From Bush to Coast: A New Chapter at Orion Point

After over 50 years in a secluded 1930s bush-surrounded bungalow, John Staniland and his wife Karen made a surprising move to Orion Point, Metlifecare’s retirement village in Hobsonville.
“The forest has been my whole life,” John reflects. “There was a time I thought I’d never leave.”

The decision wasn’t made lightly. Location, landscape, and connection to the area were key. John researched thoroughly—studying aerial photos before construction and visiting the site himself.
“We essentially traded our inland forest for coastal vegetation, and we love it.”
Staying close to nature was essential. Their former home sat at the end of a 1.5 km gravel road, with no neighbors in sight. At Orion Point, they found a different but equally rewarding natural setting, with views of the inlet, mangroves, manuka, and mapau trees.

John has embraced the unexpected joys of village life. From his villa, he delights in birdwatching—especially a pair of nesting kingfishers. Living near a coastal walkway, he often sees people walking by, which is a striking contrast to the solitude he once knew.
“It really surprised me,” he says. “We went from hardly seeing anyone to
people walking by daily.
We’ve even made a few friends. Turns out I’m more sociable than I thought!”
Proximity to conservation work was another drawcard. As founding Chair of the Waitākere Branch of Forest & Bird, John remains active in projects at Matuku Reserve and Matuku Link in the Waitākere River Valley.

Since moving, he’s joined Habitat Hobsonville, helping restore native habitats. He’s also planting pūriri trees along the estuary to attract native birds—particularly kererū.
“If you plant enough, they will come,” he says, hopeful to recreate the rich birdlife they once enjoyed."