It felt like home from the moment I arrived

Trading the quiet solitude of her former home for the vibrant, close-knit community at Orion Point has been a welcome change for Sheila Fisher.

The upkeep of a large two-story, four-bedroom home was becoming increasingly challenging, but it was an unsettling confrontation with a stranger in her driveway one night that gave Sheila the final push she needed to make the move.

“Living alone, I realised I needed more security,” Sheila recalls. “I want to feel safe in my own home, and I just didn’t feel that way anymore.” Keen to stay close to friends and family on the North Shore, Sheila began exploring retirement village options and almost settled on one - until she saw Orion Point in Hobsonville.

“I came to talk to the Sales Executive about a different Metlifecare village. But the moment I saw this apartment, I knew it was the one for me.” The idea of apartment living was initially a bit of a leap for Sheila. “Coming from a larger property, I never pictured myself in an apartment,” she admits. “But the layout here was different to anything I’d seen at other villages. With two bedrooms and two bathrooms separated by the kitchen and living area, it’s a perfect set-up for when my family visits.” The modern design, luxurious finishes, and sense of security she’d been looking for sealed the deal.

“I didn’t want to be in an older village with tall, five-story buildings where the walls feel like they are closing in on you. I wanted something bright and spacious, and because Orion Point is a new village, you get to grow with the community.”

The convenient location was another big selling point for Sheila. Staying close to her favourite spots and her gym in Glenfield was important. “Health and fitness have always been a big part of my life, especially as I get older. I’ve always been into sports - karate, tennis, badminton, squash - you name it. I love setting goals and pushing my limits.”

As a former bodybuilder, Sheila knows a thing or two about challenging herself. She entered her first competition at the impressive age of 56 and went on to win multiple medals, competing in six regional and three national contests all against athletes much younger than her.

“Getting older doesn’t mean slowing down,” she says. “For me, it’s about having the freedom to live life on my terms and keep doing what I love.” These days, Sheila keeps active at the gym, makes the most of the village fitness centre, enjoys the local coastal walking tracks, and has even given line dancing a whirl. Retirement has also given her the chance to revisit old passions and explore new ones. She’s taken up photography classes, spends time pencil drawing, enjoys arts and crafts, and knits for the local markets.

But what has surprised Sheila the most about life at Orion Point is the incredible sense of community. “When you’re on your own, you can’t help but wonder whether you’ll fit in. But I didn’t need to worry about that. I’ve been made to feel so incredibly welcome and included. The staff and residents go out of their way to help you settle in. I felt like part of the place from day one.”

“I’ve always considered myself reserved and shy, but I’ve surprised myself here. I love meeting new people and being part of the community. It’s the best move I’ve ever made.”