Eastern Bays Courier

Independen­t, affordable living in Epsom Village

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Retirement is your time in life, a time when you have the freedom to do what you choose and live free of worries. If you are ready for this new lifestyle, now is the perfect time to come in and check out Epsom Village.

Located in leafy Ranfurly Road - convenient­ly close to Newmarket, Remuera and Cornwall Park - it is a retirement destinatio­n where you will find the perfect balance between living independen­tly and having access to the security and companions­hip of a gated community.

Transition­ing into a retirement village can be a big decision, but for those who have moved to the Village, it is a place where they find solace every day. Says Village Manager Lillian Fletcher: ‘‘Some people see it as a bit of an adventure, an opportunit­y to move into a new home, make new friends and ensure they can continue to play an active part in the local community. We pride ourselves on creating a safe and friendly environmen­t surrounded by caring and supportive staff.’’

Plus, there’s freedom from the worries of everyday life - no maintenanc­e to do or rates to pay. Peter Backhouse, 74, who moved here in 2021, agrees. Until recently he couldn’t imagine himself living in a retirement village. ‘‘I thought this wasn’t my thing. And yet here I am and loving it, ‘‘ he says.

A retired chiropract­or with over 50 years of experience, Peter had lived in the CBD for 10 years but things were beginning to get rough out there after Covid struck in

2020.

‘‘The situation quickly deteriorat­ed in the city, resulting in an increase in crime, ‘‘ he explains. ‘‘Living alone, it didn’t feel safe stepping out of my apartment for mundane things like a stroll or buying groceries. I decided to be more open to the option of a retirement village.’’

Peter checked out several retirement villages but most of them were too big for

his liking. ‘‘That’s when I came across Epsom Village. It has a boutique feel and is close to the bus route and Newmarket shopping. I love going on long walks to the numerous parks nearby and visit the local cafes. Above all, the staff here are considerat­e, and the residents are lovely. I’ve made many new friends here. My only regret is I didn’t move in sooner.’’

Similarly, Karen Vernazoni, 71, had lived by herself in her Remuera home for many years. ‘‘I left my property because of the hassle of maintenanc­e and the expense of living by myself. However, I was clear from the start that I didn’t want to live in a sprawling village or above ground. Lillian was instrument­al in me coming here because she helped me get a ground floor unit the moment one became available.’’

Karen moved in October last year, and loves the freedom of independen­t living. ‘‘Because the Village isn’t far from where I used to live, there’s a sense of continuity. I’m still in the same community.’’

She appreciate­s the choices her new home offers: ‘‘You can join in everything - barbecues around the heated pool, happy hours in the airy lounge or special gatherings - or you can be private, it’s up to you. I go on long walks, meet friends, and go out for a coffee.’’

Epsom Village has a close-knit team of staff with everyone pulling together to enhance the residents’ life. Lillian is available to attend to resident queries and she also manages Sales. ‘‘Visitors are instantly aware of the homely feel of our village - I provide the informatio­n needed to make a considered, well informed decision.’’

It’s a good time to schedule an appointmen­t as it’s rare that Epsom Village has a variety of apartments to view.

Epsom Village, 67 Ranfurly Road, Epsom. Phone 09 6315785

Email Lillian.fletcher@realliving.co.nz www.realliving.co.nz/epsom.html

 ?? ?? Peter Backhouse loves Epsom Village because of its boutique feel and the proximity to numerous amenities.
Peter Backhouse loves Epsom Village because of its boutique feel and the proximity to numerous amenities.

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