With 77 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.
Thinking of retirement living? Read these key financial tips
Just like any property purchase, moving into a retirement village is a big financial commitment. Every village operates a little differently, and fees or conditions can vary from village to village and region to region. Getting specialist legal advice is one of the best ways to make sure you understand...
Will I have to pay if I move within a village?
Every time you relocate within a village - whether it's to a different unit or to receive care - there are some costs to be aware of. Here's how they typically work: If you're shifting between independent living options (for example, downsizing to a smaller unit), a transfer fee is...
Should I choose retirement village that belongs to the RVA?
The Retirement Villages Association (RVA) is a voluntary association that represents retirement village operators, managers, and commercial organisations across New Zealand. Their aim is to provide a high standard of living for village residents. Choosing an RVA member retirement village means that you are protected under the Retirement Villages Act...
Rates Rebate in a retirement village
Retirement village residents who hold a Licence to Occupy may be eligible for the Government's full Rates Rebate, as long as they meet the income criteria. Each year, usually in mid-June, the Government updates the income and rebate thresholds. You can find more information on rates rebates in retirement villages...
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.
What's New
Curious about what’s happening in the Eldernet community? This is where you’ll find the latest updates and news from people across the motu.
Oakland Village - Retirement Village
Mid Winter Christmas Party Our residents at Alden Oakland Lodge gathered to celebrate a Mid Winter Christmas Party — complete with a beautiful morning tea crafted by our very own Chef Chris and Kay. A warm room, great food, and even better company made it a day to remember.
Rangiura Retirement Village and Care Home - Retirement Village
A little sneak peek of what's coming.. A little sneak peek of what's coming... As part of our hedge renewal project, fence painting is now underway to help prepare the area for new plantings arriving early next week. It's always exciting when a vision starts becoming reality, and we're looking...
Rosedale - Retirement Village
Alden Rosedale was featured in RNZ RNZ featured one of the initiatives we're proud of: fortnightly visits from preschoolers at Lollipops Albany. The kids play, sing, and share morning tea with our residents — and the impact goes both ways, with laughter and genuine interaction for everyone involved. A recent...
The Hill Pukekohe - Retirement Village
Ready to Occupy Villas Available The next chapter starts sooner than you might expect. A select number of villas are available from September 2026 ready to move into. We'd love to help you find your perfect fit. Visit us at the showhome on weekdays between 10am and 2pm, or reach...