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Is a villa in a retirement village the right option for me?

There is a range of different accommodation options to choose from in retirement villages across New Zealand. 

A popular choice for many people is a villa. A villa is a good option for people wanting to maximise space. Villas are commonly free standing and offer a modern open plan kitchen, lounge and dining area. This design is ideal for entertaining guests, and allows for easy access to all parts of the living space.

Villas can also offer a private outdoor terrace or balcony, providing a place to relax and enjoy New Zealand’s sunshine. Most contemporary villas are also double glazed and fully insulated, and have modern heat sources, ensuring they are warm and comfortable year-round.

Generally, a villa in a retirement village will also have a single or double garage with internal access. This provides a secure and convenient place to park a car, and also allows for easy access to the villa from the garage. 24 hour call buttons, smoke detectors and sprinkler systems are also standard features in villas, providing residents with peace of mind and a sense of security.

Other options include townhouses, apartments, serviced apartments.

Townhouses

Townhouses are typically two-story homes that offer a more traditional living experience. They are designed with small outdoor spaces and compact living areas, making them perfect for those who prefer a low-maintenance lifestyle. Most townhouses come with a small yard, and some may have a single garage. These homes can be an excellent option for couples or singles who don't require a lot of space.

Apartments

Most villages in New Zealand offer apartment living. Apartments are typically smaller than townhouses, with one or two bedrooms and a single living area. Apartments are a good choice for individuals who want a low-maintenance home with minimal outdoor space, and who prefer to be close to communal amenities such as dining and recreation areas.

Serviced Apartments

For seniors who require a bit of extra support, serviced apartments are an excellent option. These apartments offer the same features as standard apartments, but they also come with additional support services, such as housekeeping, laundry, and meal services. They are a good choice for individuals who need extra assistance with daily living tasks, but still want to maintain some independence and privacy.

A care suite is another option for people who require care, or may need in the future. While it is technically a retirement village offering, it also has care components governed by the Age-Related Residential Care (ARRC) Agreement. It offers the same type of care as a care home and is bound by the same rules.

Whichever living option you choose, you’ll also be able to take advantage of the retirement village facilities, as well as the events, outings and other activities and entertainment on offer.

Use our checklist it to help you decide which village option might be right for you
https://www.eldernet.co.nz/knowledge-lab/make-a-good-choice-use-our-retirement-village-checklist

Then start searching available properties in your price range here.

Updated: 25 Mar 2024
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