So you've decided to take the plunge and are full of anticipation and excitement at now organising your "big" day! This can be lots of fun but can also become very stressful. What theme should you go for? How much should you spend? Do you want to get married on the beach or in the hall? Which dress will you choose!
Luckily here on the Hibiscus Coast there are plenty of locals who can help you out and here's some links to them.
If you visit our local business directory Wedding Section here you'll find links to everything from Beauty and Nail Services, Florists, Caterers, Jewellers, Venues and lots more.
If you feel the need to improve your fitness or lose those few extra kilos before the big day you'll find help at either Northern Arena or Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre.
In your planning you might want to keep budget tips in mind and your season to wed can be influential on those costs and if you're thinking Winter there's some great winter theme ideas you can use.
You'll want to make sure you get the wedding dress right and of course you need the perfect shoes too.
If you're not only taking the big leap into being married but also looking for a home to share together you'll need a good agent and one local who knows the Coast well is Tim Hansen and to ensure you have maximum spend you may wish to consult with a local mortgage broker. We have lots here on the Coast including First Rate Mortgages and iLender or if you may struggle to provide documentation or self-employed another place to turn is NonBk Ltd.
As you get closer to the day you should ensure you have taken all bouquet, corsages, buttonholes and other flower requirements into consideration - check our Wedding Flower Checklist to make sure you're not missing anything!
Naturally, on your special day you'll want to look your best and sometimes you need to start on that skincare routine and hair care earlier than the week before. Make sure ladies, your skin is looking its best with treatments from Queens Beauty and you may just want to treat yourself to those beautiful brows, which have a big impact on your overall appearance, or even beautiful and natural cosmetic lip blush or eyeliner.
As a keepsake you'll be able to treasure forever why not go together and you can seal your love with a fineline tattoo from Aliyeh.
When organizing your flowers note there are a number times you can use flowers, some often forgotten, and remember to keep in mind any theme you would like running through the day. Keep in mind the season and particular favourites you’d like to include. Your florist will always be happy to advise.
Flowers can be a major expense in your wedding budget so talk to your florist, make sure they understand your requirements and wishes and make sure they know your budget so you can work together for the best results!
Nowadays with wedding costs escalating many couples wonder how they can host a wedding that will live on in memory, not through bills. It's no wonder that people get tense when they start to think about coordinating a wedding. But it doesn’t have to be this way. There is no need to spend lots of money on a wedding, the most important thing is to make it personal.
Whether your budget is $3000 or $30,000, here are a few tips to help you get the most for your money:
Before beginning to plan your wedding and reception, sit down together and discuss what your top 5 priorities are to determine where to go all out and where to cut corners. For instance, if it is important to you the wedding and reception are held at a particular venue or you know you MUST have a specific designer gown, then fit that into your budget and save money in other areas.
Keeping the guest list as concise as possible can help to drastically reduce reception costs. Most caterers, restaurants and banquet halls charge per person.
Food can be the biggest expense. A buffet or lunch can be a more cost-effective choice. Drop-off catering, where the caterer delivers already prepared food and sets it up, is another option, or catering all or part of the reception yourself is another possibility.
There are many options for low-cost or no-cost locations including parks or your own or a friends garden. Also consider a location that offers an all-inclusive package on the wedding, reception, and sometimes the honeymoon too. Choosing to have the wedding during an off-season or on any day but Saturday will also help to cut costs.
A few creative money-saving alternatives to shopping at a traditional bridal salon include purchasing a second-hand gown, checking out specials, renting a gown or wearing a designer suit. See some tips from Beautiful Brides.
Find out if arrangements are already provided at your chosen location. Perhaps plan the wedding in a garden, art museum or a beautifully furnished home. Or consider doing the flowers and decorations yourself.
This is definitely an area where do-it-yourselves can show off their skills and pocket the difference in costs. Print off your own computer or use your local photocopy service who can produce fantastic results on stylish paper at very good rates.
