Experiencing NZ’s best in seniors’ living

The NZ tour, co-hosted by One Fell Swoop’s Managing Director Christopher Rooke, Senior Marketing Director Alice Murray, and National Sales Director Rob Macpherson, alongside Downsizing’s Amanda Graham, Bernie Holz, and Matt Cernoch, offered participants a unique opportunity to explore best practices in senior living across the Tasman.

The 7-day tour featured visits to some of New Zealand’s most progressive senior living communities, coupled with the warm hospitality the country is known for. Starting in Auckland and continuing through to Christchurch, the group enjoyed excellent dining and accommodation while attending presentations from industry leaders.

The event kicked off with a half-day conference chaired by Christopher Rooke, where Amanda Graham, CEO of Downsizing.com.au, delivered the welcome address. Keynote speakers from both New Zealand and Australia shared their insights into the evolving landscape of senior living, creating an enriching platform for learning and discussion.

Delegates toured a wide range of senior living communities, including Ranfurly Village, Selwyn Village, and Knightsbridge Village operated by Arena Living. The tour also explored older and newly developed communities by major New Zealand operators, including Summerset, which offers a combination of independent living and higher care services, as well as industry-leading dementia care.

One of the highlights was a visit to Arvida’s innovative community, which is built around the ‘Good Friends’ philosophy, emphasising connection and shared experiences. The tour showcased both urban and rural settings, with communities making the most of New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes and city life alike.

The tour provided participants the chance to connect with peers from various fields, including development, marketing and operations. With a focus on innovation in senior living, delegates returned home with fresh ideas and valuable knowledge, ready to enhance their own projects and initiatives.

This curated study tour demonstrated the power of collaboration and learning across borders, providing a window into how New Zealand is leading the way in senior living and aged care.