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Residents of Fendalton Retirement Village got the chance to get in touch with their former active selves with the help of New Zealand Institute Sport (NZIS) students on Wednesday.

As a part of their Event Management class a group of students got together to put an idea into action. Their idea was to help the residents find ways to keep active and socialize with others at the rest home.

The students had put in motion a “Fun Day” with a variety of games and activities to get them up and about. Such games like Balloon Volleyball, a Treasure Hunt, Magnetic Darts, Bowls, Pass the Parcel and a Trivial Quiz. They had been planning this event from the start of the year with a breakdown of protocols and procedures they had to follow. The idea was entirely theirs and they collectively set out on making this a day to help the residents get active.

The day went well with a welcome reception from the residents as they got started. “These guys put together a fantastic day. It’s easy to tell that they [Residents] are happy. Just look at the smiles on their faces,” said Hilda Moore who is the activities coordinator at Fendalton Retirement Village.

As the afternoon continued the students felt good about the activities they had provided. “I really enjoyed the smiles on their faces as they won prizes. They seemed to have that youthful essence about them!” Vinnie Paul stated who was in charge of the Treasure Hunt.

“For us as elderly people, we really appreciate the effort the students have gone through to make this day happen. I’d give it a 10 out of 10.” Wendy Brown a resident said gleefully.

The students at NZIS and staff at Fendalton are now looking forward to making this a permanent fixture for years to come.