrilled to be stepping into the role at such an exciting time. Most of all, he’s keen to visit more villages and get to know you all better. “I’m looking forward to meeting as many residents and staff as possible,” he says.

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Scott has taken over from Julian Cook, who was Summerset’s Chief Executive Officer for the past seven years and with the company for a decade.

B I R T H DAY

SUPRISE

Maria from Auckland’s Summerset by the Park has long been a big Vodafone Warriors fan, so for her 90th birthday she was given a special surprise. Maria was whisked away to Mt Smart Stadium, where she met with the team, watched a training session and visited the rugby museum. Maria had no idea what the day had in store, but became suspicious when the village van pulled into the stadium grounds. When she realised she was about to meet “her boys”, she was so overjoyed she burst into happy tears! To top off the day, Sir Peter Leitch sang her ‘Happy birthday’, and she enjoyed cake with her friends and family back at the village. Good on you, Maria!

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

OUR NEWS

music soul FOR T H E

We all know that hearing a favourite song can boost your mood and bring back happy memories, so Summerset has partnered with Age Concern New Zealand and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award on an exciting new music programme. My Music Ignites My Soul – Ōku Pūoro, Hihiko Tōku Wairua is all about bringing different generations together, and involves young people developing music playlists for seniors. Students completing their Hillary Award will work alongside village residents and diversional therapists to create the individualised playlists and share in the joy of music. The first trial of the project is set to take place at Summerset at Monterey Park in Hobsonville, Auckland, and will be rolled out to other Summerset villages throughout the year. About 130 guests gathered at Summerset at Monterey Park recently for the official launch of the programme, where they listened to presentations, took part in waiata, and were wowed by the village’s own care centre residents’ choir, The Hobsonville Swingers.

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

MODIFYING YOUR

RISK OF DEMENTIA Think of your brain as ‘headquarters’ – the control room where all your core functions for your body and mind come from. It doesn’t get a holiday or take time out; it’s always ‘on’, working 24/7, taking care of your thoughts, breathing, movement and senses even while you’re asleep.

The Lancet Commission’s Prevention, Intervention and Care report released in 2020 says, “It is never too early and never too late in the life course for dementia prevention.”

Everything starts and ends with the brain, so if it’s at risk, there is a greater chance of developing the brain diseases that can lead to dementia.

We know there is a connection between poor lifestyle and dementia, but the report highlights that 40% of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed by modifying the identified risk factors:

LIFESTYLE

MEDICAL HEALTH

An unhealthy diet with poor nutrition has a huge influence on brain health - our brain works best when it gets premium fuel through a balanced diet. It’s also important that we get 5–7 hours of quality sleep each night for our body to repair. Smoking and heavy drinking are best avoided as they have proven links to changes in the brain.

Protect your hearing and get hearing aids if they’re needed. A decreased level of input to the brain means less processing occurs, which can lead to cognitive deficits if not addressed. Aim to maintain a systolic blood pressure of 130mm Hg or less, have regular health check-ups, and maintain a healthy weight.

PHYSICAL

EMOTIONS

Physical activity is vital for our heart, body and mind, as our brain needs oxygen and blood flow to work efficiently. The recommended amount is 150–300 minutes of exercise a week, with an emphasis on balance and strength.

Depression can be related to dementia, and may even be an early warning sign. It’s important for everyone to get support for mental health and to manage stress and anxiety.

“IT IS NEVER TOO LATE IN THE LIFE COURSE FOR DEMENTIA PERVENTION”

COGNITION It’s vital to maintain cognitive function by remaining mentally stimulated. Crosswords, puzzles, Sudoku, reading, learning something new, or doing creative hobbies are all great ways to stimulate the brain.

Loneliness and isolation have been linked with cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, dementia and hormone imbalances. Maintain structure in your week, stay socially active, keep in contact with family and friends, and enjoy time with other people. Taking just one small step towards modifying our risk factors can have a positive effect on the overall health and wellbeing of our brain. Preventing dementia needs to begin early and continue to be a priority throughout our lives.

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

OUR NEWS

A place in the sun You couldn’t get a better endorsement than a sales manager moving into a village, but that’s exactly what Pam Willetts from Summerset in the Sun did after retiring late last year – and she couldn’t be happier with her new home. While moving into your former workplace might seem unusual to some, for Pam it was a win– win. Having worked as the Sales Manager at Summerset in the Sun for the past nine years, she already knew about the perks of village life. And with many of the residents and staff counted as friends, she knew she would be surrounded by familiar faces. “I’ve seen everyone in the village move in, and while remembering all the names can be a challenge, one way or another I know who everyone is,” Pam says. “The residents have been so lovely about me moving into the village; everyone has been amazing.” Pam was only toying with the idea of retirement when the villa came up for sale, but after seeing it refurbished and filled with morning light, she knew she wanted to make the move. While leaving the job she loved was a tough decision, everything eventually fell neatly into place. “I’ve really enjoyed this job, right from the word go. I never thought I would ever apply for a sales role, but it turned out to be one of the best things that’s happened to me. I was

born and bred in Nelson, and often the people I was talking to are either people who knew my parents, or I have been to school with their kids. It put a real personal spin on things. “The lady who moved out of my villa moved to an apartment, and she has actually known me since I was about seven years old! She used to play bowls with my mum, and I went to school with her daughter.” And if you ask Pam why she chose the village life for herself, she soon rattles off a long list, including the range of activities to choose from, the wonderful facilities, the 24/7 back-up and plenty of other benefits. “We’re blessed to have so many great things nearby. There’s a reserve with beautiful gardens, and we’re a 15-20 minute walk to the shopping centre and about the same in the other direction to the garden centre. It’s so easy to catch a bus into town. I just love it.”

Pam Willetts has gone from staff member to resident - and she’s enjoying every minute.

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

NURSING TA L E N T Summerset is proud to partner with First Foundation, an

Fitness for everyone

organisation that helps talented New Zealand students achieve their goals and reach their full potential at university. To give a promising student a hand up, Summerset and First Foundation offer an annual scholarship – and this year’s winner is Mahdieh Ahmadi.

CB Fit is Summerset’s newest fitness programme, and it’s coming to a village near you (if it’s not there already!) The programme will be running in 14 villages by the end of the year, with a view to rolling out to all villages over the next two years.

Mahdieh will be based at

This signature programme focuses on three main skill areas: strength, balance and coordination. Now accredited under ACC’s ‘Live Stronger for Longer’ initiative as a falls prevention tool, the sessions are geared towards independent residents and take into account all different levels of mobility.

finishes her studies. She says

Summerset by the Park in Manukau, Auckland, where she will gain practical work experience and further her career in nursing once she looking after older people is a privilege. Well done, Mahdieh!

CB Fit was developed by personal trainer and fitness expert, Dan Hardie, who also writes the wellbeing column in Summerset Scene. Hear more from Dan on page 29.

Residents from Summerset Richmond Ranges enjoying their CB Fit class.

