Retirement Village FAQ
Get answers to the most common questions about retirement villages in New Zealand. Learn about costs, contracts, facilities, and how to choose the perfect retirement community.
Essential Retirement Village Questions
What are retirement villages in New Zealand?
Retirement villages in New Zealand are purpose-built communities for people aged 65+, offering independent living units, serviced apartments, and care facilities. They provide amenities like pools, medical centres, and social activities while maintaining your independence. Unlike aged care facilities, retirement villages focus on active lifestyle and community living with optional care services as needed.
How much do retirement villages cost in NZ in 2025?
Retirement village costs vary significantly by location and operator. Entry prices range from $245,000 (regional areas) to $1.75M+ (premium Auckland locations). Weekly fees range $85-$235, plus a deferred management fee of 20-36%. Auckland averages $475k-$1.75M, Wellington $420k-$1.35M, Christchurch $325k-$985k. Budget options exist from $245k in southern regions.
What are the best retirement villages in Auckland 2025?
Top Auckland retirement villages include: Bruce McLaren (Howick) - from $475k, 4.8★ rating; Shona McFarlane (Mount Albert) - from $550k, premium facilities; The Pointe (Gulf Harbour) - from $650k, luxury marina living; Hibiscus Coast (Orewa) - from $485k, ocean views. Ryman Healthcare and Oceania are highly rated operators with multiple Auckland locations.
What is a License to Occupy (LTO) vs Freehold in retirement villages?
A License to Occupy (LTO) is the most common arrangement - you pay for the right to occupy and use facilities, but the operator retains property ownership. This keeps entry costs 20-30% lower than freehold. Freehold means you own the unit outright but is rare in NZ villages. LTO provides security of tenure with lower upfront costs and village-funded maintenance.
What is a deferred management fee (DMF) and how does it work?
A deferred management fee (DMF) is charged when you leave, typically 20-36% of your entry price. It helps fund village facilities and services. Ryman caps DMF at 30%, Summerset at 25% (5% annually for 5 years), Oceania starts at 7% reducing to 3%. For example: $500k entry price with 30% DMF = $150k fee upon departure. This varies significantly between operators.
Can I have pets in retirement villages? What are the rules?
Most NZ retirement villages allow pets with management approval, recognising their importance for wellbeing. Policies vary: some allow cats and small dogs, others have size/breed restrictions. Summerset is particularly pet-friendly. Pet fees may apply ($20-50 weekly). Check specific policies before moving - some villages have pet areas, grooming facilities, or even pet-sitting services.
What's the difference between retirement villages and aged care homes?
Retirement villages offer independent living with optional care, while aged care homes provide 24/7 medical care. Villages focus on active lifestyle, social activities, and aging in place - you can progress from independent living to assisted living to hospital care within the same community. This allows couples to stay together even with different care needs.
How do I choose the right retirement village for me?
Consider: Location (proximity to family, medical facilities, amenities), Cost (entry price, weekly fees, DMF structure), Care options (independent to hospital-level), Facilities (pools, dining, medical centre), Community culture, Operator reputation, Contract terms, and Waiting lists. Visit multiple villages, talk to residents, and consider trial stays. Financial advice is recommended.
What facilities and amenities do modern retirement villages have?
Modern villages typically include: swimming pools, gyms, medical centres, restaurants/cafes, libraries, cinemas, hair salons, bowling greens, gardens, and activity rooms. Premium villages may have spas, golf courses, marinas, concierge services, and physiotherapy. Many offer bus services, guest suites, and workshops. Facilities significantly impact lifestyle quality and property values.
Are there affordable retirement villages in New Zealand?
Yes, affordable options exist. Budget range: $245k-$400k (regional areas). Mid-range: $400k-$700k (suburban locations). Look at: smaller towns, older established villages, studio units, or villages outside main centres. Rosewood (Invercargill) from $245k, Summerset Katikati from $385k, or consider regional Bupa villages. Factor in lower weekly fees in these areas too.
Provider-Specific Questions
What makes Ryman Healthcare different from other retirement villages?
Ryman Healthcare distinguishes itself through its comprehensive continuum of care model, fixed weekly fees, and Triple A Protection Promise. They're known for their resort-style facilities, integrated healthcare services, and strong focus on resident wellbeing.
How much does it cost to live in a Ryman Healthcare village?
Their units range from $450,000 to $1,500,000 depending on location, size, and type. Weekly fees are fixed for life and include most village amenities. The deferred management fee is capped at 20% over your first three years of occupancy.
What types of care does Ryman Healthcare provide?
They offer a full spectrum of care including independent living, assisted living, rest home care, hospital-level care, specialist dementia care, and respite care. This allows residents to age in place without needing to move as their care needs change.
Where are Ryman Healthcare villages located in New Zealand?
They have villages across New Zealand including Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin. Each location is carefully chosen for accessibility to amenities and medical facilities.
What activities and amenities are available at Ryman Healthcare villages?
The villages feature resort-style amenities including swimming pools, cafes, movie theaters, libraries, and gardens. They offer a comprehensive activities program run by dedicated coordinators, including exercise classes, social events, and outings.
What is Summerset Group's 'Love the life' guarantee?
