Jump to Content

Home & community

Home & community

The majority of older New Zealanders are happy living at home and just need a bit of extra support now and again. There are plenty of services designed to keep you living well in your own home, including home support assistance (such as home help and personal care) and respite or short term care. Staying connected with your community is particularly important for older people living at home – whether that’s knowing where to go when you’re feeling unwell, looking out for your neighbours, or volunteering. You’ll also find a range of driving and transport options available throughout New Zealand to help you maintain your independence, as well as information about housing options available in your region.

Transport & driving

Home & community
Do I need a medical certificate to renew a driver’s licence?

To renew your licence past your 75th birthday you will need to visit your doctor to get a 'Medical certificate for driver licence'. Tell your doctor the certificate is for your driver licence. You will have to pay for the appointment yourself. During your appointment your doctor will discuss your...

Home & community
Don't drive but need transport?

Transport is a critical part of staying connected. Remember in your early years when you didn’t have a license yet? While none of us want to go back to those days, the problem solving we used then, might be worth reconsidering now, particularly if you consider that the benefits of...

Home & community
How can I stay driving as I get older?

Helpful and comprehensive information may be found on the Land Transport web site. To access the section for Seniors click HERE

Home & community
I’ve just turned 75 – how do I renew my NZ driver’s licence?

When you turn 75, your licence will be valid for only two to five years, and you will need to present a medical certificate each time you apply. If recommended by your doctor, you will also have to sit a 30-minute On-road Safety Test. As you will need to renew...

Home & community
Meet the Blind Man Who Convinced Google Its Self-Driving Car Is Finally Ready
Home & community
Ohmio self-driving vehicle
Home & community
The Ruderman white paper on self-driving cars
Home & community
The rules around mobility scooters.

If you have limited mobility, mobility scooters can be great to way to maintain your independence and lifestyle. It is however necessary to have comparable skills and be just as safety conscious as you would in any other vehicle. The Land Transport (Road User) Rule 2004 states that a: mobility...

Home & community
Waka Kotahi: Safe driving rules - senior road users
Home & community
Waka Kotahi: Safe driving rules. Intersection and give way rules
Home & community
What is the Total Mobility Scheme?

The Total Mobility Scheme assists people with eligible mobility issues around New Zealand to get access to subsidised door-to-door transport. It is aimed at people with temporary or long-term disabilities who cannot use public transport, and therefore need an alternative mode of transport to live their lives normally and stay...