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

JUDE ON

S I F T I N G, S O RT I N G A N D R ES I ZI N G The trap of living in one house for more than 20 years is that you are never forced to have a decent sift and sort of the things in it. That day finally dawned for me recently, when we recarpeted and repainted. Some rooms were always going to be a rainy-day job, like the ‘playroom’ – as it was called on the architect’s plans 25 years ago. Located off the kitchen, it was a space where little people could happily play without having to constantly put things away. The train set could stay up for days, the paintings could dry, the homework project or jigsaw could stay put on the desk, and forts could be made! However, the only real constants in life are change and getting older. As you age, you simply have to make decisions about what to keep, what to rehome and what to move out. It’s not easy, though, and it’s an ongoing process. Here are some tips I have found useful.

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

1. Involve others Getting others involved keeps you accountable to keep going, but most importantly, you need buy-in from those you love if the items you’re dealing with have significance for them. My kids have enjoyed looking at favourite toys from their youth and laughed at the various notes and artwork I’ve kept, but it has been good to make some calls on these with their blessing. Don’t throw it all out though – I know that with my own ‘child’ hat on I have loved reading some of the letters and cards my mum kept.

2. Don’t start with the photos! Start somewhere less personal, like the kitchen cupboards or the closet. Yes, we need a few extra dishes for the crush of humanity around the table at Christmas, but mostly we need a lot less. When you do get to the photos and sentimental things, remember that it’s OK to put them aside and take on other things first, particularly if they make you feel emotional. This is not a one-day thing; it takes time.

5. Sell, donate, rehome If you haven’t used an object in a year, then there’s every likelihood it needs to find another home. My local Salvation Army Family Store has been a great place for me to rehome items. Find a charity that resonates with you and help them out so they can make something from your donation of goods.

3. Ask yourself some questions

4. Try the ‘Ohio’ approach

Will anyone be happier if I save this item? Will they be sad if it’s gone from their life? This can also invoke wider questions, such as asking yourself to identify the important things that the people around you should know if you can’t tell them yourself. For example, do they know the keys to your digital existence, who your accountant and lawyer are, and what bank you are with?

Ideally, take a trip to Ohio and ‘only handle it once’. Try to make a decision about which pile something is destined for on the first pass. It won’t always happen like that, so cut yourself some slack – some items will need to go in the ‘maybe’ pile. And remember that other items might have a destination in the future. My parents placed stickers bearing their children’s and grandchildren’s names on the bottom of vases and the like so they could keep track of what was going where.

If you want to sell items, Trade Me is your friend, as are second-hand dealers and antique stores. Feel good that the special things that have made you happy can now make someone else happy. If you have particular things you want to rehome, try to find the matching particular place – for example, local schools might like your old magazines, paintbrushes and musical instruments. On that note, I’m off to start on the ‘maybe’ pile… Happy sorting!

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

V I L L AGE PEOPLE

This year, we’re changing things up to make the Village People section a selection of photos from around Summerset. With so much going on, this is just a tiny snippet of Summerset life, but we will try to include as many villages as possible throughout the year!

2 1

Photo 1: Summerset at Avonhead resident Bryan

Photo 4: A group from Summerset in the River

Carver gives the microscope a whirl at the

City braved the searing Whanganui heat to check

Importance of Small exhibition at Christchurch’s

out the new Upokongaro Cycle Bridge.

Botanic Gardens. Photo 2: A group from Summerset on Cavendish enjoyed lunch at Waipara Hills winery. Photo 3: When the Mustang Club visited Summerset Down the Lane, resident Graham Bell went for a spin.

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Photo 5: An intrepid group from Summerset by the Dunes loved the swing bridges at Redwoods Treewalk in Rotorua.

POET’S CORNER Calling all wordsmiths! This year, we’re starting a new section in the magazine to showcase some of our Summerset poets. Whether it’s something witty, thought-provoking or satirical, or just simple musings on everyday life, we want to hear from you! To kick things off, these first two are poems inspired by the strangeness of Covid-19.

Covid-19

Pat and Dora

Along silent paths where bushes sway

Wanted to go on a shopping spree

An empty village, nothing in place

When management said, “No, not at their age”

No activities or croquet to fill space

They thought up a plan that would help them flee.

Nana goes walking every day

Pat and Dora from Summerset Village

Where happy residents like to meet Now through masks at a distance they greet.

They starved and they starved for one whole day But were still not thin enough to sneak away

Bottomley Park is right next door

So they pouted and cried and made a big fuss

with a kauri tree and walks far more

But still weren’t allowed to get on the bus.

than Nana achieves with stick in hand “That maple pole is ever so grand.”

They fretted and fumed and had a big think And decided the rules were just a big stink.

Back in her villa ar42

Covid-19, they said, was just a big hoax

blackbirds and sparrows settle with glee

So we will have to ask Jaki, might just have to coax

to feed from the food basket, splash in the bath Nana happy to sit in the aftermath

Her to do what we want and take us outside

Glad of large windows that give her a view

If only to go along for the ride.

of flowers at fence lines and sky always new.

But Jaki’s not happy to comply with their wishes “Stay home,” she said, “and be good little misses.”

By Irene Swadling, resident at Summerset at Aotea, Porirua

Their response was to say, “We’re too old to be misses but will stay where we are safe in our room. Will eat up our dinners and be good girls Till all this blows over, and better days loom.”

If you would like to submit a poem for consideration in Poet’s Corner, send it to magazine@summerset.co.nz

By Jaki Williams, daughter of Pat Cullum, resident at Summerset by the Coast, Paraparaumu

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S TA F F P R O F I L E

Dulcie McArthur BY SARA BUNNY

For Summerset in the Sun’s Head Gardener Dulcie McArthur, keeping the Nelson village’s grounds spick and span is just the start of her work. With her passion for protecting the environment, Dulcie’s been leading the way when it comes to ecofriendly gardening, and she’s even helped the village get its very own beehive. Dulcie was only 16 when she began work as a tree surgeon and landscape gardener in the UK. After eventually relocating to New Zealand with her partner and young family, she joined the team at Summerset in the Sun, where she’s been delighting residents with her glorious gardening for the past seven years. “Pansies and geraniums are the most popular flowers at the village, as people love to see lots of colour,” she says. “A lot of the original plants that were here I have actually pulled out, as they were getting diseased easily and we needed things that work better for the Nelson weather. I’ve generally worked out what’s best for this site now, and I think when you have a real interest in gardening, you can pick up that sort of knowledge quite easily.” When Dulcie was first developing her green thumbs, using harsh chemical weedkillers and pesticide sprays was the industry norm. But with new thinking and increased environmental awareness, times are thankfully changing. For Dulcie, it was her drive to protect beneficial insects, and to keep the environment clean and green for her own two kids, that got her hooked on researching eco-friendlier options. “Getting rid of all the Nitrophoska fertiliser was a key part of it,” she explains. “We’ve been working on this for at least two years now. We use a natural, organic fertiliser, a vinegar-based weed spray called WeedX, and Biosea liquid seaweed fertiliser to feed the lawns and all the plants. We

