Jean “Ginny” Lewis has celebrated her 106th birthday — a milestone she can still hardly believe.

Born on 9 August 1920, Jean has lived through the Great Depression, World War II, the Christchurch earthquakes and extraordinary changes in society, technology and everyday life.

Jean credits her longevity to a simple but powerful secret: “lots of love”.

For Ginny, the love of family, community and lifelong friendships has been central to a meaningful life — and it is something she often credits for her remarkable years.

She embodies that spirit herself, and is well known for her warmth, resilience and generous nature.

Jean grew up in Christchurch as one of ten children in a close-knit family. After leaving school, she trained as a teacher and began her career at a sole-charge school near Lake Coleridge during the war years.

Throughout her life, she demonstrated remarkable determination, overcoming personal loss while raising a young family and continuing her teaching career. Jean maintained lifelong friendships with former pupils, some of whom are now in their 80s.

Following the Christchurch earthquakes, Jean relocated to Whanganui to be closer to family before later moving to New Plymouth. Jean became a resident of Jane Winstone Retirement Village in 2018 and subsequently transferred to Jean Sandel Retirement Village in October 2021. Since joining the Jean Sandel community, she has continued to be a much valued and respected resident.

As Jean celebrates this significant milestone, Village Manager Michael Borostyan said Jean is a much-loved member of the village community.

"Reaching 106 is an extraordinary achievement. Jean brings so much warmth and wisdom to our village, and it has been a privilege to celebrate this milestone with her and her family."

Having lived through more than a century of change, Jean continues to inspire those around her with her positivity, kindness and resilience.