750 days ago

Downsize to a Richer, Happier Life

Miriam Corban Retirement Village

What do you want to do with your life? Would you like to travel, downsize, have more money and more free time? Do you ever feel like your stuff holds you back, but the thought of decluttering just seems too hard? If so, you’re not alone.

This is the first of a series of articles dedicated to helping you to downsize, declutter and rightsize your life, brought to you by Ryman Healthcare in conjunction with decluttering expert Peter Walsh.

When helping people to declutter, Peter never starts by focusing on the stuff itself. Every item in your home has a story, so the first step is to think about what that story is.

Maybe you’re thinking about downsizing as you approach retirement but still have all the artwork and toys and books that belonged to your now adult children, and don’t know what to do with them. Perhaps letting go of that old sports equipment means letting go of a vision you had of yourself that no longer fits who you are. Maybe you’re holding onto heirlooms you have no use for because you want to keep the memory of the person alive.

No matter what your situation is, it’s easier to declutter and downsize if you start by identifying the feelings that underlie your attachment to your stuff before tackling the stuff itself.

Click to read more.

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More messages from your neighbours
40 minutes ago

Have you seen Rowena?

The Team from New Zealand Police

Police are urgently appealing for sightings of Rowena, 39, reported missing from Christchurch.

She was reported missing to Police on 22 October 2025, and was last seen on 14 August 2025. Rowena hasn’t been in contact with her children and her family are worried for her safety.

Police investigating her disappearance have identified her as being in Auckland, Tauranga and Christchurch in the recent months prior to her missing person report being made.

If you have seen Rowena, or have any information regarding her whereabouts, please contact us immediately.
You can contact us via 105 either over the phone or online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” and referencing file number 251022/9026.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

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22 hours ago

Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.

Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔

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Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
  • 72.6% We work hard, we deserve a break!
    72.6% Complete
  • 17.7% Hmm, maybe?
    17.7% Complete
  • 9.7% Yes!
    9.7% Complete
237 votes
1 hour ago

Police will be increasing visibility around the Swanson Station Park and Ride

The Team from North Shore, Rodney & West Auckland Police

We are aware of an increase in report of vehicle thefts at the park and ride.
Local Police will be carrying out targeted patrols at the car park to deter offending and provide reassurance to commuters.

We are also seeking support from our community partners at Community Patrols NZ around maintaining a visible presence at the car park.
Police are continuing to review daily reports of vehicles being stolen, and we will continue to look for lines of enquiry to target and hold thieves to account.

We continue to ask anyone who has been victim to this offending to report this online or by calling 105.
And if you see suspicious activity, report it to Police by calling 111 if it’s happening now.

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