Describing the popular Matron as “our mother from home away from home”, Franklin says the boys have alway valued her “openness and appreciation of conversations, her delicious baking, and her smile and the laugh that lit up Flower’s House”. “She was kind, thoughtful, and humorous, but still commanded respect. Karen’s balance between her approachable and friendly self and her intent to see each boy at their best is what made her so special. She cared for us boys like we were her own sons. Her influence on many individuals was life-changing.” Many also admired her ability to connect with people, and recalled her catchphrase – ‘the art of
conversation’ – as she urged the boys to practise those skills. “Karen was an expert in the ‘art’, building relationships with juniors, seniors, maintenance and domestic staff, teachers, and parents, with all of us benefitting from her contagious, enthusiastic, and personable nature,” he says. “She was also committed to helping boys become independent young men and relentless in ensuring standards were high. Her favourite daily reminders included ‘check the linen cupboard’, ‘shirt in the wash and pants hung up’, and, of course, ‘if I go upstairs, is your room tidy?’ If any of these things were not done, Karen would confidently announce she was
owed a coffee. I think the entire Flower’s House was in severe coffee debt to Karen. “She also taught us ‘that if a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing well’. She certainly led by example. She thought ahead for us all and made sure we left the House each day ‘in check’. Karen had a love for Flower’s House and a love for Christ’s College. She respected traditions and valued the foundations, connections, and networks this school gave us. Our House will not be the same without Karen. Her work, service, and character will not be forgotten. Karen was a much- loved member of our House, and we will miss her.”
Investing for the next generation Oyster Property Group’s Head of Investor Relations, Mat Harvie, on the benefits of investing in unlisted commercial property funds.
They are a long term play – and one that can deliver strong investment returns over time, while also providing the potential for monthly income, and compelling tax benefits. Stability is a big drawcard for our investors. Generally, commercial property isn’t subject to the same sentiment-based volatility investors can experience in the share market
For those thinking of the next generation, unlisted commercial property investment has a proven track record of delivering appealing long-term total returns. Kiwis have long favoured residential property as their go-to investment. But for some, particularly young people, owning a property, whether to live in, or as an investment, is out of bounds due to the hefty deposit or high levels of maintenance. Today, more New Zealanders are exploring alternative pathways to make property investment a reality. Unlisted commercial property funds provide a tangible, bricks and mortar investment, minus the high barriers to entry, by allowing investors to purchase commercial property in ‘bite-sized’ amounts.
Oyster Property Group is one of New Zealand’s leading unlisted
commercial property fund managers with approximately $1.8 billion in assets under management and has been providing retail and wholesale investors with access to quality commercial property investment options and consistent returns for more than 20 years. We’re proud to provide thousands of New Zealanders access to quality commercial property investment opportunities, backed by strong fundamentals and the resilience of the commercial property asset class.
and it has proved its ability to weather periods of major economic instability.
There is also potential to take advantage of the opportunities that will come at the bottom of the current economic cycle for keen investors looking for growth.
oystergroup.co.nz
To learn more about Oyster Property Group, visit
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