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.
What to weigh-up if considering a retirement village?
Before you get your heart set on any particular village or unit, take your time to look around and gather as much information as you can. Talk to friends who've already done their research or who have moved into a village themselves. Explore all your options, and make sure you...
At what age am I eligible for a Retirement Village?
Although you can choose to retire at any age you want, the official retirement age in New Zealand is 65. This is when you become eligible to receive NZ Super (your pension) and typically gain access to their KiwiSaver. The age that you need to be to enter a Retirement...
What costs will I still need to pay once I enter a village?
You are responsible for paying for your personal costs, such as personal contents insurance, internal maintenance to your dwelling, power, phone and paid television/streaming services. You may also find that some activities/outings incur additional costs too. Most retirement villages in New Zealand also charge weekly fees, which covers expenses such...
Do all retirement villages have care on site?
Not every retirement village in Aotearoa New Zealand offers aged care on site, so it's important to understand exactly what support is available before you make a move. The questions below can help you compare villages and get a feel for the level of care you can expect. What services...
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.
Waiapu House Lifecare & Village - Retirement Village
Waiapu Village Open Home & Presentation Day Come and see just how good retirement living can be. It’s your time to relax, enjoy each day, and leave the worries behind. At Waiapu Village, you’ll be part of a warm, welcoming community where everyone knows your name and you’re never just...
Rosedale - Retirement Village
Every Steps Counts: The Importance of Foot Care Join Alden Rosedale For A Special Session. We're excited to welcome Viviane Cury, a Foot Health Practitioner with over 26 years of experience. The creator of the VIP Method, a Innovative UV light-based treatment approach. She will be joining us to talk...
Rose Court - Retirement Village
Open Home- Alden Rose Court Pop in for a cuppa, take a look around our village, and have a chat with our friendly team. Whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to make a move, we're here to help. When: Tuesday 25/08/26 Time: 10am - 2pm
Kensington Court - Retirement Village
Open Home - Alden Kensington Court Pop in for a cuppa, take a look around our village, and have a chat with our friendly team. Whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to make a move, we're here to help. When: Tuesday 25/08/26 Time: 10am - 2pm