Thornton Park Retirement Village Opotiki, New Zealand

Our dear mother went into full time care at Thornton Park nursing & rest home when she was pretty much on her last legs of her life. Her heart was failing her and she was pretty much non-coherent and unable to walk. It was awful seeing her in that state. Then covid hit and they all went into lockdown. Eventually after a few weeks we were able to go see her again and what a surprise we got. Mum was up and walking around without assistance. She was back to her old self. Laughing, talking, eating & even winning quiz competitions. Its still tear jerkingly amazing to this day. Mum told us she loved it there, the nurses were so good to her and were so caring & lovely. Actually all staff were, doctors included. Then there was Hemi, what can I say about that man. He's a true gem, he was absolutely the twinkle in my mothers eye. Ha ha. Whenever she was having a bad day he was right there by her bedside cheering her up, and when she got cheeky he gave it right back, which she loved. The home itself was quiet & peaceful with lots of lovely sunny rooms which mum loved. She was never cold. When the day finally came for mum to pass over the communication and support we got from Thornton Park staff to our family was amazing. We were all in good hands. Thank you so much for taking exceptional care of our mum in her time of need. I would recommend Thornton Park to absolutely everyone. 

– The Saul Family – 

We have always had a great relationship with Thornton Park and very friendly phone manner and always dealt in a timely manner if permitted as this is dependent on bed availability.

The services:
Is the only resthome/hospital in the Whakatohea, Ngaitai and Te Whanau-A-Apanui rohe that caters to predominantly the people in that area. With the expansion of the rest home it is greatly needed and appreciated. This does not take away that other patients from other areas are excluded as at times there has been a need to cater and offer accommodation short term.

– Liz Ngatai - Team Leader for Social Workers at Whakatane Hospital –

The care and love shown our loved one while living at Thornton Park was second to none.  Nothing was too much trouble for the caring staff.  They kept us informed of progress and any needs that arose.  The facilities were first class.

We ourselves, also felt supported when organising days out, be it to appointments, or a drive to see family, or sightseeing.

– Merv, Lee and Sheryl –

My father, who suffers from dementia, is a long-term resident at Thornton Park, and he has always been treated with kindness and respect by the staff. The team strive to preserve the dignity of residents, and often go way beyond normal expectations in attending to their welfare. Thornton Park strives to creates a community for older people with mental health challenges, and is constantly attentive to their needs. My enquiries about my dad are always addressed quickly, my questions are taken seriously, and I am always treated with warmth and friendliness when I get in touch. I feel there is a real relationship of trust between the team at Thornton Park and me and, as I live many thousands of miles away, this is really important. Thank you so much to everyone who works so hard to make my father’s life comfortable and secure.

– Nick Monk –

My father Piki Amoamo was diagnosed with dementia in 2015 and the whānau struggled to find a safe place for him to receive care.

We were blessed to have Thornton Park offer to take him in. The staff at Thornton Park is 2nd to none.When we were living overseas we felt reassured that dad was in safe hands, honestly our whānau can not speak highly enough of the team at TP and the care and services they provide is genuine.

The main reason we wanted dad at Thornton Park was because we felt that our cultural needs as a whānau were being met and respected. It is important to acknowledge the Māori values. We love seeing the hangis, Matariki celebrations and other activities in the lounge area.

Our father is in safe hands and we are forever grateful to Thornton Park.

Naku noa na
– Hamana Amoamo –

I initially had some reservations about coming into Resthome. My GP and daughter and informed me about Thornton Park. Yes, I knew about it, but never thought I would need their services.

My health was beginning to fail me. I basically came here on trial basis, but I can assure you that the care I receive here is second to none. Excellent care, to the point where I am very happy because they treat me like a Kaumatua (Elder) here! and the staff are very obliging. The food is pretty good to.

– James Brown - Resident –

My admission into full time care was as a result of ailing health over a period of time. I had previously been into Thornton Park for respite care on 3 seperate occasions. I realised that my health wasn't getting better, and to relieve some pressure at home, in my heart, Thornton Park was the only place for me. I have always been free to come and go with the support of staff here.

I am looked after very well here and that's telling you the truth. I have been treated with very much respect and would definitely recommend Thornton Park to anyone else from home. Ive told them that you couldn't wish to be in a better facility and surroundings.

– Barlu Delamere - Resident –