Making New Friends After 65: Building Genuine Connections

Let’s be honest-making new friends as an adult isn’t always easy. And after 65? It can feel downright daunting. The routines are different, the social circles have shifted, and if you’ve just moved into a new place-especially a retirement village-you might find yourself wondering: Where do I even start?

But here’s the good news: you’re not alone. Not even close. Plenty of people in retirement are in the same boat, looking to connect, share stories, and enjoy this chapter with people who get it.

Whether you’re the outgoing type or a little more reserved, there are small steps you can take that open the door to genuine friendship. Because even one good conversation can be the start of something meaningful.

Yes, It’s a Bit Nerve-Wracking-But You’re in Good Company

Let’s get this out of the way: starting over socially is a bit awkward at first. That’s normal. Moving into a new village or simply trying to meet new people later in life can stir up nerves. But most people you’ll meet feel the same way. Everyone’s looking for connection-they just might be waiting for someone else to make the first move.

So don’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect words. A simple “Mind if I join you?” or “How long have you been here?” is often all it takes.

Four Simple Ways to Start Building Connections

1. Say Yes to Activities

It might be a walking group, an art class, a quiz night, or a low-key morning coffee. Qestral’s villages are known for having full-time activity coordinators who keep things lively with a calendar full of events. These aren’t just time-fillers-they’re designed to bring people together. Try one or two, even if you’re not sure it’s your thing. You never know who you’ll sit beside.

2. Introduce Yourself-Even If It Feels a Bit Old-Fashioned

Take a walk around the village and stop for a chat. Knock on your neighbour’s door and say hello. People appreciate a friendly face, and that little gesture can plant the seed for future friendship. You don’t have to become best mates overnight-just start with a smile and see where it leads.

3. Share What You Know

Volunteering or simply offering to help with a group activity is a fantastic way to meet others. If you’ve got a skill-organising events, gardening tips, knitting patterns, even tech advice-there’s almost always someone who’d love to learn. And helping others often leads to meaningful bonds.

4. Keep Showing Up

Friendships don’t usually form after one chat. They build slowly, over shared cups of tea, familiar routines, and chance encounters. The more you show up-at events, at the café, on the walking track-the more familiar your face becomes, and the easier it gets to connect.

You’re Not Too Old for New Friends

There’s a myth that once we reach a certain age, our social world shrinks and that’s just the way it is. But that’s not true-and frankly, it’s not healthy. Research has shown that loneliness can be just as damaging as smoking or poor diet when it comes to our health. Strong social ties boost mood, memory, immunity, and even longevity.

Friendship isn’t a nice-to-have-it’s vital.

Finding Your People at Qestral

At Qestral, we design our villages around the idea that community isn’t just about shared spaces-it’s about shared experiences. That’s why we put so much effort into our events, workshops, clubs, and wellness activities. They’re built to help you connect-naturally, comfortably, and without pressure.

We’ve seen it happen time and again: someone moves in, unsure of how they’ll fit, and within weeks they’re laughing with new friends over lunch or joining a group outing to a local gallery. It’s not magic. It’s the environment-and the people-doing what they’re meant to do: support each other.

If You’re Feeling a Bit Alone-That’s Okay. But You Don’t Have to Stay That Way.

This stage of life can be one of the most social, fulfilling, and exciting-especially if you surround yourself with people who lift you up and share your interests.

So if you’ve been craving connection, or just hoping to find your people, maybe this is the sign you needed.

Come see what life looks like when community and friendship are built in. Visit www.qestral.co.nz and explore the possibilities waiting just outside your door.

