Alexandra man Chris Pope celebrated his 103rd birthday on Christmas Eve, with daughter Joy Edwards.
Mr Pope received a new cardigan from his daughter, who also took him for coffee at his favourite cafe before driving him to Tarras where they enjoyed afternoon tea.
"I used to live in Tarras and Dad absolutely loves it there, and although it's not the right time of year, he needs a new cardigan," Mrs Edwards said.
Despite not being able to see or hear well, Mr Pope left the Ranui Home and Hospital complex for an outing each day, which was more than some of his younger friends could manage.
"He's pretty good really," Mrs Edwards said.
Ranui manager Mavis Thornton said it was "a real privilege" to be able to support Mr Pope, who moved to the complex in November last year.
Born in Dunedin in 1906, Mr Pope built the house he and wife Freda lived in for 66 years.
The couple moved 13 years ago to Alexandra, where Mrs Pope died in 2003.
While in Dunedin Mr Pope was a well-known long distance runner, in 1928 joining the St Kilda Harriers Club, of which he was later made a life member.
He won 12 cross-country events and came third in the first New Zealand marathon held at Napier in 1933.
Mr Pope spent his 103rd Christmas at his daughter's Alexandra home with family and friends.
