Issuu

Summerset Scene •

S U M M E R

2 0 1 9

•

SUITED TO A TEE GEOFF CLARKE • THE KINDNESS OF STRANGERS ESMEE ROWDEN • CHRISTMAS JUDE DOBSON CHRISTMAS CHEER WHITE CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE • BRAIN TEASE CROSSWORDS & PUZZLES

Hello from Janan Hello and welcome to another jam-packed edition of Summerset Scene!

Whangarei Warkworth Parnell

Milldale Hobsonville

St Johns

Ellerslie

Manukau

Karaka

Katikati

Papamoa Beach

Rototuna

More than

5,000

Cambridge

Hamilton Taupo

Bell Block

Summerset home New Zealanders call

New Plymouth

Napier Te Awa Hastings

Wanganui Levin

Havelock North

Waikanae Paraparaumu

Palmerston North Trentham

Nelson

Lower Hutt

Richmond Blenheim

Rangiora

Avonhead Wigram

Casebrook

Aotea Kenepuru

KEY = Summerset village = Planned village

Dunedin

WIN A COOKBOOK! If you love whipping up dishes in the kitchen, send us your pics to be in with a chance to win! HEAD TO PAGE 48 TO FIND OUT MORE

COVER IMAGE | Christchurch's Geoff Clarke, is a former pro-golfer who holds the record for the number of games played for New Zealand by an individual. You can read Geoff and wife Shirley's story on page 14.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

Welcome to Summerset Scene's Summer edition. We've put together another amazing array of fantastic stories from our village residents.

You’ll also see a ‘Pets of Summerset’ section in this edition. Many of you are avid pet lovers, here's your chance to let others know why your furry friends are special.

As the days get longer and sunnier, we hope you'll enjoy dipping into the magazine for inspiration and entertainment.

We’ve also overhauled the book reviews, which has been curated to offer a more varied selection of genres and topics.

If you’re a lifelong golf fan, no doubt you’ll have heard of Geoff Clarke, who went pro in 1981. We chat with him and his wife Shirley (pages 14–17) about life before and after his professional golfing career. In Palmerston North, Summerset on Summerhill resident Esmee Rowden is using her retirement time to do some social good – providing sewing machines to former refugee families settling into New Zealand (pages 7-9).

The School of Life is perfect if you’re looking to raise your emotional intelligence; we suggest the Copenhagen cookbook for summer inspiration; and travel-lovers, there’s the riotously funny A Chip Shop in Poznań’ about a year in Poland.

You might remember that we conducted a reader survey back in March 2019 to see how we were doing with Summerset Scene. We’ve been through your comments and made some tweaks. We’ve updated the puzzles page, thanks to your feedback. The Code Cracker is now a bit bigger, and the page will vary slightly in each edition. This issue, we’ve swapped out Target for Sudoku. But don’t worry, Target will be coming back!

And finally, you've told us how much you love Jan's recipes, so head to page 48 to find out how to win her latest cookbook. Hope you all have a lovely summer!

Janan Jedrzejewski SUMMERSET SCENE EDITOR

Contents Features

ColumnsC O L U M N S

Michael Stedman

Business

The Producer

Summerset expands

Esmee Rowden

Geoff Clarke

The kindness of strangers

Suited to a tee

04. 07.

13. 14.

22.

CRAFT CORNER

37.

OUR N E WS

24.

BOOK R E V I E WS

38.

D E L I C I O US R EC I P E S

30.

IN THE GA R D E N

34.

STA F F P RO F I L E

M OTO R I N G

40.

43.

E X E RC I S E

44.

T R AV E L LO G

B R A I N T E AS E

46.

Business

Historic Clark Cottage opens

10.

Flash mob and new residents

18.

Jude Dobson

Val Gibson

Christmas

Piano Woman

12.

20.

ST Y L E

42.

P E TS O F SU M M E RS E T

48.

STORY TO SHARE?

This document is printed on an

We really enjoy telling your stories. If you have an exciting or interesting

produced using Elemental Chlorine

tale to tell, get in touch with us. Weâ€™d love to hear from you!

Source pulp from Responsible

magazine@summerset.co.nz

environmentally responsible paper,

(04) 830 1175

Free (ECF), FSCÂŽ certified, Mixed Sources, and manufactured under the strict ISO14001 Environmental Management System.

THE

PRODUCER BY JANAN JEDRZEJEWSKI

He’s been awarded an (New Zealand Order of Merit, NZOM) for his long-standing contribution to New Zealand's television production sector and has helped create over 1,500 hours of TV. Former managing director of Natural History New Zealand (NHNZ) Michael Stedman resides at Summerset at Bishopscourt and still plays an active role in the industry through mentoring others. Every year, 72-year-old Michael continues to work with film students from the nearby University of Otago, where he established a science communications course while at the head of NHNZ. Combining “great science with filmmaking skills”, the course has been a great success, says Michael. He still loves working with students as a mentor, often taking on the role of executive producer of their film projects. “The only skill you need is the ability to ask questions,” he explains. “The student must find the answer.”

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

“It's not about imparting my wisdom. It's about opening up their abilities, their confidence… the last thing you want is a whole load of mini replicas of how you see the world.” Since retiring, Michael has continued to work for the New Zealand Film Commission on numerous initiatives designed to nurture young filmmakers. It’s clearly something he enjoys. “The privilege of seeing first hand the immense talent in New Zealand is very humbling. It truly is unbelievable how Kiwis punch above their weight.”

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

THE

KINDNESS OF STRANGERS BY JANAN JEDRZEJEWSKI

Michael adds that he believes it’s because “Kiwis don’t self-sensor. They don’t doubt for a minute they can’t do something. It’s a wonderful cocktail of great ideas, belief, and tenacity.” Michael started his career at TVNZ (then known as NZBC) in 1969 as a film editor and rose to become New Zealand's youngest ever TV producer. He then went on to hold many senior positions, including head of training at the Australian Film and Television School. He spent 15 years as the managing director of NHNZ, bringing it back from the brink of closure and transforming it into a global powerhouse, producing documentaries aired in over 250 countries and winning over 400 international awards (including an Emmy). Under his leadership, NHNZ established production companies in Singapore and South Africa, and a production base in Beijing.

that was good for the programme,” he adds, “not good for my ego.” “THE THING I GET THE GREATEST JOY FROM IS OTHER PEOPLE'S SUCCESS. I JUST FIND THAT REMARKABLE.” Instead of accolades, a vibrant red Chinese carved lacquer pot sits on the shelf next to Japanese photography books, bamboo insects, and gifts from lifelong business partners and friends. Michael loves his villa, perched on the edge of the village, overlooking lush green bushes and tall trees and with a school nearby. “There's the marae, and birdsong, and the laughter of children. You live in a soundscape that's really quite lovely.”

Michael has several awards recognising his 40-year commitment to the television industry. Other accolades that sit with his ONZM include an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from Otago University and a lifetime achievement award from the Screen Production and Development Association. However, none of these awards are anywhere to be seen around Michael's home. This is because he sees his role as “being behind the curtain,” adding he’s always loved the backstage more. Rarely accepting awards for his production work in person, he’d send the presenters instead to raise the profile of the show. “You did stuff

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

ABOVE | A Chinese lacquer pot sits alongside other mementos from a wide-ranging career.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

When Esmee Rowden and her husband Ian retired, they wanted to volunteer. Little did Esmee know their altruistic journey would hit the headlines, bring together communities, and – most importantly – change the lives of refugees. How? Through the gift of sewing machines. It all started when their youngest daughter, Carmel, emailed her parents recommending they volunteer for the Red Cross, helping newly arrived refugees settle into New Zealand. This involves meeting families at the airport, helping them unpack things in their new home, and setting up appointments for schools, doctors, and dentists. The process takes about six weeks.

and Summerset on the Coast in Paraparaumu – also gave generously.

Esmee got involved, and started helping the Norbasha family from Myanmar last September. She noticed that the youngest Norbasha child couldn’t get a school uniform for her petite size, and mother Shenenas had to alter it all by hand.

