What's New

Independent Advice Choosing A Retirement Village.

Working solely for you. Not for the Retirement Village or provider.
Helping you:
• Understand the options and choices.
• Make sense of the terms and conditions being offered.
• Understand the upfront and ongoing costs.
• Arrange tours and accompany you to appointments.
• Make informed comparisons.
• Create a personalized plan to move forwards.
Do you want to make this important next move with confidence?
Not sure where to start?
Talk to Carmel today.
Mobile: 0272276356
Email carmel@nextstepinfo.co.nz

Start with a conversation and take the Next Step with confidence.

Palmerston North Market Report March 2026

“Owner-occupiers and first home buyers were the most active buyer groups. There were declines in investor engagement across the region due to the current economic situation.

Most vendors were prepared to meet market conditions, with those who did generally securing a sale within six weeks. Attendance at open homes fluctuated throughout the month, with newer listings attracting stronger interest. Auction campaigns were less widely used as a method of sale, However, properties marketed by auction achieved some success where this approach was used.

Factors such as the economy, rising fuel prices, cost-of living pressures, inflation, and uncertainty surrounding the conflict in the Middle East impacted market sentiment.” Market Commentary Source - Lizzy Ryley, REINZ

Swimates- Disposable swimming continence $54.99

Swimates offer disposable swimming options in sizes Small to XXL- these contain faecal matter while you continue to enjoy swimming and other water activities. Why stop activities that bring you joy and health!
We also stock washable options instore and, on our website, - follow the link or get in touch to find out more.

https://www.nursemaudehealthandmobilityshop.co.nz/?s=swim

Haven Care - Chinese language brochures available

Haven Care is pleased to share that our new Chinese language brochures are now available to support our Cantonese and Mandarin speaking communities. You can view or download them at www.havencare.co.nz.

We provide compassionate in-home care, with caregivers who speak Cantonese, Mandarin, and English. Our team understands the importance of familiar routines, values, and can provide both Chinese and Western meals as part of daily support.

We carefully match clients with caregivers based on individual needs and preferences, prioritising consistent care from familiar staff to build trust and connection.

Our services include:
 Personal Care - showering, grooming, mobility support, continence care
 Companionship – reading, chats, walks, games
 Errands and appointments - accompanied or unaccompanied
 Meal preparation and light housework – cooking, laundry, cleaning
 Medication reminders and support
 Early-stage dementia support
 Post-operative recovery
 Respite care – timeout for family caregivers (regular or occasional care)
 Nursing

With flexible care plans, from occasional help to full support, we’re here when you’re ready: 09 243 7088 or email us at care@havencare.co.nz

Find out more about us

Annual Hearing Reviews!

Whether you’re a hearing aid user, or just keeping on top of your hearing, regular hearing reviews are a great idea. Our audiology team recommend most people would benefit from annual hearing reviews.
Do you wear hearing aids, or work in a noisy environment? Is your good hearing crucial to your line of work? Do a large number of your relatives wear hearing aids?

If you’re answering yes to any of these questions, read on to find out more about getting a Hearing Review at Hearing Auckland.

WHAT IS A HEARING REVIEW?
A Hearing Review appointment at Hearing Auckland is a hearing test and discussion appointment. We call it a ‘review’ because these appointments are for clients who’ve already had a hearing test at least once before. Your hearing can change over time, so it’s important to regularly check on it, the same way you do with the rest of your health.

SHOULD I GET HEARING REVIEWS?
Hearing aid users should come in to see their audiologist once a year. Our audiologists Mani and Peter recommend annual hearing reviews to ensure you get the most out of your hearing aids. If your hearing or lifestyle have changed since your last visit, we can adjust the settings of your hearing aids. If you feel like your hearing aids are too quiet, or not as useful as they once were in noisy environments, it might be time for a hearing review to update your hearing aid levels. At your appointment we can also help with maintenance and cleaning of your hearing aids. Hearing reviews are also great for early detection of any faults with your hearing aids. Most hearing aids come with a 3 year warranty, so it’s great to identify any repairs that are required within your warranty period.

HEARING REVIEWS FOR THOSE WITHOUT HEARING AIDS
There are lots of reasons why you might benefit from a hearing review even if you don’t wear hearing aids:
- Do you work in a noisy environment such as a bar, factory or construction site?
- Do you rely on your hearing for your work or hobbies?
- Do you have a family history of hearing loss?
- Have you noticed yourself turning up the volume on your devices recently?
- Has it been a while since your last hearing test?

If any of these are ringing true for you, it might be time to book a Hearing Review at Hearing Auckland. Having a strong history of hearing information can also help if you need to apply for any hearing-related funding in the future. ACC claims or applying for hearing aid funding in the future may be easier with historical hearing reports to support your claim.

READ MORE ON OUR WEBSITE HERE: https://www.hearingauckland.co.nz/hearing-reviews

Whether you’re a new client or an existing client; a hearing aid user or not, we have hearing appointments at Hearing Auckland to help you with your hearing journey.

To book Hearing Reviews, Free Hearing Screenings or Diagnostic Hearing Assessments you can call us, send us an email, or use our online booking form.

(09) 524 9847
info@hearingauckland.org.nz
www.hearingauckland.co.nz

Read more on our blog!

NEED HELP DOWNSIZING OR GETTING READY TO SELL?

