Ngā mihi Cherie Schofield

Our beloved General Manager at the Eastcliffe Retirement Village, Cherie Schofield announced her retirement earlier this year. Being part of the group that established Eastcliffe twenty two years ago, she knows it inside and out.

Over the past two decades at Eastcliffe, Cherie has enjoyed many a highlight. This includes selling almost 70 apartments within the first year of Eastcliffe opening and finding residents for the care facility. She says the main highlight though, has been the incredible relationships she has built with staff and residents.

“The people are definitely what I will miss the most, as everyone is one big whānau. I have made lifelong friendships and each of these hold a very special place in my heart.”

She says she has also loved being a part of the journey as she helps people find a place they can call a home. “My favourite part is watching people’s faces light up when you find the right apartment for them – they are just delighted. Many people come into the retirement village because they are lonely, and its amazing to see them have a new lease on life with new friendships they form at Eastcliffe.”

Cherie has also led Eastcliffe through some challenging times, most notably her leadership  as apartments with weather tightedness issues were demolished and assisting with the relocation of displaced residents. And more recently managing through the nationwide nursing shortage, and of course mitigating the risks that COVID-19 has posed.

In terms of retirement, Cherie plans to keep just as busy as Eastcliffe has kept her! She’s looking forward to reigniting her love of yoga, and will also be spending time painting, walking, boating and travelling – first up, Australia! She has a trip booked later this year where she and her partner will travel from Port Douglas to Byron Bay and do all of the things they love.

Overall, she is incredibly proud of what she has achieved over the years. Although it’s bittersweet to say e noho rā, Cherie says she is content – she knows she has done her best and made a positive difference in people’s lives.

Sharing her best piece of advice, “You can never underestimate the value of your staff. Look after your people and they will reward you in so many ways.”

Cherie is currently handing over her position to Merrin Gemmell, before her departure at the end of July. Make sure you drop in, say goodbye and wish her all of the best!