Kath Murphy spent two years searching for the right retirement village, ultimately choosing Oceania’s Waterford Village for its fresh, modern look and vibrant community, despite initial doubts from her friends due to her age. Now an active member of the community, she enjoys the convenience of apartment living, the balance of social interaction and privacy, and encourages others to make the move while they're still active.
For Kath Murphy, finding the right retirement village was a 2-year process, including visiting most of the villages in her local vicinity. “I’d definitely done my homework,” says the former educator. A friend, Rose, was the first to bring her attention to Oceania’s Waterford Village. “I didn’t even know the place existed. I had no intention of moving to Hobsonville Point,” recalls Kath, because she had lived her whole life on the North Shore.
Meeting with Rose and her friends at Waterford soon had Kath convinced that she’d found ‘The One.’ “The place was beautiful, and they kept saying ‘the people are lovely here.’ Waterford was unlike any other village I’d ever seen – the newness and the freshness,” she remembers.
Kath and her friend in the study enjoying a barista coffee and some tasty treats from the on-site café.
Kath admits it was also the look of Waterford that was a determining factor in her choice. “I’m very much into décor, I love styling and colour-coordinating - some villages are just too drab. Some I walked into and walked straight out again. I think a fresh look is important.”
Being just 70 years old at the time she moved, some of her closest friends cast their doubts on her plans. “My friends couldn’t believe I wanted to move because I was far too young and fit. I had to block out others’ opinions and just tell myself ‘I know myself better.’”
Looking back, Kath is glad she trusted her instincts. “It was the best thing I did. I’m glad I did it when I did. You should get in while you're fit to do bowls and table tennis, for example, and enjoy the beautiful surrounding walkways.”
You’re spoilt for choice with views at Waterford, with most of our apartments enjoying outlooks either towards the Upper Waitematā Habour or surrounding parks and reserves.
Although she had originally wanted to buy one of the onsite villas, Kath is happy she ended up in one of the apartments. “I told myself I would never buy an apartment. I didn’t want anything with a hotel feeling. But now, I’m pleased there wasn’t a villa available when I was looking,” reflects Kath, who relishes the practicalities of apartment living. “There are all these little things, and you don’t realise how convenient and how pleasant it makes life,” she says. In particular, she loves what a change it is to have a controlled temperature year-round and enjoys the quick and easy access to the communal areas.
All apartments have generously-sized living areas and plenty of storage space, plus air conditioning and heating so you’ll be comfortable no matter the season.
“The other thing that is just marvellous,” tells Kath, “if you have a maintenance problem, you just write it in the book and Murray, our wonderful Maintenance man attends to it. For ongoing maintenance to the aircon, fire alarms, fobs…all of these things you’d have to organise different contractors for on your own. It’s huge knowing that those things are being looked after.”
Kath’s since become a key part of the community at Waterford – she is Chair of the residents' Social Club which organises social functions and helps celebrate milestone events, she checks in on anyone feeling poorly, and regularly participates in the Craft Group that makes goods for local charities.
Whilst Kath loves social interaction, she also relishes quiet time in her apartment sewing or reading. “I can have company or privacy. Everybody is different, but for people on their own, I don’t understand why they don’t live in a village. It’s the perfect balance of lifestyle. You make it what you want. You’re in charge.”
Make a splash all year round in Waterford’s on-site pool.
The communal living is undoubtedly Kath’s favourite thing about Waterford. “I have a beautiful apartment with views of the water, and sun, but if I was unhappy, the building would be meaningless.”
Kath’s advice to those looking to make the leap is to “Be brave - go with it. The results will be everything you want and more.”
View available properties at WaterfordLooking to find the perfect fit just like Kath?
Waterford Village has 50 new apartments currently under construction, ready to move in early 2025. With our 2 and 2+ Bedroom apartments for sale off the plans, now is the perfect time to secure your new home.
Call our friendly sales team on 0800 333 688 to make your appointment with our Manager Jenny today.
