Plusliving + Magazine, Greater Wellington Issue #2

A healthy headspace

Embracing life at any age

10 easy ways to boost your mood

Maintaining your motivation

Taking tangible steps towards what you want

Sizing you up

8 things people use to judge you

A diet to desire

Eating to stay healthy

A guide to ageing well

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Check out the website here: www.ckandcopm.nz

If interested, people can reach out to learn more.

To get in touch, call 04 566 0757 or email: office@ckandcopm.nz

Mind over matter

It seems as if there are a million sayings along the lines of ‘life is what you make it’ and every one of them falls under the guise of ‘easier said than done’.

While that’s undoubtedly true when it comes to navigating the myriad of obstacles physical existence throws our way, it might not be quite as watertight when it comes to our interpretation of those things.

With that in mind, this issue of Plusliving kicks off with articles about attitude –namely yours.

We start with a guide to aging well entitled, funnily enough, ‘Life is what you make it’ and move onto pieces about maintaining a healthy mind, how to stay motivated, ways to boost your mood, things people use to judge you and the ongoing battle with ageism. There’s also guides to healthy eating, selfdiscipline and being wise with money, plus much more. Enjoy.

LIVING WELL AND AGEING GRACEFULLY

22

Eight things people use to judge you

Publisher: The Job Agency T|A Markat

38 Lowe Street, Addington, Christchurch 8011

Managing Director: Gary Collins

GM of Operations: Kylie Palermo

Sales: Angela Elley (03) 961 5184 | sales@markat.co.nz

Editor: Jonathon Taylor (03) 961 5098 | editor@markat.co.nz

Art Director: Jarred Shakespeare (03) 961 5088 | jarred@markat.co.nz

Production: Amber Mundy (03) 961 5075 | amber@markat.co.nz

Accounts: Jo Pritchard (03) 961 5161 | accounts@markat.co.nz

Battling ageism Being wise with money

Welcome to Plusliving – the magazine dedicated to living well and ageing gracefully in modern society. Aimed at the 50+ age group, you’ll find articles covering all aspects of contemporary life, including physical health and wellbeing, mental health and acuity, home life, working life and finances, technology, travel, self-improvement and more. Our aim is to provide information anyone can use, on any given day, so you can get more out of life.

Please contact us to discuss getting your business in print

Disclaimer

This publication is provided on the basis that The Job Agency Ltd is not responsible for the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in these articles, nor for any error or omission from these articles and that the firm is not hereby engaged in rendering advice or services. The Job Agency Ltd expressly disclaim all and any liability and responsibility to any person in respect of anything and of the consequences of anything done, or omitted to be done, by any such a person in reliance, whether wholly or partially upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication. Advertising feature articles are classified as advertising content and as such, information contained in them is subject to the Advertising Standards Authority Codes of Practice. Contents Copyright 2020 by The Job Agency Ltd. All rights reserved. No article or advertisement may be reproduced without written permission.

Lifestyles

Formation Wedge Speaker

From Bowers and Wilkins comes an immersive home wireless sound system with room-filling audio from one stylishly shaped and finished speaker. A graceful shape angles the array of two teeters, two midrange drivers plus a subwoofer to form a perfect stereo image. This sleek speaker is compatible with pretty much anything and comes in black and white.

RRP: $2,499

www.soundlab.co.nz

Roomba j7

The j7 Roomba is iRobot’s latest smart vacuum. With 10 times more suction than a previous model and unique intelligence to avoid cords and pet waste, this robot vacuum takes all the hassle out of keeping your home clean. It will learn to anticipate your needs such as when you’re home or at work, pet moulting season and when your area has a high pollen count.

RRP: $1,399.90

www.shopirobot.co.nz

Collezióne Tibetan Lamb Throw

This luxurious lamb throw will bring the elegant beauty of the wild into your home. The carefully sourced Tibetan fur is warm, soft and durable. This natural piece will add a sumptuous feel and timeless style to your living space.

RRP: $1,995

www.luxurylinen.co.nz

Melt Stand Chandelier Gold

Combining art and technology, this floor lamp brings lighting to a whole new level. Designer Tom Dixon has experimented with the technologically advanced field of vacuum metallisation to create an eye-catching piece. The melt is also available as pendants, table, floor and surface lights and has seven gold shades available.

RRP: From $15,155

www.ecc.co.nz

Goccia Coffee Table

This New Zealand made coffee table is a modern twist on an old classic. It features a tempered glass top and the bases are available in rimu, ash with a white washed stain finish and oak with a natural stain finish. The glass top and broad legs make this artistic coffee table child-safe.

RRP: $1,439 www.danskemobler.co.nz

Please note prices listed here are recommended retail pricing. Prices are subject to change at the discretion of the seller. The information on this page is for information purposes only. The Job Agency Ltd T|A Markat assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon.

– a guide to ageing well

There is much to be said for and learned from the valuable hindsight that belongs to those who have experienced life, although it is important to utilise what intellectual capacity we have now to create a plan to age well.

The concept of ageing well can be perceived in a cosmetic sense, conjuring up images of anti-wrinkle remedies and the revolutionary youth serums which purportedly stall the physical metamorphosis we undergo as part of our evolutionary existence.

It’s a lucrative industry selling youth; one which has no expiration date, because the ‘youth in a bottle’ market and everything it encompasses will have life for as long as humans walk the earth and their desire for a life of longevity exists.

But ageing well in life cannot be taken at face value alone. Because while the restorative properties of age reversal potions and practises may bring skindeep satisfaction to our lives, ageing well in a holistic sense is what fulfils us in mind, body and soul.

Wise up

We have heard the supposition ‘wisdom comes with age,’ time and time again.

It is a proclamation that suggests our wisdom well is fuller when our eyes, minds and hearts have absorbed a lifetime worth of knowledge and are more in tune with the way of the world.

For life’s greatest pearls of wisdom may well be reserved for a moment in time beyond our immediate reach, but making age well plans requires the application of today’s wisdom while the wisdom of tomorrow still belongs to the future.

A plan to age well

We spend our lives planning. Plans are personal maps for life which we formulate to help us reach milestones, fulfil ambitions and complete tasks effectively.

And while a life plan may not grant us immunity from the serendipitous way of the world, the protection, security and direction afforded to us by having a strategic plan, can only contribute to a life of longevity.

There is no dictionary definition for ageing well, no textbook manual open for our consultation.

Ageing well cannot be mimicked or even learned from others because while peers and family may be able to offer suggestive guidance, our unique genetic blueprint means how we define ageing well and go about it, will require a personal touch.

Therefore, a definitive list of steps for entering elder-hood and working towards a life of longevity cannot be given, but recommendations for areas of focus can be provided to help you on your journey.

Through our daily exposure to today’s array of information and communication, we are inundated with messages about the merits of ageing well and the processes we can follow to ensure we realise our potential at any age.

And like adventure at any age, your physical, emotional and spiritual values should be your guiding intuition.

Physical health

We can all remember the physical liberation attached to being young and ailment free.

And while it becomes harder to reverse or right the physical wrongs we have committed as the years pass us by, if we are consistent throughout life and honour a balanced and physical lifestyle, we can continue to experience the physical autonomy gifted in youth.

The saying, “you are only as old as you feel” is applicable to the exercise equation because beyond the aesthetic merits of staying active, physical exercise is also an elixir for staying young in mind and spirit.

As a combatant for what ails you, the positive effects of a physical lifestyle are further increased with the adoption of other physical practises.

In order to beat stress effectively you need to have a grab-bag of antistressing tools that you use often and proactively before your body’s stress response fully kicks in. The more anti-stressing tools you can learn the better.

Sleep is also as important to our health as diet and exercise – without it we cannot function properly and may even become ill.

We know when we sleep, our bodies rest – conserving energy and decreasing blood pressure, heart rate, breathing and body temperature, but our brains remain active – laying down memory, restoring daytime mental function and carrying out tasks that lead to physical growth.

The physical benefits of a balanced diet are also well documented, which is directly associated with healthy ageing.

Emotional health

When entering any era in which our life profoundly changes, we need to get emotional – in an intuitive sense.

As we get older and life presents us with new emotional challenges, understanding our emotional needs and feelings and catering to these, is as importance to our wellbeing as maintaining physical health.

Ageing well emotionally is like a quality of life initiative; the different realms of quality of life include physical, mental, social and spiritual factors.

Instead of reinventing the wheel, ageing well can be about maintaining what is working now for you and what has worked before in those specific domains and then adapting those to the appropriate age context.

Looking after mental health is incredibly important during our latter years in life and older age is most commonly the time in which people reach out to mental health workers or a social network.

Grief, dementia and physical, mental or social loss can be the catalyst for seeking out the support and assistance of others and it is in the process of seeking this assistance that people find renewed strength and direction.

In conjunction with seeking advice and emotional support from social networks and support systems, following a plan for ageing well emotionally can also involve taking a psychotherapeutic approach through cognitive behavioral therapy.

Getting out and about, staying active, having good hygiene and fitness as well as following regular sleeping patterns are all related to this.

Asking the existential questions in life, such as: “Who am I? Where am I going? What do I want from my life?” also benefits people’s emotional health and understanding of themselves, as does seeking out the guidance of spiritualists who are open to different denominations and people.

In conclusion

Life is what you make it. Plan for tomorrow, live for today and seek out the support of any of the following organisations to guide you as you age well physically, emotionally and spiritually throughout life.

Umbrella Group Abby’s got you covered

Deciphering insurance, policy documents, what you’re covered for and how to navigate a claim can be an overwhelming task and experience.

Having an insurance adviser can really help with ensuring you are covered correctly and have a “go to” person when a claim arises. It’s important to have a relationship with an adviser because you know they have your best interests at heart and will support you through reviewing different cover options and assisting you through processes, like setting up policies and claims.

Abby Esler has been an insurance adviser for three years but has a long history with insurance and a clear love for her job. After working as a claims case manager and then a team leader in superannuation insurance for a large super fund in Melbourne for eight years, Abby has a wealth of knowledge from the claims perspective and knows the importance of having the right covers in place when things go

wrong. However, the call for home was strong and Abby had the opportunity to work with her father who has been working as an insurance adviser for over 40 years. Growing up with her dad meant she has heard about insurance all her life and saw the industry as a not only a great career choice, but also because it meant she got to work with people, helping them when they were in need.

Abby is passionate about people having the right covers in place to ensure that when bad things happen, her clients will be looked after, and money is one less thing to worry about.

If you are wanting to review your current insurance covers or discuss taking out insurance cover, give Abby a call.

Open homes this week

Situated right next to the beautiful Prouse Bush, this meticulously designed development offers retirees the very best in retirement living in Levin.

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A healthyheadspace

Embracing life at any age

For older citizens, mental health can still be a difficult subject to broach as old fears or memories attached to dated mental health care and stigmas resurface, making it difficult for them to express their concern.

But with people progressively living longer in life, it is becoming increasingly important to look after our mental health because we are seeing retirees living for another 20 or 30 years after they cross the retirement threshold.

Today, thankfully, the subject of mental health is embraced by society. Campaigns, organisations and the media seek to educate and create public awareness and understanding about the importance of maintaining mental health.

What is mental health and how do we define it?

The World Health Organisation says, “Mental Health refers to a broad array of activities directly or indirectly related to the mental wellbeing component and includes – a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing, and not merely the absence of disease”.

As we grow older, our mental health may be something we become more consciously aware of.

Life’s little distractions, in the form of domestic duties, employment and an active social calendar may no longer demand as much of our time and therefore we are left to ponder a new direction.

And while this is not always the case, the transition into retirement can mark the beginning of a new era, in which we are offered back the independence we exchanged earlier on in life for the responsibilities attached to family and work.

The liberties attached to this recovered freedom can open new doors and present fresh opportunities, but they can also leave us feeling somewhat lost and overwhelmed.

It is at these times that our mental health may potentially suffer and we need to look at ways in which we can mitigate such feelings of loss or uncertainty.

Mental health care starts with keeping in touch with those who provide our physical health care.

Be ready to say to your doctor you would like to spend more than the usual 10 minutes allotted so you can address any emotional issues with them.

Simple strategies like taking notice of what is around you, learning new things, being physically and mentally active and even smiling are all important for mental health.

