Tauranga

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Retirement Housing

Overview of retirement living options, including retirement villages and assisted living facilities in Tauranga.

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Comprehensive Guide to Retirement Housing in Tauranga, New Zealand

Tauranga, located in the Bay of Plenty region, is one of New Zealandโ€™s most popular retirement destinations. Known for its mild climate, stunning beaches, and relaxed lifestyle, it offers a range of retirement housing options and services tailored to retirees. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate retirement housing in Tauranga.

1. Types of Retirement Housing Available

Tauranga offers a variety of retirement housing options to suit different needs, preferences, and budgets:

a. Retirement Villages

Retirement villages are purpose-built communities designed for retirees. They typically offer independent living units, serviced apartments, and care facilities. Key features include:

  • Independent Living Units: Standalone or semi-detached homes for retirees who can live independently.
  • Serviced Apartments: Apartments with additional services like cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation.
  • Rest Home and Aged Care Facilities: On-site care for those needing assistance with daily activities or medical care.

Popular retirement villages in Tauranga include:

  • Metlifecare Villages (e.g., The Avenues, Greenwood Park)
  • Ryman Healthcare Villages (e.g., Bob Owens Retirement Village)
  • Oceania Healthcare Villages

b. Lifestyle Villages

These are similar to retirement villages but focus on active, independent living. They often include recreational facilities like swimming pools, gyms, and social clubs. Examples include Freedom Villages.

c. Private Rental or Ownership

Some retirees prefer to rent or purchase homes in Taurangaโ€™s residential areas. Suburbs like Papamoa, Mount Maunganui, and Bethlehem are popular for their proximity to amenities and beaches.

d. Co-housing or Shared Living

Co-housing is an emerging option where retirees share a property or live in a community with shared facilities. This is ideal for those seeking a more communal lifestyle.

2. Associated Costs

The cost of retirement housing in Tauranga varies depending on the type of accommodation and services provided:

a. Retirement Villages

  • Entry Costs: Most retirement villages operate on a "license to occupy" model, where you pay an upfront capital sum (typically NZD 400,000โ€“900,000 depending on the unit size and location).
  • Weekly Fees: Cover maintenance, rates, and village services (NZD 150โ€“200 per week on average).
  • Deferred Management Fee (DMF): When you leave, the village operator deducts a percentage of the original purchase price (usually 20โ€“30%) as a DMF.

b. Lifestyle Villages

  • Entry costs are similar to retirement villages, but ongoing fees may be lower as they focus on independent living.

c. Private Rental or Ownership

  • Renting: A two-bedroom home in Tauranga rents for NZD 500โ€“700 per week.
  • Buying: Median house prices in Tauranga are around NZD 900,000 (as of 2023), though smaller homes or apartments may cost less.

d. Aged Care Facilities

  • Costs for rest home care are partially subsidized by the government if you qualify under the means-tested Residential Care Subsidy. Private care costs range from NZD 1,000โ€“1,500 per week.

3. Process for Securing Retirement Housing

a. Research and Visit

  • Visit retirement villages or housing options to assess facilities, services, and community atmosphere.
  • Check if the village is registered under the Retirement Villages Act 2003, which ensures legal protections.

b. Legal and Financial Advice

  • Engage a lawyer to review the Occupation Right Agreement (ORA) for retirement villages.
  • Understand the financial implications, including the DMF and ongoing fees.

c. Application Process

  • Submit an application to the retirement village or housing provider.
  • Provide proof of financial capability and, in some cases, medical assessments.

d. Waitlists

  • Popular villages may have waitlists, so apply early.

4. Availability of Healthcare Services

Tauranga is well-equipped with healthcare services for retirees:

  • Tauranga Hospital: A major public hospital offering comprehensive medical services.
  • Private Healthcare: Several private clinics and specialists are available.
  • Aged Care Services: Many retirement villages have on-site healthcare facilities, including nurses and GPs.
  • Home Care Services: For those living independently, services like meal delivery, cleaning, and personal care are available through providers like Access Community Health.

5. Proximity to Amenities

Tauranga is a well-connected city with excellent access to amenities:

  • Shopping: Bayfair Shopping Centre, Tauranga Crossing, and local markets.
  • Recreation: Beaches (e.g., Mount Maunganui), parks, golf courses, and walking trails.
  • Transport: Public buses connect most suburbs, and Tauranga Airport offers domestic flights.
  • Dining and Culture: A vibrant cafรฉ and restaurant scene, along with cultural events and art galleries.

6. Cultural and Lifestyle Considerations

a. Relaxed Lifestyle

Tauranga is known for its laid-back, beachside lifestyle. Retirees often enjoy outdoor activities like walking, gardening, and socializing.

b. Community Engagement

  • Many retirement villages have active social calendars, including clubs, fitness classes, and excursions.
  • Volunteering opportunities are abundant, allowing retirees to stay engaged with the community.

c. Mฤori Culture

Tauranga has a rich Mฤori heritage. Retirees can participate in cultural events, visit marae (Mฤori meeting grounds), and learn about local traditions.

d. Climate

The mild climate is ideal for retirees, with warm summers and mild winters. However, the region can experience occasional heavy rainfall.

7. Local Regulations and Protections

a. Retirement Villages Act 2003

This legislation protects residentsโ€™ rights in retirement villages. Key provisions include:

  • Disclosure of fees and terms.
  • A 15-working-day "cooling-off" period after signing an ORA.
  • Access to a disputes resolution process.

b. Residential Care Subsidy

Eligible retirees can receive government subsidies for aged care. Eligibility is based on income and asset testing.

c. Immigration Considerations

If youโ€™re an immigrant planning to retire in Tauranga, ensure you have the appropriate visa. New Zealand does not have a specific retirement visa, but options like the Parent Retirement Resident Visa or Investor Visa may apply.

8. Community Support for Retirees

Tauranga has a strong support network for retirees:

  • Age Concern Tauranga: Offers social activities, advocacy, and support services.
  • Grey Power Tauranga: Advocates for retireesโ€™ rights and provides discounts on goods and services.
  • Community Centres: Host workshops, fitness classes, and social events.

9. Tips for Retiring in Tauranga

  • Plan Early: Popular retirement villages can have long waitlists.
  • Stay Active: Take advantage of Taurangaโ€™s outdoor lifestyle and community activities.
  • Engage Locally: Join clubs or volunteer to build connections.
  • Budget Wisely: Understand all costs associated with retirement housing, including hidden fees.
  • Seek Advice: Consult legal and financial advisors to make informed decisions.

Tauranga offers an idyllic setting for retirement, with a range of housing options, excellent healthcare, and a welcoming community. By planning ahead and understanding the local landscape, you can enjoy a fulfilling and comfortable retirement in this beautiful coastal city.