For some a band is an absolute must, for others a DJ, which is usually much less expensive. For the die-hard live band or music folk, look for bands that have day jobs and/or high school -aged bands. A rock-bottom budget option is to make your own musical favourite CDs.
Weddings tend to go by so quickly, and each moment is so precious, that having a photographer chronicle the event with a still and/or video camera is the only way to really capture the moment for posterity. But can photography be affordable. Check out what is available and what you are actually given at the end of the day.
Eliminating or limiting a traditional full bar to one or two hours will really cut costs. Alternatives include serving beer and wine only, not serving alcohol at all or only pouring a champagne toast. Check on your venue, you may be able to provide the alcohol yourself.
Having a winter wedding is a great excuse for some wonderful themes for your special day. Here are a few suggestions.
Everyone enjoys a mid-year Christmas celebration! Having a wedding in late June or in July is the perfect time to merge these two fantastic celebrations together.
If you’re thinking about a Christmas wedding theme, reds and greens are of course the festive colours of choice. You could of course wear a spectacular ruby wedding dress but if that is too bold for you why not add a deep red into your accessories, your jewellery, shoes or wear a lovely red cape. Introduce the same colour into the grooms cumberbands, waistcoats or in the bouquet and buttonholes.
Add some finishing touches to your Christmas wedding by adding bright, colourful wreaths around the venue, use them for table centre decorations and place them on doors.
Table centrepieces can look wonderful with pillar candles also adding to that Christmas warmth feel.
Surprise your guests and recreate Christmas morning with mini gifts wrapped up on the tables.
Why not introduce the red and green colours into your crockery, elegant red square plates with crystal champagne glasses oozes style!
Plus of course don't forget glitter, glitter and more glitter bringing that subtle sparkle to everything you touch!
Metallic Touches
Having a winter wedding means you can be bold and creative. Metallic shades can give a rich and glamorous look.
Dress your bridesmaids in glittering gold and silver dresses with matching shoes. Match the cumberbands of the men. Add subtle embellishments to your wedding outfit and match your shoes.
Spray your bouquet and table pieces in gold and silver spray and use winter items such as cones.
Introduce shades of copper, gold and silver candles, boubles, dishes and decorations.
Scatter your tables with brightly coloured metallic wrapped chocolate hearts.
Top it all off with a spectacular gold or silver wedding cake or bring your bridal look together with copper and gold accessories.
Elegant and chic, a classic styled all white theme portrays a snowy and winter feel. Bring in the snow feel with crytals, silver glitter, fake diamantes, snowflake mats.
Lillies and orchids sprinkled with glitter and hanging christmas boubles.
Place a white rose on each ladies table placing. If you want to bring in some colour try blues and cool pastel colours.
Use wide ribbons covered in both snowflake designs and sparkles. Tall white pillar candles give that warm glow. Use small white organza bags for wedding favours.
Get small tealight glasses and cover with white frost glitter. Fill bowls with clear stones. Hang strings of crystal beads from flower arrangements, ceiling lights giving the effect of melting icicles.
Have your cake dusted with a shimmering white powder.
Black and white can be stunningly classic and elegant. Plus of course can look amazing in black and white photographs of the event!
Glamour and sparkle can be added to each element. Contrast a black table cloth with white chair covers and white table centre decorations.
Dressing can be simple for the groom in an elegant black tuxedo with your clean, sharp white look. However introduce subtle touches of black either in your dress, shoes or accessories to match.
Spray decorations black, white and gold and silver.
Add white centrepieces with subtle black twigs or sprayed foliage.
Tie your bouquet with thick satin black ribbon. Use black and white striped ribbon as your church aisle ends tied in large bows.
Print your invites on black card and write in a silver or gold pen
Wear elegant black jewellery to contrast with your white wedding dress.
Add diamantes to compliment various items.
Winter weddings can be just as much fun as summer weddings so get excited, let that imagination run wild and create a day both you and all your guests will remember forever!
