With 79 retirement villages in Canterbury, the region boasts one of the largest choices of retirement living in New Zealand. From the hustle and bustle of Christchurch, down to coastal Timaru, or head north to Amberley for some fresh country air, you’ve got everything on your doorstep in Canterbury.
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Villages in Canterbury
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Why choose a Retirement Village in Canterbury?
Canterbury offers one of the largest choices of retirement living anywhere in New Zealand. Even the city of Christchurch has so many options: the leafy suburbs of Merivale and Fendalton, the bustle of Riccarton and Papanui, or the relaxed feel of beachside Sumner. Close by there’s the new and growing satellite town of Rolleston in the Selwyn district, with its roots in the country but a distinctly modern urban feeling as well. Slightly further afield you’ll find Akaroa, with its French aura, quaint architecture, and beautiful beachside atmosphere, or Kaiapoi, famous for its historic woollen mills. And just to add to your difficulty choosing, there’s the long-established provincial Canterbury towns of Amberley, Ashburton and Rangiora.
Heading south from Christchurch across the Canterbury Plains, you’ll come to Timaru. Set on the coast, this busy port city is the industry hub for South Canterbury as well as the supply centre for its surrounding farmlands. The pretty town of Geraldine is on the inland loop; in the heart of a well-established and prosperous farming area, it also has a range of boutiques and galleries that reflect its artistic aspect.
In this region you’ll find a group of retirement villages, each offering different options. Perhaps you’re returning to your roots in retirement or coming into town off the farm. You can choose from villas, cottages or apartments; resort-style independent retirement living and villages offering a full range of care, should you ever need it.
All about retirement villages
A retirement village is a community specially built to cater towards the needs and lifestyles of older people. Many retirement villages offer units, villas, suites, or serviced suites. This gives you the option to choose to live independently within the village environment or to get extra help with cleaning or meal delivery.
I want to read reviews of retirement villages
At the Eldernet Group, we're proud to remain an independent, unbiased source of information for older people and their families. While we know reviews can be helpful for some when choosing a place to live, they don't always tell the full story. No one's experience is the same as another...
Is a care suite different to a serviced apartment?
A care suite is a hybrid-type option that combines a village offering (therefore something that requires an upfront ‘purchase’ price) and support at a higher level of care as certified by Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health and governed by the Age Related Residential Care (ARRC) Agreement. They may also be...
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,...
What is a Retirement Village?
Retirement villages are becoming an increasingly popular choice for older New Zealanders who want to live independently among a like-minded community of people. But what exactly is a retirement village, and what can you expect if you decide to move into one? Under Section 6 of the Retirement Villages Act...
Your options
Home and Community
Fully independent and living at home. There are many services to make life at home easier.
Retirement Village
Independent living in a purpose built property with varying levels of support.
Residential Care
The full service options for all the support and levels of care you could need.
News in the community
Want to read the latest news and events? See what's going on around NZ. This newsletter is created by contributions direct from the Eldernet community and is filled with good news and updates.
Palms Lifecare & Village - Retirement Village
Palms Village Open Day 20th Nov If you’re considering moving to a retirement village, an apartment or villa at Palms Village could be just the change you’re after. Palms Village is set amongst beautifully landscaped gardens, with modern buildings and a great location close to all the essentials. With affordable...
Waiapu House Lifecare & Village - Retirement Village
Waiapu House Fun Fair & Open Day Come on down and enjoy a morning of fun, food, and festivities, including: A Sausage Sizzle, Baking, Coffee Cart and Candy Floss. PLUS a Bouncy Castle, Face Painting, Jumble Sale including Bric-a-brac, Plants, Whiteware and Arts & Crafts. You'll also be able to...
Stillwater Lifecare & Village - Retirement Village
Discover a comfortable and secure lifestyle at Stillwater Lifecare & village in Nelson’s picturesque surroundings. Designed to cater for your needs, these serviced apartments offer a range of services and facilities, ensuring a fulfilling and relaxed living experience. Located in a peaceful setting, Stillwater Lifecare & Village, Richmond provides residents...
Country Club Huapai - Retirement Village
We’re thrilled to share that Country Club Huapai has been recognised as the Best Medium/Large Retirement & Lifestyle Village, North Island at the 2025 Seniors NZ Best Awards! This award reflects the dedication of our team and the warmth of our community. It’s our residents, families, and friends whose experiences...