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Where Art Meets Lifestyle: Discover the Sculpture Trail at Alpine View

By Dylan Beardsley • December 6, 2025

At Alpine View Lifestyle Village, nestled in the cultural heart of Christchurch’s vibrant northeast, beauty doesn't just bloom in the gardens - it stands tall in steel, wood, and imagination. Welcome to the Alpine View Sculpture Trail: a meandering, open-air gallery where every turn reveals a new tale, a fresh perspective, or a playful surprise. This is no ordinary village walk. It's a celebration of creativity, community, and the joy of discovery - a trail that blends art and landscape into one immersive, uplifting experience. As part of a welcoming retirement village known for its connection to retirement communities and peaceful retirement living, the trail enhances daily life in a meaningful way. Let’s take a stroll, shall we? Begin at the Clubhouse: Racing Legends and Sun Guns The trail begins at the beating heart of Alpine View - the Clubhouse on Mt Lodge Drive - where community life thrives and conversation flows as freely as the coffee, reflecting the warmth often found in thoughtfully designed retirement homes and retirement houses within a modern retirement village. First stop: Ron Rutherford, a tribute by Ian Lamont to the fearless 1961 South Island Beach Car Racing Champion. Captured in steel, the piece pulses with nostalgia and momentum - an ode to both grit and glory. Nearby, you’ll find Sun Gun by Roy McDougall - a former star of Sculpture on the Peninsula that now shines permanently at Alpine View. Its form seems to harness the sun itself, radiating energy and artistic boldness. And then there’s the Rearing Horse by Southland sculptor Roderick Hall. Crafted from driftwood, this majestic creature - raw, natural, and intricately detailed - embodies the spirit of freedom. A true showstopper, it draws admiration from every angle. Metal, Memory, and Motion: Porter Heights Drive As you wander down Porter Heights Drive, the theme of transformation emerges in a manner that mirrors the thoughtful planning seen in a continuing care retirement community . Here stands Steam, a piece by Gary Baynes that reimagines an old hot water cylinder salvaged from Alpine View’s original care centre, built in 1992. It’s industrial and poetic - a quiet homage to the past with an eye on the future. Just beside it is the enigmatic Vintage Ride. Its creator remains unknown, but its presence speaks volumes. Half relic, half riddle, it invites smiles and speculation in equal measure. Aoraki Drive: Songs, Legends, and Swinging Men Skirting the serene pond along Aoraki Drive, art meets music and myth, adding to the charm residents experience as part of relaxed retirement living. Nobody Takes Me Seriously, by Bryn Jones, captures the wit and spirit of the 1980 Split Enz song it’s named after. Playful and kinetic, it’s a tribute to Kiwi culture, music, and motion. Nearby, Water Reeds - another Gary Baynes creation - sways gently in the breeze, echoing the movement of real reeds. Commissioned by Qestral, it’s not just a sculpture; it’s kinetic poetry, engaging both eye and ear. Then, there's Kupe’s Waka ‘Matahorua’, a symbolic piece honouring Kupe, the legendary Polynesian navigator believed to have discovered Aotearoa. Though its sculptor is unknown, the mana it holds is unmistakable. Dobson Place: Where Science Meets Sentiment On Dobson Place, ideas take shape in steel. Opposites Attract, another work by Gary Baynes, is inspired by both Coulomb’s Law of physics and Plato’s philosophy. A sculptural metaphor, it reminds us that connection - like magnetism - often defies logic but feels undeniably right, much like the sense of community shared throughout retirement communities. Trail Highlights for the Art Lover 15+ installations dotted across gardens, courtyards, ponds, and village paths Works by celebrated New Zealand artists, including Gary Baynes, Roy McDougall, and Bryn Jones Sculptures crafted from salvaged steel, native wood, corten, driftwood, and industrial materials Themes of motion, memory, history, heritage, and joy Fully integrated into the village’s architectural and landscape design for a seamless, immersive experience that enriches retirement homes and retirement houses within the community Why the Sculpture Trail Matters The Alpine View Sculpture Trail reflects Qestral’s commitment to wellness and enrichment. It’s part of the wider TRILife philosophy - encouraging movement, mindfulness, and moments of inspiration. For many residents, the trail becomes a favourite walking route within one of Christchurch’s most welcoming retirement communities. For others, it’s a talking point with visiting family, a sketching spot for hobbyists, or simply a place to pause, reflect, and appreciate. Plan Your Visit Whether you’re a resident, a guest, or someone curious about joining the Qestral lifestyle or exploring retirement living options within a thoughtfully designed retirement village , the Alpine View Sculpture Trail is the perfect reason to pop by. Pick up a map at The Lodge. Take your time. Let art guide your steps and let the trail surprise you.