Off-season rates can be a factor for many couples choosing a winter wedding, however, there are lots other great reasons to have your big day during the winter months. Read on to find out more…
Every winter bride imagines the white drifts of snow across the scene. Whilst you will need to pick your particular location in New Zealand to guarantee real snow you can always theme your venues to give you that wonderful white winter feel!
One of your biggest considerations. Most venues and suppliers have off season rates, but many also offer incentives and bonuses not available in the popular summer months.
Welcome your guests with a roaring open fire. Feel the glow and reflect after the event with a hot toddy warm in the comfort of your new husband’s warm embrace!
In winter of course dusk falls early. This gives you an extended evening for winter warming celebrations. Take advantage by using candles, fairy lights, fireworks and fancy lighting designs. Experiment and have fun creating atmosphere and excitement to your long evening.
The New Zealand winter has few memorable dates during the winter months, so add your own for a great excuse for a winter holiday or at least a special celebration every year!
If you have a wide group of friends some of your guests may have ‘wedding fatigue’ by the time your summer wedding comes around. A winter wedding will be a seasonal highlight.
Fly somewhere warm and exotic after the event. Relax on the beach in the Maldives, Fiji, Samoa or Northern Queensland. You’ll enjoy the beautiful weather all the more coming in winter and it gives you a good excuse each winter to celebrate away in the sun!
Getting married in winter totally eliminates any weather related stress. You don’t have that worry what to do if it rains. Guests expect colder weather and an indoor focus, so the attention will be on what’s going on indoors.
Winter is low season, meaning it shouldn’t be too difficult booking your venue, church/celebrant and other services at slightly shorter notice. It’s also easier finding accommodation for visiting guests.
Last, but surely not least, a winter wedding is your chance to sport some stylish bridal wellies, ideal for a kiwi bride, or a beautiful fake fur or a soft velvet cape.
During the week you might be stuck in a uniform or an office dress code, but at the weekend you can let your inner fashionista free. However, a wedding is not the place to debut those $200 ripped jeans as your latest “investment piece.” But you knew that already, didn’t you?
Some wedding fashion rules are obvious (no, a bikini will always be a no no, even at a beach wedding), other rules may be a little murkier. Maybe your dress is a little short, or perhaps you accidentally matched the bridesmaids colours. There are many ways to turn into a wedding-day eyesore, but you don’t have to be that guest. Follow this list of 10 things you should never wear to a wedding, and you’ll keep getting invited.
Now, let’s start with a controversial topic: Can you wear black to a wedding?
Yes, tuxedos are black, and yes, you’ll see plenty of dark suits at a wedding. But historically, black has been a bit of a fashion faux pas for women. It’s the universal colour of mourning, and unless you're sad to still be single, it's best to pick something alternative.
That being said, rules change. A chic black cocktail dress or an elegant gown? Totally fine for an evening event. But if your dress looks more “funeral” than “festive,” swap it for something with a little more joyful.
Weddings are romantic, and you might be hoping to catch the eye of that cute groomsman, but you’re not at a nightclub. If your dress has people wondering , it’s best to rethink your choice.
A little leg? Not a problem. A low neckline? Fine to a degree. But be aware.
We don’t care how “casual” the wedding is—jeans and a T-shirt are not appropriate. Even if the wedding is in a backyard or local hospo venue you really must put in some effort.
A sundress, dress pants, or at least a nice button-down top or dress? Much more appropriate.
Unless the dress code says "black tie," wearing a tux is overkill. The only guy who should be seen in a full penguin suit is the groom (and maybe his groomsmen).
If you’re overdressed, the groom probably won’t be as upset as an upstaged bride but don’t look like you are trying to outshine the man of the hour. A well-tailored suit will be just fine.
You may love that good vintage look, but some outfits should stay in the past, at least when you go to a wedding unless theme appropriate. However, a classic 1960s pencil skirt is fine but a pair of bellbottoms? Perhaps not.