Motivated by this, and by the kindness of Kiwis in the community, Esmee and Thalia decided to create a donation network across the country.

“I could see that it was a lot of work,” Esmee remembers, “so I said, ‘Would you like a sewing machine?’, and her eyes lit up.” Esmee then turned to her eldest daughter, Thalia, author of a popular blog called Sacraparental, who put out a request on Twitter. Three machines were offered within five minutes. By the end of the day, the number had grown to 40. It didn’t end there. Esmee asked her own retirement village, Summerset on Summerhill in Palmerston North, to help out with accessories. When she returned days later, she found the clothes basket she’d left at the Rec Centre overflowing with donations of pin cushions, safety pins, lace, sewing scissors, and much more. Nearby Summerset villages – Summerset at Aotea, Summerset by the Ranges in Levin,

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

For refugees like the Norbasha family, Esmee explains, having a sewing machine is a lifeline, and being able to make things is a source of pride. As soon as the brand-new machine had been delivered, Shenenas was happily making clothes for herself and her two children.

“I COULD SEE THAT IT WAS A LOT OF WORK, SO I SAID, ‘WOULD YOU LIKE A SEWING MACHINE?’, AND HER EYES LIT UP.”

Anyone wishing to donate a machine can go direct to a participating Red Cross Pathways to Settlement Centre or one of Esmee’s depots. Esmee says no one she asked has ever said no to the project. To date, just over 100 sewing machines have been placed with former refugee families – with more on the way. “I do it because, well, I can,” Esmee says. “Although, I thought I’d stop getting emails after I retired!” Do you have working sewing machines, accessories, or time to donate? Get in touch with Esmee at: sewingmachinedonations@gmail.com

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT| Esmee with Red Cross staff; Shenenas with her sewing machine; Esmee with daughter Thalia and granddaughter Hazel – Thalia is the techie/ media guru for the sewing machine drive; donated goods from Summerset villages.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

CLARK COTTAGE

Summerset at Monterey Park residents and guests celebrated the opening of an on-site 1900s Italianate villa at their Hobsonville village in October with a wonderful garden party. The restored cottage was officially opened by Village Manager Carol Andrews and Mike and Anna Evans, the former owners of the land, who are now residents at the village. They were joined by their daughters and grandchildren. The cottage was built around 1909 as a love nest for Thomas Edwin Clark and his wife Margaret, by Thomasâ€™s father Rice Owen Clark II, a Hobsonville property owner and brickmaker. Summerset has paid for the sympathetic renovation of the villa, including restoring its original stained-glass windows, pastel-pink art nouveau pressed-tin ceiling, and timber architraves. The cottage will now be used by residents for hosting events, club gatherings, and maybe even a wedding!Â

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP | Clark Cottage in all its glory; guests and residents enjoying the garden party; the pressed-tin ceiling in the entrance way.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

ARTICLE BY JUDE DOBSON

Christmas

Spring has sprung, and now we are well into summer. The days are light for longer, my summery rosé is acceptable drinking wine, and the barbecue is now an extension of the kitchen. Plus, festive advertising is telling us how many days there are till Christmas. I’m not sure why that is a thing every year. Well, I do really – it’s all about making us shop more. It’s never “30 days till a summer holiday” or “30 days till lots of ham”. It’s a bald reminder that there are only 30 days to go and shop yourself silly. I’m over the shopping thing. So many people end up spending money they can’t afford, on presents no one wants, and for people they don’t really know. Many years ago, our family instituted a Christmas draw. It started off with us four adult kids and partners, so eight names would go in a hat and we’d each pull one out (keeping quiet as to who it was).

We’d then all say what sort of thing we might find useful to have and agreed a budget – usually $50. Come Christmas Day, our present was under the tree from “the family”. Over time, once our own kids arrived, we focused on buying something each for the little ones, and it’s evolved from there

Australia Summerset expands into

Summerset will be taking its vibrant brand of retirement living to Australia, having announced the purchase of land in Cranbourne North, a southeast suburb of Melbourne, in September. Cranbourne is in the City of Casey, and the new village will be close to shopping centres, public transport, the golf course, and the stunning Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Cranbourne Gardens.

Summerset CEO Julian Cook says this is an exciting move for the company. “We will be providing Victorian retirees with our continuum of care model, which isn’t as common in Australia. We know our high-quality standard of living and care will be a great addition to the options available to Victorians.”

For Mum and Dad, the growing list of in-laws and grandchildren was a present-buying burden we didn’t want to impinge on them, so we instituted a no-gift policy for their adult kids and partners. Once the grandies got to an age where they were past toys and books (a relatively inexpensive but known hit), Mum and Dad gave gifts of cash – always popular as kids love some shopping autonomy! Whatever the Christmas present buying regime is in your family, I hope it’s enjoyable for you. But if it isn’t, change it. The festive season should be fun, not frustrating!

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

Sitting on their sofa, Geoff and Shirley (72), his wife of nearly 50 years, muse about fame, love at first sight, and the worst job in the world. Golf has been a lifelong passion for Geoff. He’s played 21 times for New Zealand – still a record today. He joined the national team when he was only 20 years old, although it very nearly didn’t happen. After leaving school at 18, Geoff got on a motorbike with his worldly possessions and rode to Auckland to take up a job at sports firm Owen Eyre. He caddied for famous professional Australian golfer Peter Thomson at Middlemore when he took out the New Zealand Open, an event Thomson won nine times.

SUITED TO A TEE BY JANAN JEDRZEJEWSKI

Summerset on Cavendish resident and former pro-golfer Geoff Clarke (73) is still on top of his game, most recently winning at the Dementia Canterbury Golf Tournament as part of the Summerset team.

Geoff also trialled for the Auckland golf team and finished fourth. Although he was told that the province automatically takes the top six, Geoff wasn’t selected, being told he lacked experience (although, the Clarkes joke, it’s really because Otago-born Geoff wasn’t from Auckland). Geoff then hopped back on his bike and took “the worst job in the world” – wool scouring. He cleaned dirty sheep wool and recalls “stinking” after the long days. However, working 12-hour days, seven days a week allowed Geoff to save up $3,000 (equivalent to $126,000 today). He moved to Dunedin, initially to work at National Mortgage, before training to be a teacher. Just nine months later, he was selected as part of the New Zealand team heading for the Commonwealth Tournament in Canada. The team won the event and Geoff still proudly displays his medal on the wall. “I can remember one of the older players saying to me, ‘Don’t think it’s going to be this easy the rest of the time, son,’ and he was right.”

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

IN 1981, GEOFF TURNED PRO, AND WENT ON TO PLAY WITH THE LIKES OF AMERICAN SAM SNEAD AND SOUTH AFRICAN GARY PLAYER. At the height of his career, Shirley says, “everyone in New Zealand would have known who he was”. The couple met on Shirley’s 21st birthday, when they both worked at National Mortgage. “I took one look at him and decided he was the guy,” she says. They were engaged within three weeks and wed the following year. After being married nearly half a century, the Clarkes know a thing or two about making a relationship work. They said “for richer and poorer” in their vows, and this was definitely the case. As newlyweds, the couple were able to use their savings to put down a deposit on a house, but had very little money. “It was tough in those days,” Shirley says. “We actually lived on $10 a week. That’s all we had. If I laddered my stockings early in the week, I still wore that pair to the end of the week. They were only 79¢ at the supermarket, but I could only afford one pair a week.” Geoff adds, “That was an interesting start… [it] makes you appreciate what you’ve achieved.” When it comes to their successful relationship, the pair say it's down to give and take. "Shirley has had to give a fair bit, Geoff says, “because in my early days I played a lot of golf.”

