For many men, the idea of moving to a retirement village can feel daunting, especially when it comes to downsizing. Questions arise like, “Where will my tools go?” and “Will I have the space to work on projects?” At Longridge Country Estate, you don’t have to choose between retirement and the hobbies that bring you joy. Not only do our villas feature spacious double garages with plenty of room for a personal workshop, but there’s also an incredible Men’s Shed just two minutes down the road in Paeroa that our residents love!
What is a Men’s Shed?
A Men’s Shed is a community space where men can work on practical tasks, learn new skills, and enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded friends. The Paeroa Men’s Shed, located in a large 19 x 9 metre shed, has become a beloved spot for our residents. It’s a place where guys can drop by, share laughs, and work on projects together or individually, whether it’s building something personal or working on a project to benefit the community. Projects have included everything from repairing toys for local libraries to building planter boxes for the town centre. The “shed” is a laid-back yet productive setting that brings men together with a shared sense of purpose and fun.
A Welcoming Space for All
And don’t worry - it’s not just for men! While the Men’s Shed is traditionally a gathering place for men, it’s open to anyone who wants to join in, share skills, and get involved in personal or community projects. Many women enjoy the Shed’s welcoming environment, making it a friendly spot for everyone looking to learn something new or simply have a great time with friend.
Independence and Community
Moving to Longridge doesn’t mean letting go of the independence you’ve enjoyed at home. With our villa’s large garages, you can set up your own workspace for projects or hobbies right at home. And when you feel like joining others, the Men’s Shed offers a friendly environment to share skills or learn something new - like engineers sharing insights with builders or newcomers picking up handy tips from experienced members.
More Than Just a Workshop: The Men’s Shed Community
The Men’s Shed is also a place where friendships grow, it’s a great way to expand your network in a casual, supportive environment. As one member noted, “Ten months ago, none of us knew each other, but now it feels like we all went to kindergarten together!” Many wives are also big fans of the Men’s Shed because it gives their husbands a place to connect, find purpose, and spend time in a productive way.
A Healthy Environment, Inside and Out
Besides being a great social spot, the Men’s Shed often hosts health professionals who come to give informal health talks and basic check-ups, offering an accessible way to stay informed about health and wellness. This setting, surrounded by friends and familiar faces, makes it easier for men to look after their health while staying engaged and involved.
The Longridge Lifestyle: Where There’s Always Room for Your Hobbies
At Longridge, we understand that a fulfilling retirement means keeping the hobbies and passions that have always been important to you. Our villas come with spacious, double garages that offer ample room to create your very own workshop or hobby space - right at home. Whether you’re working on a project in your private garage, with all your favourite tools within reach, or popping over to the Paeroa Men’s Shed just down the road for a coffee and a laugh, Longridge is all about ensuring your retirement feels like an upgrade, not a compromise. Keep your tools close, enjoy the freedom to work on your projects anytime, and stay connected to a welcoming community.
Ready to experience the Longridge Lifestyle?
If you’re curious about how Longridge Country Estate can help you enjoy retirement on your terms, we’d love to show you around! From spacious villas to vibrant community amenities and social opportunities like the Men’s Shed, there’s so much to discover. Contact us today to schedule a tour or learn more about joining our community.
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