Weddings are about timeless romance, not time-travelled fashion. So, unless the invitation actually says "70s Disco Theme", leave it for this occasion.
You’d think this wouldn’t need to be said, but here we are. Under no circumstances should you wear a tiara to a wedding unless you are the bride, or five years old.
This rule also extends to any other inappropriate headwear such as crowns, decorative headbands or anything else that may give you that regal look! The only person getting the royal treatment should be the bride.
Unless this wedding is at a palace, or ballgowns have been requested you do not need to look like Cinderella.
Formal weddings call for elegant attire, but be wary of the fine line between looking great and being mistaken for the bride! If a ballgown is appropriate avoid white, champagne, or blush and pick something less bridal.
You’re at a wedding, not a corporate meeting. Whilst pantsuits can be chic, and if you feel your best in trousers, go for it but just make sure your look says “fashionable wedding guest” and not “ready to close that deal.” A stylish jumpsuit or flowy wide-leg pants will look sophisticated without looking like you’re striding down the halls of power.
Neon colors, head to toe sequins, a hat whose brim could be used to serve the banquet. All would be a no, no! if your clothing makes more of a statement than the wedding couple just don’t do it!
Weddings are, of course, a great excuse to dress up, but it’s not a one-woman fashion show. If your look is overly eye-catching, tone it down.
And of course, the golden rule of wedding fashion: Never wear white.
Unless the bride has explicitly requested an all-white dress code (highly unlikely), avoid anything that could look like a wedding dress.
If white is your go to colour, perhaps another shade, an ivory, cream or champagne. But also check as not all brides where pure white. If you can try to avoid the dilemma altogether!
Weddings are about celebrating love, not turning heads in your direction, unless you are the bride. If you stick to these basic rules you’ll ensure all eyes focus where they should on the happy couple. Plus, you’ll keep getting invites instead of wondering what you did so wrong (unless you already know!)
You’ve got the dress – now you need the shoes! Here are six tips to help you in your selection.
Do not select your shoes before you have decided on a dress. It is always easier to match shoes to a dress. Having the dress first allows you to find shoes that complement your dress.
It may seem obvious but find comfortable shoes! If you have a long dress, the shoes don't show so you can wear a shoe that is more comfortable. If you are wearing a shorter dress, your shoes will be of greater importance. You don’t want to be focussing on your sore feet by half way through your big day!
If your budget allows don’t restrict yourself to just one pair for the day. One for the wedding ceremony and photos, one for the reception and dancing. Those heels may look good in the photos but are they practical for that first dance as you are swept around the floor!
Wedges and flats are best for receptions in the country to save yourself from muddy heels. Flat sandals are best for beach weddings and certain older venues. It seems obvious but if you are marching across a sandy beach stilettos will not work but you need to remember that before the day!
Break your shoes in. Wear the shoes around the house or practice dancing in them. Whatever you do, your wedding day should not be the first day you wear the shoes. You want to glide up the aisle, not stagger with a sway!
Pick a heel height that is comfortable for you. All eyes will be on you and there is nothing worse than not feeling confident in the shoes you are in. Also, consider the heel height for standing next to the groom. If you are tall, you don't want a three inch heel if you will tower over the groom.
It is always helpful to have some ideas before you head out to buy your dress. Here are some tips to get you started –
It is important to know your limits. Getting married can be very expensive regardless of who is paying and it is important to stick to your budget wherever you can! Try not to look at dresses out of your price range, unless you can’t find anything to suit within that range. Remember if you change your dress budget this may well impact on everything else!
Flick through magazines and have an idea of the style of dress you're looking for – do you want to appear romantic, classic, elegant or glamorous. Take into account the whole style and feel you want for your day. Also consider your venue and time of year.
Head out with a friend or your mother. It’s best to take only one person as too many opinions can be as bad as none at all if they all want their input! Remember though to remind them that it is your choice and not their dress and ensure they have a very clear understanding about your goal and your bridal style and budget.