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

“Yes, his commitments were pretty tight,” Shirley agrees, “and I knew that before I got married. Everybody said, ‘That will be the end of his competitive golfing career, just as he was just coming to the top.’ “I said, ‘No it won’t. It’s his choice and I won’t ask him to stop just because he’s married.’” Shirley continued to support her husband’s dream, and the pair ran a golf shop for 10 years at the Alexandra Golf Club near Queenstown, and then for 15 years at the Russley Golf Club in Christchurch. Geoff still loves his golf and is also an enthusiastic lawn bowler. He currently holds ten club titles at Burnside Bowling Club and three Canterbury Centre titles. And like many other Summerset on Cavendish village residents, he is looking forward to their new bowling green.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

Shirley and Geoff say they love their life at Summerset, calling it “the best move we have ever made”. For Shirley, it has given her the opportunity to pursue her favourite hobbies of craft, dress making, and creating art – their villa walls display much of her work. A big 50-year wedding anniversary celebration is planned for December, with family coming home from England, and a memorable occasion is guaranteed, Geoff says.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE | Geoff and Shirley at home; Geoff with photo of golfing partners Sam Snead (above, 1978) and Gary Player (bottom, 1976); together on the golf course.

FLASH MOB Summerset on Cavendish residents recently surprised and delighted shoppers at Northlands mall in Christchurch with a flash mob to celebrate the launch of their new serviced apartments. Ten staff (from both the village and the construction team) and 40 residents danced their socks off alongside special guest, Summerset CEO Julian Cook. Village Manager Stephanie Meehan says the idea “came to me in the early hours one morning, as I wanted something the whole village could be part of”. “The residents are so full of charisma,” Stephanie adds. “It was them who managed to convince our construction team and even the CEO to come and join in.” The team worked hard, putting in four rehearsals a week for over two months. Stephanie says the village was buzzing, with different pieces of music playing, and people practising their steps and really committing to the event. “Our Activities Coordinator Anna Childs has been an absolute superstar in organising everyone and leading the rehearsals,” Stephanie adds. “This project was not only fun, but also helped gel the Summerset community together.” WHAT'S A FLASH MOB? A flash mob is a group of people who assemble suddenly in a public place, perform an unusual act for a brief time, then quickly disperse, often for the purposes of entertainment.

RIGHT | Residents and staff dance up a storm!

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

Welcome to

SUMMERSET RICHMOND RANGES

The first residents have moved into Summerset’s spanking-new Richmond Ranges village near Nelson. Beverley and Stuart Milnes, both 86 years old, are excited about living the Summerset life. Beverley says she’s looking forward to getting back on her trike and riding around the village, while her husband has his eye on the work shed next to the nearby Nelson Racecourse. The married couple are both retired school teachers who have taught all over the country. Beverley says they’re planning to start a vegetable garden, and her son has built an outdoor pond for her fish. Another couple, Heather and Graham Bartlett, have also just moved to Richmond Ranges. For them, the main attraction was being able to downsize. Being from the local area originally, Graham says they expect life to remain the same – except with the convenience of a much smaller garden, Heather adds.

ABOVE AND RIGHT | New residents the Milnes and the Bartletts.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

Piano Woman BY JANAN JEDRZEJEWSKI

Glamorous and charming, Val Gibson beams as she sits at her piano, elegantly pressing the keys. Leonard Cohen’s ‘Hallelujah’ fills her stylish villa, bringing it to life. It’s only one of the thousands of songs the accomplished pianist, with over 50 years in the entertainment industry, has committed to memory. Val is passionate about her craft, and regularly lends her talents to Christchurch’s Summerset community by playing shows at Summerset at Wigram, where she is based, and Summerset on Cavendish. The most requested song, she says, is ‘As Time Goes By’. “What I love about doing it is giving happiness to people. Seeing their faces enjoying it when I play songs they like,” she says. “That makes me happy. “It’s also good for my mind; it’s the same as doing crosswords. It gives you a buzz to remember a song.” Born in Sydney, Val studied at the Conservatorium of Music in Australia and has been playing since she was nine years old. Her ear for music was evident from a young age. Coming home from church, she’d go to her

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

mother’s old pedal organ and start playing the hymns she’d heard earlier that day. The Sydneysider’s career has spanned the globe. After moving to the Gold Coast in the early 1970s, she took up a residency at the Playroom, then the biggest nightclub in town. After that, Val spent ten years on Brampton Island on the Great Barrier Reef, working as a musician and entertainment manager in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Val spent 19 years in the United Kingdom, working for magician and hypnotist Desmond Tocchini, better known The Amazing Ronricco, as a musical director. Her job took her around the world to Hawaii, India, Ireland, Singapore, and New Zealand. During her time abroad, Val was one of the five support acts to open for famous headliners at the Royal Albert Hall, London. Famous performers at the time included comedians Little and Large, Les Dawson, Tom O’Connor, and Lenny Henry. Despite all this, the 80-year-old resident remains humble. “I don’t think I’m very special or anything, I just like playing and pleasing people.”

“What I love about doing it is giving happiness to people. Seeing their faces enjoying it when I play songs they like,” Val says. “That makes me happy.”

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

S TA F F P R O F I L E

Kathy Baker

“If I can be of help to someone, then I am there for them.”

BY JANAN JEDRZEJEWSKI

Receptionist Kathy Baker is everyone’s favourite at Summerset head office. It’s not uncommon for her to hug new employees or excitedly show guests the stunning view of Wellington Harbour from level 27 of the city’s Majestic Centre. British-born Kathy (70) has been part of the

town. She says the most unusual was at Barton’s

Summerset family since 2010. But her

Butchers in Dunedin, where she packed lamb

background has involved travelling across the

for overseas export.

world, living with French-speaking nuns, nurse aiding, and even working in a butchery. She was one of the ‘Ten Pound Poms’, emigrating from Manchester to Sydney in 1955, aged six. Four year later, her family moved to Christchurch.

“That’s where I learned to swear,” she jokes. “There was a whole load of men cutting up meat and it was hard, heavy, cold work.” Always drawn to caring for others, Kathy concentrated on a career as a nurse aid over

At the age of just 15, Kathy decided that she

the coming decades, but she also spent 15

wanted to be a nun. She moved by herself to

years working in the back office of an insurance

Hastings and entered the local order of the

company. She says the Summerset job came

Little Sisters of the Poor, founded in France.

about through a random comment at a Lions

“I wanted to join because they were so lovely,”

Club dinner.

she says. “They cared for and nursed the aged,

Kathy says her reception role combines her

just like Summerset.”

love of helping others and keeping things

A year later she moved to the Dunedin chapter of the order, where she continued to learn about nurse aiding, including dressing wounds and giving injections. However, Kathy says she decided the religious life wasn’t her calling after meeting her future husband, Mike, on a blind date in 1967. They got engaged on her 21st birthday and were wed a year later. Through her husband’s job with KiwiRail (then called New Zealand Railways), the pair and their ever-growing family moved around the country. Kathy picked up different jobs in each

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

organised. With her own mother in a Summerset village and a recent move to downsize, Kathy says she draws on her own life experience when acting as a representative for Summerset. She’s certainly seen big changes in the company over the last nine years. “When I started here at head office, there were 29 staff,” she says. “Today, we have 200 across two floors, and Summerset has over 1,500 employees. “I love my job, I love the people. I like making

K AT H Y H A S B E E N PA R T O F T H E S U M M E R S E T F A M I LY S I N C E 2 0 1 0.

people happy. If I can be of help to someone, then I am there for them.”

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

OUR NEWS

SURVEY R E S U LT S 2019

I T TA K E S A V I L L AG E Anita Hall, Activities Coordinator at Summerset at Bishopscourt in Dunedin, loves her job so much that she held her wedding at the village over Labour Day weekend as it was the only way to invite all the residents. She tied the knot with partner Neil Stock, and the pair became Mr and Mrs Stockhall.

A HUGE THANK YOU TO ALL OUR RESIDENTS WHO TOOK THE TIME TO COMPLETE THIS YEAR’S RESIDENTS’ SATISFACTION SURVEY!