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also use a certified organic oil to get rid of bugs, and these are all made in New Zealand.” Most recently, Dulcie’s helped to pioneer an exciting Summerset first – a village beehive. “We have always tried our best to be as environmentally friendly as we can, but I think getting the bees has really sealed the deal now. Once you get some animals on site, they are like your babies and you have to make sure you do the best for them. When the bees first arrived, I got so protective of them, I thought, ‘This is almost like having a kid again!’” The hive arrived in December 2019, and the village pays an annual fee to have the hive carefully maintained by a local beekeeper. To make the deal even sweeter, the village gets 10kg worth of honey from their hive each year, and the hugely popular honey pots are sold as a fundraiser. “The bees aren’t bothered by people walking past in the garden; they just do their thing,” says Dulcie. “It’s amazing how much honey they produce, and it’s great to know it’s from this local area. We can’t get enough of it!” For this gardening expert, who won a Summerset Applause Award for her innovation and impeccable work, going greener just makes good sense. “I’ve never been a big greenie or anything like that, but it gets to a point where you think, ‘We have to do better for the environment’.”

DULCIE’S HELPED TO PIONEER A N E XC I T I N G SU M M E RS E T F I RST – A VILLAGE BEEHIVE .

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FIVE QUESTIONS I R E N E S WA D L I N G F R O M S U M M E R S E T AT AO T E A As an avid reader and published author, Irene has penned a children’s book and two novels: Cross Creek Return and Crying Trees. Here, she talks about treasured memories, bush walks, and telling stories.

How did you become interested in writing? When I was in the third form, I wasn’t very popular with the teachers. But on my report at the end of the year the English teacher wrote, ‘shows great promise in writing’. That gave me a push, but I think there was always an interest there. Could you share a favourite memory? My husband Harry and I went to France for 2½ years with our three young children. We had our finances all worked out, but then the oil crisis hit in the early 1970s and prices soared. It was our wedding anniversary, the last of our money had gone into an oven for the flat, and my husband’s pay was going to be

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later than expected. So my eldest daughter wrote us a poem, and my daughter and son entertained us to cheer us up. It was just magical. Years later, I wrote a version of the poem for my daughter’s wedding. What was your career in your younger days? I did library work, then Playcentre supervising. After getting a BA in English, I went to teach new entrant classes at a primary school. When my children were older, I moved to secondary school teaching. I’ve taught all ages, from new entrants up to Year 13. There were times that I loved and times that were horrible! But I had some amazing students.

What’s your favourite book? It depends on the day! I love Maurice Gee’s work, and Maurice Shadbolt and Patricia Grace. I like to read New Zealand writers. And Dickens I love, I have my mother’s set of Dickens books that were her 21st birthday present. What do you do in your spare time when you’re not writing novels? I sing in the choir here, and I’m involved with the Friends of Mana Island. I’ve long been interested in nature and environmental causes. I’ve climbed Mt Ngauruhoe, Mt Ruapehu, I’ve been over the Tongariro Crossing and walked the Milford Track. I just love the bush.

ARTICLE BY DAN HARDIE

WELLNESS

The right mix of exercise Fitness is a puzzle. Should we move slowly or quickly? Should we throw things, lift things, hang from things or swim around in things?

Put simply, there are three key areas we want to focus on in order to keep ourselves healthy, active and strong:

Our bodies thrive on consistency and variation. Consistency is moving our body on a regular basis, while variation can be seen in the different ways we move. In my 12 years of experience in fitness, I’ve discovered that those who can thread the needle in terms of consistency and variation with their exercise have the best success in getting and remaining healthy.

A E RO B I C F I T N E SS

Along with our daily activities of gardening, housework and running errands, setting aside dedicated times to exercise is like taking the body to the workshop to tune it up regularly. Specific exercise routines give us a chance to focus our attention directly on certain areas we want to improve.

Recommended frequency: 2–3 times per week.

Our body is a system that requires varying amounts of pressure, stress and work in order to grow stronger. Much like grapes that are subjected to varied weather conditions make the best wine, so the same is true of our bodies and exercise!

All of these activities include elements from each of the other categories, but there is usually a specific focus on one more than the other. If you can tick off at least one from each category every week, you’re certainly in the realm of remaining healthy, vibrant and active for longer!

Walking, rowing, swimming, cycling and dancing. Recommended frequency: 4–5 times per week. BA L A N C E /C O O R D I N AT I O N Hiking, yoga, group circuit classes, and ball sports such as tennis, golf and bowls.

ST R E N GT H Weight training, group strength classes and Pilates. Recommended frequency: 2–3 times per week.

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DELICIOUS RECIPES

HOT

FAV O U R I T E S R E C I P E S BY JA N B I LTO N

AS RUSSET LEAVES FALL FROM TREES, HERALDING COOLER DAYS, IT’S TIME TO ENJOY HEARTIER FOODS. SOUPS ARE ALWAYS A WINNER, BEING EASY TO PREPARE, EASY TO DIGEST AND EXTREMELY NUTRITIOUS. THEY CAN BE SERVED AS A MAIN COURSE FOR LUNCH WITH YOUR SUMMERSET FRIENDS OR AS A DELICIOUS STARTER TO A DINNER.

Autumn is wild mushroom season and fungi possess magical nutrients that can benefit your health. Sunshine helps the body produce vitamin D, and the limited sunshine hours of autumn and winter can bring on the blues. Mushrooms are the only non-animal food that contains natural vitamin D, generated automatically when they are exposed to light. Autumn is also the season of mellow fruitfulness – nashi, passion fruit, feijoas, persimmons, apples and pears are true tastes of the season. They make

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heathy snacks and creative sweet treats, are tasty additions to savoury salads and can be roasted with meats. For a delicious dessert, roast persimmons, pears, feijoas or apples at 180°C. Halve the fruit and remove any pips, place them in a roasting dish, dot with butter or table spread and a little brown sugar, then drizzle with a little lemon or orange juice. Bake until cooked and lightly browned. Serve hot or at room temperature, drizzled with lemon juice, pomegranate syrup or maple syrup.

PORTOBELLO MUSHROOM

SOUP

S E RV E S 4 AS A M A I N O R 6 –8 AS A STA RT E R

Red wine adds a tang to this delicious creamy soup, which can be prepared up to two days in advance. Refrigerate in a covered container. INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Creamy sauce

To make the sauce, melt the butter in a medium saucepan.

50g butter

Stir in the flour, then gradually whisk in the milk. Simmer,

1½ tablespoons flour 1 cup each: milk, cream Mushrooms 50g butter

stirring, until thickened. Add the cream. Place aside. To prepare the mushroom soup, melt the butter in a large, heavy saucepan. Add the onion, garlic, mushrooms, rosemary and salt and pepper. Sweat over low heat for about 20 minutes.

1 medium onion, diced

Add the wine and simmer for 10 minutes or until the liquid

2 cloves garlic, crushed

has reduced by half. Add the stock and simmer for another

500g portobello mushrooms,

10 minutes.

sliced

Take about a ¼ cup of the mushrooms and place aside.

pinch finely chopped rosemary

Purée the soup until smooth.

flaky sea salt and freshly ground

Stir the creamy sauce into the mushroom soup. Simmer,

black pepper to taste

stirring, until well combined.