It's also worth asking the designer or retailer for advice both on how the style suits, good styles for your body type and size, on cleaning the fabric in case of small spillages on the day!
If you want to wear your hair up with flowers, try a simple style with the dress to get the feel. If you would like to wear a veil, again try one on with the dress, try different lengths and styles unless you have a very specific style or length in mind in which case you will need to ensure the dress matches!
While you don't have to show your bridesmaids your dress before their own dresses are chosen, make sure their gowns tie in with the theme and colours of your wedding as a whole.
Be prepared to try on a range of dress styles. It’s surprising how often you may find a style you think won't suit you actually looks great.
Don't be rushed into any decisions. If you think you've found 'the one', go away and think about it. Consider the dress within the whole concept of your wedding plans before making your mind up. Get others opinions but at the end of the day the decision is yours so think things through.
When you've found the perfect dress, don't try on any more! Seriously don’t start confusing things but do make sure you are absolutely sure! You can then arrange fittings and shopping for underwear, shoes and any other accessories. Follow your instincts.
Planning is the key to a successful renovation. A clear plan ensures your project stays on track, within budget, and meets your expectations. Here’s how the Refresh Renovations 5-step process helps guide your renovation from start to finish:
Your renovation journey starts with a consultation where we get to know your vision and needs.
This is the foundation of the project, setting clear goals for the renovation and ensuring we’re aligned on expectations. Our project managers work with you to understand your requirements and provide expert advice on the best approach.
Next, we move to concept design, where we create layouts and designs tailored to your goals.
This phase also includes assessing the feasibility of the project, ensuring the design works within your space and budget. Our project managers collaborate with the design team to ensure that everything is practical and achievable.
During this phase, we finalise the design, obtain any necessary building consent, and work with architects and engineers if needed. Our project managers oversee the entire process, ensuring the design is fully detailed and that costs are accurately estimated. This step ensures the project is set to move forward smoothly, with all approvals and plans in place.
Once the plans are finalised, construction begins. Our project managers ensure the build stays on schedule, coordinating trades and suppliers to keep things running smoothly. Regular updates and progress reports ensure you're informed throughout the process, and we aim to complete the renovation on time and within budget.
After construction, we conduct a final inspection to ensure everything meets your expectations. Our post-completion support ensures any final adjustments are made promptly, and we’re always available for ongoing assistance if needed.
At Refresh Renovations, we know that planning and project management are essential to a successful renovation. Ready to bring your renovation vision to life?
Contact us today on 0800-21-52-16 or email bronson.arter@refresh.co.nz to schedule your consultation, and let us guide you through every step of the process.
Check us out online at Refresh Renovations.
Playing golf is a fantastic way to stay healthy, get exercise, and have fun, all while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. Walking the course and engaging with nature offers numerous health benefits, including physical activity, mental stimulation, and social connection. As the saying goes, “The mind is your greatest weapon. It’s the greatest club in your bag. It’s also your Achilles’ heel.” When you feel confident over the ball, your mind pushes you forward—and that’s the beauty of golf. Check out local golf courses and services here on the Coast.
Playing golf not only benefits your physical health but also releases natural mood-enhancing chemicals called endorphins. A relaxed round of golf with friends in the open air can significantly improve your well-being, especially on a sunny day.
Golf is an excellent form of exercise. Walking an 18-hole course can add up to four to eight miles of walking, which strengthens the heart and lungs. Carrying your clubs or opting to walk instead of using a golf cart increases the intensity of the workout. A 150-pound individual can burn around 300 calories per hour while playing golf and carrying clubs, making it an effective cardiovascular activity.
Weight-bearing activities help strengthen bones and prevent conditions like osteoporosis. Carrying your clubs and walking the course engages your muscles and supports skeletal health. Using a double-strapped golf bag can help distribute weight evenly and reduce shoulder strain.
