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Feature article
Retirement homes in New Zealand: What you need to know
There’s more to retirement home living than you might think.
26 November 2025
AI summary
Retirement homes in New Zealand typically operate on a Licence to Occupy (LTO) model, costing $300,000 to over $1,000,000. This grants you the right to live there but isn't direct ownership, meaning you don't receive capital gains.
Residents pay weekly fees and a Deferred Management Fee (DMF) of 20-30% is deducted upon exit. Alternatives include downsizing or aging in place. Before committing, get independent legal advice and visit several villages to compare costs and culture.
What you’ll learn
How much does it cost to live in a retirement home in New Zealand?
Some pricing examples (as of November 2025)
Auckland retirement villages
Wellington retirement villages
Christchurch / Canterbury retirement villages
What’s the alternative to a retirement village in New Zealand?
What age can you go into a retirement home?
What are the downsides of living in a retirement village?
Planning your next move
Author
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