Staff Spotlight: Activities Coordinator at Alpine View

In this staff spotlight, Brody shares what brought him to Aotearoa, what he loves most about working in retirement living, and why something as simple as breathing can make a real difference to how we feel day to day.

From Johannesburg to Aotearoa: a lifelong love of sport and wellbeing

Brody grew up in Johannesburg, South Africa, in what he describes as a competitive, sporty household. “Sport has played a pivotal role in making me who I am today,” he says. “Name any sport that involves a bat, ball, or racket; I’ve played them all.”

An early injury also shaped his outlook. It taught him the importance of injury prevention and proper recovery—and sparked a desire to build a career that could support everyone from professional athletes to older adults.

After moving to Aotearoa in 2014, Brody says he instantly fell in love with the sport and recreation industry. He completed a bachelor’s degree in Sport & Recreation in 2017, followed by a New Zealand Diploma in Wellness and Relaxation Massage. “That’s where my passion for anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics was sparked,” he explains.

Since 2019, Brody has worked across a wide range of roles in the health, sport, and wellbeing sector—from lifestyle coaching and personal training to supporting elite and everyday athletes. Now, he brings that experience into his work at Alpine View, helping residents enjoy a lifestyle that’s active, social, and tailored to what feels good for them.

What an Activities Coordinator does in a retirement village

For many people exploring retirement living in New Zealand, the difference between “a nice place to live” and “a great place to live” is what daily life feels like—especially when it comes to staying engaged, getting out and about, and keeping a sense of purpose.

Brody describes his role as equal parts planning, motivating, and making sure there’s something for everyone. He runs TRILife Lite, Activate, and Advanced group fitness classes, leads yoga sessions, organises shopping trips, selects films for residents to enjoy together, and plans outings to local highlights and world-class events. Just as importantly, he spends time listening—having conversations, learning what residents enjoy, and helping people try something new at their own pace.

It’s a reminder that wellbeing in later life isn’t only about “health”—it’s about connection, confidence, and choice.

Why breathing is such an important part of wellbeing

When asked what makes breathing such a powerful wellbeing tool, Brody keeps it refreshingly practical.

“Breathing is something we do automatically every moment of the day, yet it plays a powerful role in our overall wellbeing,” he says. “When we breathe well, our bodies receive the oxygen they need to fuel our brain, muscles, and organs. This helps us feel more energetic, focused, and balanced.”

He also points to the link between breath and the nervous system. “Slow, deep breaths can help calm the body, reduce stress, and lower feelings of anxiety. This is why many relaxation techniques, meditation practices, and gentle exercise classes focus on breathing.”

Breathing can support posture, lung health, and help us feel present—especially in moments when we feel rushed or tense. And because it’s free, portable, and simple, it’s a tool you can use anywhere: at home, on a walk, or before bed.

Two simple breathing exercises you can try at home

If you’re new to breathing exercises, Brody suggests starting with gentle techniques that feel easy to remember. Here are two of his go-to options:

1) “4–4 breathing”

• Sit comfortably and relax your shoulders.

• Breathe in slowly through your nose for a count of four.

• Breathe out gently through your mouth for a count of four.

• Continue for a few minutes, keeping the rhythm steady.

“This type of breathing helps signal to the body that it is safe to relax,” Brody says. “It can slow the heart rate, ease tension, and help calm the mind. This is what I also do to help me fall asleep!”

2) Belly breathing

• Place one hand on your chest and one on your stomach.

• Breathe in through your nose and try to let your stomach rise more than your chest.

• Breathe out slowly through your mouth and feel your stomach fall.

• Repeat for several breaths.

These exercises only take a minute or two, but they can help the body “reset” and feel calmer—especially when done consistently.

Brody’s best tip for getting started

“Keep it simple and start small,” Brody says. “You don’t need to set aside a lot of time or do anything complicated. Even one or two minutes of slow, relaxed breathing can be helpful.”

A good starting point is simply paying attention to your breath: sit comfortably, relax your shoulders, and breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth without forcing it—just a little slower and deeper than normal. Brody also recommends linking breathing to something you already do, such as a few calm breaths when you wake up, while sitting with a cup of tea, or before bed.

“The most important thing is consistency. A small moment of calm breathing each day can gradually help the body feel more relaxed and balanced,” he says. “Our seated yoga sessions are also a great way to get introduced to breathing exercises.”

Wellbeing that fits real life

At Alpine View Lifestyle Village, wellbeing isn’t about perfection—it’s about practical support, enjoyable routines, and a community that makes it easier to keep moving and keep connecting. Whether it’s a TRILife class, an outing with friends, or a quiet minute of breathing before bed, small habits can add up to a stronger sense of calm and confidence.

This article shares general wellbeing information and is not medical advice. If you have concerns about breathing, dizziness, anxiety, or other symptoms, please talk with your GP or a qualified health professional.

Interested in learning more about life at Alpine View, or how Qestral supports active, connected retirement living in New Zealand? We’d love to welcome you for a visit.

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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.