1 cup each: red wine, vegetable

Serve each helping garnished with the reserved

or chicken stock

mushrooms.

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SLOW-COOKED

GREEK EASTER LAMB SERVES 6

This meal is prepared in a slow cooker. For conventional cooking, turn the oven temperature to 160°C, place the ingredients in a small to medium oven pan in the order listed below, cover with foil and cook for about 2½ hours. INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Seasoning

Place three unpeeled garlic cloves in the slow cooker. Peel and

6 small cloves garlic

thinly slice the remainder.

1–1.2kg leg, shoulder or rump of lamb

With the tip of a sharp knife, make small slits on the top of the

6 bay leaves (fresh if possible) 2 lemons, quartered lengthways

lamb. Insert the sliced garlic into the slits. Scatter half the bay leaves and the lemon quarters in the slow cooker. Add the water. Place the lamb on top. Season and dust with

½ cup water

cinnamon. Cover with the remaining bay leaves.

flaky sea salt and freshly ground

Cover and cook on high for 4–5 hours, until the lamb is very tender.

black pepper to taste

Remove the lamb to a warm platter, and cover with foil and a heavy

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon 6 pitted green olives 4–5 tablespoons honey

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towel. Rest for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, strain the liquid into a small saucepan, scooping off any fat. Add the olives and honey. Stir well and simmer until reduced. Serve with the lamb.

STICKY MARMALADE

CHOCOLATE CAKE This is easy as and not too sweet, and it makes a great celebration cake. Serve it with oven-roasted persimmons, pears or apples as a dessert (see page 30), or with yoghurt or whipped cream at coffee time. Any leftovers can be frozen in wedges. INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Seasoning

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line the base and sides of a 20cm

125g butter

loose-based cake pan with baking paper.

100g dark chocolate

Place the butter and chocolate in a medium saucepan and melt

1¼ cups marmalade ½ cup caster sugar 2 eggs 1½ cups self-raising flour

over a low heat. Stir well. Remove from the heat. Reserve ¼ cup of marmalade for garnishing. Add the remaining marmalade and caster sugar to the melted butter and chocolate and mix well. Add the eggs and mix again. Fold in half the flour until well combined, then fold in the other half. Pour the mixture into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 40–50 minutes until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes and then turn onto a cake rack. Heat the reserved marmalade and brush over the cake.

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A RT I C L E BY LY N DA H A L L I N A N

IN THE GARDEN

The great indoors Houseplants make any house feel homely, writes Lynda Hallinan I have a large rural garden, but that hasn’t always been the case. Over the course of my horticultural career I’ve climbed up – and down – the property ladder, from my first dodgy do-up to a city courtyard, a cross-leased slice of suburbia, a rare quarter-acre section and ultimately a small farm in the foothills of Auckland’s Hunua Ranges. 34

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Passionate gardeners generally prefer to upsize than downsize – in country gardens, the fences are habitually moved out but are rarely brought back in – as our green-fingered ambitions invariably outgrow the soil we have at our disposal. But if the time should come when a smaller, more manageable garden, or a collection of potted plants, is preferable to a large plot, then indoor plants can satisfy the urge to nurture your own slice of nature. My grandmother would giggle in her grave if she could see the whopping prices that millennials are now prepared to pay for the indoor plants she cosseted in hanging baskets, such as honeyscented porcelain wax flowers (Hoya carnosa),

the Caribbean flying goldfish plant (Columnea crassifolia) or the trailing Sedum morganianum succulents known as donkey’s tails. Grandma would think the world had gone mad if she knew that a rare variegated fruit salad plant (Monstera deliciosa) now fetches as much as a second-hand car on Trade Me, because it wasn’t that long ago that these Mexican darlings were considered fusty rather than fashionable. This iconic jungle climber with Swiss cheese leaves ends up looking a bit gnarly in its dotage, but you have to be pretty determined to knock it off, which is definitely to its advantage. My grandmother always had a great collection of flowering houseplants, mostly fuchsias, African violets, streptocarpus, begonias, poinsettias and cymbidium orchids, whereas these days it’s big, bold foliage that’s all the rage. I confess to having a foot in both camps, as while I adore the nostalgic joy of popping a ballerina-tutu fuchsia pod, experience has taught me it’s much easier to keep a shiny-leafed ZZ plant alive indoors than a thirsty fuchsia. The ZZ plant has a right mouthful of a botanical moniker, Zamioculcas zamiifolia, hence its natty abbreviation. This tropical beauty comes from Africa, where it first earned the nickname of ‘eternity plant’. Not only do its fleshy leaves purify the air, but it can also survive for months without water, thanks to potato-like rhizomes on its roots that act as mini water reservoirs. It doesn’t need watering even once during winter. There are indoor plants to suit every decor, from cosy to contemporary. For a modern look, opt for anthuriums, also known as flamingo flowers, or arrowhead-shaped syngoniums. Let their soil dry out between waterings, as overwatering, rather than underwatering, is more likely to be fatal. For a hot, sunny conservatory, try cacti. They may have a prickly reputation but there are many handsome spineless species, including the coral cactus (Rhipsalis cereuscula), drunkard’s dream (Hatiora salicornioides), drooping mistletoe cactus (Rhipsalis capilliformis), chain cactus (Rhipsalis paradoxa)

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and angel-haired Rhipsalis ‘Spaghetti’. Other trailing houseplants that look intriguing dangling down from bookshelves or baskets include chain of hearts (Ceropegia woodii) and string of pearls (Curio rowleyanus). The most popular houseplant given as a gift in New Zealand is arguably the moth orchid (Phalaenopsis). To keep moth orchids in good condition, find a spot in a brightly lit, warm room. They do best if kept out of direct sun and a fair distance from your fruit bowl, as the natural ethylene gases emitted by ripening fruit will reduce the longevity of their exquisite flowers. Moth orchids are naturally epiphytic, so don’t panic if the roots grow out of the pot and appear to be making an escape bid. They prefer to be rootbound, though they will appreciate the occasional feed of liquid fertiliser, plus a dunk-and-drain watering every few weeks. Moth orchids are easy to keep alive but there’s a trick to enticing them to rebloom. Once they

finish flowering, rather than cutting off the old stalk when the last flowers have finished, cut the stem down to the next node (swelling) and it should come away again at that point. After cutting, move the plant into the coolest room of your house (preferably somewhere about 5°C cooler than its usual spot) for a couple of weeks to encourage bud formation. Houseplants make lovely presents, both to give and to receive. One of my personal favourites is a delightful foliage plant with reptilian leaves of Granny Smith apple green veined with claret red. My friend Fiona Henderson, a West Auckland artist and potter, gave me a wee plant in a rustic handmade pot a few years ago. When I forgot its name recently, I Googled it, only to discover that Pilea involucrata ‘Moon Valley’ is affectionately known as the friendship plant, due to its affable propagation. Just nip off a tip, pot it up (or pop it in a jar of water) and it’ll soon take root.