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

SATISFACTION

FOR CARE RESIDENTS

FOR INDEPENDENT RESIDENTS

We really value your feedback, as it helps us to ensure we continue to bring the best of life to every resident. The 2019 Residents’ Satisfaction Survey results show that we have maintained our excellent overall satisfaction scores from last year. For care residents, overall satisfaction came in at 96%, and independent residents scored it 96%. “This is yet another fantastic result,” says Summerset CEO Julian Cook, “and clearly illustrates that we are dedicated to bringing the best of life to our residents.”

The residents were overjoyed at the first wedding the village has ever witnessed, and some helped Anita with the preparations. Sue Harbott designed the bouquets for the bride and her bridesmaids. Originally, Sue intended to use pale pink peonies, but as none were available due to the weather, she came up with an ingenious solution. She broke down artificial peonies and tied them together with real peony leaves and little white shrubs. Sue says that Anita threw her arms around her when she offered to do the flowers. “Anita is fun, caring, and thoughtful,” Sue says. “She’s been good to me, so I thought if I could make her day happier, why not?” Other residents provided food. Frances Smithson treated the reception to salmon blinis and Jane Jones made platters of sandwiches when they realised Anita had quite a lot to do to prepare for the wedding. “I thought it would be a nice thing to do,” Jane says. “Anita is a great asset to Summerset.”

When Anita’s dress arrived, there were too many petticoats – around five – including a huge organza one she wanted to remove. Despite knowing Anita for only a few months, Heather Thomson and her husband Barry helped her rework the dress and made Neil’s bespoke lace cravat. Heather explains that it was “a big job” to split the dress into two pieces to fix the bottom half. She also made the veil and embellished the dress with rhinestones and sequins. Happily posing for pictures and hugging her friends in the sun next to the forecourt fountain, Anita refers to Heather as ‘Nana’ and the Thomsons as her grandparents. “It’s brought a lot of happiness to the village,” Heather says, while husband Barry passes trays of snacks around at the reception. “It’s really lifted the atmosphere… she’s our fairy princess.” ABOVE | Dunedin village residents with Anita, their "fairy princess", on her wedding day.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

Still Me

CELEBRATING

Frances and Francis

SUMMERSET IS A PROUD PARTNER OF DEMENTIA NEW ZEALAND. DEMENTIA AFFECTS OVER 70,000 NEW ZEALANDERS – YOU MIGHT HAVE A FAMILY MEMBER, FRIEND, OR FELLOW VILLAGE RESIDENT LIVING WITH DEMENTIA.

Check out Dementia

Rhonda Preston-Jones, Educator and Socialisation Services Team Leader at Dementia New Zealand, talks through the organisation’s top tips for being a kind, compassionate, and ‘dementia-friendly’ support person.

dispel the myths and

New Zealand’s new campaign, Still Me, which aims to help eradicate the stigma around dementia, and to encourage respect

Treat people living

Make an effort to

Be tolerant, patient,

Give the person time

Keep things simple;

with a diagnosis of

be inclusive, and

and kind.

to work things out

modify the situation

will be providing a

dementia with the

set things up so

for themselves and, if

to help the person

respect you would

the person feels

they are in a muddle,

succeed.

quarterly brain health

hope to get if the

welcome and

be helpful without

boot was on the

involved. You may

being patronising.

other foot.

need to remind them

for all people living with a diagnosis of dementia. Starting in the next edition of

THEIR OUTSTANDING WORK AT SUMMERSET.

Frances Armas and Francis Palma both won trophies at the most recent Applause Awards, Summerset’s annual ceremony that celebrates staff who bring the best of life to their residents. Frances was awarded Clinical Nurse Leader of the Year, while Francis took the Nurse of the Year award. Since her win, Frances has been promoted to Care Centre Manager. Originally from the Philippines, she started her career in nursing in 2005. Her experience extends to emergency rooms, gynaecology, and paediatrics – but aged care in Nelson is where her heart is.

Summerset Scene, Dementia New Zealand

column – look for the first one in March 2020!

about, or indeed take

TWO NELSON NURSES HAVE BEEN RECOGNISED FOR

“I have a lot of friends who work in the hospital,” Frances says. “I’m always telling them that the experience of looking after people long term in a village is so different from acute care [where] they come and go quickly. I get to know the person and learn about their life – that’s like gold to me.”

them to, events.

Make communication

Focus conversations

If talking is

When doing things

Prompt, guide, and

clear and direct.

on long-term

becoming a

together, focus on

encourage. Be subtle

Make statements

memories, not

challenge, then

the person’s past

– don’t make a fuss.

rather than asking

recent events.

change the focus of

skills, interests, and

questions, and use

your interaction to

activities.

your name to help

doing something,

the person recognise

such as going for a

who you are.

walk together.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

Francis Palma, also from the Philippines, has been promoted to Frances’s former role. For him, aged-care work is where he and his colleagues feel valued. “Every time we get a resident here, they feel safe, [so] obviously some of them choose to stay here rather than go to the hospital. They trust us.”

Francis adds that he welcomes nurses coming to the aged-care sector, and that the work is more complex, rewarding, and totally different to hospital care.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

EUREKA! Summerset has awarded a $5,000 gold scholarship at this year’s Sir Paul Callaghan Eureka! Awards competition to Karan Banker, a third-year medical student at the University of Auckland who wants to prevent falls among the elderly. The Eureka! Awards aim to

A LIFELONG PASSION Summerset’s very own Programme Lead of Diversional Therapy Operations, Orquidea Tamayo Mortera, has recently been honoured for her work – with a Māori cloak.

PAMPERING WITH A PURP OSE Eleven lucky residents at Summerset at Karaka had an indulgent day out, starting with a soothing scalp massage and ending with a divine dessert. Hospitality and hairdressing students from the Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) created a ‘pamper day package’ for the residents, including a hair salon visit and a freshly made lunch. Karaka resident Janette Parkyns says her two-course meal was amazing. “I had the squid. It was absolutely beautiful, and the chocolate mud cake was out of this world.” “IT’S REALLY NICE TO BE PAMPERED,” SAYS RESIDENT MARIANNE O’CONNELL. “I’D LOVE TO DO THIS AGAIN.”

The event was something Activities Coordinator Lianne Gray had wanted to offer the residents for a while, and she was delighted when MIT approached her. “The trip to MIT filled up straight away,” she says. “It’s good for residents’ morale. There would have been more who wanted to come, but we could only fit so many in.”

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

MIT is a tertiary education provider based in South Auckland. The institute is strengthening its relationship with the aged-care sector and exploring different ways New Zealanders can help the country better care for its growing number of older people.

Based in the Summerset Auckland office, Orquidea manages 42 diversional and recreational therapists across Summerset villages. Orquidea is a leading specialist in the field of diversional and recreational therapy (DRT). This is the development of leisure and recreational activity programmes supporting social, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, cultural, and physical development. “My job is about looking at new ideas, the latest technology, and guiding the way so we can continually improve to bring the best of life to all our residents.” Orquidea is also the elected president of the New Zealand Society of Diversional and Recreational Therapists Inc. She has recently been recognised for her work, both nationally and internationally, and was gifted a traditional korowai Māori cloak by South Island artist and fellow DRT Roszanne Davidson during the society’s national conference in September. “I know the significance of being presented with a korowai, and it was truly a great honour,” says Orquidea. “I love being able to bring my expertise and passion to my job at Summerset. “My practice is all about finding out the things that give people meaning, purpose, and a sense of belonging in life. “I am mentoring our Summerset diversional and recreational therapists to gain knowledge, lead, and feel empowered – but most importantly to support our residents in the best possible way, to continue to enjoy their lives regardless of age, or cognitive or physical abilities.”

encourage young leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through researching and delivering a presentation on their chosen topic. Karan, who is 23 years old (or 5.75 years, he jokes, as he was born on a leap day), says that after researching falls, he found that most devices could detect whether a fall had occurred but none could predict or prevent a fall. Karan says that through wearable motion sensors, similar to those in smartwatches, it is possible to detect the likelihood of a fall by calculating the risk factors. These factors include a change in speed, stride length, heart rate, and whether the person is at home or outside. “By analysing risk factors, we could estimate how likely someone is to experience a fall in real time,” he explains. Karan says he was inspired to do something in this area after someone close to him, who is elderly, was recently hospitalised after a fall. “I am honoured and humbled,” Karan says, “and through this award I have formed a good relationship with Summerset.”

