A small holiday each fortnight: Outings in Whakatū Nelson
Published: October 1, 2025
Alongside our kaimahi, older persons supported by our mobile service team in Nelson decided it was time to do something fun together.
Our first outing
After chatting about a few ideas, the group agreed to go on their first outing to the Beach Café at Tahuna. Everyone was excited, and the day was planned carefully to suit everyone’s needs.
Some people wanted to walk along the beach, while others preferred to sit, chat, and enjoy a coffee. Not everyone could walk far, and that was perfectly okay. The group supported each other and made sure everyone felt included.
At the café, the group shared coffee and cake while enjoying the beautiful view of the sea. The fresh air and change of scenery lifted everyone’s spirits. It was a lovely break from the usual routine.
To help everyone get to know each other better, our Occupational Therapist brought a simple ice breaker activity. She laid out value cards with words like honesty, friendship, and hope. Each person chose a card and shared why that value was important to them.
The stories were touching. One person talked about how challenges made them stronger. Another chose non-conformity and said they’ve always liked doing things their own way. Others picked values like spirituality, order, and friendship. It was a special way to connect.
By the end of the outing, the group felt closer. There were smiles all around. On the way home, one of the seniors said, “This felt like a small holiday.” And it truly had been.
More outings, more joy
Since then, the group has met three more times.
Everyone was cheerful and ready when picked up for our next outing to Suter Art Gallery. The group stopped for coffee first, where our occupational therapist led a sharing activity with fun questions. One said he’d choose to be invisible if he could. He enjoys being around others but isn’t very talkative. Others shared thoughts about life, skills they’d like to learn, and their love for the seasons. After coffee, the group visited the Gallery and enjoyed the different artworks. There was laughter and connection, especially when discussing a quirky piece of art.
Two weeks later, the group met at the Prince Albert Hotel. The topic of the day was “Different ways to calm your mind.” The group shared personal strategies like:
- Mindful walking
- Deep breathing
- Watching nature scenes or movies
- Enjoying calming tastes like chocolate or tea
After the discussion, our occupational therapist provided markers and colouring sheets. One of our group who lives with Parkinsons, was given a scratch-off elephant picture, which she completed beautifully. The activity created a relaxed and happy atmosphere.
Honest Lawyer & poi fun
Our next visit was to the Honest Lawyer. After lunch, the group got creative with air-dry clay. Some didn’t enjoy the texture of the clay, but one of our group made a lovely heart that she plans to hang as a mobile.
The highlight of the day were the poi exercises. These movements helped with thinking skills, grip strength, and arm mobility. While some found the poi swings tricky, everyone stayed engaged and had fun. The activity supported physical, emotional, and social wellbeing, and brought lots of smiles.
These outings are more than just trips. They’re moments of connection, joy, and growth. The older group of tāngata whai ora are already looking forward to the next one!