Golf helps reduce stress and lower cholesterol. The combination of exercise, fresh air, and social interaction improves mental well-being and supports heart health. A single round of golf can burn up to 1,000 calories, making it an effective way to maintain fitness and manage weight.
Golf enhances cognitive function by challenging players to strategize, focus, and coordinate their movements. Walking the course promotes oxygen flow to the brain, helping generate new brain cells and potentially reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. The mental aspect of golf—concentration, visualization, and strategic thinking—keeps the mind sharp.
Golf is a highly social sport, fostering camaraderie and connection. Whether playing with friends, family, or colleagues, the game offers an opportunity to bond while staying active. The leisurely pace of golf allows for meaningful conversations, making it a great way to build relationships.
Spending time outdoors exposes you to sunlight, which helps the body produce vitamin D. This essential vitamin supports strong bones, regulates calcium levels, and promotes overall health. Playing golf regularly ensures you soak up the benefits of natural sunlight.
Regular physical activity, including golf, contributes to better sleep quality. Exercise helps you fall asleep faster and stay in deep sleep longer, allowing your body to recover and rejuvenate. A round of golf during the day can lead to more restful nights.
Golf challenges players to stay focused and composed, boosting self-confidence with each successful shot. The nature of the game teaches patience, perseverance, and resilience, all of which translate to greater confidence on and off the course.
Golf creates lasting memories, from the thrill of a perfect shot to the camaraderie of playing with loved ones. Stories like Phil Mickelson’s emotional Masters victory, where he shared a heartfelt embrace with his wife during her cancer battle, highlight the deep emotional connections golf fosters. The sport provides both joy and therapeutic benefits, making it an enriching experience for all players.
Retirement living is about more than money.
Financial planners tell us to start thinking about retirement living decades before we're ready to retire, and it's good to make a retirement planning checklist about five years before your retirement date.
While you're thinking about how much money you'll need in retirement, think about what you want your life to look like, and how you want to feel.
Make life plans. It's important to plan for the non-financial aspect of retirement living by considering what will make you happy. Maybe you’ll climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, go dog sledding in Alaska, make time to write that novel you've been thinking about, or even continue to work part-time. Make a life plan and tick off your experiences as you move ahead.
Find a purpose. When making your retirement living plan, look for things you can do on an on-going basis that bring you joy and add structure to your life. This can include travel, hobbies or even training for a new career.
Keep your mind sharp. "Use it or lose it" applies to your brain. If you feel the need to replace the intellectual stimulation you found at work, try learning a foreign language or a musical instrument, or join a book club. Lifelong learning offers many opportunities to keep your mind sharp. How about checking out the lifelong learning classes offered by your local community centre or college?
Volunteer. Getting involved in your community is a great way to give back, and it's a wonderful opportunity to interact with people and make new friends.
Develop new friendships. A measurement of whether people are successful at retirement living is the strength of their social network - that includes family and friends. Check out groups that help you meet new people or join community or religious organisations that have members who share your interests. It's possible to meet people and make new friends even if it's difficult to get around. Did you know that friendship helps to increase longevity?
Ask your spouse or partner. If you live with someone or have a close partner, retirement living becomes a shared experience. It's important to make time for you and your partner to both share your dreams—you might be pleasantly surprised to learn that your partner wants to join you on that Mt. Kilimanjaro climb, and he or she may have ideas you'll enjoy.
Increase your financial stability. If you can’t afford to retire yet, what about partial retirement? This can include working part-time in your current job or finding a retirement job that's new and interesting—and will also help you earn money.
Keep your spirits up. The life changes that come with retirement living can be challenging, but your attitude plays a big part in whether you'll find happiness in retirement living or not. Check in with yourself to assess your mood; if you feel sad or hopeless it's important to see your doctor or a professional. Learn the signs of senior depression (or ask a friend or family member to assess your mood) and don't be afraid to ask for help.