Nutrition and exercise also contribute to healthy bodies and general practitioners can suggest where to get advice on healthy eating. Maintaining dental care and having regular hearing and vision checks is also important as well as attending podiatry consultations.

A significant part of being mentally well is also about nourishing our spirit.

Whether or not this is associated with a religious order, it is another factor that can make us less vulnerable to depression. Music, painting, poetry and other forms of art fill a need in many people’s lives.

For some, there is a feeling of peace and happiness in working in a garden or walking on a deserted beach.

We do not stop growing as we age and it is up to us to recognise and seek out the people and activities that help us grow more vigorously and with greater joy.

Social support from friends, family and medical experts can all provide a buffer against mental illnesses like depression and having a support system in place can offer a sense of security and belonging.

It is a topic that remained dormant in our society for many years. Silent whispers were exchanged behind closed doors, but the taboo stigma of the subject meant cries for help were ignored or never voiced.

Seven ways to improve your self-discipline

Finding success – be it professionally or personally – requires discipline. This is the actual personal disciplines of self-control, correctness, values, ethics, courage, character and purpose.

Personal discipline is the path to improving our own performance. Self-discipline develops self-control and character, resulting in an orderly and efficient work and home life. It is discipline, not just desire, which determines success.

Discipline is necessary to set and achieve goals. If we have the discipline to do, to act, to listen and to constantly seek ways to improve, we will achieve far greater success in our lives.

Focused goal setting on results you really want to achieve is the key. Achieving your clarified and specific goals through being disciplined will give you a more orderly, confident and stress-free work life.

As a bonus, productivity will improve and you will also demonstrate a positive impact on others. Attitudes are caught, not taught!

7 steps to developing discipline in your work life

1 Determine and prioritise your work goals. Know what you want to achieve. Write it down. Be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely.

2 List your reasons for the goal. What am I doing and why am I doing this? What will I possibly gain from achieving this goal? Why is it important?

3 Identify any issues or obstacles. Anticipate road blocks that might work against you.

4 Develop new behaviours. Put in place new behaviours such as using your Outlook as a contact planner. Drink plenty of water every day. Practise reflection.

5 Have courage – courage to commit to the goals and their achievement.

6 Be ethical. Treat others as you want to be treated. Use strength based language. Praise publicly and criticise privately.

7 Stay focussed. Read and review your goals daily. Don’t be despondent if you miss one or two. Just reset them and refocus. Don’t give up! Be persistent and diligent.

The price of discipline is always less than the pain of regret.

Maintaining your motivation

Everyone is worthy of existing and taking a break. Breathing room and giving yourself rest and recreation is one way to stay your most motivated.

At the end of the day when you close your eyes, where do you want to be? What do you want to do with your time here?

These questions are hard to think about, but keeping them near the front of your mind will help guide you in the direction of how you want to live your life.

Whether you want to further your career or you want to dive headfirst into your hobby, you want to make sure you’re not filled with regret when you near life’s finish line.

Base goals on what you want, not on what you think you should want

Often times, our loved ones pressure you into goals that aren’t necessarily what we want. You have to make sure that the goal that you set for yourself is one that you want to attain.

Just because your grandad always wanted you to be a doctor doesn’t mean you have to be.

If you’re going to spend all this energy going after something, make sure it’s something you want, that’ll make you fulfilled and happy.

Break down your goal into manageable tasks

When you look at what you want to accomplish, sometimes the whole idea can seem insurmountable. However, nothing is ever built overnight.

Breaking down what you want to do into smaller tasks with deadlines will help you accomplish them since they won’t feel so unachievable.

Staying motivated in your daily life can be tough even when you’re having a good time.

Balancing work, relationships and social obligations, as well as your personal goals can be a daunting task.

Combine that with the wonders of the internet and Netflix at your fingers, and it’s a wonder that anything gets done.

Before delving into how to stay motivated and focused, it’s important to note that you as a person are not defined by your productivity or how well you accomplish your personal goals.

For example, if you want to start playing the piano, start out with the goal that you’ll learn a few chords to start with. That way they can add up, and when you look back, you’ll see you actually accomplished a lot.

Share your goal with others

Share what you’re doing with a few loved ones to keep yourself accountable. Telling them you’re starting your novel is one way to make it a tangible thing – by saying you’re going to do something, you have already put the wheels into motion.

That way, they can also check in with you and keep you motivated. Positive reinforcement always trumps negative reinforcement.

Look to others that do what you love

Seeing the skill and artistry others have accomplished is a great way to stay hungry for your goal and give you something to strive for.

For example, if you want to start roller skating, viewing YouTube videos of people doing different styles of roller skating you’re interested in – jam skating, skate park skating or roller derby – can motivate you to work harder. Be careful not to compare yourself to others. Everyone works at their own pace, and just because you’re not at someone else’s level yet doesn’t mean you’re bad at what you do. Keep at it!

At the end of the day, we all want to live a life we can be proud of. Taking tangible steps, even small ones, towards the life we want is a sure-fire way to be more satisfied with our place on earth.

Here are 10 simple ways you can bring a little happiness into your life right now:

1 Go for a walk

Just a little bit of exercise can boost your mood and give you a fresh perspective on problems that have been bothering you.

easy ways to 10

2 Give it a rest

Ditch late-night screen time and head to bed earlier. Increasing your amount of sleep can reduce your stress level and leave you feeling energised to tackle your day when you wake up.

3 Thank someone

Acknowledge something that someone has done for you and send a note or a small bouquet of flowers. You’ll put a smile on their face and yours.

4 Compliment a stranger

Tell someone that you like something that they have and you’re guaranteed to brighten their day. Seeing good things in others will help you start to see good things in yourself.

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5

Plan a vacation

Getting bogged down with our daily routines can send us into a rut, causing us to look at things negatively. Booking a trip near or far away will give you something to look forward to, and the break from your normal routine will help you to see your life a little more clearly.

6 Buy something silly

After all, laughter is the best medicine. Pick up something that makes you laugh like a funny picture, book, magazine, or a movie. Giving yourself time to laugh boosts feel-good endorphins.

7 Get a massage

Your neck and back will thank you and you’ll feel relaxed the rest of the day – and then some.

8

Wear your favourite colour

Have a passion for red? Love cool blues? Wear your favourite colour and you’ll walk a little taller and smile throughout the day.

9

Tackle a problem

Boost your confidence by completing a particularly hard crossword or Sudoku puzzle. Maximizing your brain power and doing something challenging will help you to have a more confident outlook on life.

10

Model behaviour

Take a photo of yourself doing something you enjoy, like roller skating, skiing, swimming, playing an instrument, or being with friends and family. Place the picture on your desk to remind yourself that you lead an amazing life and have lots to be happy about.

form of advertising you can measure, then increase or decrease, so you can manage your workflow accordingly!

You’ve probably heard people talk about digital marketing, Google AdWords, online traffic, SEO and social media. Then on top of all that, you need to have a lead generating web presence with good traffic etc.

This can sound complicated – but it doesn’t have to if you talk to the right people.

Let’s start with the basics

Right now there are people looking for a business just like yours. However, if you don’t have AdWords, there’s a very good chance they’ve just clicked one of your competitors’ websites.

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If you would like to be our next success story, please email: enquiries@fatweb.co.nz

We have offices throughout New Zealand and can discuss your needs over the phone or by Skype.

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A diet to desire – Eating to stay healthy

An apple a day keeps the doctor away – it’s an old saying, but there is more than a hint of truth in it.

What you eat has a huge impact on your ability to fight off bugs and infections during the winter months.

Older people and children need to pay special attention to what they eat during the winter, as they are particularly vulnerable. However, quality, availability and variety of fresh food can be an issue in winter.

In cold weather, people can be less inclined to eat salads or raw fruit, but there are some cheap and simple steps you can take to make sure you keep your vitamin and mineral uptake up even during these months.

Start the day with breakfast

To get your energy levels up in the morning it is vital to have a good breakfast. Great ideas for warming winter breakfasts include baked beans or a poached egg on toast, a simple veggie omelette, or porridge with fresh, dried, stewed or canned fruit.

If using canned fruit, try to buy fruit in its own juice rather than syrup, and try to keep additional sugar to a minimum if you stew your own fruit.

Soup, soup, soup!

Soup is the ultimate ‘meal in a bowl’. Choose a favourite recipe and make a big batch over the weekend, then freeze individual portions for lunches during the week. Look to spice up traditional recipes by adding lentils, small pasta or pearl barley – they will give great texture and flavour to your dish, as well as making it go further. Pureed or textured, there is nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of soup served with crusty bread, pita bread or toast.

Curried Kumara Soup

1 tsp oil

2 medium onions, peeled and chopped

1 tsp minced garlic

1 tbsp curry powder or red curry paste

2 medium orange kumara, peeled and chopped

4 cups chicken stock

2/3 cup evaporated milk

Heat the oil in a large saucepan. Add onion and garlic and stir over a medium heat until the onion softens. Add curry powder or red curry paste and cook for a further 1-2 minutes.

Add kumara and chicken stock and simmer for 10 minutes or until the kumara is soft. Puree the mixture, add evaporated milk and heat through without bringing to the boil. Adjust the seasonings to taste. Serving suggestion: serve sprinkled with chopped fresh coriander or parsley.

Keep eating vegetables and fruit

The recommended intake for vegetables and fruit is five servings a day (three vegetables and two fruit).

These vital foods provide us with heaps of vitamins and fibre, as well as antioxidants and phytochemicals which have anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties.

To keep your meals affordable, look for vegetables that are in season. Great winter vegetables include carrots, cabbage, cauliflower, pumpkin, yams, kumara and broccoli.

Frozen and canned vegetables and fruit can also be great alternatives to fresh food during the winter, so keep plenty on hand. Look for those with no added sugar or salt where possible.

Cook comforting winter casseroles

Casseroles are fantastic for keeping you warm during winter and are great for feeding a family on a budget.

Look to invest in a slow cooker – cheaper cuts of meat work well when cooked slowly and there is nothing to rival the smell of a home cooked casserole as you walk through the door at the end of the day.

You can put almost anything in a casserole, but try to add lots of root vegetables and tinned tomatoes and keep the extra fat used to a minimum. Mustard and Worcestershire sauce can give a real flavour kick and canned kidney beans or chick peas added near the end of cooking add great texture and taste to a dish.

Easy Minestrone Soup

¾ cup (135g) pasta spirals or shells

1 large onion, peeled and chopped

6 cups chicken stock

1 x 500ml jar tomato pasta sauce

½ tsp dried oregano

1 tbsp sugar

1 cup pumpkin, peeled and chopped

1 large potato, peeled and chopped

1 large carrot, scrubbed and chopped

1 cup frozen peas, thawed

1 x 425g 4 bean mix, or red kidney beans (drained)

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Combine pasta, onion, chicken stock, pasta sauce, oregano, sugar, pumpkin, potato and carrot in a saucepan. Boil uncovered for 15 minutes.

Add peas and 4 bean mix and cook uncovered for 10 minutes. Add parsley, stir until hot.

Serving suggestion: serve sprinkled with parmesan or grated tasty cheese and bread.

Quality legal solutions

ARL Lawyers have decades of experience providing high quality legal solutions to clients across the Wellington Region. We can assist you with Wills, Enduring Powers of Attorney, Applications for Appointment of Welfare Guardian and Property Manager/ Administrators, Residential Care Subsidy and Loan applications and Occupation Right Agreements for Retirement Villages.

We can help you make a Will that reflects your wishes but also ensures that once you are gone your estate is simple and efficient to administer. This can make a difficult time for your family easier to manage. Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPOA) allow you to appoint someone or several people you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you lose capacity temporarily or permanently. Once signed, EPOAs can last the rest of your life and act as insurance, to ensure that your interests will be looked after how you prefer. If you have mobility issues or wish for assistance with online banking or payment of bills, your Property EPOA can be active once signed.

If you or a loved one lose capacity and do not have EPOAs, your family will need to apply to the Family Court to appoint a Welfare Guardian and Property Manager/Administrator. Orders appointing a Welfare Guardian and Property Manager only last three years before they need to be renewed and this can be a time consuming and expensive process.

An Occupation Right Agreement (ORA) is a right to live in a retirement village under certain conditions. Unlike owning your home, it is not an asset you own freely. We can advise you regarding the advantages and pitfalls of purchasing an ORA along with your rights as a resident and the management fee payable to the retirement village on the sale of your ORA.