SEASONAL CHECKLIST Plant pansies, polyanthus and calendulas for instant potted colour over the cooler months.

Start planting spring bulbs such as daffodils, freesias and ranunculus. In warmer areas, tulips benefit from 4–6 weeks of ‘forcing’ in the fridge. Pop them into a paper bag in your vegetable crisper to fool them into thinking summer is over and it’s time to break their dormancy.

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Plant broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbages, cauliflowers and kale for winter, but provide protection from white cabbage butterflies with insect mesh or Kiwicare’s Organic Caterpillar Bio-Control.

Plant herbs in pots, including parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme, for winter use.

ARTICLE BY LUCY CORRY

STYLE

Made in New Zealand Buying local means that you’re giving back to your community. It’s also often a greener way to shop, and it makes it easier to ensure that your purchases are aligned with your values. Many of us are already in the habit of picking up veges from nearby growers, and these days buying local also extends to make-up and skincare. Here are a few great Kiwi brands to keep on your radar.

Aleph Beauty is created by Auckland make-up artist Emma Peters. It has a small range of multi-use products, including a two-in-one foundation/ concealer and tints that can be used on both lips and cheeks. The solid cream formulations are easy to apply and there’s no risk of spillage. Even better, the products contain skin-improving ingredients that sit nicely on mature skin, and they last for ages. The range is available only online, but if you send Aleph a photo of your bare face, they’ll email back suggested colours and provide a sample of two foundation/concealer shades with your order so you can try them out first. See www.alephbeauty.com for more information.

For skincare, check out the Olive Skincare range, which is made from olive oil produced on the Simunovich Olive Estate just south of Auckland. The products include everything from cleansers to eye creams, and are exceptionally gentle and soothing for all skin types. They contain plant extracts and oils as well as the local olive oil, and are Natrue certified, which guarantees their natural status. There’s a baby range too – great for gifts or new grandkids! The Olive Skincare range is widely available and sold online at www.olivenaturalskincare.com.

When it comes to washing your hair, it’s hard to go past Christchurch company Ethique. Its range of solid shampoos and conditioners look like soap but work just like traditional haircare products (some might say they work even better!). Sustainability is a huge driver for Ethique – founder Brianne West started the company because she wanted to do her bit to stop 80 billion plastic bottles going to landfill globally. The Ethique range (which is also cruelty-free, plasticfree and vegan) now includes skincare, soap and pet-care products, all widely available in supermarkets, department stores and health shops. See www.ethiqueworld.com for stockists near you.

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ARTICLE BY MELISSA WASTNEY

CRAFT CORNER

Simple

tote bag If you’re lucky enough to live near an open-air market, autumn is a great time to visit. This simple tote bag is just the thing to take shopping and can easily be folded up to place inside a larger bag for any unexpected purchases.

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It’s rather fun to put together too, because it uses only small pieces of fabric and you can mix and match prints and stripes with solid colours and textures, depending on what you have to hand. I like to get creative and recycle textiles: the bag shown is made from hand-printed Indian cotton, recycled wool fabric from an old coat, cotton lining from a bed sheet and recycled leather handles. It’s good to use something sturdier for the bottom panel (for strength, and because it gets knocked around more) and something lightweight for the lining.

Supplies Ruler, paper and pencil

Iron

Cutting out the outer pieces 1. Wash and iron your fabric. 2. Using the top panel pattern, pin it to your first choice of bag fabric and cut out two pieces. 3. Using the other bag fabric, cut out two bottom panels. (You will cut out your lining pieces after you have constructed the bag outer.)

Sewing the bag Pins

Construction Scissors

Sewing machine

Thread Piece of recycled leather or an old belt – two strips measuring about 70cm long (alternatively you could use cotton webbing tape or another type of strap) 0.5m each of two of your favourite fabrics for the bag outer, 0.5m of lightweight cotton for the lining

Make your paper pattern 1. With a ruler and pencil, draw a pattern for the top bag panel that measures 43cm wide and 21cm tall. Taper in the side edges slightly so that the top panel edge measures 40cm wide. 2. Make the bottom panel pattern by drawing a rectangle measuring 43cm wide along the top, 21cm tall and 45cm along the bottom edge (the sides will taper inwards slightly like they did with the top panel.)

1. Take one upper panel and one bottom panel. Match up the edges that are the same width, and with right sides facing, sew these panels together. Press the seam towards the top of the bag and topstitch it to hold it in place. Repeat with the other two panels. 2. With right sides facing, sew along the bottom and sides of the two bag pieces, taking care to match up the panel seams. 3. Fold the lining fabric in half, right sides together. Lay the finished bag outer, turned inside out, over your lining fabric and cut around it to create your lining pieces. Sew these together down the sides and along the base. 4. Pinch out a small corner in the outer bag base, so that you have a flat triangle. Sew across this seam to give your bag some depth. Trim off any excess. Repeat with the other base corner and the two lining base corners. 5. Ensuring that your bag outer is right side out, turn the bag lining inside out. Place the bag outer inside the lining and pin all around the top edges, making sure that the side seams match. Leave a small gap of about 10cm and mark it with pins. Stitch around this top seam and turn the bag inside out through the gap you left. 6. Press the finished bag. Position your leather straps where you’d like them to sit and pin or tape them into place. Carefully stitch a square with a cross in the middle of the point where your leather straps meet the top of the bag. You will have to use a sharp machine needle and slow stitches to do this.

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W W W. N Z B O O K L O V E R S .C O. N Z

BOOK REVIEWS

Love America J E N N Y RO B I N J O N ES In Love America, author Jenny Robin Jones explores the question “What is America?”, which takes her on a journey from the desert lands of Taos and Sante Fe in New Mexico. Travelling with a companion, she sets out on a cultural trail, following the same paths as D.H. Lawrence, Willa Cather, Georgia O’Keeffe, Dorothy Brett, Ansel Adams, Dennis Hopper and many others. She follows the memory of these great writers and artists, and she also encounters the Pueblo people and their vibrant culture. This is an intensely personal, wide-ranging journey that looks at the intersections between fiction, art, culture and history in a kind of ‘travel roulette’. “All my life, the idea of America had occupied a space in my psyche… I needed to see it. I needed to find a way to live with it and not despair. I needed to update my idea of America,” says Jenny. Love America is beautifully written, a rich book full of discovery – a journey full of surprises. CALICO PUBLISHING, RRP $36.95

The City of Tears K AT E M OSS E It’s 1572, and Minou and her husband Piet travel to Paris to attend a royal wedding that is intended to finally bring peace between France’s Catholics and Protestants after a decade of religious wars. The couple are looking forward to this celebration. But what they don’t know is that their oldest enemy, Vidal, will also be there. And within a day of the marriage, thousands will lie dead in the street and their beloved daughter, Marta, a spirited seven-year-old, will have disappeared without a trace. Minou and Piet make a desperate search for their daughter, but they have to make the heart-breaking decision to leave Paris or be killed. They make a new life for themselves in Amsterdam, but then hope emerges 12 years later when one of their friends reports seeing a young woman who is strikingly like Marta… Fans of Ken Follet or Dan Brown will love this book. The City of Tears is an epic story of one family’s fight to stay together and survive in the middle of a devastating time in history. It details terrible historical events and the deeply personal experiences of a family during these troubles in an utterly MACMILLAN PUBLISHING, RRP $37.99

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spellbinding way.

