Bob Scott Retirement Village

Each Ryman village is named in honour of a Kiwi or Aussie trailblazer: Anthony Wilding, Lady Diana Isaac, Evelyn Page. They pushed further and set the bar high for others to aspire to. In creating communities that challenge the expectations of ageing, Ryman villages are also setting the bar high. They’re demonstrating that a retirement lifestyle brimming with new experiences, connections and fulfilment is something we should aspire to. Our Kiwi and Aussie namesakes represent the measure of inspiration, while Ryman villages represent the measure of retirement living.

Bob Scott (1921-2012)

New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame inductee, Robert (Bob) Scott, made his mark on history as a rugby legend.

Having grown up in poverty, Bob overcame a difficult childhood to become one of world rugby’s greats. His off-field resilience was matched by his on-field demeanour. Hennie Muller stated in his autobiography that “Scott always appeared to have plenty of time, even under pressure. His speed and elusiveness were such that he was always a danger. Altogether, the greatest player I’ve ever played in any position”.

Unable to afford rugby boots as a young player, Bob developed into a masterful barefoot kicker. With 17 All Black tests to his name, he holds a reputation for being a nimble, attacking fullback with the ability to swerve, feint, and sidestep on-coming forwards. He is widely considered one of the finest All Black fullbacks.

Following his rugby career, Bob ran a menswear store with another former All Black Andy Leslie in Petone, becoming a well-known figure in the local business community. He was recognised for his unwavering support of the Petone community and his commitment to younger rugby players with an appointment to the Member of the Order of the British Empire in 1995.