When your loved one has been assessed as needing residential care and you are handed the Residential Care Subsidy Application, the financial needs assessment can be daunting. Let us complete the form for you. We are especially experienced in making these applications on behalf of people who are beneficiaries of a Trust.

For assistance, please contact ARL Lawyers on 04 566 6777 today.

Industry leaders when it comes to concrete products and supplies.

• Waterproof and fire mortar mixes

• Waterproofing systems and membranes

• Fast setting & acid-resistant mixes

• High strength culvert bags and road sign retaining bags

• Products for sewer repairs and water treatment

• Water treatment plant repairs

Sizing you up

Eight things people use to judge you

The human brain is hardwired to judge. This survival mechanism makes it very hard to meet someone without evaluating and interpreting their behaviour.

While we tend to think that our judgments are based on the content of conversations and other obvious behaviours, the research s ays otherwise.

In fact, the majority of our judgments are focused on smaller, subtler things, such as handshakes and body language. We often form complete opinions about people based solely on these behaviours.

How you treat others - How you treat others, especially support and service people, is so indicative of your makeup that it has become a widely used way to assess someone’s personality.

How often you check your phone - There’s nothing more frustrating than someone pulling out their phone midconversation. Doing so conveys a lack of respect, attention, listening skills, and willpower.

Repetitive, nervous habits - Touching your nails or face or picking at your skin typically indicates that you’re nervous, overwhelmed, and not in control. Research suggests these nervous habits are indicative of a perfectionistic personality, and that perfectionists are more likely to engage in these habits when they’re frustrated or bored.

How long you take to ask questions - Ever had a conversation with someone where they talked about themselves the entire time? The amount of time someone allows to pass before they take an interest in you is a strong personality indicator. People who

only talk about themselves tend to be loud, self-absorbed ‘takers’. People who only ask questions and share little about themselves are usually quiet, humble ‘givers’. Those who strike a nice balance of giveand-take are reciprocators and good conversationalists.

Your handshake - It’s common for people to associate a weak handshake with a lack of confidence and an overall lackadaisical attitude. A firm handshake is associated with being less shy, less neurotic and more extroverted

Tardiness - Showing up late leads people to think that you lack respect and tend to procrastinate, as well as being lazy or disinterested.

Handwriting - There are all manner of false stereotypes attempting to relate your handwriting to your personality. Bottom line – the research is inconclusive at best when it comes to handwriting and personality.

Eye contact - The key to eye contact is balance. While it’s important to maintain eye contact, doing so 100 percent of the time is perceived as aggressive and creepy. At the same time, if you only maintain eye contact for a small portion of the conversation, you’ll come across as disinterested, shy, or embarrassed. Maintaining eye contact for roughly 60 percent of a conversation strikes the right balance and makes you come across as interested, friendly, and trustworthy.

Quality

electrical services

Here at Roundhouse Electrical, best believe no job is too small or too big!

Owned and operated by Jamie Eades, we are proud to provide the wider Wellington region with quality electrical services.

Jamie has recently returned to his hometown of Wellington after completing an electrical apprenticeship in Auckland. He has been registered as a qualified electrician since 2015 and during this time has worked for several electrical firms.

Jamie has a variety of electrical experience from rewiring old houses and safety checks to completing switchboard upgrades and carrying out designer lighting at top end housing. Jamie can handle it all.

Roundhouse Electrical are qualified electricians based in the Wellington region and Kapiti coast, offering quality services and competitive prices.

Roundhouse Electrical offer a range of services from residential homes to commercial fit outs. You will receive certification and satisfaction.

If you are looking for a reliable, flexible, trustworthy, and professional electrician contact Roundhouse Electrical today.

A quick snapshot of Roundhouse Electrical’s services:

Internet & data cabling

Efficient data cabling systems for business or residential properties.

LED lighting

LED Down light installations and replacing light fixtures. Upgrade your old down lights to new energy efficient LED lights.

Renovations

We do kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and full house renovations. We can look after all your electrical needs.

Outdoor lighting

Outdoor lighting or security lighting, we can help you install your domestic lighting requirements for your property, our team can help provide you the best solution.

CCTV, security, and alarm systems

We can install CCTV, security and alarm systems for your residential property or business.

Switchboard upgrades

Along with switchboard upgrades, we also provide rewiring services for old properties to ensure you meet insurance policy standards.

ELECTRICAL SERVICES AND REPAIRS

Offer

Bringing colour into your world

Colourscape Decorators is a house painting company that offers quality interior and exterior painting for residential or commercial properties.

Colourscape Decorators was established in 2021, so it’s fairly new, yet going strong.

The company is well known in the wider Wellington area, which is based in Upper Hutt and is part of the Building Finishing Contractors industry.

The company also falls in the category of speciality trade contractors, construction, including painting services.

If you need any help with painting your house or your business this is the company for you.

Whether the job is big or small, nothing is too challenging for the team. There are three knowledgeable and well-experienced people in the team at Colourscape Decorators in the Upper Hutt team.

Across all of its locations, the company makes about $2 million dollars.

If you need advice and support before going ahead, contact the team as they can help you every step of the way.

Affordable pricing, various services provided, a passionate and reliable team, and support throughout the way, what more could you want?

If you’d like to know more, feel free to get in touch with the two main principals behind the store.

Reach out to the directors Stuart William McArthur and Samantha Jayne Phillips.

Get in touch today by phoning 022 354 8640 or emailing office@colourscapedecorators.co.nz .

Check out the team’s Facebook page for more information via the link: www.facebook.com/colourscapedecorators

The passionate, helpful and experienced team would love to help you with all of your painting needs.

Your trusty team of painting experts looks forward to your enquiry!

Battling ageism

Discrimination towards marginalised groups, subcultures and identities within society is not new. And while social acceptance is growing and playing its role as a social moderator in New Zealand, as a collective and united body of people we are yet to address and defeat an age-old discrimination.

An age-old issue

Ageism, or prejudice towards the elderly is detrimental to our living history; those who represent the wise and courageous individuals who fought for our liberation and voted for our own equality.

Intentional or not, such comments can be hurtful. However, New Zealanders can address this issue, stop it in its tracks, and uphold the rights of the elderly – this must be everyone’s central concern.

democratic society, the environments in which ageism is manifested, are a catalyst for further inequality.

Ageism can manifest itself in many ways. Sometimes its direct and other times its through ignorance and throwaway comments.

Intentional or not, such comments can be hurtful. However, New Zealanders can address this issue, stop it in its tracks, and uphold the rights of the elderly – this must be everyone’s central concern.

Studying society

There have been various studies conducted to address and measure the presence of ageist attitudes within society. A 2006 research report commissioned by the New Zealand Rights Commission was undertaken by University of Auckland business school professor Marie Wilson and student Jordan Kan.

Wilson and Kan attested that age-based stereotypes distort employment markets and affect perception about the employability, skills and competency of older works.

To legitimise the validity of this admission, Wilson and Kan conducted a field experiment where simulation and interviews were used to “assess the selection process from multiple perspectives and enable a thorough consideration of both the process and outcome of recruitment and selection decisions”.

Young and older candidates were included in this study and the subsequent results were summarised in a report, Barriers to entry for the older worker. This report confirmed that younger workers were perceived by employers as being more suitable candidates for employment opportunities although older people had a plethora of unique skills to offer.

“Age-based discrimination undermines both personal and national productivity and limits the growth and productive capacity of firms...

The assumptions behind age-based discrimination are largely false as well; older workers are not less adaptable, often possess rare and complex intellectual capital, provide longer and more reliable service to their employers and have fewer accidents, injuries and occasion fewer workplaces losses than their younger and often more expensive colleagues.”

Addressing ageism

While ageism is on the social issues radar, prevalence is hard to determine as victims of age-based discrimination may not articulate their concerns; meaning it is difficult to develop a definitive understanding about the scale of the issue.

When people are committing ageism, many of these offences can be readily identified by listening to general conversation as they are often quite overt acts. Once identified, ageism can be dealt with through education. Victims of ageism can also seek out support on their own accord through organisations like Age Concern.

Age Concern focuses on advancing positive ageing and the wellbeing of older people. The organisation endeavours to assist older people who are subjected to ageist attitudes.

Addressing and eradicating ageist ideologies is not just about reducing inequality. The wealth of experience and skills possessed by the elderly often go unrecognised although they are invaluable to the betterment of society.

It is on the moral conscience of our nation to address this problem through understanding and support.

If you or anyone you know is a victim of ageism you can contact Age Concern by logging on to www.ageconcern.org.nz. This website contains a list of regional office numbers you can ring. Alternatively, talk to a friend or family member who can help you address this issue.

While we are progressively moving towards being a more engaging and accepting society, the existence of certain prejudices within our communities continues to threaten social equality and stifle the opportunity for an egalitarian environment.

Experience Te Anau with Aden Motel

Nestled beside one of New Zealand’s largest lakes and surrounded by magnificent scenery, Te Anau is the one true gateway to the Fiordland National Park.

Conveniently located on Quintin Drive, situated in the beautiful township, your hosts, Irene Benfell & David Herron, welcome you to the Aden Motel.

“I would stay here again without hesitation.”

This comment is just one of the many rave-reviews their Motel has received online from its visitors.

Indeed, with a 12-unit, ground-floor complex consisting of seven studio units, three, one-bedroom units and two, two-bedroom units –Aden Motel offers a range of quality accommodation options with all the facilities a guest could possibly ask for.

The rooms are decorated with a Kiwiana theme, and are wellequipped with kitchen facilities, comfortable lounge areas and bathroom facilities, as well as free wireless internet in all rooms.

Plus, the Aden Motel also now offer a three-bedroom cottage, which sleeps up to eight people right next to the Motel called Heron’s Cottage.

Ample parking with off street boat parking, guest laundry, playground, car and luggage storage and a BBQ for those lovely summer nights is also available.

With easy access to the nearby Fiordland National Park, it provides a convenient base camp to those who wish to catch a glimpse of the glacier-carved fiord of Doubtful and Milford sounds, or explore the many other magnificent sights and sounds that the area has on offer.

Let the team help you organise day trips to experience the glowworm caves, horse trekking, jet-boating, and many more activities Te Anau offers.

With super friendly staff, superb services and great prices, Aden Motel ticks all the boxes for location, attractions and services and is the ideal place to stay while you’re experiencing this magical part of New Zealand.

Book your getaway with them today at adenmotel.co.nz

Other things to do:

•

•

•

• Guided Day Walks

• Fishing (Fly & Boat)

Just an example of what else you can do so come stay and enjoy our lovely town.

Caring for others

Lyndale Care is a retirement home based in Masterton, New Zealand specialising in supporting people’s life journeys. Their aim is to help residents make the most of their time at Lyndale Care every day.

The friendly and experienced team does this by offering things like:

• Having high-performing, engaged, knowledgeable, and supportive staff

• Creating a safe and secure place for everyone

• Always having things to learn and improve on

• Providing top-notch and well-maintained facilities and resources

• Putting a smile on their resident’s faces.

The team consists of owners Kevin and Vanessa Donaldson and general manager Emma Taylor.

The owners have had Lyndale Care since 2015 and want it to be a supportive and comfortable place. They’re proud of having their staff, lots of indoor space, and wonderful areas like the garden for families and residents to enjoy.

of her working life. It has always been something she enjoys because she likes interacting with older adults, hearing their wonderful stories and offering a helping hand when needed.

Lyndale Care offers many services such as a rest home, day care, studio apartments, dementia care, and respite. The team wants residents to live as independently as possible, which is why there are so many options available. The team ensures residents are safe, having a good time and doing things they want to do while having the best care. This is to maximise their physical, intellectual and mental well-being.

Get in contact with the lovely team today, fill out an online form on the website: www.lyndalecare.co.nz, contact the manager at manager@lyndalecare.co.nz and/or call 027 477 0828, or call the rest home at 06 378 7059. Alternatively, head to Lyndale Care, which is located at 52/95 Cole Street, Masterton.

Lyndale care is a FAMILY

Maintaining our health

This year we celebrated 25 years in business.

Health for Life is making a huge difference in the health industry and moving forward to making our stores the place to go to get the best products and advice in the lower North Island.