The Nine Lives of Kitty K. M A RGA R ET M I L LS Colonial survivor, farmer’s wife and horse whisperer Kitty Kirk is the central figure in this historical novel, which looks at her colourful life. Kitty lived from 1855 to 1930 during the turbulent period of the Central Otago gold rush. She became a legend in her own lifetime, but while some praised her as being a heroine, others accused her of being a harlot. The narrative begins with Kitty’s young Irish mother being forced into a shotgun marriage and sent to New Zealand to escape family shame. It then follows Kitty’s life from a young girl to a mature woman, with happiness turning to tragedy several times over – and with Kitty supporting herself as a woman alone for long periods of her life. The story ranges from Queenstown to Kingston, Arrowtown and Lake Wakatipu, and is a series of adventures, hardships and setbacks. It paints a vivid picture of colonial life in early settler times, especially the hardships faced by women. Author Margaret Mills is as extraordinary as her central character, Kitty Kirk, having had her first book published at the age of 91. It’s wonderful that Kitty MARY EGAN PUBLISHINHG, RRP $32.95

Kirk’s story is now available for the general public to read. The Nine Lives of Kitty K. is a well-researched and fascinating read.

Karl Maughan H A N N A H VA L E N T I N E A N D GA B R I E L L A ST E A D Karl Maughan is not just the best-known garden painter in New Zealand – he is one of the most successful in the world. This new book celebrates the artist’s work and showcases more than 150 of his paintings. Since his first solo exhibition in 1987, he has committed to painting gardens that emanate a sense of possibility, mystery and delight. There is a foreword by Dick Frizzell, an introduction from the editors, and then essays by Linda Tyler, Phil King and Gregory O’Brien. Karl Maughan’s art is presented chronologically: the first section covers work from 1986 to 1994 in Auckland, followed by further sections on work from 1994 to 2005 in London, and then from 2006 to 2020 in Wellington. AUCKLAND UNIVERSITY PRESS, RRP $79.95

This is one of the most beautiful books I have ever seen. It is a perfect gift for others, although I think that if you purchase it you may well decide to keep it for yourself!

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GO GREENER

Green Update You might have already heard about Summerset’s sustainability programme, but what does it all mean, and what difference does it make? Read on for a recap of what we’ve achieved recently, and some of our green goals for the future.

Waste Throughout our villages, corporate offices

WORKING TOGETHER

and construction sites, we’re working on

As part of our commitment to going greener,

landfill. Last year, our construction teams sent

Summerset has partnered with Toitū Envirocare,

30% less waste to landfill, and we achieved a

an organisation that helps businesses to reduce

25% reduction in waste per resident going to

their waste and carbon emissions. Toitū uses

landfill, compared to 2017.

reducing the amount of waste going into

science-based tools to measure progress, and with their help, we’ve been actively managing and reporting on our carbon footprint since 2017. We’re proud to be New Zealand’s first retirement village operator to be Toitū carbonzero certified. Alongside reducing our carbon emissions intensity, we’ve chosen to focus on five key areas of improvement: energy, waste, travel, paper and fertilisers. We’re pleased to say our most recent Toitū audit in December 2020

Travel

showed we’re on track for success! A big thank

Last year, we achieved a 50% decrease in

you to everyone in the villages for all your hard work in going greener – together, we’re making a big difference to our precious environment. Here’s a snapshot of what’s happening in our five target areas:

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

emissions from travel, compared to 2019. While Covid travel restrictions played a big part, we’re counting it as a win because it all helps our environment!

GREENER CARS ON THE HORIZON We’re working alongside our Dunedin and

SWITCHING OFF FOR POWERFUL RESULTS

Paraparaumu villages to research electric vehicle

At the end of last year, we took part in the Big

use at Summerset, and how we could transition our village fleet cars from petrol to electric in the future.

Switch Off to raise awareness of electricity consumption. The goal was to look into ways to

The first step is to research how the cars are used

save electricity across the week of the Switch

and how much time is spent on the road. From

Off, and what a great result we had! Collectively

there, we can work out what type of electric car

we managed to save a whopping 16,000

and charging station might work best for

kilo-watt hours (kWh) of electricity. Well done to

Summerset. It’s early days yet, but it’s a great

everyone who took part.

move towards our greener travel goals.

Energy

Paper

We’ve upgraded a range of equipment to help us

We’re thrilled that 51% of village residents

be more energy efficient, including switching to

now receive their invoices via email. Back at

energy-saving LED lighting in new villages and

the start of 2020, that figure was only 17%

upgrading to LEDs when appropriate in existing

- so we’re making great strides! A number of

villages. We’ve also joined the New Zealand

residents are also reading their village

Green Building Council, to make sure our new

newsletters online, and we would love to get

build designs are as energy efficient as possible.

even more of you onboard with digital newsletters. Talk to your village manager if you would like to know more. And if you didn’t already know it, Summerset Scene is printed using vegetable-based inks, on environmentally responsible paper that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

Fertilisers Landscaping teams across Summerset are constantly working on environmentally friendly ways to keep village gardens looking beautiful. Turn to page 26 to read about the exciting progress at Summerset in the Sun in Nelson.

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

ARTICLE BY AMELIA NORMAN

TRAVEL LOG

ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK Fancy a tropical escape? There’s no need for international travel when you’ve got Abel Tasman National Park right on your doorstep. With plenty of sun, sand and sea, this South Island destination is jam-packed with outdoor activities and stunning views galore. ACCOMMODATION When exploring this corner of the country, it makes sense to start at Mārahau. A tiny settlement on the fringe of the national park, Mārahau is bustling with kayakers, walkers and boaties ready to explore the area. The centrally located Abel Tasman Lodge (voted number one small hotel in 2019 and 2020 by TripAdvisor) is well worth a night or three on your travels. With all the home comforts you could ask for, the lodge’s modern suites and chalets are positioned among beautiful native bush and include a communal kitchen, free use of barbecues, a complimentary spa pool and in-house massage therapy – all within walking distance of the beach, the local eateries and the edge of the national park itself. For a real getaway, book in at Awaroa Lodge. This luxury accommodation, located in Awaroa Bay at the northern end of the national park, can be accessed only by boat or on foot via the Abel