Their 'Love the life' guarantee ensures resident satisfaction with a 90-day money-back guarantee. If you're not completely happy within your first 90 days, they'll refund your occupancy advance in full.
Are Summerset villages pet-friendly?
Yes, most Summerset villages are pet-friendly, allowing residents to bring their small pets subject to village manager approval. They understand pets are family members and contribute to wellbeing.
What healthcare services are available at Summerset villages?
They provide a range of care services including independent living, supported living, rest home care, hospital-level care, memory care, and short-term care. Their professional healthcare team is available 24/7.
How does Summerset's pricing structure work?
Their units range from $400,000 to $1,200,000. They have a transparent fee structure with fixed base weekly fees and a deferred management fee. Various payment options are available to suit different financial situations.
What social activities are offered at Summerset villages?
They offer a vibrant social calendar including exercise classes, craft groups, outings, and social clubs. Their resident-led activities ensure programs reflect community interests and preferences.
What is Metlifecare's approach to sustainable living?
Metlifecare is committed to environmental sustainability through energy-efficient design, waste reduction programs, and sustainable practices. The newer villages incorporate green building principles and technologies.
How does Metlifecare support community integration?
They focus on creating connected communities through local partnerships, intergenerational programs, and community events. Their villages are designed to promote social interaction and community engagement.
What care options are available at Metlifecare villages?
They offer independent living, assisted living, rest home care, hospital care, and respite care. Their care services are tailored to individual needs and can be adjusted as requirements change.
What is included in Metlifecare's weekly fees?
Weekly fees cover village maintenance, gardening, building insurance, security, and access to community facilities. Additional services can be added based on individual preferences and needs.
How does Metlifecare support resident wellbeing?
They provide wellness centres, social connection programs, and regular health monitoring. Their approach focuses on maintaining independence while ensuring support is available when needed.
What sets Oceania Healthcare's clinical care apart?
Oceania Healthcare is known for clinical excellence with high staff-to-resident ratios, specialised care programs, and continuous staff training. The care model emphasises personalised attention and evidence-based practices.
How does Oceania support aging in place?
Their aging in place philosophy means residents can transition between care levels within the same village as needs change. They provide a full spectrum of care from independent living to specialised care services.
What premium facilities does Oceania offer?
The villages feature premium amenities including café-style dining, wellness centres, landscaped gardens, and modern communal spaces. Many locations offer specialised therapy rooms and rehabilitation facilities.
How does Oceania involve families in care decisions?
They maintain open communication with families through regular updates, family meetings, and digital care platforms. Families are encouraged to participate in care planning and village activities.
What makes Oceania's lifestyle programs unique?
Their lifestyle programs are tailored to individual interests and abilities, featuring both structured activities and spontaneous social opportunities. They emphasize maintaining independence while providing necessary support.
What is Arvida's 'Living Well' model?
The 'Living Well' model is their holistic approach to retirement living that promotes active engagement, wellness, and community connection. It includes personalised wellness programs, social activities, and health monitoring.
How does Arvida support sustainable practices?
They implement sustainable practices through energy-efficient buildings, waste reduction programs, and eco-friendly initiatives. Many villages feature community gardens and environmental education programs.
What intergenerational activities does Arvida offer?
Their villages regularly host intergenerational activities including partnerships with local schools, community groups, and families. These programs help maintain meaningful connections across generations.
How flexible are Arvida's care options?
They offer flexible care arrangements that can be adjusted to changing needs, from independent living to full care services. Their person-centred approach ensures care plans are tailored to individual preferences.
What wellness programs are available at Arvida villages?
Their wellness programs include fitness classes, nutrition guidance, mental health support, and social activities. Each program is designed to promote physical, mental, and social wellbeing.
How does Bupa's international expertise benefit residents?
As part of the global Bupa healthcare group, they bring international best practices, research-based care programs, and worldwide healthcare expertise to their New Zealand villages.
What specialist programs does Bupa offer?
They provide specialised programs in dementia care, rehabilitation, and palliative care. The programs are developed using international research and adapted for local needs.
How does Bupa implement person-first care?
Their person-first approach means care plans are individually tailored, considering personal preferences, cultural needs, and lifestyle choices. Regular reviews ensure care remains appropriate and effective.
What medical services are available at Bupa villages?
They offer comprehensive medical care including 24/7 nursing support, regular health assessments, and coordination with external healthcare providers. Many villages have on-site medical facilities.
How does Bupa support residents' cultural needs?
They respect and accommodate diverse cultural backgrounds through culturally appropriate care, dietary requirements, and celebration of cultural events. Staff receive cultural competency training.
What makes Enliven different as a not-for-profit provider?
As a not-for-profit organisation, Enliven reinvests all surplus back into services and facilities. They focus on community benefit rather than shareholder returns, often resulting in more affordable options.
Where are Enliven villages located?
Enliven specialises in the lower North Island, with villages in Wellington, Manawatu-Whanganui, and Wairarapa regions. They have deep knowledge of local communities and services.
What care services does Enliven provide?
They offer independent living, assisted living, and rest home care. Their person-centred approach ensures care is tailored to individual needs and preferences.