Having the ability to sell any product from any store and sent straight to our customers free of charge has been so rewarding

for us. This is one of the many benefits when you become a customer club member. We get appreciation from our customers especially if they are unable to come to one of our stores when we can deliver straight to you.

We continue to research and bring to our stores the best supplements and natural skincare ranges and will continue to do so.

When you visit, the trained and certified natural health retailers will take time to discuss your

individual needs and help you make the right choices for your supplement programme. Our team of consultants are dedicated to their customers to give the very best advice so you can benefit from our unique range of cost effective natural products. Many of these products are found only at a Health for Life store. Everything we do at Health For Life is to help you to get the results that you need from your supplement programme.

Join

Everything we do at Health For Life is to help you to get the results that you need from your supplement programme.

Being wise with money

Material desire, impulsive indulgence and a lack of ability to differentiate between ‘want’ and ‘need’ can blind our better judgement. Or, quite simply, unexpected bills and expenses can blow the budget.

As we get older, budgeting and saving for our future is imperative as is a regular renegotiation of financial priorities and preparation for potential losses of income.

It’s about investing in the future you.

The value of wisdom

While money is the universal form of currency, wisdom is of equal value, because being rich in savings is inconsequential to the security of your future if you are not rich in the financial wisdom you require to ration those savings.

Financial fortune, like life, is subject to change and forgetting that this change is an inevitable part of human existence, can set you up for a financial fall you may not recover from.

We only need to look at the pandemic and its effects on the global economy to realise the unpredictable nature of finance, savings and investment.

Finance at every age

In acknowledgement of the average retirement age in New Zealand, we generally classify the elderly as 65 and older.

But in fact, there are three generations within the 65 to 95-plus demographic. Being wise with money involves recognising which generation of this wider category you fall into and what respective financial needs or obligations you may have.

While many elder targeted surveys in New Zealand suggest that those of

retirement age manage their money well and that most report living a satisfied life in retirement, there are still important factors to consider when being wise with money.

Many elderly people in retirement have no chance of increasing their income and cannot be sure of how long they are going to live or what might happen in between.

Get Sorted

Establishing relevant financial boundaries is about formulating strategies for protecting yourself and your money. Recognising the importance of a legitimate and age-appropriate investment is also imperative to avoid financial downfall.

For example, if you rely heavily on your superannuation or a small investment, the more conservative you need to be. Generally, if something is high interest it is generally high risk.

In the ‘life stages’ section of the Retirement Commission’s online initiative the Sorted website outlines the following goals for 60 plus citizens:

• Make some quiet time to set your goals

• Be specific and write your goals down

• Review goals every six months or annually

• When you achieve your goal, celebrate and then set a new one.

Sorted also offers mutiple checklists, suggestions and common assumptions for your consideration as well as updated information on equity release, retirement villages and how best to spend your savings.

For further information on how to be wise with money, visit: www.sorted.org.nz.

At some stage in our lives, we have each experienced the pitfalls of living outside our financial means.

Kapiti Coast's

Maintain to Profit is a company which offers renovations and maintenance in the country.

and maintenance experts

Our services cover everything from the original design ideas and concepts to seeing the completion of the project by managing the process for you every step of the way.

The team is there to ensure the project is stress-free and meets your budget.

Whether you’re planning, already have plans, or need support from a reliable company, Maintain to Profit can help you find the right solutions that are trustworthy, affordable, and efficient.

The team at Maintain to Profit are highly qualified, certified, and experienced experts able to do any job, big or small, residential and commercial.

Services include concept and design, home extensions, internal restructuring, bathroom and kitchen renovations, decks and fences, exterior and landscaping.

The Maintain to Profit team can help you with all of your renovations, remodeling, rebuilding, and general maintenance work and repairs.

You may need help renovating a small part of your house like a kitchen or bathroom, or with renovating the whole house!

Find more information on the services offered, about the team, testimonials from previous clients, examples of projects, queries around maintenance, and more by visiting the Maintain to Profit website here: www.renovations.nz.

The Kapiti Coast licence owner Marise Mettrick has 15 years of experience in projects, facilities, and asset management.

She makes sure there’s a lot of detail involved in every project to ensure everything is delivered on time and that the team shows exceptional workmanship on the job.

Marise is passionate about customer service and communicates very well with all her clients so they have a pleasant experience.

To get in touch and make a general enquiry call Marise on 021 227 8197, or email marise@maintaintoprofit.co.nz.

Creating a home office that works for you

As working from home is a viable and realistic option for many of us, it makes sense to include a home office or home-based workspace as part of your building, renovation or home upgrade plan.

It’s not really all that long ago as computers started to infiltrate our home lives, you might have created your ‘office’ in what was perceived as otherwise ‘wasted’ space under stairs or in cupboards.

These spaces were fine if all you needed to do was check a few emails (possibly via dial-up!) or briefly logon to look up some information, but they were definitely not designed for you to be at your desks for long periods of time.

Usually cramped and deliberately tucked ‘out of the way’ so that you could close the door on ugly computer ware and printers, they were less than ideal for setting up an efficient workstation.

As long as we’ve got decent internet access, we can easily work from home - so realistically, with real work to be done, you don’t want to be tucked under the stairs or stuck out on the landing!

There are quite a few things to consider when creating a study or home office though, and it is well worthwhile doing some planning with your builder/ architect, to optimise this space.

Things to consider include:

Location - Consider which room to use for your office, particularly in terms of the lighting. For instance, to reduce glare and heat from the sun at different times of the day, a room with windows which faces east, north or west will need good light control. The size of the window as well as aspect should be considered.

Computer cabling - Make sure that you’ve allowed for appropriate cabling, particularly if you are likely to have high computer use, or more than one computer in your workspace, either now or in the future.

Light fittings - The trend for light fittings these days tends to be downlights, however they are not always positioned in the best place for computer screens.

If you are planning to install these, see if you can get LEDs with a wide angle and have one positioned above where you are planning to put your desk, so that light goes onto your screen, not into it. Otherwise, you may need to take up space on your desk and use a desk lamp.

Colour schemes - Walls which are painted a dark colour make a room feel smaller and like they are soaking up the light; this makes the room feels dark, which is not ideal for working in, and if the room has a lot of sunlight, lighter colours can make it feel too bright.

Head for something which is neutral, warm and feels good to you. You can always increase the colour feel in your workspace with art work.

Furniture - Many built-in desks in new or newly renovated homes (often seen as a space saver) are frequently built-in too high, and don’t allow for any flexibility of positioning.

Some beautiful old desks - used as computer desks - are usually designed for writing, not typing.

Buy a specific computer desk, and if it’s within your budget, preferably one that’s electrically height adjustable so you can work both sitting and standing.

A decent office chair is also important and these days, can blend in nicely with the rest of your decor. Look for a chair with good padding, adjustable height and back angle, and one which is easy to adjust.

In conclusion - Finally, if you’re building a home office, even if you only use it occasionally, make sure to create a space you enjoy being in.

Not only will it look great and function well, getting elements such as the lighting, furniture type and placement right, means that you will also be more productive in what is your very own work space.

It’s your home, and it’s about living, so with a little bit of thought and planning, you can make your office work for you!

Angel help

Connie’s Angels Homecare is a boutique care service provider who prides ourselves in providing care to our clients in a consistent and personalised manner.

We take time to really understand how to provide the best for our clients, to follow the everyday routine that clients prefer. We are not like the big agencies who have lots of different carers. We commit to our client and take time to find the best match, looking at skills, training, expertise and personality. As the owner, Connie often provides initial care herself to fully understand what is required and she is always there as a back-up. We are a locally owned business based in Kapiti Coast.

Connie’s Angels was born on February 2016. It is a locally owned company. Connie has 10 years of experience in the healthcare in NZ. Now that her children have their own families, she lives alone with her husband.

Connie is a medical doctor by profession in the Philippines. She decided not to pursue her medical career in New Zealand. Instead,

she studied and finished a postgraduate diploma in Health and Sciences major in Gerontology (study of the elderly) at University of Auckland in November 2014. She provides good quality care bearing in mind the rights of the elder people. She is culturesensitive as she has done cares with various cultures in NZ. She uses her medical profession to explain about their condition and the medications they are taking. She can be an advocate when discussing with the GP during consultation.

Connie’s Angels Homecare Ltd aims to provide an excellent standard of care by promoting successful ageing in place. Whatever your condition or situation may be, we ensure that we can pair you up with a caregiver who is best suited for you.

Our services include: personal cares including companionship and de-cluttering. We also offer home management services.

Phone: 0800 10 24 63 Email: mconniedesilva@gmail.com www.conniesangelshomecare.com

Building big, building personal

Ihaka Construction is a building company owned and operated by Sam and Rosie Rutene since 2019 based in the beautiful Wairarapa. Sam started his building career in 2007 working for a number of reputable companies and gaining a wide variety of experience.

These days, he built Ihaka Construction up from a team of two to a team of nine today specialising in building and renovating homes to love. Great relationships mean great projects so they personalise each project to suit their clients’ wants and needs, finished with the highest quality and attention to detail. Ihaka Construction is a Licensed Building Practitioner and a Registered Master Builder so clients can feel at ease knowing this knowledgeable, experienced and supportive team is there to help.

In Sam’s downtime he enjoys diving for kaimoana, fishing, taking on side building projects with his wife Rosie, building lego and to really relax travel overseas.

Check out the website for more information on the company, the team, their services and projects: www.ihakaconstruction.co.nz

Or contact Sam on: sam@ihakaconstruction.co.nz / 027 859 5713

The coolest refrigeration

The company specialises in commercial refrigeration and airconditioning in the greater Wellington region. From office airconditioning to walk-in cool rooms, Adam and his team can do it all. No job is ever too big or small! He prides himself on a first-time fix and his team of subcontractors always do their best to help Adam out from start to finish.

Air-conditioning:

Adam can supply, install and maintain any size of air-conditioning from a residential high wall heat pump to a central plant commercial system. He has the knowledge and skills to give high-quality maintenance, service, repair, and/or new installation to his clients.

He can supply any brand of the unit depending on what the client wants and how much they want to spend. He has experience with supplying massive brands like Mitsubishi, Fujitsu, Gree, Panasonic, and Daikin.

Refrigeration:

Adam can supply, install and maintain various kinds of refrigeration equipment from a small drinks chiller to a big cool store. He provides fast and efficient services, great communication skills, impressive workmanship, and excellent repairs to help keep his clients' businesses running smoothly.

He can provide a maintenance plan to suit his clients' desires and his driven approach to maintenance means he will remove minor faults before things become costly.

Adam is happy to provide friendly advice and no-obligation quotes. For more information check his website here: www.coolcatrefrigeration.co.nz

To get in touch today, call Adam on 027 266 5228 or email  adam@coolcatrefrigeration.co.nz. He’s available 24/7 on request.

Cool Cat Refrigeration is New Zealand’s trusty expert in refrigeration.

Adam the owner has over 15 years of experience in the industry. He believes in getting things done correctly the first time, every time. He’s experienced, knowledgeable and supportive of his clients and was trained by Cowley Refrigeration – a leading refrigeration company located in Wellington.

Find the words in the grid and cross out from the list below.

Words go horizontally and vertically (not diagonally) they may intersect .

Dont ‘s : no bending, overlapping or going backwards

Note: Ignore spaces, dashes and diacritics, if any. There will be no unused letters left on the grid upon completion

Word Search

Satay chicken wrap

tasty

Ingredients

• 1 wholegrain or natural wrap

• 50g shredded chicken

• ¼ carrot, grated

• ½ courgette, grated

Satay sauce

3/4 TBSP peanut butter

1/2 tsp chilli sauce

• ¼ capsicum diced

• ¼ red onion, diced

• 1 handful baby spinach

Method

1. Mix together the chicken, carrot, courgette, capsicum, red onion and baby spinach, plus any other desired vegetables.

2. In a pot, gently heat the satay sauce ingredients until combined, adding water as needed.

3. Allow the sauce to cool and then mix into the chicken and vegetables.

4. Place down the middle of the wrap. Fold the bottom of the wrap then the sides and eat fresh or for lunch the next day.

