Summer fun at Wharekaka

A grandstand view of events is just one of the benefits of Wharekaka Aged Care Community’s central Martinborough location.  Last month residents,  under the shade of Wharekaka’s trees, cheered on elite cyclists in the Martinborough leg of the NZ Cycle Classic.

It was great fun. It was a sunny day so we had a lunchtime barbecue and gave residents bells to ring every time the cyclists sped by. They loved it.”  says Wharekaka Activities Co-ordinator Maggie Westergren.

Watching Cruise Martinborough, with its stately parade of classic cars and hot rods, is also a favourite event for residents, she says.

One of Maggie’s most popular activities for fitter, more mobile residents is the Friday afternoon drive. Depending on the weather she will pack afternoon tea or ice creams, and take a small group of residents out in the Wharekaka van to scenic spots such as Greytown Park, Morrison’s Bush or the Putangirua Pinnacles Reserve.  

       Charged with running a programme that keeps Wharekaka residents, with their wide range of needs, safely active and entertained year round, Maggie says local involvement has been invaluable. She oversees a full programme, including pilates classes by Jane Flowerday, craft classes, a regular quiz, and group singing or musical entertainment. 

“Last month the Wharekaka Auxiliary held a picnic lunch for residents as part of their regular activities.  And we often have local musicians who come and play the piano or lead the singing – which residents love. It’s great to be part of a community that is so involved.”     

Five years in the role, it’s clear Maggie still loves her job. “That’s thanks to the residents – they’re all such lovely people,” she says.