We debunk four common myths about retirement villages, helping you to separate fact from fiction.
Myth #1: Retirement villages are unaffordable
There are hundreds of retirement villages throughout New Zealand. All villages have different entry costs, fee structures, and property types, with options to suit a variety of budgets.
- Did you know?
Once living in a retirement village, the shared and fixed costs (e.g. weekly fees) can actually minimise the uncertainty of financial planning.
Myth #2: Retirement villages employ pushy sales staff
The retirement village industry is not like other industries. Village sales managers and advisers don’t wave goodbye the moment a contract is signed. The majority of sales staff are full-time employees of the village, meaning it’s in their best interest to ensure people make the right choice. Village staff genuinely want you to get the most out of living in the village and be comfortable and happy. The happier everyone is, the smoother the village operates as a whole.
- Did you know?
Most sales managers work onsite at the retirement village and are active members of the village community.
Myth #3: You’ll be forced to participate in activities
When living in a village, you’ll lead an independent life and have complete autonomy over your schedule. You may choose to participate in social outings and hobby groups, but this isn’t a requirement. Most villages offer a variety of optional activities and facilities to suit all personality types and interests, allowing you to pick and choose what you most enjoy.
- Did you know?
All village activities and social events are optional.
#Myth #4: Retirement villages are closed communities
When you move into a retirement village, life will continue as normal – there’s no reason why you can’t keep up hobbies such as walking groups, bowls, volunteering or anything else you enjoy. If anything, your interaction with the local community might increase. Most retirement villages actively seek opportunities to engage with the wider community, as this has profound benefits for the residents and also the community itself. There is even a fast-growing trend of ‘open-gated’ villages, where certain facilities within a village are made public, such as the cafe or swimming pool.
- Did you know?
There’s a fast-growing trend of ‘open-gated’ villages, where certain facilities within a village are made public, such as the cafe or swimming pool.
