Qestral Named Finalist in Ten Categories at the Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards

Qestral is proud to share that we have been named finalists in ten categories at the upcoming 2025 Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards, part of the prestigious World Ageing Festival in Singapore. This marks our first time participating in the international event, which brings together more than 6,000 attendees from over 40 countries to explore innovation in aged care under the theme: “ Age of Longevity: Living Healthier, Living Happier. ”

We are honoured by this recognition, which reflects the dedication of our teams and the strength of the communities we support.

A Wide Range of Recognition

Qestral has been shortlisted in the following categories:

Three nominations for Operator of the Year
Facility of the Year nominations for Alpine View Lodge and Coastal View Care Centre
Two nominations for our TRILife Wellness Program
Three nominations in the Innovation category for Kindly, our resident engagement and care platform

To be acknowledged across such a broad spectrum-from wellness to innovation, from care environments to overall operations-is something we take to heart. It’s a reflection of our ongoing commitment to providing retirement living that balances independence, support, and quality of life.

What This Means for Our Residents

While awards are gratifying, the true reward lies in knowing that our residents experience the benefits of these efforts every day. Whether it’s the carefully considered design of our care centres or the daily rhythm of wellness activities available through TRILife, our focus remains on creating communities that feel personal, enriching, and reassuring.

At Alpine View and Coastal View, the facilities recognised in the Facility of the Year category, residents enjoy spaces that are both comfortable and purpose-built-with elegant, non-institutional architecture, private outdoor areas, and seamless access to care if ever needed.

The TRILife Wellness Program-also shortlisted-is another example of how we prioritise wellbeing. Through tailored options like aquacise, yoga, tai chi, and mindfulness sessions, residents are supported to stay active and engaged at their own pace. The program extends beyond physical activity to include educational talks, creative hobbies, and social events that foster connection and joy.

Our Kindly platform, meanwhile, reflects our interest in quiet innovation-technology that works behind the scenes to enhance care, keep families informed, and allow residents more control over their experience.

A Shared Achievement

This moment is shared with the residents, families, staff, and wider community who have helped shape each of our villages. From our earliest days, Qestral’s goal has been to offer more than just housing-we aim to create places where people feel seen, supported, and inspired to live fully.

We also recognise the many other operators and professionals working to improve the experience of ageing across the region. To be listed among them is humbling.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare to attend the awards ceremony this April, our focus remains on continuing to do the work that matters-building communities that are inclusive, future-focused, and grounded in genuine care. We look forward to sharing insights and learning from others at the festival.

Whether or not we bring home an award, we are proud of what has been achieved so far, and motivated to keep improving.

If you're curious about what sets Qestral apart, we invite you to visit one of our villages. Walk the gardens, meet the people, and experience the sense of calm and connection that defines life here.

Because while recognition is appreciated, it’s the everyday experience that counts the most. And that’s what we’ll always be working to make even better.

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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.