March 2026

Kia ora koutou

It’s a privilege to introduce myself to you as the new Chief Executive of Haumaru Housing. I’m really looking forward to being part of an organisation with such a strong sense of public service and a clear focus on positive community outcomes for older people, particularly at a time of real growth opportunity.

I’ve greatly appreciated the warm welcome I’ve received from everyone, including at the mihi whakatau on my first day which was a very special experience. In these first few weeks, I’ve been enjoying getting to know our Haumaru teams and visiting some of our villages – it’s been a real highlight to be shown around and to meet many of you. I’m very much looking forward to continuing these visits over the coming months and spending more time in our village communities.

Haumaru Housing is known as a trusted provider of quality services for older people, and I wish to acknowledge the Haumaru team for the positive impact they have across our villages every day. I’d also like to acknowledge some key milestones that have been celebrated recently by individual staff members: Community Managers Lei and Nicky have marked their eight- and five-year anniversaries with us respectively. Each has made an important contribution to our communities through their dedication and genuine care for tenants. My congratulations, both.

We are also fortunate to have several long-serving staff: Community Services Operations Manager Mirela, Community Manager Lisa and Placements Manager Linda have been with us since we started operations in 2017, while Credit Controller Kay started not long afterwards, in 2018. Milestones like these reflect the experience and knowledge that underpin our work throughout the year. Many congratulations also to Community Manager Malia, who has recently graduated with a degree in Social Work and is now a registered Social Worker. This is a significant achievement and further reflection of staff dedication to supporting our tenants and communities.

I look forward to getting out and about and meeting many more of you soon.

Noho ora mai

Olivia Poulsen

Chief Executive

Health advice on your doorstep

Our villagers in the west have enjoyed some special attention from the Waipareira Trust team this month, courtesy of visits by the Trust’s health mobile clinics. Waipareira provides a range of holistic services for whānau of all ages in the West Auckland areas. Along with friendly kōrero and some kai, their nurses offered:

• free health checks (eg, blood pressure, blood glucose, weight checks and general health assessments)

• health education and brief consultations

• referral support to primary and community health services.

We greatly appreciate that Waipareira Trust have extended their services to us in this way, and we look forward to collaborating further so our tenants can continue to access holistic care and support from the comfort of their homes.

Staying safe indoors and out

Mangere Bridge’s Bridge Court and Topping Court (Mangere East) villagers recently enjoyed informative presentations by ADT Security on medical alarms. Tenants were able to see first-hand how the alarms work, the various security features and what services can be accessed through the system. Alarms can also be used when you’re not at home, providing extra piece of mind should anything happen. Medical alarms are fully funded by the Government and are very straightforward to apply for. Speak to your Community Manager if you would like further information on staying safe when you’re indoors and out.

Easy power-saving techniques (that will still keep you cozy)

Now that autumn’s here, our few simple power-saving tips will help you trim your power bill without feeling the cold: 

• Shut doors to rooms you’re not using, and close curtains as soon as it gets dark.
• Let sunshine in during the day, then close up before the evening chill.
• Warm yourself first: an extra layer, slippers and a cozy blanket go a long way.
• Heat one room well instead of the whole home (where you can).
• Heat pump tip: a steady, moderate setting often works better than blasting it on high.
• Shorter showers save a surprising amount of power.
• Cold wash laundry when you can, and wait for a full load.
• Boil only what you need in the kettle (just enough for your cup).
• Switch off at the wall (where safe) to stop standby power.

Quick safety reminder: please don’t use outdoor heaters or BBQs inside your unit, and keep heaters well away from curtains and bedding.

Energy-saving tips were also on the menu at a BBQ hosted by our contractors NZF at Massey’s Flagstaff Court on 11 February. As part of the event, they gave a short presentation on tips for reducing power in the home to help save energy and costs. 

On a similar heating theme, Birkdale Court residents would like to say a big ‘thank you’ to North Harbour Rotary for their recent gifts of 20 electric hot water bottles.

A warm welcome for Haumaru’s new CEO

The historic Tātai Hono Marae next-door to the Haumaru offices in Grafton was the setting for the mihi whakatau to welcome new Chief Executive Olivia Poulsen on Monday, 16 March.

Selwyn Foundation Board member, Right Reverend Bishop Te Kitohi Pikaahu, Anglican Bishop of Te Tai Tokerau, delivered a karakia and brief mihi at the start of the proceedings.

Olivia is pictured (left) with Haumaru’s partner representatives: Auckland Council’s Rachel Wilson, Principal Advisor (CCO Governance and External Partnerships), and Denise Cosgrove (right), Chief Executive of The Selwyn Foundation.

Out and about 

Tenants from villages around the North Shore made the most of the lovely late summer weather, enjoying trips out and about in the Selwyn minivans. 

On 10 March, Takapuna, Devonport and Northcote villagers enjoyed their day trip to Muriwai beach and to the golf club for lunch.

Greenslade Court villagers tested their putting skills at the updated LILLIPUTT mini golf course on Tamaki Drive on 24 February, before trying out its fantastic new cafe.

If you’re concerned about an immediate threat to life or property, call the emergency services on 111.