Qestral Wins The 2025 ‘Innovation Of The Year’ Award

Celebrating global recognition for excellence in wellness, care, design, and technology

It was a night of international celebration-and a moment of pride for New Zealand-as Qestral Corporation was awarded “Innovation of the Year” at the 13th Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards , held during the World Ageing Festival 2025 in Singapore. Among a record-breaking 350 global submissions from 14 countries, Qestral’s innovative spirit shone through, earning the top honour for its proprietary TRILife Wellness Programme -a comprehensive, resident-led initiative that redefines what it means to age well.

But that was just the beginning.

Qestral was also a finalist for ten awards over three other major categories , including:

Operator of the Year
Residential Facility of the Year (for Coastal View Care Facility and Alpine View Lodge )
Technology Innovation (for Kindly Communications )

From wellness to architecture, activities to care, and even digital communication-Qestral was recognised as a true leader in the future of ageing.

TRILife Wellness: The Gold Standard for Active Ageing

At the heart of Qestral’s award-winning approach is the TRILife Wellness Programme -a dynamic, multi-tiered lifestyle framework developed exclusively for Qestral residents. With options including TRILife Advanced , Lite , Yoga , Aquacise , and Mindfulness Sessions , the programme caters to varying levels of mobility and interests, making it as inclusive as it is inspiring. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all gym schedule. It’s a holistic approach to wellness , woven seamlessly into daily life across all Qestral villages. Whether you prefer tai chi at dawn, a guided meditation before lunch, or joining the Brunch Club after aquacise, TRILife helps every resident live vibrantly-on their own terms. No surprise then, that the programme was singled out as the best in the Asia-Pacific region for encouraging active ageing through lifestyle activities .

A Testament to Excellence in Every Area

While the “Innovation of the Year” award was the evening’s crowning achievement, the full list of Qestral’s finalist nominations paints an even broader picture of its comprehensive excellence.

�55356;�57286; Operator of the Year

Being shortlisted for this honour places Qestral among the most admired retirement village operators in the region. It speaks to consistently high standards across all aspects of operation , from hospitality and healthcare to community engagement and resident wellbeing.

�55356;�57313; Residential Facility of the Year: Coastal View & Alpine View

Two of Qestral’s standout care facilities- Coastal View Care Facility (Nelson) and Alpine View Lodge (Christchurch) -were finalists for their architectural elegance, integrated care models , and deeply person-centred environments.These villages are not just places to receive care-they are designed to feel like home, inspire independence, and offer security without compromise.

�55357;�56481; Technology: Kindly Communications

Qestral’s collaboration with Kindly Communications , a digital concierge and communication tool, was recognised for its innovative use of technology to improve resident-family connections, simplify staff coordination, and promote mental wellbeing. It’s another way Qestral makes life not only easier, but more connected.

Elevating Global Standards in Retirement Living

This international recognition affirms what Qestral residents have known for years: this is retirement living reimagined . Across its villages-from sun-drenched Coastal View overlooking Tasman Bay , to the vibrant communities of Alpine View, Banbury Park, and Burlington in Christchurch , to the peaceful panoramas of Ashbury Heights in Whangārei -Qestral offers:

Customisable, architecturally designed homes
World-class wellness and care services
Pet-friendly policies and fixed weekly fees
Vibrant activity calendars and community events
Secure, elegant environments with future-proofed care pathways

It’s a model that seamlessly blends luxury, innovation, and heart .

More Than an Award-A Shared Vision

We’re deeply honoured to receive this award, but what makes it truly meaningful is that it recognises the voices and values of our residents. This is their home, their community, and their lifestyle-and we’re proud to continue shaping it with them. As the world looks for better, more dignified ways to support ageing, Qestral leads with a clear message: retirement should be full of energy, choice, connection, and comfort .

And now-with a global award to match-it’s clear that Qestral isn’t just keeping up with the future of retirement living. It’s creating it.

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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.