Nutritional value

One serving contains: Calories: 228, Protein: 24g, Fat: 9g, Carbohydrates: 13g, Fibre: 2g, Sugar: 6g

1/2 tsp honey, 1/2 tsp reduced salt soy sauce, 1/2 tsp sesame oil

Allergies: Gluten, Sesame, Peanut, Nuts.

Study shows these hobbies can increase IQ

Not only does reading improve vocabulary range, but it can also develop analytical and critical thinking as the constant stimulation trains the brain to problem-solve. Moreover, participants in the study commented that they felt more relaxed after a few weeks.

In second place, knitting improved participants’ IQ by 9.68 percent. Exercising and reading rank third and fourth respectively. However, volunteers in the category ‘joining an online gaming group’ commenced with the highest average IQ (104 to 109).

IQ tests are a tool to measure a range of cognitive reasoning skills such as problem-solving and logic. According to VeryWellMind, an average IQ test score is around 100, with different countries around the world varying between 59 and 108.

In first place is learning a new instrument with an IQ score increase of 9.71% with volunteers’ IQ before the study averaging 103 and averaging 113 after the study.

DIYS.com reveals that the most popular instrument to pick up was the guitar with 31 percent of participants favouring it.

Knitting takes second place with an increase of 9.68 percent with average IQ scores of 93 before and 102 after the six-month period. Not only is knitting a stress-reducing activity but it also engages cognitive stimulation.

Exercising ranks third with an IQ amelioration of 7.37 percent (95-102). Playing sports and exercising is a popular activity to increase happiness via the release of chemicals known as endorphins, in addition to dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin.

According to Harvard Medical School, people who exercise have a larger brain volume in the memory and control-thinking areas.

Following in fourth place is reading as volunteers responded to a 7.07 percent IQ score increase. Participants were asked to read a new book every week and subsequently showed an average IQ increase score from 99 to 106.

Meditating takes fifth place with an IQ improvement of 6.38 percent (94100). Pilates (23 percent), yoga (21 percent) and mindful breathing (17 percent) were the most popular practices.

With constant distractions, meditation exercises our attention spans with evidence suggesting that long-term meditators are shown to have faster reaction times.

The following activities are ranked according to their average IQ increase after volunteers completed the activity:

Learning a new instrument - 9.71 percent

Knitting - 9.68 percent

Exercising - 7.37 percent

Reading - 7.07 percent

Practising meditation - 6.38 percent

Learning a new language - 5.88 percent

Gardening - 5.10 percent

Joining an online video game group - 4.81 percent

Making and editing videos - 4.26 percent

Trying new recipes every week - 4.17 percent

Starting to write/blog - 4.12 percent

Colouring in an art book - 3.96 percent

Daily journaling - 3.26 percent

Playing a new board game - 2.00 percent

Sewing - 1.03 percent.

Of the hobbies studied, learning a new instrument proves to be the hobby which increases IQ the most.

Super

and a great source of protein, fibre and vegetables.

TOURS INCLUDE

Pick up and drop o from Palmerston North and Wellington

Drop o with bikes in Hawkes Bay or Martinborough

Burger and Refreshments during tour

Pick up of any purchased Wine

Information on Wineries and full support during tour

HISTORY celebrating

Many Wellingtonians will know Lewis’s Home Fabrics as the longstanding curtain retailer. It started its journey in 1944 with their first store on High Street, Lower Hutt, and since then has grown to be the major supplier of curtains and blinds throughout the greater Wellington region. What’s not so well known, is the reason behind Lewis’s success and what makes Lewis’s different to most companies in this market.

Although retail is the face of the company, Lewis’s is predominately a curtain and blind manufacturing and installation company with over two thirds of the company’s 54 staff involved in these areas.

Lewis’s has a new concept showroom at 25 Centennial Highway, Ngauranga, and if you haven’t visited yet, it is certainly worth the visit. It has over 750 square metres of inspirational curtain and blind displays, featuring the most beautiful fabrics, and detailing all the products that Lewis’s manufacture.

However, it’s what’s literally behind this impressive showroom that really makes the difference. Behind the retail front, is another 1,000 square metres of the most advanced curtain manufacturing plant in New Zealand. Add to that, Lewis’s 79 years of curtain making experience and the teams 625 years of service, and it’s not hard to understand why Lewis’s was chosen to make the curtains for Queen Elizabeth II, and her rooms at Government House. Lewis’s was selected above all other furnishings manufacturers and their contribution to the Conservation Project was recognised by the Governor General and Prime Minister of New Zealand.

Wellington Concept Store | Ngauranga Gorge, Wellington

KAINGA ORA warm & dry

In the last 10 years Lewis’s has also supported the Kainga Ora “Warm and Dry” initiative with making and installing curtains into 18,000 Kainga Ora homes in the lower North Island.

While over the same time, Lewis’s has made and installed even more curtains and blinds into their customers homes throughout the greater Wellington region. It is surprising just how many Wellington homes have curtains and blinds made by Lewis’s, and not just in the last 10 years, but over the last 79 years.

DESIGN INSPIRATION

New curtains, blinds and furnishings can significantly lift the appeal, the look and the warmth of our homes. It’s an exciting opportunity to bring a little colour and design into our days, which is surprisingly uplifting.

Well designed and manufactured curtains and blinds will also provide the functional requirements of day-time and night-time privacy, insulation, light control and sun protection for flooring and furniture.

Today, Lewis’s exclusively offers the range of affordable Kinetic motorised options to automate your curtains and blinds. With Kinetics you can operate your curtains and blinds by remote, with your phone, or remarkably with simple voice commands. It is fast, easy, time saving and an excellent way of operating curtains and blinds in awkward locations or for customers with limited access.

To get some ideas on what’s possible, visit Lewis’s concept showroom at Ngauranga, or their showroom at 188 Kapiti Road. In addition to an inspirational collection of beautiful fabrics and treatments, the showrooms include complementary furniture. The Ngauranga showroom also includes a stunning range of wallpaper. These are no ordinary wallpapers, but a collection of designer wallpapers, for those adventurous enough to turn a whole wall into a work of art.

IN-HOME curtain design service

GIFT VOUCHER

Enjoy

FREE Cushion Making

with presentation of this voucher.

Beautiful cushions bring colour, design, and comfort, into our bedrooms and living areas. The accent of colour lifts the mood in the room, just like flowers in the garden. Having a couple of cushions sizes not only looks good but helps you find that perfect support and comfort you are looking for.

Lewis’s is offering FREE cushion making for all Plus Living readers. You only need to pay for the cushion inner and the fabric used in each cushion.

Alternatively, you can call (04) 237 3737 and make an appointment for one of Lewis’s Curtain Designers to come to you. This is a convenient service for those who are very busy or unable to travel to the showrooms, and Lewis’s curtain designers can work with you, to establish your requirements. Together you will come up with an exciting plan. SHOW

Lewis’s is proud to be part of Wellington’s heritage and wants to share their passion for beautiful curtains. blinds and furnishings with you. Become part of the Lewis’s story.

Offer limited to 4 cushions per customer.

Are

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e v e r y t h i n g y o u

n e e d i s w i t h i n w a l k i n g

d i s t a n c e .

T h e W h a k a t ā n e H o l i d a y

P a r k i s a g r e a t l o c a t i o n f o r

a l l t r a v e l l e r s l o o k i n g t o

e x p l o r e t h e b e a u t i f u l

B a y o f P l e n t y !

We have a class for every level of confidence and ability — from babies just learning about water, right through to our classes to support elite training squads. Our aim is to improve the water safety abilities of our community one person at a time.

Dash@poriruacity.govt.nz

feel great with pool + fitness

Facilities include a 25m Main Pool with movable floor, kids pool with attached toddlers area, purpose-built learn to swim pool to house Huia’s highly successful Swim City lessons, a hydrotherapy pool for exercise and rehabilitation and a gym for health and wellbeing.

Super savings with SuperGold

SuperGold helps you stretch your money further, offering instant discounts, special offers on everyday essentials and more. Explore the many ways you could save locally and nationwide.

What is the SuperGold Card?

SuperGold - or the ‘gold card’ as some people know it - gives you golden opportunities to stretch your money further. There are thousands of instant discounts and special offers. You will find all sorts of ways to make instant savings every day near you across New Zealand and in Australia.

The card gives you:

• Instant savings on everyday essentials like electricity, insurance, food and healthcare

• Discounts on entertainment, travel and in retail stores

• High value special offers

• Free off-peak public transport.

Getting the SuperGold Card Getting an automatic SuperGold Card

Once your New Zealand Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension has been granted, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will automatically send your SuperGold Card in the mail. This usually only takes a few weeks, but you may have to wait a month or two if you apply for New Zealand Superannuation prior to your 65th birthday.

SuperGold is one way the New Zealand government and business communities can say ‘thank you’ or ‘tēnā rawa atu koe’ to older New Zealanders for the work they have done raising families, supporting communities and contributing to Aotearoa.

Applying for a SuperGold Card

If you do not receive or are not eligible to receive New Zealand Superannuation, you can still apply for a SuperGold Card. You must be 65+ years old and be a New Zealand resident. Simply fill in the SuperGold Card application and return it to us.

Call: 0800 25 45 65 (Monday – Friday, 8am-5pm)

Email: information@supergold.govt.nz

SuperGold Centre

PO Box 5054

Wellington 6145

www.supergold.govt.nz

Veteran SuperGold

Veteran SuperGold is a specially branded SuperGold Card to recognise service to our country in the Armed Forces.

Once your Veteran’s Pension has been granted, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will automatically send your SuperGold Card in the mail. This usually only takes a few weeks, but you may have to wait a month or two if you apply for New Zealand Superannuation prior to your 65th birthday.

Get the SuperGold app

The fast and easy way to find discounts and offers when you’re out and about is to use the SuperGold app. If you have a smartphone or tablet, download the SuperGold app from the Apple Store or Google Play.

Office for Seniors

The Office for Seniors is working to improve the lives of older people across New Zealand. Their website and regular email newsletter provide helpful information, news, and stories for older people.

Visit: www.officeforseniors.govt.nz

Call: 0800 25 45 65 (Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm)

Email: information@supergold.govt.nz

Frequently asked questions about SuperGold

Can I use my SuperGold Card to travel free on public transport?

Yes. Most areas off-peak is usually 9am to 3pm and from 6.30pm to the end of service on weekdays, and any time on weekends and public holidays. In most areas you will also need a smart card from the Regional Council to access free off-peak travel.

How do I order a replacement card?

If your SuperGold Card is lost, stolen, damaged or if you change your name, call or email us to order a replacement card. You will need to let us know your full name, date of birth, current residential and postal address and SuperGold Card client number if you have one (found on the back of your SuperGold Card). You should receive a replacement card within three weeks – free of charge.

When will I receive my SuperGold Card?

You will be automatically issued a SuperGold Card when you’re granted New Zealand Superannuation or a Veteran’s Pension or a main benefit at age 65 or over.

Your New Zealand Superannuation will need to be approved at least three weeks before turning age 65 if you wish to receive your SuperGold Card by your 65th birthday.

Is SuperGold connected to my New Zealand Superannuation?

Once your New Zealand Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension has been granted, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will automatically send your SuperGold Card in the mail.

If you do not receive or are not eligible to receive New Zealand Superannuation, you can still apply for a SuperGold Card.

What if I am already receiving a main benefit?

If you are turning 65 and receiving a main benefit from the Ministry of Social Development, your SuperGold Card will arrive at least three weeks after you are granted New Zealand Superannuation on your 65th birthday.

If you are not applying for New Zealand Superannuation then you will need to call or email us to advise you have turned 65 so the MSD can send you a new SuperGold Card.

How does the Community Services Card work with SuperGold?

If you have a current Community Services Card at the time you are granted New Zealand Superannuation, and you may continue to qualify for a Community Services Card, you will need to complete a Community Services Card application form to get a new SuperGold/Community Services Combo Card. It will have the initials CSC on the back and an expiry date.

Your new combo card’ replaces your Community Services Card. You can use this card for both health subsidies and SuperGold discounts.

Does my SuperGold Card have an expiry date?

Since May 2010, the only SuperGold cards with an expiry date are those which double as both a Community Services Card and SuperGold Card. These ‘combo cards’ have an expiry date because entitlement to a Community Services Card can change over time.

If the back of your card includes an expiry date (EXP) and this date has expired, call 0800 25 45 65 or email information@ supergold.govt.nz to arrange a replacement card.

