Retirement For Aged Care Pioneer Brown

Margaret Brown to step down after 17 years in aged care leadership roles
She helped shape Hawthorndale Village into a model of compassionate dementia care
Brown will stay on until September to support the transition of leadership

After 17 years dedicated to aged care, Hawthorndale Care Village general manager Margaret Brown has announced her retirement. She will remain in her position until the end of September to help with a smooth handover as recruitment for her successor continues.

Brown began her career with Calvary Hospital and more recently led the transformation and development of Hawthorndale Care Village. Known for her strong advocacy for compassionate and innovative aged care, she has played a central role in shifting aged care models in the region.

Her leadership was key in bringing to life the Hawthorndale Care Village, a facility based on the Dutch De Hogeweyk model, which supports residents living with dementia in a secure and empowering environment. Her dedication to person-centred care helped redefine how aged care is delivered locally, with a focus on dignity, autonomy, and creating an everyday sense of normal life for residents.

Brown was committed to ensuring the village was fully operational and stable before stepping away.
“It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve this community,” she said.
“Over the past decade, I’ve had the honour of working alongside dedicated staff, a committed Board, generous donors and the wonderful Residents and their whānau to bring this vision to life.
“Hawthorndale is not just a care facility – it’s a community where people, especially those living with dementia can continue to experience purpose, connection, and joy. I leave with immense pride in what we have built together.”

Her work has included extensive international research, promoting the new care concept, and leading teams through major operational and cultural change. She also played a key role in the feasibility studies, planning and fundraising that helped turn the Hawthorndale vision into reality.

Board chair Frank O’Boyle praised Brown’s leadership and legacy.
“Margaret’s vision, determination, and deep compassion have shaped every part of this project. She has not only managed but inspired.
“Her leadership ensured the successful transformation from a conventional care model to one that truly honours the lives and individuality of each resident. On behalf of the Board and the wider community, I thank her for her remarkable service and lasting impact.”

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