A hard working and passionate Havelock North retirement village manager has been named New Zealand's Retirement Village Manager of the Year by the Retirement Villages Association.
Mary Doyle Lifecare general manager Diana Triplow, who has worked at the retirement village for 11 years, received the award last month in Wellington.
Mrs Triplow said she waited for about five months before she knew she had made the final round of the competition.
She said the win was amazing and the response she got from friends, staff and residents was overwhelming.
Mrs Triplow admits that she wouldn't have won the award without the support of residents and staff at Mary Doyle Lifecare.
She also suggests her win is down to the high level of care and the variety of activities staff do with residents.
"In May we went to Norfolk Island.
"Next we are planning on going to the Gold Coast and the NZ Wearable Arts competition in Wellington in November."
Throughout her decade-long employment, Triplow has watched the village grow and staff numbers increase.
"I work hard and love what I do. I empower staff and residents and I am open and honest with everyone.
"Treat others how you wish to be treated and most importantly, remember that you have got to have fun," she said.