Can I still get SuperGold if I am not a resident?

If you are not normally a resident in New Zealand and do not intend to stay here, you will not qualify to receive a SuperGold Card.

Hawke's Bay's sunny lodge for all

Elmore Lodge Motel is in the sunny Hawke’s Bay. Home of amazing vineyards and spectacular coast lines. Hastings has a large variety of amazing art deco architecture, a great shopping centre and some amazing walking tracks that are suitable for all ages. In addition, Havelock North, with its village atmosphere, boutique shops and diverse eating establishments, is only a short drive away. . .

With many areas to explore in the region either via car or bike, it makes total sense to base yourself at our motel complex.

Whilst our units are of an older nature, updated refurbishments and our dedication to cleanliness ensures that our guests have a great stay. Our Access unit is proving very popular for those guests with mobility issues. Our larger units have full cooking and sleeping options for a home away from home experience. If you have an electric car – no problem, we have now an onsite charging station that suits most E-vehicles.

Pam and John, both Gold Card holders themselves, are the amazing hosts at Elmore Lodge Motel and have a solid knowledge of local dining venues and are happy to advice and suggest local attractions that are a must see.

Booking is easy – either via our website www.elmorelodgemotel.co.nz or just ring us. Let us know you have a NZ Gold card and receive an automatic $10 per night off the full price of your stay.

For all questions simply call us on 0800 356 673

Think a new outlook on life.

Retirement isn’t for retiring, it’s for new adventures.

With more freedom to pursue your hobbies and passions, you can live the active, fulfilling retirement you’ve worked hard to achieve.

Think this sounds like you or someone you love?

To find out more about our Wellington villages visit summerset.co.nz

Open homes this week

Situated right next to the beautiful Prouse Bush, this meticulously designed development offers retirees the very best in retirement living in Levin.

The spacious brick and tile villas are modern, warm and comfortable. Boasting Lifemark 4 accessibility features, villas include an open plan kitchen, living and dining room, conservatory, two bedroom, large bathroom, second toilet, and internal access garage.

Open homes at 36 Prouse Street, Levin

Wednesdays 10am – 12pm • Saturdays 1pm – 3pm

Preventing

eye disease

Poor vision can lead to higher rates of depression, more falls and fractures, increased need for community and/or family support, and earlier need for institutionalised care.

In New Zealanders the total number of people with severe to moderate functional vision loss is estimated to be 180,000 and increasing with the aging population.

Eye diseases can often develop without early warning signs, making early detection a vital step in avoiding or limiting permanent damage to the eyes. For eye conditions that result in blindness, the only way to find them early is to have a comprehensive eye exam.

New Zealand optometrists actively promote eye health to remind Kiwis how precious their sight is and the importance of a 9-step comprehensive eye examination for maintaining good eye health.

Glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataract, and diabetes are the main causes of impaired vision and there is a growing occurrence of these eye health issues as the New Zealand population grows older. Even children and young adults with perfect vision can find their eyesight and eye health changes as they get older.

Those with gradual loss or change in vision can be most at risk as they do not realise what is happening to their eyes.

The New Zealand Association of Optometrists wants people to know that visiting an optometrist does not mean you will require a new pair of glasses.

Optometry is about ensuring the ongoing health and well-being of people’s eyes. To find out about the 9-step comprehensive eye exam, talk to your local optometrist or visit: saveoursight.co.nz.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma NZ report that 10 percent of people over 70 will have glaucoma. Loss of vision occurs because of damage to cells in the retina.

Cause: The cause is not fully understood, but high pressures in the eye and poor blood supply to the optic nerve are part of the condition. Genetics and age are also thought to be important factors.

Symptoms: Usually glaucoma progresses gradually and painlessly without symptoms. Rarely, glaucoma may occur rapidly with blurred vision, loss of side vision, coloured halos around lights and painful or red eyes.

What you can do: Have regular eye exams and if there is a family history of glaucoma, see the optometrist for an eye examination every year. During the eye examination the optometrist will measure the internal pressure of both eyes and examine the health of the optic nerve.

The good news: If detected early, glaucoma can be managed and loss of vision prevented to a greater extent. Unfortunately, at least half the people with glaucoma are not having treatment because they do not know they have glaucoma. If glaucoma is not detected, it can lead to permanent blindness.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD is the leading cause of blindness and is caused by deterioration of cells in the macula (the part of the retina that is responsible for clear, sharp vision). Vision that is lost as a result of AMD cannot be restored.

Cause: Mainly heredity but smoking is also a contributing factor. There is increasing evidence that diet and high levels of exposure to bright sunlight may also play a part.

Symptoms: The gradual loss of ability to see clearly, distorted vision, a gradual loss of colour vision and a dark or empty area appearing in the centre of vision.

What you can do: Have regular eye examinations so as to be aware of any development of degenerative disease. Don’t smoke. Eat a healthy diet containing fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C, vitamin E, betacarotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. Keep overall fat intake low and eat lean meats and fish – omega 3 fatty acids are best. Milk, wholegrains and wheat germ will also provide zinc, which is also important. Smokers should avoid taking supplements containing beta-carotene, but spinach is good for everyone.

The good news: There are now treatments for some forms of wet AMD and new research is pointing to treatments for the dry forms being developed as time goes on.

Every year, thousands of New Zealanders needlessly live with vision problems that affect their everyday lives.

3 Treatment of red eye disease

3 Compass Health diabetic retinal screening

3 Civil Aviation Authority examiners

3 Maritime NZ examiners

3 Police Recruit Examiners

3 Sports Vision

3 Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)

3 Myopia management

3 Neuro-Optometric Assessment and Treatment

Our optometrists, optical dispensers and reception staff are committed to providing you with comprehensive eye care and friendly, efficient service.

LOOKING FOR STAFF, LAUNCH YOUR SEARCH WITH US!

Unlocking Build to Rent housing

Property Council New Zealand chief executive, Leonie Freeman, says the initiative could mark a key turning point towards unlocking the potential of Build to Rent.

“Our members share the government’s view that enabling Build to Rent will provide warm, dry rental homes that offer Kiwis long-term security of tenure.

“It is encouraging to see that the government has listened to our sector and acknowledged Build to Rent as a unique property asset class.

“The government’s announcement is a major step towards boosting New Zealand’s emerging Build to Rent sector.

“Build to Rent will transform the experience of renting in New Zealand.

“Property Council research shows that our members stand poised to deliver over 25,000 Build to Rent homes in the next decade, with the right policy settings.

“Build to Rent refers to multi-unit residential developments, typically located in city centres within walking distance of key transport links.

“These developments are professionally managed, with brilliant amenities available onsite, offering residents bespoke lifestyle options for as long as they want to stay.

“By enabling Build to Rent, the property sector will be able to deliver thousands of new high-quality, high-density rental houses, supporting New Zealand’s urban intensification and climate ambitions.

“Kiwis will hopefully soon have many choices to access to a warm, dry and climate friendly Build to Rent home.

“Over the past 18 months, the Property Council has been working closely with the government to highlight the untapped potential of Build to Rent and explain the legislative actions required to enable it.

“As part of this, we have collaboratively resolved the unintended consequences of last year’s interest deductibility changes.

“While the announcement has been a fantastic step in the right direction, there are a few remaining speedbumps to truly unlock the concept.

“For Build to Rent to flourish, access to large institutional investment via the overseas investment act and commercial depreciation is also required.

“The Property Council looks forward to continuing our engagement with the government to support the roll out of the world’s fastest growing residential sector in Aotearoa.”

The Property Council, whose members are some of New Zealand’s largest property developers, owners and investors, has come out in support of the government’s Build to Rent tax exemption boost.

Meet Jean Bewick: A skilled property manager

With over 20 years in the property management industry, Jean Bewick brings a wealth of experience to the table as the owner and manager of Kapiti Coast Property Management Ltd. Prior to running her own company, Jean honed her skills as a property manager for renowned firms such as L J Hooker, Bayleys, and Professionals.

At Kapiti Coast Property Management Ltd, Jean takes pride in finding the best tenants for each property. She uses strict screening procedures to ensure the right fit, recognizing that this is the most critical aspect of successful property management. To keep properties in top condition, Jean conducts regular inspections and provides detailed reports with photos to landlords.

Staying up-to-date with constantly changing legislation is a top priority for Jean, who regularly attends master classes to stay informed. Kapiti Coast Property Management Ltd offers a comprehensive property management service, from advertising and showing properties to drawing up leases and handling all administrative and accounting tasks. This full-service approach gives peace of mind to landlords, especially those who live overseas.

With the rising issue of methamphetamine contamination in rentals, Jean is proactive in ensuring the safety of properties. She encourages landlords to install monitored alarms that detect any signs of methamphetamine use and can alert authorities immediately in case of tampering.

At Kapiti Coast Property Management Ltd, Jean treats each property as if it were her own, offering a personal touch and hands-on approach to property management. To learn more, visit www.kcpm.co.nz or check out Jean’s landlord references. She looks forward to meeting you and providing top-notch service.

Ltd

We Are A Family Owned & Operated Building Business Servicing The Lower North Island Region.

SERVICES

• Home Renovations, Repairs and Maintenance

• Kitchen, Bathroom and Laundry Upgrades

• Restricted Building Work

• Chimney Removals

• Extensions

• Decks and Fencing

• Pergolas

• New Builds

Grantham Builders takes pride in our ability to “think outside the box,” and provide you with unique ideas and solutions. Before jumping into a job we will get you to talk through your vision, this may include sketches, pictures or often what you may actually want but don’t think is feasible. We are then able to give you honest advice, timeframes and work towards bringing your vision to reality.

021 298 5040

Admin@granthambuilders.co.nz

www.granthambuilders.co.nz

Looking to list your property? Here’s how to get started

Typically, spring is seen as an ideal time to bring a property to market — particularly as many people look to make their buying plans this side of Christmas. Here’s what to think about as you look to list your property. As we head into the warmer months, the market cycle tends to see more listings and an increase in buyer demand.

It is important to find a real estate professional who can deliver a standout marketing campaign, advise you on key steps for getting your property ready to list, and who will tell you what you need to know throughout the selling process.

Research is key

Using a real estate salesperson can result in a more effective sale than selling privately. They will handle the details of the marketing and sales process, the cut and thrust of the negotiation or auction, and you can rest assured that you’re protected throughout the process by their expertise and requirements under the Real Estate Agents Act.

To find the right person for you, ask around; talk to family, friends and neighbours and see if they have any recommendations on real estate salespeople they have previously used and whom they had a good experience with.

It’s also fundamental to understand where the market is today before you head into the selling process. Doing some of your own research is vital however, you can rely on your salesperson to bring expertise.

Salespeople have the time, access to the latest data and market information, and to advise on exactly what is happening in your market for your type of property. Having honest conversations with your real estate salesperson will enable you to understand the current market and the best approach for selling your home.

Honesty is the best policy

A real estate professional will help to manage your price expectations with the latest statistics, their knowledge of the current market, the local area, what properties are attracting the most attention and why, the current levels of attendance at open homes, and more.

They should also explain what they will do behind the scenes to ensure the best possible outcome for you.

They can advise you on the best way to present your property for sale including aspects such as required maintenance, tidying up of gardens, decluttering, or home-staging.

With these factors come costs, and your real estate professional should ensure you are aware of the aspects you may need to invest in when selling

your home so there are no surprises, and so you can factor this into your budget.

Look for a salesperson who can demonstrate knowledge of your local area and community, ideally with a network of potential buyers, as this can help ensure your property is best positioned and marketed to the right people. Make sure you understand what a salesperson’s commission fee is. While fees do vary by agency, our advice is that choosing a salesperson on commission alone could lead to losing a significant amount of money by achieving a lower price for the property.

The Real Estate of Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) is a champion for a world-class real estate profession delivering the best possible real estate services to New Zealanders.

Choosing a REINZ real estate professional member means you are choosing someone who is supported to excel in the profession, and are trusted, skilled professionals, supported by high-quality education, advice, and uphold the best standards of practice.

It’s been a market of supply outweighing demand for several months, but as we enter spring, activity is expected to pick up — including the usual spring flurry of listings.