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

DELICIOUS RECIPES

C H R I S T M A S

CHEER R E C I P E S BY JA N B I LTO N

MISO FISH WITH GREEN ASIAN SAUCE S E RV E S 4– 6 AS A STA RT E R This recipe provides four to six starter-sized portions. Alternatively, halve the portions and serve on small plates for nibbles with drinks (provide cake forks or toothpicks).

IT’S BEGINNING TO TASTE A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS. I’VE ALREADY HAD MY FIRST BITE OF FESTIVE CAKE (WHICH MEANS A MONTH OF GOOD LUCK), AND FRIENDS ARE TALKING ABOUT CHRISTMAS PARTIES. It’s wise to be prepared at this time of year, as you never know when one of your friends will pop in for a chat. A few savoury mini muffins in the freezer can be reheated in the microwave at a moment’s notice. A batch of mini Christmas pies is also a great standby and perfect if you need to ‘take a plate’.

I have a confession: my go-to snack this season is not home-made. It’s small Asian-style dumplings, a fave with young and old alike. Readily available from your supermarket, frozen dumplings can be steamed and cooked through in 10 minutes, and dipping sauces can be as simple as chilli sauce, a combo of soy sauce and wasabi paste or, a little more complicated, a green Asian sauce (see recipe). Although formal festive eats require a little more effort, I do hope you enjoy this easy menu, which can be adapted for both the traditional Christmas table and more casual gatherings.

INGREDIENTS Green Asian Sauce:

METHOD To make the sauce, place the ginger, garlic,

2cm knob ginger, peeled and sliced 2 cloves garlic, sliced 1/2 cup each of packed coriander, Vietnamese mint, and common mint, chopped 1/4 teaspoon crushed chilli 2 tablespoons each of lemon juice and soy sauce

herbs, and chilli in a small food processor or

Fish:

about 4–5 minutes. Alternatively, bake in the

500g skinned and boned thick white fish fillets, or one whole fish, cleaned 3 tablespoons white miso 1 tablespoon each of honey, fish sauce, and rice wine vinegar 1/2 teaspoon wasabi paste

oven at 190°C for about 10 minutes. Sprinkle

Garnish:

2 teaspoons black mustard seeds

a hand-held blender. Mix until a paste forms. Beat in the remaining ingredients and set aside. Divide the fish fillets into serving-sized portions. Place in a wide, shallow microwave dish. Combine the remaining ingredients and brush over the fish. Cover and microwave for

with black mustard seeds. Serve the fish topped with the green sauce. Tip: Vietnamese mint grows easily in a container and is available in most supermarkets. It is a pungent, pointed-leafed herb also known as hot mint, Cambodian mint, or laksa leaf.

All the best for a fun Christmas and enjoyable New Year.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

TANDOORI

WHITE CHOCOLATE

LAMB RACKS

CHEESECAKE

SERVES 4

SERVES 8–10

This recipe provides four diners with three cutlets each.

This cheesecake may be frozen whole or in wedges – but without the fruit.

WITH SUMMER FRUITS

Thaw in the refrigerator for 3–4 hours before serving. INGREDIENTS 2 lamb racks of 6 cutlets each 1/2 cup plain yoghurt 3–4 tablespoons tandoori paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 clove garlic, crushed freshly ground black pepper to taste mint jelly for serving

METHOD Trim the cutlets if a little fatty. Score the top side of the racks. Cut each rack in half. Combine the yoghurt, tandoori paste, tomato paste, garlic, and black pepper, and stir well. Brush generously over the racks. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Preheat the oven to 220°C. Return the racks to room temperature. Shake off any excess marinade. Line a roasting pan with baking paper and spray with oil. Place the racks in the pan fat-side down. Roast for 10 minutes. Turn the racks fat-side up. Roast for a further 10 minutes, until the lamb is browned on the outside and slightly pink in the centre. Cover with foil and leave to stand for 5 minutes before serving. Plate up three cutlets per person and drizzle a little melted mint jelly on each serving plate. Tips: Great accompanied with buttered and minted new potatoes, sautéed multi-coloured baby carrots, and asparagus or beans. The cutlets can also be cut into single portions, marinated and then grilled, and served as nibbles with drinks. Wrap a little piece of foil around the end of each bone, to act as a handle.

INGREDIENTS Crumb crust:

malt biscuits or similar 150g butter, melted Filling:

4 teaspoons powdered gelatine 3 tablespoons cold water 250g white chocolate 150ml cream

METHOD Lightly grease a 20cm springform cake pan. To make the crumb crust, crush the biscuits thoroughly and add enough melted butter to hold the crumbs together. Press evenly onto the base and sides of the cake pan. Refrigerate to set. To make the filling, soak the gelatine in cold water for 5 minutes, then dissolve over a low heat or in the microwave. Melt the chocolate in a bowl placed over hot water – stir well. Lightly whip the cream.

397g can sweetened condensed milk

Beat the sweetened condensed milk into the softened cream

400g cream cheese, softened

and melted chocolate. Fold in the cream, then the lemon rind

1 teaspoon finely grated lemon rind 2 tablespoons lemon juice Topping:

300g blueberries and raspberries

cheese in a bowl until well mixed. Add the dissolved gelatine and juice. Pour into the crumb crust and refrigerate for 6–8 hours. Before serving, decorate with fresh summer fruits. The cheesecake can also be served with a strawberry or raspberry coulis (see below). Berry coulis: Place 1 cup of hulled and quartered strawberries (or raspberries) in a saucepan with 2 tablespoons each of caster sugar and lemon juice. Bring to the boil and simmer for about 6 minutes, until softened. Purée with a hand-held blender until smooth, or sieve if preferred. Cool.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

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

IN THE GARDEN

Here comes the sun

If the "Earth laughs in flowers", as goes that immortal line from 19th-century American thinker Ralph Waldo Emerson's poem 'Hamatreya' – then sunflowers surely symbolise a jolly good guffaw from Mother Nature. For what could be happier than the smiling face of a sunflower, with its golden halo of petals held high on a giraffe neck? Just as French impressionist Claude Monet made waterlilies famous, Vincent Van Gogh was a sunflower superfan. "I am working with the enthusiasm of a man from Marseilles eating bouillabaisse," he wrote to his brother Theo in 1888, "which shouldn't come as a surprise to you, because I am busy painting huge sunflowers."

sunflowers along a north-facing boundary fence and they'll stare at your neighbours all day instead of you. Be aware, too, that if they turn their heads into the shade of a tree or a house, they'll get stuck in that spot and turn no further. I learned this the hard way at my own garden wedding, when the dozens of bronze sunflowers I'd sown at the end of our lawn aisle all turned away during the ceremony! With their happy-go-lucky faces, it's hardly surprising that we think of sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) as cheerful and companionable flowers, but actually, these dazzling daisies are rather antisocial. Sunflower roots have allelopathic tendencies, meaning their roots release biochemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants in close proximity. For this reason, it's best to sow a block of sunflowers at the back of a flower border rather than dot them throughout your garden.

Summer wouldn't be the same without sunflowers blooming joyously.

ABOVE | Happy-go-lucky sunflowers are best sown at the back of a flower border.

