Kiwi stars reveal why they’re embracing getting older: ‘Age is a privilege!’

How do you feel about getting older?

Look, I struggled with it at first, but I’ve slowly come to accept that I’m changing, and that things look and feel different, so I’m trying to work with it, rather than against it. I’ve chucked out my size-eight clothing and I’ve learned to work with my curves. I’m just rolling with it, instead
of moaning, groaning and wanting to be who I was 10 or 20 years ago. I’m embracing my fifties. Every now and then, I have a down moment, but I quickly pick myself up, look in the mirror and think, “You’re doing good, girl!”

What are you grateful for when it comes to ageing?

When I was younger, I thought I knew it all and was invincible, but I had no idea. I was running around blindly. Now I’ve got some lived experience and wisdom. I won’t make the same mistakes again and I don’t sweat the small stuff any more. I have a small but close circle of family and friends who are my ride-or-dies. I’ve got another thirty, forty or fifty years to go and I’m looking forward to this new phase.

And what’s not so great?

Well, my body aches, my boobs have gone south, I’ve got hot and cold sweats, and I’m having to take medication and supplements like never before. The negatives list is a long-winded one, but once you accept it, then the road forward can be a good one – even if there are a few bumps.

What makes you feel most confident?

Knowing that I’m a good human, a great mother and a good wife. If you’ve got people around you who love you and care for you, with lumps, bumps and all, then life is pretty damn good. I may have wrinkles and a few greys, but I’m proud to say I’m happy with me, especially when I put on a beautiful dress, slip on my high heels and slap on some bright lipstick. I don’t need a special occasion – I am that occasion!

What have you learnt about staying healthy?

I’m trying to keep it simple – drink that water, go for a walk and get heaps of sleep – rather than falling for every bloody diet and exercise fad.

What are the positives that come with getting older?

Just being authentic and confident in my own skin. I’m celebrating every age and stage! I mean, I’ve carried three children, so my body is amazing, but it’s not what it was 10 years ago, when I was training full-time. But I still like to keep fit and move my body because it makes me feel good. For me, the biggest currency is energy and how I feel. I love being able to climb a mountain, and run and play with my kids. I’m really intentional about putting a lot of time into health and fitness because it makes me feel good mentally and physically – strong body, strong mind!

When do you feel most confident?

I was an athlete for many years and I’m a bit of a tomboy, so I feel more at home in activewear, outdoors and as part of a team. I’m less confident on a red carpet. The outdoors is a real leveller because it doesn’t matter how you wear your gear or what you look like. The main thing is that you’re focusing on what your body can do. When I’m out on a hike, I’m not there for a fashion show – it’s about the people I’m with, the journey, the views and the moments that take my breath away. I’m really inspired when I meet people who aren’t afraid to be themselves. They’re just doing the thing they’re passionate about and they’re thriving. That’s what makes people beautiful.

What have you learnt about beauty?

That I need someone to do my hair and makeup! It’s not a strength of mine. If you’ve got a leak, you get a plumber! I get an expert in and it’s so nice when someone else is doing that for me – I feel cared for and they boost my self-esteem. Also, it gives me time to sit and relax ahead of the event. In the past, I used to be so worried about what I looked like, but this way, I can enjoy the evening, just focusing on the people I’m with and what we’re celebrating.

How do you feel about ageing?

Age is a privilege! Despite having travelled the world working in an industry that promotes youth as the ideal, I’ve never bought into that – I look at every wrinkle as an achievement. I don’t mind this huge mess of hair going grey.

What don’t you like about getting older?

I used to run and jump up the stairs like a maniac. Now I stop and look before I step. Also, my vision has just started to go. The other morning, I was reading in bed and the words were blurry. I thought, “Oh, dear, it’s happening!” But it’s inevitable.

What have you learnt about yourself?

Well, you can’t help but amass knowledge, clarity, grace, goodness and intelligence! But I’ve learnt I love being alone. I’m really comfortable in my
own space, or going to a movie or museum by myself. But what I’ve noticed as a model is that I’ve done a few recent shoots where I’m paired with a girl in her late teens and early twenties. I don’t think I look like a dirty old man, but I’ve always wanted to stand beside a woman my age. That’s problematic to me. Men can get away with ageing, but women outlive us and we should celebrate them at all ages for their power, beauty and sexuality.

When do you feel most confident?

Every second of every day! I’m more confident now than I ever was. I feel like I’m in a tampon commercial! My life’s not perfect, but I’ve lost a lot of friends recently, so I just think every moment is a privilege and I make time to be with the people I care for.

How do you feel about ageing?

It’s a natural part of being alive. I try to embrace every age and stage that I get to experience being. As I get older, I find life becomes simpler. It’s wonderful!

What don’t you like about getting older?

My body definitely isn’t the same as it used to be! Injuries are real, as is weight gain. I’ve had to change tack to maintain something that used to be a whole lot easier.

When do you feel most confident?

For me, confidence comes with age. I feel much more comfortable in my skin now than I did when I was younger and hotter. Lol!

How do you stay healthy?

I’m into gentle exercise when it comes to staying active these days. No more killer workouts and the like, and I really like it.

And what makes you feel most beautiful?

My heart. Who I am and how I treat others.

How do you feel about ageing?

I’m embracing it. Every year brings more wisdom, confidence and a better understanding of who I am. I’m not trying to be 25 again.

What are you grateful for?

Perspective. I know what matters now – my whānau, my health, my purpose and the people I love. I don’t sweat the small stuff like I used to.

What don’t you like?

My body reminding me that I’m not 25 any more! Recovery takes a little longer and apparently sleep is now a luxury.

When do you feel most confident?

When I’m with my whānau, my dogs and my people. Being connected to my culture keeps me grounded and that’s when I feel most like myself.

How do you stay healthy?

I get outside as much as possible, move my body, and look after my mental and spiritual wellbeing. Don’t underestimate the power of laughter
and having good people around you.

And what makes you feel most beautiful?

Laying in the sun and feeling comfortable in my own skin. But honestly, nothing beats being surrounded by my wha¯nau, feeling loved and knowing I’m living with purpose.