Howard & Co Realty Limited is a local, privately owned and operated boutique real estate company covering the Kapiti Coast. Our offices are located at 340 Rosetta Road, Raumati Beach.

Howard & Co was formed with one goal in mind: to focus on delivering the best possible price for people selling their homes on the Kapiti Coast. We are proud to be part of the Andco Group of highly professional agents who currently have thirteen branches across NZ, along with a dedicated Property Management division and a Mortgage Broking division - both covering the Wellington & Kapiti district.

When you deal with one of our highly qualified sales consultants at Howard & Co Realty, you get the experience and services from the whole team – “the core difference in our business model is about service, service, service which in turn gives you an outstanding result” says Director/Sales Consultant Ceinwen Howard. “Our team believe in local people working for locals, we are not dictated too from Head Offices situated in Auckland, Australia or the US that control the national brands – we only work in Kapiti and can give you the local, national and global reach to get those outstanding results.”

Howard & Co Realty understand in difficult times, that a friendly familyoriented approach for a pending major transaction, with the team taking all the stress and strain off family members is well received. Besides their extensive real estate knowledge, the team offer project

management services as part of their free service. This includes engaging with trusted tradespeople, cleaners, gardeners and professional home stagers - to present your home for sale in the best possible condition; as you only get one opportunity to achieve a premium price. The team is always available for a professional noobligation appraisal to discuss all aspects of the sales and marketing process – they would welcome the opportunity to be of service to you and your family.

Annemarie Janssen

Annemarie Janssen - better known as AM - is a skilled agent based in Harcourts, Paremata. She is the expert for moving property from Porirua to Pukerua Bay. Not only does AM boast superior communication skills and a huge passion for the northern suburbs, she understands that moving can be stressful. AM uses empathy in everything she does and works to ensure the moving process is as easy as it can be. Moving, downsizing or selling can be a big decision and AM is here to make it a smooth and simple transition.

AM has a history of massive sales success and attributes this success to having a client-focused approach. She is creative and willing to think outside the box when selling or finding a home for clients.

With a devoted work ethic and a commitment to meeting her clients goals, AM is a master at her craft. She will go above and beyond to ensure her clients needs are met beyond their expectations.

To get your journey started, AM listens to your needs and establishes your home buying/selling goals and objectives. She believes that in this fast-paced market, communication is still key in meeting targets and building strong relationships. She’s honest with her clients and treats them as she would be expected to be treated. AM is passionate about the huge responsibility in buying and selling homes.

AM loves working with families and those planning on taking on a new challenge in life. As a long term resident of the northern suburbs, AM understands the local market, its diverse neighborhoods and the many services the community offers. AM will work hard to meet your expectations while keeping your best interests at heart. Clients say that AM is a pleasure to work with. “I deal with a lot of agents and you are certainly the smartest and most organized of them all. You managed a difficult process seamlessly and I thank you for all the extra efforts you went to to assist us on this sale. I’ve let my colleagues know and recommend you to my client. I look forward to working with you again,” says Meredith Connell Solicitors.

Ash and Dean say they really enjoyed working with AM. “She made the whole process easy and stress free. She kept up with updates and guided us through the whole process which then led to an amazing result. We couldn’t have asked for a better price and outcome.”

For the very best in home buying, selling and finding in the Paremata area, look no further than AM. She will guide you through the process with skill, empathy and care. AM will ensure you get exactly what you need from the process and that you’ll be happy and comfortable with this new step in your life.

Contact AM on 021 461 131 or 04 233 2809. You can also email her at am.janssen@harcourts.co.nz.

her sales success down to a clientfocused approach. She’s creative and unafraid to think outside the box when selling or finding homes. AM also has a devoted work ethic and is committed to meeting her clients’ goals in property. Ultimately, she goes above and beyond what clients would ever expect of her.

Your Local Real Estate Experts Louis, Ashleigh & Flora

Selling with Louis and the team is a cost-effective experience that combines insightful market knowledge, reliable communication, and cross-platform marketing to achieve exceptional results.

Louis understands what’s required to successfully sell property in Wellington’s highly competitive market. Sellers will benefit from Louis’ understanding of the growing digital landscape in real estate. His modern and personal approach to property ensures his clients receive an unparalleled real estate experience.

Born in Wellington, Flora has an intimate knowledge of the city and is passionate about the homes within it. Her adept knowledge of, and devotion to her community is what drives her desire to ensure that she consistently exceeds clients’ expectations in making the sale process as seamless as possible.

Ashleigh’s is proud to have helped many sellers achieve a premium price and buyers find their perfect home. She has patience and compassion; both essential skills in her role as a real estate agent. She has fine-tuned her already strong communication skills, expertly perfected her attention to detail and is highly driven to achieve the best results for her clients.

Our Sold Listings

“Louis and Ashleigh are a genuine, reliable, and professional team. We’ve recently sold our property with them and were impressed with their market knowledge, recommendations, and calm attitudes. Would recommend getting them on board.”

From the beginning Flora was knowledgable, personable and extremely helpful. Her calm demeanour and professionalism really made the buying process smooth and stress-free! Would highly recommend using Flora and her team and will definitely look to work with them again in the future.

“Ashleigh and Louis were a great team who made selling easy in a high time of stress for me. They listened to my needs and acted professionally and accomodating of my needs. I would highly recommend them”

How to prepare your home for sale

To

You might think you know what to do to get your property ready for sale, but are the tasks on your list really going to help the property to sell? Ask your agent to provide you with some advice about what needs to be done. This will ensure you don’t spend too much on the changes and you focus on the areas that will bring in the most value.

Nearly every home benefits from decluttering. Families accumulate ‘stuff’ at alarming rates and garages, cupboards and wardrobes are usually filled with things you’ve completely forgotten about and rarely use. Selling a property is a great time for a major cull and throw out. You want to create a feeling of space and illustrate a lifestyle that is

Dress the property for your buyer, not yourself

If the presentation of the property isn’t attractive to potential buyers, it will reduce the effectiveness of your marketing. Investment into staging and landscaping can have massive positive returns, especially in a slow market where you need to stand out from the crowd in order to sell.

Renovate for a return

The rule of thumb is to make changes to your property that will give you ideally five times the return. The most effective ‘renovations’ include fresh coats of paint, polishing floor boards, re-carpeting or freshening up kitchens and bathrooms with new bench-tops, painting tiles, adding new taps and cupboard handles.

Marketing and Advertising is key

Your chosen agent should be discussing with you not only the benefits of a comprehensive marketing plan but the necessity of it in this market. There are two ways in a buyers market to out-perform the competition i.e., other homes for sale in your area. You can either out price them, by positioning your home as the ‘best value’ or ‘cheapest home’ on the market or you can out promote them. Out-promoting them is done by following the careful instructions of your agent when it comes to presentation and marketing/advertising. No expenses should be spared when you’re looking to market your biggest asset. You must reach as much of the market as possible in order to achieve the best price possible

We offer services to all our vendors to help get their home ready for the market. These services include free staging, decluttering/ depersonalisation help, landscaping and more. Get in touch with the team today to discuss your options.

scott.ledger@harcourts.co.nz

ensure your property has the best chance of selling and getting the best price, it pays to work a little bit harder on the preparation. Here’s Team Ledger’s tips.

Local expertise to support your finance

goals

Explore lending solutions and put your plans in motion

If you’re ready to tackle your finance goals head-on, you need Mike Pero Mortgage Adviser, Susan Taylor on your side.

As a proud Wellington resident and veteran of the financial world, Susan has the passion, expertise and experience to help you make your finance and property dreams a reality.

Don’t know where to start? Susan has you covered.

Whether you’re refinancing, securing a reverse mortgage, or helping the next generation get into their first home, Susan has over 30 years of experience of the industry and the knowledge to help you achieve these goals.

When it comes to finding a solution, Susan takes the time to understand each customer’s unique situation.

“My job is to simplify the process for you and make it as stress-free as possible,” she explains.

With Mike Pero Mortgages, Sue has access to a range of lenders to offer a solution for many types of customers and a range of providers to assist with life, mortgage, home and contents insurances and income protection.

Whether you’re based in Wellington or beyond, take control of your future with Susan Taylor.

To learn more about how Susan can help, call 027 284 7934 or visit mikepero.co.nz/susan-taylor today.

Lending and policy criteria and terms and conditions apply.

Disclosure Statement free on request or at www.mikepero.co.nz

Ban on interest deductibility hits rental market

Once 100 percent of interest could be claimed by residential landlords, but that is now being incrementally phased out. Currently at 75 percent, that moves to 50 percent on April 1, to 25 percent on April 1, 2024, and then to zero on April 1, 2025.

Stressfree Selling? - Call Katie

My experience with buying, selling and renovating homes gives me an insight into what you are experiencing and therefore the best way to work for your benefit.

Keeping my clients, whether vendor or buyer, fully informed from start to finish is paramount to me.

My business philosophy is a win for all involved - the vendor, the buyer and any other agent(s).

My 13 year career in real estate gives me the knowledge and experience to guide vendors and buyers through the process to a successful outcome for all. A background in risk management and conservation strategies provides a solid base to provide the best solution and to deal with any issues that arise.

Community is important and I’ve been involved in many activities including the local residents association, Zealandia and other community groups.

When you sell with me, vendors get to choose the charity I make a donation to upon a successful sale. Some of the lucky charities that have benefited have been DCM, the City Mission, Mary Potter Hospice, Forest and Bird, the Soup Kitchen and the Yellow-Eyed Penguin Trust.

As a Wellingtonian, who has had stints in London, Dunedin and Masterton, I know this city well and am committed to getting you the best deal possible whether you are upsizing, downsizing or investing.

AWARDS: 2020/2021 - Executive | 2017/2018 - Executive

His comments follow a survey, commissioned by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, which found that a quarter of landlords put up rents in the six months before May 2022. One of the big reasons for this was increased costs lumped on by the government.

“A key factor is landlords now not being able to claim their full interest costs as an expense. Alarmingly, that’s only going to get worse as interest rates increase and the policy rolls out to completion,” Tim says.

“Banning interest deductibility really seems to be both hurting and deterring ‘mum and dad’ landlords. Many of these people once viewed a rental property as a good investment. Now many of our ‘mum and dad’ investors are now either getting out of the residential rental market, or not considering it in the first place,” he says.

The Century 21 leader says the ongoing costs on landlords is seeing them direct their money and focus towards the likes of commercial property syndications, the share market, or even bank term deposits given the rising returns.

The right choice for your kitchen

Wright Kitchens are a bespoke family owned kitchen/joinery business based in Upper Hutt. Established in 2009 by Stu and Mel who are both exceptionally experienced within the joiner and design industry, they work closely with clients across the whole Wellington and Wairarapa Region.

Wright Kitchens works with a diverse range of clients including homeowners, commercial developers, builders and interior designers. They offer a full service experience from design through to supplying products, managing trades and the installation of joinery. The team works closely with each client and understands the importance of meeting your needs and vision.

They value listening to their customers, giving you what you want and working with you to make the best design.

Wright Kitchens pride themselves on seamless project management. No project is too big or too small and the team manages every project efficiently.

They say a simple kitchen makeover could give your space a new lease on life. Whether you are happy with some aspects of your current kitchen or want to renovate the entire space, Wright Kitchens can bring your vision to life.

From new doors for a minor kitchen makeover to a completely new room, the business offers functional yet stylish kitchen design all across the Wellington and Wairarapa region.

Custom wardrobes are able to be designed to fit into any space required, from a small fitted wardrobe through to a walk-in robe. The team will be able to guide you and advise what is best for your space.

Laundry renovations are another area of Wright Kitchens expertise. Their skills for laundry renovations include creating custom designed storage and appliance spaces to suit your needs and home. The team can help with measuring out wall hung or floor standing units for your bathroom vanities and create the luxury design space you desire.

Creating eye-catching joinery for your shop, office renovation or custom cabinetry for homes and businesses can also be discussed.

Wright Kitchens work with hand-picked, reliable tradesmen who are experts in their field. Plus, there is no need to shop around for kitchen products, as they can create or source everything you need. The business emphasises efficiency and a stress-free experience while renovating.

Opting for minimal stress and disruption, particularly while renovating, is something every homeowner dreams of. High quality products and service is at the core of the business. Wright Kitchens uses only high quality products that come with manufacturers guarantees for your peace of mind.