Whether you're young – or merely young at heart – there's an undeniable thrill in nurturing a sunflower from a tiny seed into a towering skyscraper. Sunflowers are the first flowers that most Kiwi kids grow: every summer, hundreds of kindergarten pupils across New Zealand compete in an annual giant sunflower grow-off. Those tiny tots sow seeds in pressed paper pots that, 100 or so days later, will stand well above them and their teachers. Many Summerset villages also run official (and unofficial) giant sunflower growing competitions, and the joy of sowing these big beauties is that every resident gets to enjoy the display as these prize-winning nosey parkers peer over the top of even the tallest fences and turn their heads to follow the sun. This habit of heliotropism, of moving in unison with the sun's progress from east to west, can have unintended consequences: sow your

In small gardens where space is at a premium, there are dozens of delightful dwarf varieties that thrive in tubs and troughs of potting mix. For a classic golden ring of petals shrunk down on a knee-high stem, sow 'Smiley' or 'Dwarf Ballad' (both from Egmont Seeds) or 'Incredible Dwarf' or 'Yellow Pygmy' (Kings Seeds). These are fast to flower, bursting into bloom in as little as 45–60 days. At the other end of the spectrum, giant sunflowers grow faster than teenage boys and these humongous horticultural specimens never fail to impress. Sow ‘Ginormous FlowerZilla’ (Yates Seeds), 'Skyscraper' (Kings Seeds), or 'Giant Russian' (Egmont Seeds) for huge heads up to 40cm wide on ramrod-straight stalks up to 4m high. To get the edge on other competitive gardeners, feed weekly with liquid fertiliser and mulch the base of the plant to keep the roots cool. Early in the season, a shovelful of sheep manure or chook poo also doesn't go amiss. The classic sunflowers of old were upstanding citizens with a single large yellow head, but

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

these days branching varieties in appetising shades of chocolate, orange, and lemon are gaining in popularity. My favourites last summer were the pale yellow 'Vanilla Ice' and rusty-red 'Evening Sun' (both from Kings Seeds). These produce dozens of smaller side blooms over a long season and offer great bang for your buck.

ARTICLE BY MELISSA WASTNEY

What to do in your garden this season •

•

Sow or plant salad greens,

Plant breeders have also introduced several pollen-free varieties for florists, hayfever sufferers, and home gardeners who don't want their tablecloths stained yellow. But remember that pollen-free plants short-change honeybees. If you're not planning on picking the blooms to bring indoors, surely it doesn't matter how much pollen they shed? At the end of the golden weather, you can save your own sunflower seeds to resow, roast, sprout, or feed to birds in winter. As soon as they start to hang their heavy heads, tie a pillowcase over the tops or birds will filch the lot. Once the seeds are plump and ripe, either cut off the whole head to store, or rub to dislodge the individual seeds and store in paper bags.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

soft washcloths in no time. Wrapped around a nice bar of soap, they make an excellent, practical gift that is also Depending on the yarn you

courgettes, cucumbers, and

choose, you can follow the

bush pumpkins.

methods below to produce a

crops rapidly stop producing to

range of different cloths that can be used again and again. Make face cloths from soft cloths choose linen or something more rustic. You

instead. In hot weather, use a

can even use garden string to

leaky hoses over the surface of garden beds and apply a light

knit a cloth that is perfect for scrubbing pots! handmade cloths on the

Move potted plants into

1. Using cotton yarn and 4mm needles, cast on 40 stitches.

three simple options here.

Row 1: Knit 4 (K4).

Deadhead perennials regularly

Row 2: K2, yarn over, knit across the row.

(cut off old spent blooms, taking the stems back down to more flowers to form. •

Stake and loosely tie tall bulbs and perennials such as gladioli, delphiniums and lilies.

3. Once your work is more or less square, cast off. Thread the remaining tail of yarn through the cast-off stitches and trim to neaten.

Repeat row 2 until you have 44 stitches on the needle.

Repeat this row until you have 4 stitches on the needle. Cast off. Thread the remaining tail of yarn through the cast-off stitches and trim to neaten.

Diagonal washcloth Using 4mm needles, cast on 4 stitches.

Afternoon shade is best.

the next bud) to encourage

2. Work in garter stitch, slipping the first stitch of every row for a neat finish.

Internet, but I’ve supplied

summer, and water daily. •

Simple washcloth

There are endless patterns for

layer of mulch. semi-shaded spots for the

Method

cotton yarn, and for kitchen

focus on seed production sprinkler set on a timer or lay

•

skills, you can whip up these

tomatoes, dwarf beans,

will bolt to seed, while fruiting

Then there are the quirky shaggy varieties that sport a lion's mane of tightly packed yellow petals, such as the tall hybrid 'Double Quick' (Egmont Seeds) or cute wee 'Teddy Bear' (Kings Seeds), which has fluffy pompom flowers on 50cm stems.

With some very simple knitting

eco-friendly.

watering or flowering plants

ABOVE | Save your own sunflower seeds to resow, roast, or feed to birds in winter.

CLEAN & GREEN

herbs, lettuces, cherry

Summer gardens need

CRAFT CORNER

Gather your supplies • A ball of cotton, linen or other (non-wool yarn), double-knitting weight or similar • Pair of 4mm knitting needles • Scissors and darning needle

Next row: K1, knit 2 together, yarn over, knit 2 together, knit to the end of the row.

Textured washcloth Using 4mm needles, cast on 39 stitches.

This is seed stitch; work 6 rows.

Work in garter stitch for 10 rows.

Row 1: Knit 1 (K1), purl 1 (P1), repeat to end of row.

Work in garter stitch (knit every stitch) for 10 rows.

Work in seed stitch for 6 rows.

Row 2: P1, K1, repeat to end of row.

Work in seed stitch for 20 rows.

Cast off. Thread the remaining tail of yarn through the cast-off stitches and trim to neaten.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

T H E S C H O O L O F L I F E : A N E M OT I O N A L E D U CAT I O N

BOOK REVIEWS

BY A L A I N D E BOT TO N

The School of Life is an educational organisation founded a decade ago by Swiss-born British writer and philosopher Alain de Botton. It aims to help people live more fulfilled lives and deal with life issues, and has a website with essays and a shop full of books, games, homeware, and

C O P E N H AG E N C U LT R EC I P E S

stationery.

BY C H R I ST I N E RU D O L P H A N D SU S I E T H EO D O RO U

The eponymous book provides a mix of hard facts, anecdotal observations, and wisdom, and covers everything from people to

If you’re a keen cook who loves fish,

culture. Everyone is different, so for me personally, I’m reassured to

rustic comfort food, and a pre-lunch

read that there is no such thing as ‘normal’ (there really isn’t). However,

snack of cake and tea, this is the

if there’s one thing you take from this book, it’s to be kind to others –

ideal summertime companion that

and most of all to yourself.

still has enough inspiration to take you right through into autumn. The

While the tone is somewhat melancholic (but not in an over-the-top way,

fresh salads, sweet preserves, and

like some American counterparts), it’s not a joyless read – far from it.

light fish dishes are perfect for the

If you’re on the fence about buying this book but like watching videos

seasonal heat.

online, take a look at the School of Life YouTube channel first. Here, you’ll find witty, compassionate, informative, and visually engaging snippets.

In addition, the Danes’ home-cooking methods mirror New Zealand’s own culinary values, keeping things simple and delicious, and using produce freshly grown in windowsill

Hamish Hamilton | RRP $38.

A C H I P S H O P I N P OZ N A Ń

BY B E N A I T K I N

herb gardens and modest vegetable

This story follows the adventures of Ben Aitkin, a Brit who views the

patches. I had a crack at cooking the

influx of Poles to Britain and decides to go the other way to find out why

rhubarb cake, which was divine and

(and subvert an immigration trend).

easy to make. It’s also timeless, as

Taking the cheapest flight he can find, Ben lands in Poznań and immerses

the main ingredient is always in

himself in the little-explored culture of Poland. He takes up odd jobs,

season and easy to get hold of. Plus,

learns the language, misses the bus to Auschwitz, and has a bumpy

everyone loves cake!

romance.