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

Tasman Coast Track. Its seclusion, among bird-filled native bush, is just one of the many attractions here, alongside a relaxing day spa, a high-end restaurant and bar, an outdoor pizzeria (seasonal), and sumptuous rooms and suites. EATING Options for dining out in and around Abel Tasman National Park may be limited, but they are fantastic. Breakfast is likely an option at your accommodation, but if you choose to head out, the Hooked on Marahau café should be your go-to. Beachside breakfast has never been better, with an extensive menu of fresh, local ingredients, exceptional coastal views and superb coffee to get your day started. If you’re heading out on one of the many tours in the park, opt to add on a packed lunch. Most operators will have this option with a day tour, and it saves you the hassle of sourcing and bringing something along. If you’re in Mārahau

at lunchtime, pop in for a salad, soup or burger at The Park Café. Either of the aforementioned eateries is also great for dinner, but the Harakeke Restaurant at Awaroa Lodge is something really special. You’ll need to be staying at the lodge to enjoy this high-end restaurant, with its ample menu, picturesque seating and tranquil surrounds. ACTIVITIES It’s all about the coast here in Abel Tasman – whether boating off it or walking along it. For the sure-footed, a day walk on the famous Abel Tasman Coast Track is an absolute must-do. Following the stunning coastline, this gentle track can be accessed independently or with a tour operator for a guided option. While the entire track takes between three and five days to complete, local water taxi operators can drop you off and pick you up at varying points along it. This gives you the option to choose which sections, bays and beaches to explore, whether for an easy one-hour walk or a full-day trek. Wilsons – one of the longest-running tour operators in the area – has fantastic full-day walk and cruise options. Their tours

incorporate a commentated cruise through the crystal waters of the park, paired with a short walk and return cruise, giving you a real taste of what this area of New Zealand is all about. For those interested in the local wildlife, spend a day with Abel Tasman Eco Tours. This small tour operator specialises in exploring and discussing the ecology of the area, spotting the abundant birds and wildlife that reside in Abel Tasman. Their signature full-day tour will take you around various bays and beaches, highlighting points of ecological interest and showing you the sights. Relax, explore and revive by spending a few days in Abel Tasman National Park – our very own slice of paradise.

STATS Region: Tasman Airport: Nelson Airport Main road: Harvey Road, Mārahau Population: 500 (Mārahau township)

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

SUDOKU

WORDWHEEL: 1. PRAIRIES. 2. REFEREES. 3. FORTIETH.

Across: 1. Derby, 4. Window-shopping, 11. Snail, 14. Agree, 15. Lion-hearted, 16. Tia Maria, 19. Referee, 20. Pupil, 21. Kilometre, 24. Embroider, 26. Stride, 27. Vapour, 31. Pearl, 32. Bless you, 34. Rebellious, 37. Tug, 39. Decided, 40. Cobalt, 41. Assail, 42. Memo, 43. Admiral, 46. Decelerate, 51. Trickle, 55. Bomb, 56. Nausea, 57. Yearly, 58. Command, 60. Duo, 62. Marvellous, 63. Friendly, 64. Never, 67. Shanty, 68. Always, 69. Liberated, 74. Unruffled, 75. Drift, 76. Related, 81. Clarinet, 82. War of nerves, 83. Bough, 84. Yokel, 85. Beside the point, 86. Fever. Down: 2. Eaglet, 3. Breve, 5. Iris, 6. Denture, 7. Weepie, 8. Hard, 9. Premiere, 10. Guinea, 11. Somersault, 12. Aura, 13. Leather, 17. Ferry, 18. Goodness me, 22. Aisle, 23. Polo-neck, 25. Martini, 26. Scuttle, 28. Behead, 29. Gyrate, 30. Depict, 33. Snore, 35. Scope, 36. Beta, 38. Gala, 43. Album, 44. Memorial, 45. Liable, 46. Disqualify, 47. Clad, 48. Layoffs, 49. Roadie, 50. Talon, 52. Rook, 53. Compete, 54. Landed, 59. Centennial, 61. Blues, 65. Face card, 66. Cagey, 67. Sketchy, 70. Inferno, 71. Superb, 72. Trance, 73. Reggae, 77. Atone, 78. Hank, 79. Boat, 80. Vein.

eight-letter word reading clockwise or CODECRACKER anticlockwise. Previous solution: REFEREES

CROSSWORD

Insert the missing letter to complete an

T E

Insert the missing letter to complete an eight-letter word reading clockwise or anticlockwise. Previous solution: RADIATOR

E I 1

? I S P

I T H ?

O R

Insert the missing letter to complete an eight-letter word reading clockwise or anticlockwise. Previous solution: PRAIRIES

1715

R AWordWheel 1713

S E

E R R E

? E 2

1714

clockwise or anticlockwise WordWheel

WordWheel

the missing letter in each puzzle WORDWHEEL Insert to make an eight-letter word reading Fill the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1-9

SUDOKU

Reveal a completed crossword by deleting one of the two letters in each divided square.

SPLITDECISION

PUZZLES

BRAIN TEASE

22 24

28 32

71 74

75 79

Across 1. Match between local rivals (5) 4. Looking, not buying (6-8) 11. Slow-moving gastropod (5) 14. Concur (5) 15. Courageous (4-7) 16. Coffee-flavoured liqueur (3,5) 19. Umpire (7) 20. Student (5) 21. 100,000 cm (9) 24. Decorate with needlework (9) 26. Walk with long steps (6) 27. Steam (6) 31. John Steinbeck novella, The ___ (5) 32. Response when someone sneezes (5,3) 34. Defiant (10) 37. Pull (3) 39. Settled (7) 40. Metallic element, Co (6) 41. Attack (6) 42. Short note (4)

43. Naval officer (7) 46. Slow down (10) 51. Thin flow of liquid (7) 55. Explosive device (4) 56. Sickness (6) 57. Annual (6) 58. Order (7) 60. Twosome (3) 62. Wonderful (10) 63. Amiable (8) 64. At no time (5) 67. Sea song (6) 68. Eternally (6) 69. Freed (9) 74. Unflustered (9) 75. Mound of snow (5) 76. Linked (7) 81. Woodwind instrument (8) 82. Psychological battle (3,2,6) 83. Branch (5) 84. Bumpkin (5) 85. Irrelevant (6,3,5) 86. High temperature (5)

61 63

Down 2. Young eagle (6) 3. Note worth two semibreves (5) 5. Coloured part of eye (4) 6. Set of false teeth (7) 7. Tearful (colloq) (6) 8. Difficult (4) 9. First public performance (8) 10. Coin worth 21 shillings (6) 11. Go head over heels (10) 12. Light around the head of a saint (4) 13. Tanned animal skin (7) 17. Passenger ship (5) 18. Exclamation of surprise (8,2) 22. Corridor (5) 23. Jersey with close-fitting collar (4-4) 25. Popular cocktail (7) 26. Sink your own ship (7) 28. Decapitate (6) 29. Spin around (6) 30. Illustrate (6) 33. Breathe noisily (5) 35. Range (5) 36. Letter of Greek alphabet (4)

