The listings below include housing options specifically for people aged over 50: serviced apartments, units, villas and cottages. They can help identify places that are within your price range and offer the features you want. All prices include GST.

You purchase tenure e.g.  Occupation Right Agreement and pay an ongoing service fee. The fee usually covers rates, insurance (excluding personal insurance), security, emergency call, lawns, gardening and exterior maintenance. Check detail, as each village is different.

Serviced apartment fees are generally higher and include additional services such as meals, housekeeping, personal care, linen and power. Some packages do not allow you to access publicly funded personal care such as help with showering.

Villages with District Health Board contracted rest homes and hospitals may offer units where the occupant claims subsidy for care in that unit. Check details with your Needs Assessor and lawyer before making a commitment.

The following resources may be helpful for residents and intending residents:

The Law Society

Good legal advice is vital. The Law Society website lists lawyers experienced in retirement village work.

The Retirement Commission

The Retirement Commission website has useful information including a summary of the Retirement Villages Act 2003 which provides safeguards for residents. If village management is not able to resolve a financial issue, residents can appeal to the statutory supervisor who acts as an independent ‘watchdog’ for the village. Contact details for the supervisor are in the disclosure statement. Disputes not resolved within the village can go to an independent disputes panel. The Retirement Commission appoint and publish lists of panel members.

The Department of Building and Housing

This government department has responsibility for public education on legal requirements for retirement villages. If you have questions, phone 0800 83 62 62 and ask to speak with someone who has specialist knowledge of retirement villages. Visit their website at Department of Building and Housing

The Retirement Village Association (RVA)

Check if the village is a member of the RVA. The association has a code of practice and offers an alternate complaint process. Their website Retirement Villages Association has resident information or you can phone them on 04 499 0449.