Co-authored by Christine Rudolph

At times our writer comes across as cocky and somewhat rude. However,

and Susie Theodorou, Copenhagen

his blunt honesty gives rise to some soul-baring moments, and a narrative

Cult Recipes is part cookbook and

that is also insightful and laugh-out-loud hilarious. Like his journey, Ben

part culinary journey. Londoner Susie

Murdoch Bookss | RRP $55.00

is a food stylist and prolific cookbook

evolves.

author, while Christine is a native of

The main narrative has been pieced together from Ben’s journal entries,

Copenhagen, so this book is the real

written in pubs and coffee shops at the time. His story progresses with

deal. As an international interior

his desire to mature – he says early on that he travels to grow. As such,

stylist, set designer, and photogra-

the text is scattered with footnotes about how his admittedly lazy

pher, Christine has worked with the likes of Vogue Living and Donna Hay magazines, and has been involved with Nordic cuisine for many years.

assumptions – that the Poles drink too much and their economy is Icon Books | RRP $32.00

sluggish, to name a couple – are totally untrue. It’s a light read without being a mindless, navel-gazing journal. There is plenty to get stuck into here, with an education in Polish economics, history, and politics woven in (mostly in the aforementioned footnotes). I would strongly recommend A Chip Shop in Poznań for any open-minded bookworm who’d love to know more about the unsung songs of a vibrant, proud, and colourful central European country.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

SUZUKI JIMNY ARTICLE BY CAMERON OFFICER

The Jimny encapsulates back-to-basics motoring: a vehicle that hasn’t strayed too far from its blueprint across four generations, yet somehow has been utterly enlivened by its most recent makeover. An upright body, big wheel arches, and a clamshell bonnet give the updated Jimny a robust look, echoing a time when the Japanese manufacturer built something called the Samurai that looked very similar. Remember that? The Jimny has been around for a while, but past iterations definitely fall on the ‘basic’ side of the ledger. The new one is better in every way, with improved ride and handling on tarmac, a broader suite of safety technology, and a simple-to-use touchscreen infotainment system that pulls the model into the 21st century. Anyone of above-average height will feel like they’re towering over the Jimny before they get in, but once inside there’s plenty of head and shoulder room, and good outward visibility. There isn’t a heap of space in the rear (you feel like you could almost reach out and touch the inside of the boot door from the driver’s seat), but it’s the perfect lifestyle vehicle for couples. The grandkids will love being ferried about in such an entertaining car, too. You can still order a Jimny with a manual transmission, although the automatic is perfectly fine. The SUV now features modern technology like front and rear curtain airbags, a lane-departure warning system, and a hill hold system that stops the vehicle rolling back when you set off on an incline.

MOTORING

With more people now turning to small SUVs (or ‘crossovers’ as they’ve been labelled), which provide easier entry and exit from the car and a slightly taller ride height, vehicles of this size are very much in fashion. The Jimny reskins what you might consider a ‘conventional’ small SUV into something that sticks out.

Make no mistake: the Jimny remains a proper off-roader, with Suzuki’s AllGrip Pro 4WD system in place. It still has a solid reputation among 4x4 fans for being able to tiptoe its way across the toughest terrain in a straight line with unfussed dexterity. But it no longer feels wholly compromised in favour of what it can achieve beyond the farm gate. If you’re after a boxy, novelty keyring-sized 4x4 that revels in the idea of engagingly simple motoring, then the Jimny is the subset of a subset for you. It’s brilliant.

THE STATISTICS

Sometimes it’s the smallest thing that excites the most. Suzuki excels at making small cars with stickability, and the diminutive Jimny represents it at its best.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

ENGINE: 1,462cc four-cylinder petrol POWER: 75kW TORQUE: 130Nm FUEL ECONOMY: 6.4L/100km PRICE: $27,500

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

ARTICLE BY LUCY CORRY

STYLE

PRECIOUS METALS

Shine on this summer in super-flattering gold, silver, and bronze. Style ‘experts’ often issue sweeping statements that extol the virtues of beige shades for older women. They’ll tell you that they’re ‘classic’ and ‘go with everything’. Unfortunately, what the experts don’t tell you is that unless you resemble a Brazilian supermodel, all golden limbs and glossy hair, beige can make you look tired, poorly, and old. Put simply, beige is best reserved for underwear, eyeshadow, and soft furnishings in expensive hotels.

If you want to embrace neutral shades for summer, metallics are a much better bet. There are plenty of ways to wear gold, silver, and bronze (and rose gold, pewter, or copper – also of the metallic family) without looking like a cruise ship entertainer or Christmas tree decoration.

The lucky ones among us suit all metallic shades. To find out, hold a piece of gold, silver, or copper fabric to your face. The right shade will bring out the colour of your eyes and make your skin glow; the wrong one will cast unflattering shadows to your face and give a yellow tinge to your teeth.

As with most things, less is more. A metallic-flecked T-shirt looks great under a white blazer, or you can add a bit of razzle-dazzle to any summer outfit with a pair of golden or silvery sandals. Embrace the trend by adding a little shimmer to your makeup (think light-reflective eye shadows, or sparkly nail polish).

GLEAMING ACCESSORIES

WHICH METALLIC SHADE WILL SUIT ME? If you have a ‘warm’ skin tone (you tan easily, and have yellow or olive undertones to your skin), yellow-gold and bronze tones are great. You’ll also look best in earthy shades like peach, orange, coral, and brown. Asian and darker skin tones look great in gold. Silver is most flattering to people with a ‘cool’ skin tone – if you burn easily in the sun, and have blue, pink, or red undertones to your skin. Your best look is in jewel colours: pink, blue, purple, and green. Silver looks great with grey/ silver hair.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

Wearing gold and silver jewellery together used to be considered a huge fashion faux pas. Now, however, mixing them up looks modern and fresh. A good basic principle for beginners is to wear roughly equal amounts of each metal (you may want to wear slightly more gold if you have warm-toned skin, or more silver if you’re cool-toned). Start small and work up. You can always take them off!

ARTICLE BY DAN HARDIE

SLEEP

EXERCISE

Giraffes average two hours of sleep per day, lions around twenty, and humans (at best) eight. There’s no denying that a bad night’s sleep affects our performance throughout the day, and we all know the joy felt after a restful slumber. For a lot of us, however, sleep has quietly slipped further down the to-do list. Yet many, if not all, tasks could be improved or at least made easier with high-quality sleep. All Blacks High Performance Strength and Conditioning Coach Nic Gill asks his players to aim for nine-and-a-half hours sleep per night. Swiss tennis player Roger Federer is said to log ten hours' of sleep, often with a 90-minute nap during the day. The results speak for themselves. Sleep is important at any age. As we get older, the target of getting eight hours is still as relevant as ever, as it’s the best recovery tool we have. It allows us to repair internal organs, muscles and joints, reorganise information in our brain, strengthen our immune system, and improve memory retention. As a personal trainer, I’ve seen dramatic turnarounds in clients’ health purely from better sleep. One woman went from an average of four hours to consistently achieving eight and a half per night, and within four months she had lost 35kg. Another person I work with, who suffered from chronic inflammation of their joints, increased their daily dosage from six to eight hours of sleep and saw a dramatic decrease in swelling in their knees, elbows, and wrists.

SETTING UP FOR YOUR BEST NIGHT’S SLEEP: • Ensure you are sleeping in a cool room that is as dark as possible. You shouldn’t be able to see your hand in front of your face • Eliminate all screens (blue light) one hour before sleep. This includes TVs, phones, and iPads (Kindles or a book are an alternative). • Go to bed and wake up at a similar time, even during the weekends. Our body runs on a 24-hour clock but it has no idea whether it’s a Tuesday or a Saturday! • Write your thoughts down on a piece of paper. Offloading pending tasks for the following day helps us to get to sleep faster. • Have a warm shower or hot bath before bed. This helps to cool our internal body temperature by heating up our extremities (arms and legs), which in turn helps us fall into a deep sleep.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

ARTICLE BY AMELIA NORMAN

TRAVEL LOG

CHRISTCHURCH It may be hard to recall, but before the first Canterbury earthquake in 2010, Christchurch was known for its beautiful gardens, adventure opportunities, and rich British history. Despite the natural disasters that have largely reshaped its face, Christchurch is still a thriving tourism hub with much to offer. ACCOMMODATION Treat yourself to a stay at The George Hotel, a luxury five-star boutique hotel with service to match. With a quiet central location overlooking Hagley Park, The George promises a relaxing respite to exploring the city. The hotel's two on-site restaurants are rated among the top eateries in Christchurch. For something with a touch of history, book in to the Britten Stables on the edge of Mona Vale Gardens. The original Britten Stables were built by the late motorcycle engineer John Britten and have now been converted to a selection of boutique guest suites. John's word-famous Britten V1000 motorcycle was created here, and the property has been completely refurbished to include accommodation suites, a plunge pool, a hot tub, and a billiards room. EATING For central city breakfasting, head straight to Miro. Tucked away on Oxford Terrace, this is a

