Otago

Why choose a retirement village in Otago?

Otago’s creative pulse beats strongly – it’s home base for some of New Zealand’s iconic restaurateurs, writers and artists, as well as adventurers.

If you’re into steampunk and history, check out Oamaru. Further south, the historic and boutique city of Dunedin may be known for its student scarfie culture but has plenty to offer retirees as well. From the golf course and beaches of St Clair and St Kilda to the iconic city centre architecture, and over the hill to the tightknit community of Mosgiel, there are plenty of villages – and activities – to choose from. It’s home to some of New Zealand’s best fashion designers, as well as a venue for sporting events and concerts, and the Farmers’ Market is one of the best in the country.

Heading inland to Central Otago, you’ll find lifestyle villages, some with care options as well, in Arrowtown, Wanaka and Cromwell. Whether golf, skiing or tramping is your passion, this is the place for it. Or you can curl up by a crackling fire with a good book! At the southern end of this region is Balclutha, gateway to the unspoiled Catlins district, famous for its penguins and fur seals, rain forests, waterfalls and secluded beaches.

While some of the smaller towns in this region may have only one or two retirement villages, across the region there’s a range of styles and prices on offer. Whether you’re retiring where you’ve always lived, returning to your roots, or exploring new options, your next adventure awaits in Otago.

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.