New Ryman village named after rugby great Bob Scott

November 4, 2014

New Ryman village named after rugby great Bob Scott

Petone village named in honour of All Black

Ryman Healthcare has named its newest village after All Blacks great Bob Scott.

New Zealand’s largest retirement village operator’s new $120 million retirement village in North St, Petone will be named the Bob Scott Retirement Village in honour of the late All Black who made the area his home.

Bob Scott was born in Wellington and grew up in poverty during the depression.

A keen sportsman, he became a masterful bare foot kicker because he was unable to afford boots when he was young.

After volunteering to fight in World War 2, his sporting talent was soon recognised and he was selected to play for the Kiwi armed forces team.

After the war he played 17 tests for the All Blacks, and built his reputation as a nimble, attacking fullback who was able to land kicks from over half way. He is considered one of the finest All Blacks fullbacks ever to play.

Bob ended his rugby career playing for Petone. He bought a menswear store on Jackson St which he ran for more than 20 years, becoming a well-known figure in the local business community.

He was awarded an MBE in 1995 for his services to sport and the community. He retired to live on the Coromandel Peninsula and died in 2012 at the age of 91.

Ryman Healthcare managing director Simon Challies said the name was suggested by Petone locals so Bob’s family was approached and agreed to lend the family name to the village.

“Bob was a terrific sportsman and a great New Zealander. He grew up in tough circumstances, but never let that stop him. He lived an outstanding life, volunteering to serve in World War 2 in Europe, playing rugby at the highest level and becoming a businessman and local leader who gave a huge amount back to his community in Petone. His name means a huge amount to his generation."

Bruce Scott, Bob’s son, said the honour would have meant a lot to his dad.

“He’d be modest about it but I think he would be proud and pleased."

Bob Scott coached former All Blacks captain Andy Leslie and the pair were in business together for more than 20 years. Leslie said it is a great honour for his friend.

“He was a wonderful rugby player and he gave an awful lot to the Petone community. I think he’d be flattered – it is a lovely honour for him."

"For me there will never by anyone as great as Scott." – Winston McCarthy

About Ryman Healthcare: Ryman was founded in 1984 and has become one of New Zealand’s largest listed companies. The company owns 28 villages and serves over 8,000 residents in New Zealand and Australia. Each village offers a combination of retirement living and aged care.

ENDS

© Scoop Media