Masonic Court retirement village in Whanganui East celebrated its 40 birthday on Monday.
The foundation stone for the rest home was laid on October 10, 1976.
A cocktail party was held at the rest home on Friday night, with about 70 invited guests attending. On Monday, the residents held their own celebration.
Manager Victoria Morris said residents were treated to entertainment and a high tea. There was also a beautiful cake from Stacey's Cakes, that was cut by 100-year-old Trixie Seccombe - the eldest resident - and Brylee Kemp and Kylie Pointon, both 21 and the youngest staff members.
"It's a special day so we wanted to do something special for the residents," Ms Morris said.
She said the village was established by the Ruapehu Masonic Association Trust. It is still owned and managed by trust members with the aim of providing affordable rest home care as well as supported accommodation.
"We currently have 37 residents in the rest home and more than 70 houses and flats in the village," Ms Morris said.