When Metlifecare The Poynton residents Robyn Arblaster and Alison Bird say they’ve been friends for life, they’re certainly not exaggerating. In fact, it could be argued that their unique bond stretches across more than just one lifetime – it spans entire generations.
Born just a month apart, the two women first met as babies at the local Takapuna Plunket group. They went right through kindergarten and school together (usually in the same class!) and are now living in the same apartment block (directly below and above each other) at Metlifecare’s The Poynton. Their mums were friends (also ending up in the same retirement village in their golden years), and their kids (three each) are all the same ages.
“Despite living at opposite ends of the world at times, we have maintained our friendship to this day,” says Alison.
“When my husband Philip and I got married, Robyn was our matron of honour and her husband Rob was one of the groomsmen. Our first children were born just three weeks apart, and next year we will even have grandsons attending the same intermediate school!”
It’s not surprising then, that when Alison and Philip began considering village life, they looked to Robyn and Rob – already well settled at The Poynton – for advice.
“After a few visits, they moved in too,” says Robyn.
“It’s so lovely. We are all there for each other should someone need a baking ingredient, a chat, or assistance with something. It’s the culmination of a wonderful long friendship.”
Connected by a lifetime of shared experiences, Robyn and Alison are now creating fresh memories together, as village life gives them even more opportunities to do what they enjoy.
Says Alison, “The four of us catch up regularly for drinks in each other’s apartments and Robyn and I have just started learning Mahjong together. We also spend a lot of time chatting in the carpark because our car spaces are opposite each other!
“Robyn has time for everyone and I feel fortunate to be able to count her among my closest friends. We don’t see each other every day, but we know that the other is only a text or a lift ride away.”
For both women, moving into The Poynton has marked the start of an exciting new life chapter, and the continuation of a rich and rewarding friendship.
Adds Robyn, “So often people do not make this move until it is too late and often when they have just lost their partner and are grieving. It has been the best decision we have made as now we have so many friends and associates, the gardening and building maintenance are all done and there are so many activities to do.”