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

stylish space to start your day. The expansive breakfast and brunch menu starts at 8am and includes breakfast cocktails (for a bit of a holiday treat!), as well as hearty favourites and excellent coffee. Bookings are essential. To stock up on amazing lunch items for the day, take a walk through the brand-new Riverside Market on Cashel Street. This seven-day indoor farmers market has fresh produce and freshly made food items. Be prepared to spend a while here, as you will want to explore the laneways of boutique retailers and eateries. If you’re looking for a sit-down lunch instead, try Little High Eatery. This unique and bustling destination on St Asaph Street comprises eight different eateries, with communal seating and a lively atmosphere. With an abundance of new inner-city restaurants and bars now open in Christchurch, you’re spoilt for choice come dinner time. For a high-end Christchurch experience, book yourself in to the Tramway Restaurant. Over 2.5 hours you

will be wined and dined in style as you trundle around the central city, taking in the sights on a historic tram. Again, bookings are essential for this very popular attraction. ACTIVITIES Enjoy a tranquil bushwalk and discover some of Christchurch’s history with a visit to Riccarton House and Bush. Book in for a guided tour of the grand homestead, which once belonged to Canterbury’s pioneering Deans family, and take a peek inside the tiny original cottage next door. Follow this up with a meander through Riccarton Bush, Canterbury’s sole remnant of kahikatea forest, home to 600-year-old trees and many native birds. This trail is flat and has rest benches along the way. Finish off with a coffee and cake back at Riccarton House. Whether you choose to explore it on foot, via a punting tour, or on an electric vehicle complete with commentary, a visit to Christchurch’s Botanic Gardens is a must! The numerous themed gardens, tropical hothouses, and wide green spaces are both enthralling and relaxing. Make a day of it with a picnic, grab an ice cream while you watch the ducks on the river, or sit down for a bite to eat at the award-winning on-site Ilex Café.

For an art fix, start at the Christchurch Art Gallery on Montreal Street, which hosts a range of excellent exhibitions. Next, stroll across the road to the newly renovated Arts Centre to admire the architecture and explore the galleries within. A little further along you’ll find the Canterbury Museum, where you can brush up on your local history and learn about Christchurch’s close relationship with Antarctica. If you’ve got time (and energy!), book a street art tour to learn about the city’s many street art murals. And to finish off your day, take in a musical performance at The Piano or a stage show at the Isaac Theatre Royal, both in the central city. Attractions old and new combine in Christchurch as the city emerges from its recent devastating history and launches into an exciting future as one of New Zealand’s leading visitor destinations.

STATS Region: Canterbury Airport: Christchurch Int. Main road: Colombo Street Population: 388,400

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

PUZZLES

BRAIN TEASE

SPLITDECISION

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

SUDOKU

Fill the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1-9

WORDWHEEL

WordWheel

I N

M A E S

1693

Insert the missing letter in each puzzle to make an eight-letter word reading clockwise or anticlockwise WordWheel

? E EWordWheel S N ?

I N

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

S E

1695

R A

Insert the missing letter to complete an

ACROSS: 1 Tissues, 4 Exhalation, 9 Offence, 13 Plum, 14 Beaten, 15 Guilty, 16 Central, 19 Cogitating, 20 Abhorred, 21 Tacks, 24 Groups, 25 Pursue, 27 Parachute, 32 High wire, 33 Appeal, 34 Caution, 38 Offshore, 39 Adagio, 40 Yell, 41 Minus, 42 Terms, 45 Bread and butter, 52 Clods, 55 Ticks, 56 Roll, 57 Inside, 58 Incubate, 61 Glaring, 62 Remits, 63 Let loose, 66 Animosity, 68 Suture, 69 Injury, 73 Spout, 74 Airforce, 76 Oppression, 81 Regrets, 82 Truant, 83 Reside, 84 Filo, 85 Opulent, 86 Impeccable, 87 Strange. DOWN: 1 Topic, 2 Sturgeon, 3 Siesta, 4 Eaten, 5 Hone, 6 Luggage, 7 Thighs, 8 Otter, 10 Feel, 11 Entrant, 12 Chalks, 17 Stoplights, 18 Renal, 22 Ascended, 23 Shoal, 24 Give out, 26 Unit, 28 Analyst, 29 Cherub, 30 Aplomb, 31 Rotund, 33 Argon, 35 Twirl, 36 Afar, 37 Flee, 43 Edible, 44 Maker, 46 Riot, 47 Ailment, 48 Acidic, 49 Desks, 50 Undulate, 51 Random, 52 Clumsiness, 53 Oval, 54 Scenery, 59 Gnome, 60 Stir, 64 Aspic, 65 Audition, 67 Neutral, 68 Sceptic, 70 Upkeep, 71 Crease, 72 Erodes, 75 Forum, 77 Piste, 78 Noose, 79 Stan, 80 Crab. WORDWHEEL: 1. EXAMINES. 2. ENHANCES. 3. EARNINGS.

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue

SPLIT DECISION

E N

1694

A ?

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

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

CROSSWORD

C N

SUDOKU

ACROSS 1 Paper hankies (7) 4 Outward breath (10) 9 Misdemeanour (7) 13 Stone fruit (4) 14 Defeated (6) 15 Blameworthy (6) 16 In the middle (7) 19 Thinking deeply (10) 20 Loathed (8) 21 Carpet nails (5) 24 Categories (6) 25 Chase (6) 27 Skydiver’s accessory (9) 32 Top tightrope (4,4) 33 Attraction (6) 34 Warn (7) 38 Away from land (8) 39 Slowly (mus)(6) 40 Shout (4) 41 Less (5) 42 Provisos (5) 45 Basic livelihood (5,3,6) 52 Scold (anag)(5) 55 Marks correct (5) 56 Very small loaf of bread (4) 57 Within (6)

58 61 62 63 66 68 69 73 74 76 81 82 83 84 85 86 87

Hatch by warmth (8) Blatant (7) Pays (6) Unleash (3,5) Ill will (9) Surgical stitch (6) Wound (6) Nozzle (5) Flying military organisation (3,5) Subjugation (10) Is contrite (7) School dodger (6) Dwell (6) Pastry type (4) Luxurious (7) Faultless, exemplary (10) Unknown (7)

DOWN 1 Subject (5) 2 Caviar fish (8) 3 Daytime nap (6) 4 Consumed (5) 5 Whetstone (4) 6 Traveller’s stuff (7) 7 Leg tops (6) 8 Water-dwelling animal (5) 10 Sense (4) 11 Contestant (7) 12 Blackboard sticks (6) 17 Braking signals (10) 18 Of the kidneys (5) 22 Moved upwards (8) 23 Group of fish (5) 24 Distribute (4,3) 26 Component part (4) 28 One who examines and determines (7) 29 Winged child (6) 30 Poise (6) 31 Plump (6) 33 Inert gas (5) 35 Spin around (5) 36 At a distance (4) 37 Bolt (4)

43 44 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 59 60 64 65 67 68 70 71 72 75 77 78 79 80

Fit to eat (6) Manufacturer (5) Public disorder (4) Malady (7) Sour-tasting (6) Writing tables (5) Move in waves (8) Haphazard (6) Awkwardness in movement or shape (10) Elliptical (4) Stage background (7) Garden figure (5) Agitate (4) Meat jelly (5) Performer’s tryout (8) Unbiased (7) Doubter (7) Maintenance (6) Fold mark (6) Wears away (6) Public meeting for open discussion (5) Skiing slope (5) Rope loop (5) Boy’s name (4) Aquatic creature (4)

Summerset Scene | Summer Issue