Kia ora koutou
With the official start of spring now arrived, it’s been great to see lighter mornings and a bit more colour returning to our gardens (although it’s still a bit chilly). This change in season often brings a lift in energy, and I hope you’ll find moments to enjoy the warmer days as they arrive.
I have some important updates to share this month. First, there are a few changes across our village portfolio which came into effect from 1 September, and some of you may now have a new Community Manager. If so, please do take a moment to introduce yourself when they next visit your village – I know they’re looking forward to getting to know you and supporting village life.
Also, as we head into summer and the Christmas period, I encourage you all to take a moment to ensure that we have your current next of kin information on file. If this has changed or needs updating, please let your Community Manager know as soon as you can. It’s important that we have accurate details for you in case we ever need to contact someone on your behalf.
With Election 2026 approaching, I'd like to take this opportunity to remind you about an important change this year. You must enrol – or update your address if you’ve moved – by Sunday, 25 October. Voting opens the next day, on Monday 26 October. You will not be able to enrol when you go to vote. If you are not enrolled by 25 October, you will not be able to vote in this year’s election. Election Day is Saturday, 7 November, but it’s important that you update your details now. You can enrol, check your details, or update your information at www.vote.nz or call 0800 36 76 56.
Don’t forget that entries for our first Christmas Card Competition are open until 16 October 2026. We’re inviting designs for this year’s festive card, which will be shared across all villages and with our wider partners. Entries can be emailed to info@haumaruhousing.co.nz or handed to your Community Manager. Please include your name and village. Any medium is welcome. The winning design will receive a $250 Prezzy Card, and the artist will work with The Selwyn Foundation marketing team to prepare the final card for printing at the end of November. We’re very much looking forward to seeing your creative, authentic designs that reflect our Haumaru values.
Finally, 1 October marks the International Day of Older Persons, a global celebration recognising the contribution of older people and asks questions about ageism in our society. This year’s theme, The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives, is a timely reminder of the importance of creating communities where people can age well in their own homes and thrive at every stage of life.
Wishing you all a bright and steady start to spring.
Ngā manaakitanga
Olivia Poulsen
Chief Executive
Thanks to a great idea put forward by Lancaster Court villager Michael, everyone enjoyed an inspiring day of games and activities recently as well as an opportunity for some friendly banter and neighbourly competition. While Michael organised an array of indoor board games, Community Manager Trudi coordinated the bingo and put on outdoor games such as cornhole, pétanque and bowls on the lawn of the community house. With chocolates to be won as prizes and sandwiches, tea, coffee and biscuits to keep everyone’s energy up, it was a wonderful day of fun, laughter and village togetherness.
Representatives of Rawiri Community House visited Ōtara Court recently, distributing food parcels for everyone who attended. Tenants were also gifted beautifully crocheted ponchos and beanies. These were so lovely that tenants asked if Rawiri might put on a workshop for them, so they could learn the art of crochet, too. Rawiri Trust are now delivering this in the village hall every Friday morning. Thank you Rawiri for everything you do for our community!
Nestled in the heart of Pakuranga, Marriott Court is one of our smaller villages, with just eight units, but it’s a warm, welcoming and close-knit community where the sixteen tenants truly know and care about each another. Home to people from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, the village celebrates diversity and fosters a strong sense of belonging. With a peaceful village atmosphere, it has easy access to local amenities, and the new Eastern Busway in development will make connectivity even better. Perhaps what truly sets Marriott Court apart, however, is its people. The strong friendships and welcoming spirit create a place where everyone feels safe and valued – where community isn’t just encouraged but is part of everyday life.
Our community at Torbay Flats has recently started a regular morning coffee get-together, held in their pergola at the centre of the village. As well as good conversation in great company, the catch-ups often inspire new ideas and suggestions on various ways the village grounds and amenities might be further enhanced. A few of the tenants are pictured with their Community Manager Jacquie, who’s always happy to take their innovative ideas on board.