Remain healthy. With increasing life spans, retirement living can be a long race, so get yourself in shape. That means eating well, watching your weight and staying active. When you feel good, it's easier to stay positive and open to new experiences.
Tips courtesy of Joan Carter, co-founder of Life Options Institute, USA
The Hibiscus Coast has had a reputation in the past of being a place to head to and enjoy your retirement. Whilst this is not the case so much nowadays, it doesn't detract from the fact that it really is a retirees slice of paradise and there are locals who can help make your retirement great to enjoy up here!
If you are looking for a retirement home/village then there is an abundance of choices on the Coast. Some with full care facilities, some designed as separate houses or villas within a community and pretty much all offering plenty of things to do and good company so you never need feel alone. Check out our Hibiscus Coast retirement home/village options.
Whilst it may sound a little gloomy, one service you will want to ensure can look after you locally it is a funeral director and funeral home and we have a number here on the Coast including the caring team at Forrest Funeral Services with branches in both Orewa and Browns Bay. These are the people you shouldn't just turn to when you need them but in your retirement you can help your loved ones be prepared for when the time comes by pre-planning your funeral and even pre-paying expenses and recording your own personal funeral choices to ease the financial burden on those you leave behind. A little bit of planning can mean a lot at the end of the day.
If you need medical or health care on the Coast there are also services to suit all needs including hearing services such as the personalised and caring services offered by Hear Again. Family run and operated they offer all hearing services including in-home hearing tests and all accessories etc for hearing aids.
Whether you are looking for an Optician, Dentist, Chiropractor, Doctor/Medical Centre or more you can find a wide selection of services in our Health, Beauty, Medical and Wellbeing directory section.
Enjoy staying fit in your retirement? There are a wide range of classes and activities on offer at Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre including special senior classes if you are after these and also special senior pricing.
Northern Arena also offer senior activities and pricing with their Silver Sneakers and Silver Sneakers Flexi membership options. Check these out.
Of course, if you are looking for a club or group to join we link you to a wide variety of local community services, health services, Leisure Clubs and Sports Clubs or if you are looking for a sporting activity you can also find information on everything from fishing, golf, swimming and more in our Sport and Recreation section.
Enjoy dining out or your morning coffee fix? Why not check out and challenge yourself to try a range of our great local restaurants, cafes, bars and bakeries!
Or if you like to just get out and about in our great outdoors you can find details on local beaches, walks, cycleways, parks and more in our Leisure Section.
There's certainly no shortage of things to do and services to suit retirees here on the Hibiscus Coast!
A funeral ceremony is a significant occasion where family and friends come together to express their grief and to celebrate the life of their loved one. It is at the funeral where people can share memories, from joyful moments to humorous stories, and honour their unique contributions.
A funeral service that is personalised ensures the farewell is meaningful and reflects the life and beliefs of your loved one.
Personalisation Options
Below are some choices to give you ideas and to help tailor the service to your loved one’s wishes and personality:
Pre-Funeral Location
Where would you like your loved one to rest before the funeral?
They can remain in the care of your funeral home, but many families choose to have them at home or on a marae. This option is especially popular among Māori and Pacific Island communities but is embraced by people of all backgrounds. If loved ones are travelling from overseas, embalming may be recommended to preserve the body and provide a more natural appearance.
Burial or Cremation
If you are not aware of your loved one’s preferences, the family will need to decide. Forrest Funeral Services can arrange either option for you:
Casket Movement
Decide how the casket will be brought into and carried from the service. Will you use family members or friends to act as pallbearers, or would you prefer this to be done by the funeral home contacts? Keep in mind the weight of the coffin and also the height of the people if you are choosing your own pallbearers.
Consider whether special music, dancing, or a guard of honour would enhance the farewell.
Symbols of Life
Incorporate personal items that reflect your loved one’s life, such as flowers from their garden, photographs, toys, books, candles, religious symbols, or other meaningful objects.