If you are ready to downsize or selling your home and need assistance, Sort Out Service are here to help with planning, hands-on work and organising donation packing, pick-ups, moving companies, cleaning, gardening and so much more.
Give us a call to discuss your project 021 227 3345.

Find out more

What is Total Body Imaging?

Keeping track of changes on your skin is one of the best ways to catch concerns early. Total Body Imaging (TBI) gives our clinicians a detailed, full‑skin record using high‑resolution photography and advanced AI, helping us detect and monitor new or changing moles.

TBI is included in all mole mapping appointments at Skin Clinic Taranaki, and can be added to skin checks if you’d like a more in‑depth look at your skin health. It’s quick, comfortable, and especially helpful for people with lots of moles or anyone wanting extra reassurance.

If you’re due for a check, now’s a great time to book. Mole mapping appointments include TBI, giving you a clearer picture of your skin and peace of mind.

- 06 281 1698
- reception@skinclinictaranaki.co.nz
- www.skinclinictaranaki.co.nz

Click here to book your appointment

How Live-in Care Helps Couples Stay Together

After decades of marriage, facing a health decline can feel overwhelming – not just for the person needing care, but for their devoted partner who suddenly finds themselves in the role of primary carer. If this resonates with your situation, you’re not alone, and there’s hope for preserving both your wellbeing and your precious relationship.

The Hidden Struggle of Caring Partners
Caring for a spouse is often described as the ultimate act of love, but the reality can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Many caring partners report feeling like they’re losing themselves in the process – no longer a husband or wife, but simply “the carer.” The person you fell in love with is still there, but your relationship has become overshadowed by care tasks, worry, and fatigue.

This transformation affects both partners. The person receiving care may feel guilty about the burden they’ve placed on their spouse, while the caring partner often experiences what experts call “compassion fatigue” – a gradual reduction in empathy and emotional availability caused by prolonged stress and exhaustion.

When Love Isn’t Enough
“I love them with all my heart, but I’m just so tired” – this sentiment is expressed by thousands of caring spouses every day. The harsh reality is that love alone isn’t enough to sustain 24/7 caregiving without support. Carer stress and burnout are significant risk factors, not just for the carer’s health, but for the quality of care they can provide.

Perhaps you recognise these signs in yourself:
- Feeling overwhelmed and questioning your ability to keep helping
- Exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest
- Irritability or reduced patience with your partner
- Feeling isolated from friends and family
- Physical symptoms like headaches, sleep disturbances, or muscle tension
- Rediscovering Your Partnership
- Live-in care offers a unique solution that addresses both partners’ needs. Rather than replacing your role, professional live-in care supports it, allowing you to return to being a loving spouse rather than a full-time carer.

Imagine having your morning coffee together again without worrying about medication schedules. Picture enjoying a conversation that isn’t dominated by care concerns. Think about sleeping peacefully, knowing your partner is safe and that professional help is just a room away if needed.

This isn’t about giving up or admitting defeat – it’s about recognising that getting help preserves what matters most: your relationship, your wellbeing, and your loved one’s dignity.

Real Benefits for Both Partners
Caring partners often report that live-in care gives them back their energy and patience. They can once again enjoy quality time with their spouse – sharing meals, watching favourite programs, or simply holding hands without the weight of care responsibilities.

For the person receiving care, having a professional caregiver can actually increase their independence. They’re less likely to feel guilty about asking for help and may feel more comfortable discussing certain health concerns with a trained professional rather than burdening their spouse.

Find out more about Dovida's live-in care

Live-in care with Dovida

Easter Celebrations

The Annual Easter Carnival was celebrated here at Terence Kennedy House this easter

Karina Goes Green

Karina Lifecare embraced St Patrick’s Day with green decorations, dress-ups, and a fun, festive atmosphere throughout the home.

It was a great opportunity to bring a bit of colour and humour into the day, with residents and staff enjoying the chance to celebrate together and do something a little different.

You May Have A Will, But Is It The Right One?

Many people recognise the importance of having a will, yet it is common to put off signing one until “later” — a time that often never comes.

Your will sets out who will manage your affairs after you pass away and who will inherit your assets. It can also include the assignment of important powers and responsibilities, burial wishes, guardianship appointments, and more. Even small wording choices can have significant consequences, and standard templates or generated documents might not reflect your individual circumstances.

Preparing a will is not simply a matter of filling in a form. It involves making considered decisions about your future and the people you care about. Taking the time to explore your options, and seeking appropriate advice, can give you confidence that your will properly reflects your intentions and will stand up when it matters most. At LOA Law we believe this deserves careful thought and planning, resulting in effective and smooth administration of your estate.

Whether you choose LOA Law or another trusted legal adviser, we encourage you to review your will, before it is too late, to ensure everything is in place to achieve the outcomes you want.

Learn more about writing a will

Give it a go week

You’re invited to experience the benefits of life at Remuera Gardens for yourself.
Come along, meet the community and take part in a range of activities designed to keep you active, connected and inspired. From Chair Yoga and Aqua Aerobics to Croquet, Art classes, Indoor bowls and Bingo. It’s a wonderful way to explore something new.

Give it a go week

Save $30 on your Enduring Powers of Attorney!

Save $30 on your Enduring Powers of Attorney!
If you’ve got a SuperGold card, you’re eligible for a $30 discount on the cost of setting up your Enduring Power of Attorney with Public Trust.

Simply book an appointment or use the offer code GOLD30 when creating your EPA online. It’s a smart way to plan ahead and save.

Start your EPA online today