Gourmet gifts, virtual wine club, and more: How Ryman is celebrating Christmas this year

Welcome to our Christmas series, where we take a look at what retirement villages around New Zealand have planned for the festive season. Here’s what Ryman is cooking up for the holiday.

While Christmas might look a little different at Ryman this year due to ongoing restrictions, one thing will be the same for all: the beautiful festive decorations and stunning gardens in full summer bloom.

Ryman is also putting together gourmet Christmas gift boxes for all independent residents nationwide. The boxes will include a bounty of delicious beverages and delectable sweet and savoury snacks.

Entertainment wise, there’ll be a virtual wine club event, a pre-recorded Christmas concert by the Andrew London duo, plus a special 16-page edition of Ryman’s Engaged magazine featuring articles, puzzles, and mindfulness colouring. There will also be a Christmas Happy Hour for villages who can host these within the current Covid-19 restrictions.

Residents from James Wattie Retirement Village in Havelock North enjoying Christmas dinner in 2020.

Ryman’s Care Centre and Serviced Apartment residents will be treated to a three-course Christmas meal including manuka honey baked ham, roasted turkey, and traditional Christmas pudding. Each course will be paired with wine. These meals will take place on various dates around the country, allowing residents the opportunity to spend the actual Christmas Day with their loved ones.

To see how other villages are celebrating Christmas this year, follow Village Guide on Facebook.

Want to learn more about Ryman Healthcare? Check out Ryman’s villages on Village Guide.