With 78 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.
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,...
Is a care suite different to a serviced apartment?
A care suite is a hybrid-type option that combines a village offering (meaning it 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 referred...
What is an ORA?
Buying into a retirement village works differently to purchasing a regular house. In most villages, you don't actually 'own' the unit or the land it's on, as you would in a traditional property purchase. Instead, the amount you pay upfront is called your Capital Contribution , which gives you the...
What services and facilities do retirement villages offer?
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 facilities can vary, with some villages offering a wide range such as a swimming pool, bowling...
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
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Elms Court on Middlepark - Retirement Village
Best value one bedroom apartment in Christchurch! Experience fabulous morning sunshine in this large (44m2) serviced apartment that opens up onto a lovely garden outdoor area. Recently renovated, with new paint and carpet this apartment has a modern open plan layout with a kitchenette. A large, ensuite bathroom is accessible...
Remuera Gardens - Retirement Village
Give it a go week You’re invited to experience the benefits of life at Remuera Gardens for yourself. Come along, meet the community and take part in a range of activities designed to keep you active, connected and inspired. From Chair Yoga and Aqua Aerobics to Croquet, Art classes, Indoor...
The Sterling, Kaiapoi - Retirement Village
Something new is coming to The Sterling, Kaiapoi! For the first time ever, we’re introducing thoughtfully designed independent living townhouses in three perfect sizes: 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms. This is your opportunity to be among the very first to call one of these beautiful homes yours! There's limited time...