The International Day of the Older Person in October was celebrated by a number of associations including Mercury Bay.
At the latter, entertainment began with a warm message from the Federation president, Gayle Chambers followed by speaker, James Whittaker from Resonate Health.
Throughout the event children from the OSCAR programme (Out of School Care and Recreation) handed out woven flax flowers they had made, there was dancing and singing by members of the local Filipino community, hula dancing by young people from the local Crossroads Church and a local artist used her face painting craft to decorate the faces and hands of seniors.
Also present were Tai Chi, massage, naturopathy, herbalism, yoga and cranial sacral therapy practitioners as well as advisors from Senior Wellness and Elevate Fitness (chair exercise for seniors). Shoulder and hand massages were appreciated by many and, throughout, there was laughing, clapping and chattering, all in honour of seniors everywhere.
Mercury Bay president, Linda Cholmondeley Smith summed up the contribution made by seniors to society by saying:
“You are the heart of our community. Through your wisdom, your stories, and your example, you continue to guide younger generations and hold our community together.
“Many of you give generously of your time — whether through volunteering, caring for loved ones, mentoring, or simply offering a listening ear to a neighbour.
“In fact, more than half of New Zealanders over the age of 65 volunteer in some way, a remarkable gift that strengthens the wellbeing of us all.
“This special day is also a reminder that we are never alone. Loneliness can touch many people in later life, but every act of connection — a shared cup of tea,
a walk together, a phone call, or even a smile at the shops — helps weave the fabric of belonging.
“Community is built not by big gestures, but by the small kindnesses that show we truly care.”
And, that was very much the thrust of Mercury Bay’s very happy event.