Brewing up some strong opinions


From house blend to espresso, retirement village residents took on the serious responsibility of sampling a range of coffee options to help Arvida find a national coffee supplier.
Across Arvida Village at the Park, Knightsbridge and Aria Bay, residents sipped, sniffed and scrutinised their way through the lineup and then filled in questionnaires for feedback. Vending machine, instant and hot chocolate varieties were also put to the test, as were new corrugated takeaway cups. For Aria Bay resident Barbara Irving, it was a new experience.
"I've done some product tasting years ago, but never coffee," she said. "It was very interesting."
Not every contender won her over.
"The plunger coffee wasn't for me. My favourite was the flat white because of the flavour and the presentation. It smelt like the type of coffee I prefer."
Residents scored flavour, aroma, appearance and presentation, helping Arvida understand what matters most to coffee drinkers across its communities.
Fellow resident Sylvia McKendrick wasn't afraid to deliver her verdict either. Although she describes herself as more of a tea drinker, Sylvia admits she usually orders a flat white when she's out at a café. Her expression said it all when she reached the decaffeinated option.
"Let's just say I've definitely told the truth on the piece of paper," she laughed.
While the final decision is still being brewed, one thing is certain: when it comes to coffee… everyone has an opinion, and they're happy to share it.


Communities mentioned in this story


Aria Bay - Auckland
Independent living, Assisted living, Rest home care, Hospital-level care, Dementia care


Knightsbridge - Auckland
Independent living


Village at the Park - Wellington
Independent living, Assisted living, Rest home care, Hospital-level care, Dementia care


