This month’s Qestral e-newsletter, Great Explorers – Discovering the World (and Yourself), celebrates the joy of discovery in all its forms. From curiosity, lifelong learning and inspiring New Zealand explorers to international flavours, hidden local gems and active adventures close to home, the edition looks at the many ways we can continue exploring the world at every age.

A landmark year of national and international recognition for Qestral’s approach to retirement living, aged care, design and innovation.

Discover practical winter wellness tips for older adults, including staying active, supporting immunity, maintaining social connections, and enjoying life's simple pleasures during the colder months.

Coastal View Lifestyle Village has been named New Zealand's leading multi-unit residential development, adding to a growing list of national and international awards recognising Qestral's excellence in retirement living and aged care.

Technology is changing the way we live at every stage of life — and retirement living is no exception. From smarter health monitoring to easier communication and more connected communities, innovation is helping older adults live with greater independence, safety, and confidence.

Honouring Innovation and Resident-Focused Design at Ashbury Heights Care Centre and Coastal View Yacht Club

We caught up with Andrew Mustoe, Village Manager at Alpine View Lifestyle Village, to talk about what life in a village really looks like day to day—and it’s not about slowing down, it’s about living well with choice, confidence, and ease. From thoughtful design and practical support to a strong sense of community, Andrew shares how village living is all about helping residents stay independent, active, and in control of the life they want to live.

What does independence mean as we grow older? For many people, it’s about maintaining choice, staying connected to community, and continuing to enjoy the lifestyle and activities that bring purpose and confidence every day.

Qestral Corporation, a leading developer and operator of premium retirement villages in Christchurch, Nelson, and Whangārei, has been internationally recognised at the 14th Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards, held as part of the 17th World Ageing Festival in Singapore: worldageingfestival.com . The Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards formally recognise and highlight organisations that are redefining the future of ageing through innovation and progressive care. This year’s event brought together over 9,400 participants from more than 40 countries, celebrating meaningful contributions across the region. Operator of the Year 2026 – Residential Aged Care: Awarded for significant improvements in resident quality of life and Qestral’s commitment to safe, respectful, and person-centred environments. Qestral’s skilled teams deliver innovative wellbeing programmes within thoughtfully designed care centres, featuring spacious, apartment-style suites with private ensuites and decks that open onto beautifully landscaped gardens— enriching residents’ daily lives. Operator of the Year 2026 – Senior Living: Recognising excellence in independent, assisted, and co-living settings, this award highlights Qestral’s dedication to supporting confident, independent living. Qestral’s flexible service package options in apartments, and Butler service in independent houses, ensure every resident has the support they need while maintaining their independence. Innovation of the Year 2026 – Health & Vitals Monitoring Solution: Recognises Qestral’s Spritely telehealth technology (50% owned), letting residents track and share vitals with clinicians from home to enable proactive monitoring, early intervention, and better-informed decisions—delivering more personalised support. These international achievements come on the back of Qestral’s earlier success in 2025, when the organisation was recognised for Innovation of the Year – Active Ageing: Lifestyle Programme , thanks to the acclaimed TRILife Wellness Programme, at the 16th World Ageing Festival in Singapore. Additionally, in 2025, the Group won Best in Category and Excellence for New Zealand Aged Care and Retirement Villages for their “Pavilion” at the Burlington Lifestyle Village in the 2025 New Zealand Property Council Awards, held at the Spark Arena in Auckland. Together, these awards underscore Qestral’s commitment to enhancing independence, wellbeing, and quality of life for older adults. They also reinforce Qestral’s vision to lead in creating supportive, engaging environments where residents live with confidence, connection, and purpose.