A perfect match

Bupa Foxbridge Retirement Village resident Ellie and her son Mike worked together to find Ellie her perfect match for retirement village living.

“After my husband died, I decided I needed to move from Katikati to be closer to my family in Hamilton,” says Ellie, a resident at Bupa Foxbridge Retirement Village in Hamilton. “I drew up a spreadsheet and researched all the villages that appealed to me in Hamilton and nearby Cambridge. My son Mike took me round all the retirement villages in my search for my dream village; he was incredibly supportive and really wanted me to be happy with my choice.”

“I was involved from the moment Mum started to consider a move to a retirement village,” says Mike. “She had some clear requirements such as location, independent living, villa life and a pleasant environment and community to live in. She was also particularly selective about the feeling of the staff and the way they related to us during our initial visit, and the other members of the village community we observed.”

“We used Mum’s spreadsheet to compare the villages we visited, analyse investment costs as well as weekly fees, and what we liked or disliked about the village itself, including its overall feel and presentation.”

Bupa Foxbridge Retirement Village “ticked all the boxes” says Ellie. “Firstly, I liked the location but, when I was shown through a villa and saw the beautiful view right outside the window, onto the racecourse, I fell in love. On the other side was another green park. The villa was modern and welcoming. I had made my decision.”

“As equestrian enthusiasts, one of the highlights was without a doubt the villa mum was considering, with its view over Te Rapa Racecourse and how it connected with our lives,” says Mike.

“The size of the village also had a big impact on my decision,” says Ellie. “Foxbridge was not too huge and scary – it was just perfect. Mike was also happy that I would have family support close by.”

“Our initial attraction to Bupa Foxbridge was the beautiful grounds and gardens, and how well they were maintained,” says Mike. “The buildings themselves were also in good repair and appeared well looked after.” Being greeted by friendly, relatable staff who were quick to gain a rapport with both Mike and Ellie put them both at ease, he says.

“The village coordinator and the team put me right at ease from the initial meeting and Mum quickly connected with some of the other staff members who went above and beyond to make Mum’s move into her villa, and the village, as seamless as possible. There was also a good amount of community activities on offer, as well as easy access for me to visit any time.”

“I am blessed to have such a kind, caring son,” says Ellie. “He has helped me find my way around all the new motorways in Hamilton, calls regularly, and takes time out from his busy day to make sure I’m okay.”

“I love living at Bupa Foxbridge. It’s away from the hustle and bustle of traffic, yet still accessible to all my needs; supermarket, doctor, shops etc. and, of course, I get to see my son regularly. He's a great support, even though I really value being independent. I join in the activities and appreciate all that the team here do for us. It's nice to have a hairdresser here too!”

“I’m very close to Mum and see her once or twice a week for coffee or dinner and a catch up,” says Mike. “We’ll sometimes pop down to the community lounge for a coffee or a wander around, where Mum also enjoys games of Rummikub, as well as catered events and the occasional wine tasting.”

“I feel very comfortable Mum is in a good place to enjoy many years ahead of retirement living.”