Music
Music can set the tone for the service. Choose songs/hymns that your loved one enjoyed, whether classical, rock, country, opera, hymns, or pop music, select their most appropriate favourites. You might also consider creating an audio-visual tribute featuring photos and videos accompanied by their favourite music.
Eulogy
A eulogy honours the life and character of your loved one. It can be brief or more detailed, typically lasting around 10 minutes. Key topics to consider include:
If children or family members find it difficult to speak, encourage them to contribute stories or messages that can be read on their behalf.
Creating a personalised service helps to celebrate a life well-lived, leaving lasting memories for all who attend, and Forrest Funeral Services can help you create a funeral that will reflect the love and care you, and others, had for your loved one.
Adapted from an article by Forrest Funeral Services.
As scary as it may be, parents need to talk to their kids about people who might want to hurt them. The best way to protect your children is to get them involved in their own protection:
Parents need to be aware of possible predators. Typical signs are someone who seems too good to be true, who offers extensive help to your family, who knows too much about your kids or kids in general, especially if they don't have children of their own. You should know all adults who you allow to have contact with your child.
Talk to your kids about paedophiles as soon as they can understand what you mean. As early as 3-5 years old, when kids begin to interact with the world, they're already subject to being victims.
Tell your child you love them no matter what. Remind them that they can tell you anything and you will still love them with all your heart.
Don't be afraid that you're scaring your kids, but don't ask them to deal with adult issues either. Speak to them in age-appropriate language and give them instructions about what to do. They will feel empowered by knowing how to protect themselves. Be careful sharing your own experiences if you were a victim of sexual molestation, for example. Providing too many details and rehashing the tragedy can create a sexually charged environment and be harmful for your children in the long run.
Kids need to know that they have the right to say no, yell, or ask for help. It may contradict what they know about respecting adults, but if they feel threatened, they have permission to make a scene, or to run away to a public place. And they need to know they won't get into trouble if they were wrong. Let them know that no one has the right to hurt them. Teach your child to call you if a stranger arrives when there are no other adults around.
Make sure your kids know what acceptable behaviour is, and what is out-of-bounds. Make sure they understand that there are private areas of their bodies that no one else should touch.
Rehearse your child's response to danger. If he/she doesn't practice it, your child won't really know what to do. Telling your child to yell for help isn't enough. In the face of danger, a child could forget, so rehearse, role-play, and practice what your child should do.
Remind your children that predators don't necessarily look scary or strange. A dangerous person could look like the person next door or even be someone they know.
With falling interest rates set to continue over 2025 now is the time when many Kiwi homeowners can
start to feel the burden of keeping up with mortgage repayments easing. If this sounds like you,
refinancing your mortgage at this time could be a smart solution to ease the financial strain and finally
improve your overall situation.
Refinancing involves replacing your current mortgage with a new loan—often with better terms or a
lower interest rate. This can reduce your monthly repayments, help consolidate high-interest debts, or
free up cash for other needs such as family expenses, investments, or even a well-deserved holiday.
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about mortgage refinancing in New
Zealand:
Refinancing typically means switching from one bank to another or opting for a non-bank lender. The
main reasons to refinance include:
There are several advantages to refinancing, including:
Refinancing is only worth pursuing if it puts you in a better financial position. Here’s what to consider:
Paperwork and Spending Review:
Banks will closely examine your expenses, including daily living costs, childcare, and even
lifestyle spending like dining out. It’s wise to review your habits at least 3 months before
applying.
Costs:
Time Commitment:
You’ll need to provide documents such as bank statements, ID, and rates notices. A mortgage
broker can help streamline the process and save you time.
Costs vary depending on your circumstances, but here’s a rough breakdown:
Refinancing can feel complex, but with the right guidance, it’s a powerful way to reduce costs and
regain control of your finances.
Contact the experienced team at First Rate Mortgages today for personalised advice and support.
We’re here to help you make refinancing simple and stress-free!
