Skip to content
All articles

Shaun Wallace, a big fan of Remuera Gardens… and kiwi onion dip!

Shaun Wallace is an English barrister who shot to fame in 2004 when he won the BBC’s legendary Mastermind. In 2009 he became a “chaser” on the UK television series The Chase, where contestants play against a professional quizzer who attempts to prevent them from winning a cash prize.

Shaun is currently in New Zealand as part of a tour organised by Quiz company “Believe it or not”, participating in five events to raise money for local charities. On Tuesday, a few hours after landing in New Zealand, Shaun paid a surprise visit to Remuera Gardens, one of the villages that regularly hosts “Believe it or not” quizzes. Residents from all Real Living villages were invited to participate in Shaun’s Q&A, followed by a Meet and Greet where they had the chance to take pictures with him.

Shaun signed copies of his autobiography

The New Zealand company “Believe it or not” was established in 1998 and pioneered the Quiz industry in New Zealand. Owner Brendan Lochead, who is a very good friend of Shaun Wallace, has a special connection with Remuera Gardens since his mother-in-law, Wendy, is one of the village’s beloved residents. Brendan was at the village with Shaun on Tuesday and they both had a lovely afternoon mingling with the residents at the Beattie Lodge, which was at full capacity.

Shaun and Brendan (standing on his right) have been friends for many years.

Shaun Wallace confessed to the audience that he loves New Zealand and he’s a big fan of kiwi onion dip. He was thrilled when he discovered that among the audience there was Rosemary Mount, the lady who invented the iconic dip, who lives in one of Real Living’s villages. Shaun ran to hug Rosemary and they both shared their admiration for each other.

Rosemary Mount invented Kiwi Onion Dip when she was working as a Home Economist for Nestle in the late fifties.

Shaun also revealed that he’s 63 years old, so the residents quickly invited him to retire in New Zealand. Some of them let him know that Real Living’s entry age is 55 so he could move to our villages anytime he wishes to. Shaun said he was not ready to retire anytime soon but he would consider the offer… since New Zealand would be a great place to retire!

On Wednesday night Shaun will host his first charity event at the Grand Hall in Eden Park. His tour around New Zealand will take him to Hawke’s Bay, Wellington, Invercargill and Kaiapoi. Shaun is hosting a series of quizzes in these locations to raise money for different charities, such as the Cyclone Relief Fund, Lifeflight and Youthline Southland.

If you’d like to know more about joining our community contact Lyn on 021 845 524 or email Lyn.Ellis@realliving.co.nz

Latest articles

All News
A Day with the Butterflies
Epsom Village
News
Epsom Village
News
18 February 2025

A Day with the Butterflies

Auckland is full of hidden gems that make for a fantastic day out, and one of them is West Lynn Gardens in New Lynn. Our villages organise weekly or monthly trips for residents throughout the year, but they definitely make the most of the warmer weather by visiting special destinations during the summer months. Epsom Village residents recently enjoyed a stunning sunny day at West Lynn Gardens, where they strolled through the beautiful grounds and, of course, visited the enchanting Butterfly House.
Read more
Happy Valentine's
Remuera Gardens
News
Remuera Gardens
News
14 February 2025

Happy Valentine's

At Remuera Gardens, it’s the small gestures that make life truly special. That’s why, on occasions like Valentine’s Day, we surprise our residents with a little treat to share in the celebration. Real Living is a proud NZ family-owned business, and this shows in these thoughtful gestures, just like any family would do for their own. Happy Valentine’s Day to our residents and their families!
Read more
Sharing the love
Pakuranga Park
Events
Pakuranga Park
Events
10 February 2025

Sharing the love

As it's Valentine’s Day - Pakuranga Park is sharing the love of our community, with chocolate treats for all our visitors! Come and enjoy our hospitality and get a feel for our village - we’d love to see you on Thursday 13 + Friday 14 February, 9.30am-12.30pm. If you’re considering a move to our community, even if you are not ready yet, why not pop in to one of our open mornings?
Read more