Putting down roots at Orion Point

Welcome to the first in a series of stories that share the experiences of residents at Metlifecare’s Orion Point. Hear how they came to be there, what shaped their choice of retirement village, and what life is like since making Orion Point their home.

With wide open green spaces, native plants, birdlife, and a coastal boardwalk right outside her door, moving to Orion Point was an easy decision for nature lover, Annette Rice.

Having spent the last 40 years living on large properties in West Auckland and surrounded by their favourite hiking tracks in the Waitākere Ranges, Orion Point’s spaciousness was a huge selling point for Annette and husband, Phil.

Being among the first residents to move into the village in September 2023, space is one thing the couple certainly got.

“At that time, the village was still being constructed – there was no amenities building or activities yet, just the early stages of what was to come. But it was really fascinating to watch it all being built up around us,” says Annette.

Now happily settled, Annette admits they weren’t always keen on the idea of retirement village living.

“A few years ago, if you’d asked us, we would’ve said ‘no way’. You have these preconceptions of what a retirement village is like – crowded, claustrophobic, or a bit dated. But Orion Point couldn’t be further from that. It doesn’t look or feel like a retirement village at all.”

“When I first saw the advertisement for Orion Point, and the surrounding area, I thought, ‘I could live there.’ And after visiting, I knew that I could really live here!”

Location was another deciding factor for Annette and Phil. They didn’t want to move too far from their friends, family, and the life they’d built. Plus, an easy commute to the city meant Annette could continue her conservation work with the Motutapu Restoration Trust, where she’s been volunteering for the past five years.

“Most Wednesdays, I catch the ferry from Hobsonville Point into the city, and from there head over to Motutapu Island. I spend the day planting two-metre trees, pulling weeds, or helping in the nursery. It’s hard work, but it keeps me fit!”

Since moving to Orion Point, Annette has also embraced new hobbies and interests. She’s taken up line dancing, Zumba Gold, and Aqua Zumba, enjoys quiz nights and Happy Hour, and has joined the garden club, where residents grow their own produce.

“One thing I missed from our previous home was my garden. But here, I get to plant veggies without the worry of maintenance or having to mow lawns – it’s the best of both worlds.”

With all that’s on offer, Annette and Phil have also become more social, forming a new group of friends who feel more like family. Annette’s only complaint? There’s almost too much to do!

“I thought I’d finally get around to finishing all my old projects – I call them my ‘UFOs’ (UnFinished Objects) – but since moving here, I haven’t had the time!”