Full steam ahead

Graham and his wife Marie were the very first residents at Ashford Retirement Village, purchasing their new home in March 2021.

“We liked Ashford because of its location and low maintenance lifestyle,” says Graham. “It’s just 500 metres from shops, the bus stop and medical facilities, and in Prebbleton there’s a supermarket, pharmacy, dentist, optometrist, audiologist – and more! We also really liked the layout of the village, with plenty of space between each villa.”

Prior to moving to Bupa, Graham and Marie lived in Blacks Point – a small village near Reefton on the West Coast, for 21 years. Marie’s health issues triggered a conversation with their local GP, who suggested they move somewhere with access to better medical care and public transport, given neither were available in their current hometown.

Sadly, Marie passed away five months after she and Graham moved to the village. Having been married for 62 years, Graham found himself fostering new friendships and connections both in and out of the village, attending clubs in the community and heading off on village outings.

“I keep myself busy day to day by using the gym, going on outings to Prebbleton to see all the building taking place, and always look forward to Friday happy hour with friends I’ve made here,” says Graham. “I don’t feel lonely – I have good neighbours, and family nearby. I also have three meals a week with friends in the community lounge here, I like that I can get a hot meal for just $12!”

Describing himself as a ‘club person’, Graham was delighted to discover that on purchasing a villa at Ashford Retirement Village, he received a membership to Hornby Club. “I head to Hornby Club every Thursday for a few beers and the raffles – I won three raffles one night!” he laughs, while also acknowledging how much he enjoys sharing the spoils with fellow residents.

One of nine children, Graham grew up in Prebbleton, before a career as a steam engine driver for New Zealand Railways and the Belfast Freezing Works – “46 years in total playing trains!” he jokes. Living at Ashford Retirement Village Graham has found himself coming full circle, heading along to ‘Friends of Prebbleton’ once a month, where he catches up with friends old and new.

Father to two sons and a daughter, Graham also has three granddaughters and two grandsons who he says come to visit him regularly.

When asked his top tip for ageing well, without breaking stride, Graham’s response is simple – ‘Looking after my health – and making use of the gym!’