38. Fete (4) 43. Book of photographs (5) 44. Commemorative monument (8) 45. Held legally responsible (6) 46. Declare ineligible (10) 47. Dressed (4) 48. Redundancies (7) 49. Person who handles logistics for musicians (6) 50. Claw (5) 52. Chess piece; bird (4) 53. Contend (7) 54. Touched down (6) 59. 100th anniversary (10) 61. Music genre US (5) 65. Jack, queen or king (4,4) 66. Cautious (5) 67. Vague, lacking detail (7) 70. Intense fire (7) 71. Excellent (6) 72. Hypnotic state (6) 73. West Indies music (6) 77. Make amends (5) 78. Coil of wool or yarn (4) 79. Vessel (4) 80. Blood vessel (4)

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

PETS

PETS OF SUMMERSET CINO STEALS THE SHOW When Muriel and Stuart Fieldes went to see a litter of puppies, one in particular stood out. Soon after, the little ball of fluff came home with them to Summerset by the Ranges in Levin, and the whole village is besotted with the little pup with ‘butterfly’ ears. “‘Cino’ (short for Cappuccino) is a Poodle/Bichon Frise crossed with Papillon/terrier,” says Muriel. “After second lockdown last year we were visiting friends in Auckland when Stuart, who had been looking for a small dog, saw an advertisement on Trade Me. We visited the breeder and fell in love with one of the seven puppies. “She was a nine-week-old ball of fluff with big ears! Because of her Papillon heritage she has the lovely ‘butterfly’ ears of this breed. The colouring on her head reminded us of the froth on the top of a cappuccino, hence her name. “Cino is bubbly, bouncy, energetic, mischievous and very intelligent. At three months old she could sit before crossing roads, sit and wait before being given permission to eat, shake hands, and drop onto her tummy and roll over. She is also very quick when she detects the rustle of her treat tin! “She has destroyed Stuart’s hearing aid mould, and like all puppies, she liked chewing cane furniture and shoes while she was teething. Other than chewing things, her favourite things to do are running free on the beach as she doesn’t mind the water too much, and spending time with her very best friend, Lexie, an 18-month-old chocolate Labrador owned by friends. “Cino gives us many laughs with her antics and also much love. She is always happy to greet us when one or other of us has been away for a short time. She takes us out walking too. We look forward to the pleasure she will give us for years to come.” Stuart Fieldes with Cino, when she was five months old.

Summerset Scene | Autumn Issue

DIRECTORY AUCKLAND–NORTHLAND

BAY OF PLENTY

Summerset at Aotea

Summerset Mount Denby*

Summerset by the Sea

7 Par Lane, Tikipunga Whangarei 0112 Phone (09) 470 0282

181 Park Road, Katikati 3129 Phone (07) 985 6890

15 Aotea Drive, Aotea, Porirua 5024 Phone (04) 235 0011

Summerset Falls

Summerset by the Dunes

31 Mansel Drive, Warkworth 0910 Phone (09) 425 1200

35 Manawa Road, Papamoa Beach, Tauranga 3118 Phone (07) 542 9082

Summerset at Monterey Park 1 Squadron Drive, Hobsonville, Auckland 0616 Phone (09) 951 8920 Summerset at Heritage Park 8 Harrison Road, Ellerslie, Auckland 1060 Phone (09) 950 7960 Summerset by the Park 7 Flat Bush School Road, Manukau 2019 Phone (09) 272 3950 Summerset at Karaka 49 Pararekau Road, Karaka, RD1, Papakura 2580 Phone (09) 951 8900 Summerset Parnell* 23 Cheshire Street, Parnell 1052 Phone (09) 950 8212 Summerset St Johns* 188 St Johns Road, St Johns 1072 Phone (09) 950 7982 Summerset Half Moon Bay* 25 Thurston Place, Half Moon Bay, Auckland 2012 Phone (09) 306 1422

HAWKE’ S BAY

Summerset in the Bay 79 Merlot Drive, Taradale, Napier 4112 Phone (06) 845 2840 Summerset in the Orchard 1228 Ada Street, Parkvale, Hastings 4122 Phone (06) 974 1310 Summerset Palms 136 Eriksen Road, Te Awa, Napier 4110 Phone (06) 833 5852 Summerset in the Vines 249 Te Mata Road, Havelock North 4130 Phone (06) 877 1185 TARANAKI

Summerset Mountain View 35 Fernbrook Drive, Vogeltown, New Plymouth 4310 Phone (06) 824 8900 Summerset at Pohutukawa Place 70 Pohutukawa Place, Bell Block, New Plymouth 4312 Phone (06) 824 8532

Summerset Milldale* Argent Lane, Milldale, Wainui 0992 Phone 0800 786 637 WAIKATO

Summerset down the Lane 206 Dixon Road, Tamahere, Hamilton 3206 Phone (07) 843 0157 Summerset Rototuna 39 Kimbrae Drive, Rototuna North, Hamilton 3281 Phone (07) 981 7822

MANAWATU–WHANGANUI

Summerset in the River City 40 Burton Avenue, Whanganui 4500 Phone (06) 343 3133 Summerset on Summerhill 180 Ruapehu Drive, Fitzherbert, Palmerston North 4410 Phone (06) 354 4964 Summerset by the Ranges 104–112 Liverpool Street, Levin 5510 Phone (06) 367 0337

Summerset by the Lake 2 Wharewaka Road, Wharewaka, Taupō 3330 Phone (07) 376 9470 Summerset Cambridge* 80 Laurent Road, Cambridge 8493 Phone (07) 839 9482

* Proposed village

WELLINGTON

Summerset on the Coast 104 Realm Drive, Paraparaumu 5032 Phone (04) 298 3540 Summerset on the Landing 1–3 Bluff Road, Kenepuru, Porirua 5022 Phone (04) 230 6722

Summerset at the Course 20 Racecourse Road, Trentham, Upper Hutt 5018 Phone (04) 527 2980 Summerset Lower Hutt* Boulcott’s Farm, Military Road, Lower Hutt 5010 Phone (04) 894 7374 Summerset Waikanae* Park Avenue, Waikanae 5036 Phone (04) 293 0002 NELSON–TASMAN–MARLBOROUGH

Summerset in the Sun 16 Sargeson Street, Stoke, Nelson 7011 Phone (03) 538 0000 Summerset Richmond Ranges 1 Hill Street North, Richmond, Nelson 7020 Phone (03) 744 3432 Summerset Blenheim* 183 Old Renwick Road, Blenheim 7201 Phone (03) 520 6042 CANTERBURY

Summerset at Wigram 135 Awatea Road, Wigram, Christchurch 8025 Phone (03) 741 0870 Summerset at Avonhead 120 Hawthornden Road, Avonhead, Christchurch 8042 Phone (03) 357 3202 Summerset on Cavendish 147 Cavendish Road, Casebrook, Christchurch 8051 Phone (03) 741 3340 Summerset Rangiora* 141 South Belt, Rangiora 7400 Phone (03) 364 1312 Summerset Prebbleton* 578 Springs Road, Prebbleton 7604 Phone (03) 353 6312 OTAGO

Summerset at Bishopscourt 36 Shetland Street, Wakari, Dunedin 9010 Phone (03) 950 3110