Wright Kitchens look forward to meeting you and delivering your dream space. Make sure to contact the team for a consultation on 04 528 6020 or through their website www.wrightkitchens.co.nz.

To find out more about Wright Kitchens visit www.wrightkitchens.co.nz or check out their Facebook page for photos of previous projects.

Wright Kitchens & Cabinetry

2/10 Nicolaus Street

Trentham

Welington 04 528 6020

www.wrightkitchens.co.nz

Getting around with Hutt and City Taxis

For over 86 years, Hutt and City Taxis have been on the roads, offering fast and friendly services. They offer professional transportation services throughout the Wellington area. Their team is up for any job, from big to small.

What really makes the team at Hutt and City Taxis stand out is their dedication, great prices and attention to detail. Wellington locals know the team stand behind their work, putting customer satisfaction as their number one priority. They’re known as the taxi service that cares. Hutt and City Taxis have always been innovators since their beginnings in 1932. They boast several big “firsts”. In the 1970’s, the company pioneered the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a fuel in vehicles, and opened New Zealand’s first public CNG filling station. In 1984, the company introduced New Zealand’s first taxi specifically outfitted and adapted for transporting disabled people. 2001 saw Hutt and City Taxis become the first taxi company in the Wellington region with GPS. These days, the company uses the latest communications and security systems in an efficient fleet of largely (80%) hybrid vehicles. Recent technology includes innovative mobile device applications showing the user where their nearest Hutt and City Taxi is in real time. Hutt and City Taxis can provide nine- and 10-seater vans.

All their vehicles are fitted with eftpos machines and all cabs are fitted with security cameras to continue their mission to keep safety at the forefront of what they do. The company’s fleet and drivers are checked and maintained not only to the normal national NZTA standards, but to the company’s own strict standards of presentation and safety.

Hutt and City Taxis remains proudly owned and operated by Hutt Valley locals. For more information and to book your next ride, visit www.huttcitytaxis.co.nz or call 04 570 0057.

I don’t want a fuss

Shortly after I began in this role I spoke to my parents about their wishes for a funeral.

“I don’t want a fuss,” said my mum. “And it’s so expensive,” dad added.

It’s a common refrain and as a newcomer to the industry was one I was initially challenged to respond to. But over the last few months I’ve come to understand why some kind of farewell is essential to those of us left behind.

Some of the early healing can help when you’re preparing for a funeral

Going through old photos and reminiscing and sharing stories can be a powerful way to remember the significance of the life of your loved one. There will be laughter as well as tears and it can be an important bonding time for your family.

An ‘event’ helps a family move through the grief process

The funeral ‘event’ can help you begin to acknowledge the reality that someone in your life has died. Grief is a biological reaction, and it can be externalised though the event – something that will help with your immediate and future mental wellbeing.

Funerals help us recall and remember

– and even learn about a loved one

How many times have you sat through a funeral eulogy and realised you didn’t know a certain fact about someone? Sharing unique memories and stories helps provide support to all those who attend.

They can involve people near and far

Many funeral homes now offer livestreaming of services reducing the cost and burden on physically attending.

Traditional, scripted services are no longer the norm

Modern funerals are personalised and can encompass whatever a family needs to help them farewell their loved one in a meaningful way. Venues these days, for instance, range from churches and chapels to sports clubs, theatres, or the local club. And families are encouraged to add their own touches and tributes – both to save money but to also make it meaningful for them.

Your needs are just as important as those of the person who died

Finally, people often think they must ‘respect a person’s wishes’. But what about your own? You’re the one left behind so it’s important for you and your own wellbeing that you get that chance to say goodbye, and to have support around you.

If you genuinely fear disrespecting their wishes, have ‘that’ conversation. It doesn’t have to be morbid or difficult – after all you’ll be talking to the person you love most, and they’ll understand you will need help to carry on without them.

Luckily, my parents were already planning to use a Funeral Directors Association member so I don’t have to have that conversation. But with my new found knowledge I’ve also been able to talk to them about what I need from the funeral itself. And at least a little bit of fuss is what’s right for me.

Caskets that care for

your family and our planet

Windsor Industries are casket manufacturers from Pahiatua, New Zealand. They strive to make the process of buying a casket just a little less hard, by caring for both New Zealand families and our beautiful environment in their work.

Love to your family…

Every family’s story is different. Windsor work hard to make sure there is an option for everyone within their range. They have the largest range of premium caskets in New Zealand, all made with love by their expert craftsmen. Their range accommodates:

Budget: whether you want to show your respect with a premium casket, or you are looking for something more affordable, Windsor has casket options for you.

Style: caskets range from timeless to modern, classic to colourful. There are cultural options and custom options.

Culture: Windsor offers three caskets with cultural designs. The Dorset Pāua Kowhaiwhai and Pāua Contemporary caskets use NZ Pāua in their designs. The Waka Moenga is a beautiful rosewood finish casket, hand-carved by authentic Māori carvers at the Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre’s Whare Whakairo (carving studio). It’s traditional Pūhoro design symbolises a speedy journey into the next realm.

Eco-friendly: Windsor’s Waterford range are New Zealand’s only caskets to be Environmental Choice NZ (ECNZ) accredited, meaning all timber used in these caskets is sourced from sustainable NZ forests. Best practises are used when felling and milling pine; adhesives, stains and sealers are all non-toxic; strict Health & Safety guidelines are met and waste-to-landfill and power consumption are minimised. Furthermore, the Waterford and Dorset ranges are suitable for natural burials.

Love to our planet …

In addition to Windsor’s ECNZ accreditation and their natural burial options, Windsor works to care for our environment through:

Reclaimed River Rimu: This timber has been lying at the bottom of streams and rivers since the first NZ settlers harvested the Rimu. These logs never made it to the mills; instead they laid under water for 100 years or more. During this time, they have taken on the greyish green hues of the stream.

Now, the timber is recovered and dried, ready for Windsor’s beautiful River Rimu caskets. They are the only casket manufacturers to use this reclaimed Rimu.

Recycled Solid Timber: Some of the Rimu harvested in NZ cannot be used in the building industry because it is too knotty. It is beautiful timber with a lot of character. This waste product is recycled to make their toxin-free Recycled Rimu Dorset caskets.

Fire Briquettes: Windsor have invested in special equipment that compresses their waste timber shavings into wood briquettes, to be used as firewood. These are 100% natural timber and non-toxic.

Supporting Trees That Count: Windsor Industries are supporting the replanting of many natives trees by working with “Trees That Count” to donate a native tree as a living memorial for each of the families who choose one of Windsor’s solid timber caskets. These trees are planted in NZ reserves on behalf of the families of the deceased. Since 2020, Windsor have funded over 1000 living memorials.

Check out the Windsor range online at windsorindustries.co.nz or call 06 376 6499 to chat to one of the team.

Windsor Industries do not sell direct to the end user. Ask your local funeral director about acquiring one of these caskets.

Windsor Industries is the only casket manufacturer in NZ to hold an Environmental Choice NZ licence. This was awarded to the Waterford Sustainable pine range with its non-toxic water-based finishes.

Buying a casket for you or your loved one can be a very emotional experience. Everyone has a story and saying our final goodbyes with a vessel as beautiful as the life lived is a wonderful way to honour that.

with love to your family & generations to come

At Windsor Industries, we work hard to care for our people and our planet, to make sure buying a casket can be a meaningful experience for you, your loved ones, and generations to come.

The highest standard of care

Our modern facilities, new technology, experienced staff and personal service ensure you receive the highest possible standard of care. Our reputation comes from our experienced Funeral Directors and support staff who are dedicated to ensuring families have peace of mind at a difficult time.

When a loved one dies, there are a lot of decisions to be made and legal requirements to be met. Lychgate can help you through this and make the funeral arrangements stress-free.

When the time comes and you need our help, we’re here. If you want to get prepared ahead of time, whether for yourself or a loved one, we’re here. When you need caring expertise from professionals, we’re here.

Call Lychgate on 04 3850745 or learn more on our website: www.lychgate.co.nz.

Meet our team

Stu Print, Location Manager and Funeral Director, was born and bred in the Manawatu but has lived in Wellington for over a decade. He has already had two careers, first as a sharemilker and then as a Church Minister. Stu entered the funeral industry in 2019 where he loves being able to care for grieving families at a hard time. Stu is calm, flexible and listens well. He lives in Aro Valley with his wife, loves

exploring Wellington’s cafés, tasting craft beers and Single Malt Scotch Whisky, and watching his beloved Philadelphia Eagles.

Stu’s team of Funeral Directors is made up of Brad Dittmer-Cusin, Mary Little and Kerry Hight.

Brad was raised in Upper Hutt and has a background in retail and travel. He enjoys helping families create a memorable and meaningful service to farewell a loved one. In his spare time, he likes trying new foods, sampling gins, and is kept busy by his two cats and two dogs.

Mary grew up in Dunedin but now calls Pōneke home. She came to funeral directing as a career change after over a decade in Communications. She loves helping people in a practical way and making a difficult time a little bit easier. When she’s not working Mary writes short stories and performs spontaneous theatre and stand-up comedy.

Originally from the UK, Kerry has been living in New Zealand for 15 years. Before joining Lychgate she worked part-time in the funeral industry while also working as an in-home support carer. She loves the variety of funeral work, where no two days are the same. Outside of work, Kerry is kept busy by three kids and two dogs. She enjoys live music and festivals, camping and road trips, and spending time with her family.

The newest member of our team is KJ, our Administrator. With a background in hospitality, plus two young kids, KJ has finely honed organisational skills and an eye for the little details that make a big difference. She loves finding solutions for people and keeping our office running smoothly.

Lychgate Funerals has been part of Wellington’s heritage since 1876. Today, we have modern funeral homes providing full funeral services to Wellington City and surrounding suburbs.

Providing world-class healthcare is our priority Te Whanganui-a-Tara.

- Wakefield Hospital

- Bowen Hospital

- Bowen Icon Cancer Centre

- Proactive Physiotherapy

- Proactive Workplace Health

We pride ourselves on the exceptional outcomes we deliver to everyone in our care.

AM Janssen

Annemarie (AM) Janssen delivers amazing results for all her clients at Harcourts. She has a deep empathy for those wanting to take the next step in their chapter. Annemarie understands the current social pressures such as cost of living prices and that families may be looking to downsize their family home to reduce stress during this time.

She understands the family home is a special place filled with many memories, so it can be hard to make the decision to move. AM is committed to supporting all her clients through this process and getting them into their new home to enjoy.

Annemarie works alongside many older vendors and says she enjoys helping people with the next step. If this is the first time you’ve sold the long-term family home in decades, AM is skilled at understanding the current market to give you the best deal.

She is also a consistent award winner at Harcourts, constantly exceeding her targets. She will ensure your house is sold with the highest quality services and support.

AM is your number one choice for moving property from Porirua to Pukerua Bay. She has superior communication and skills which will exceed your expectations.

As well as a passion for the northern suburbs, Annemarie has a quality and understanding of the area where you can expect nothing less than amazing real estate service quality.

She says, “I put my sales success down to a clientfocused approach.” She is creative and unafraid to think outside the box when selling or finding homes for families.

AM has a devoted work ethic and is committed to meeting her client’s goals in property, no matter what this looks like. Ultimately, she goes above and beyond what her clients would ever expect of her for real estate.

Establishing your home buying and selling goals is where AM will start with all her clients. Whether this is a family home or a smaller home, there is nothing AM can’t support her clients with.

Previously, Annemarie was an owner of a successful recruitment agency and has a history of providing clients with her honest and fresh perspective through a ‘client first’ philosophy.

She believes in this fast-paced market, communication is still key for meeting targets and building strong relationships.

One of her previous clients said, “We enjoyed working with AM. She made the process easy and stress free and kept up with updates throughout the process”.

Whether you are looking to sell your home or want to find out more information about the next steps ahead, make sure to get in contact with Annemarie.

She is available to have a consultation to discuss your next steps. Annemarie wants her potential clients to know that no matter the decision of downsizing or selling the long-term family home, she will be there to support her clients through the process.

To find out more make sure to email Annemarie on am.janssen@harcourts.co.nz or give her a phone on 021 461 131.

We enjoyed working with AM. She made the process easy and stress free and kept up with updates throughout the process.