Bay of Plenty

Why choose a retirement village in Bay of Plenty?

Golden sands, sun, balmy weather – the Bay of Plenty has it all. It’s been a much-loved holiday destination for generations of Kiwis. Perhaps you have nostalgic memories of summers at the bach in the Bay, as a child or with your own children, and are thinking of retiring to the sun and sand. If you’re looking for a relaxed coastal retirement lifestyle, but with city amenities, then this is a great region to check out.

Clustered throughout the Bay there are so many retirement villages to explore with us. Many are in Tauranga, Omokoroa, Mount Maunganui and Papamoa, but there are also options in nearby Katikati and Te Puke. Luxurious or laid-back beach club, high rise apartments or villas and townhouses, set in lush gardens or beachfront for the sand-in-shoes lifestyle and morning beach walks, the Bay covers the lot.

If you’re considering moving from Auckland or another city, you’ll find every city facility you could need or want in Tauranga. And you’ll also find that beach holiday vibe to take you back to those carefree childhood summers.

A retirement village is a community specially built to cater for the needs and lifestyle of older people. Choosing to live in a retirement village can be a great option for those wanting to maintain their independence while living among a like-minded community of people.

Research shows most people enjoy a high level of satisfaction when living in a lifestyle or retirement village. For residents, the benefits can be numerous; these may include giving you peace of mind, new and varied activities and interests, new friendships, and time to be able to spend on the things you most enjoy.

Villages vary greatly – you’ll notice different-sized villages, from very few units to some with hundreds; different types of units within the same complex; newer villages and older villages. You will discover the community offering a wide range such as swimming pool, bowling green and café. Eligibility age differs across villages too – some villages may allow residents to enter at 55 while others commonly have an entry age between 65 and 75.

As well as providing a range of different accommodation options, many villages now offer alternatives, such as care suites, which combine village offerings and residential care components. Make sure you visit a village more than once before you make a decision, and if possible visit more than one village to get a feel for how each has its own culture.

When you are ready to visit some retirement villages, our checklist may help you with your assessment.