Royal New Zealand Air Force Warrant Officer, P72923, John Walter Allomes left a generous bequest to Levin Home for War Veterans which will provide for a substantial upgrade to the home’s hospital wing, named Kowhai.
Little is known about the motivation for the donation, as Mr Allomes did not have a recorded history with Levin Home but his time in the RNAF is the most likely link.
“His generosity will make a large difference to the day to day running of the facility as well as adding greatly to the comfort of the residents,” says Levin Home Manager Michelle Day.
“The residents and staff are looking forward to the refurbishment in Kowhai and the new look which will mean lovely surroundings for all to enjoy.”
It will increase the ability of the residents to go outside to engage with nature more easily, as well as creating a more effective environment for us to provide care for them.”
Presbyterian Support Central Asset Manager, Oliver Meehan, says the building tender has gone out. Work is due to begin mid-year and be complete by late 2021.
The project’s design work was done by Wellington-based Workspace Architects.
Toilets are currently shared but will be separate in the renovation and the upgrade includes the addition of new shared bathroom facilities for 10 rooms which maximises the space. Lighting, carpet and wall linings will also be fully upgraded. The wall on the exterior of these rooms will be replaced with new aluminium double-glazed joinery with sliding windows. The lounge will be fully upgraded, including installation of a new ceiling to close in pipework. New sliding doors will also be installed in the lounge to allow level access to the new sunshade area.
Corridors will be completely upgraded and the nurse’s office/medical room will be reconfigured to allow for optimum ease of use.