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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
Considering a retirement home? In New Zealand, most operate on a Licence to Occupy (LTO) model, costing $300k to over $1M for the right to live there, not direct ownership.
On top of the entry price, you'll pay weekly fees and a Deferred Management Fee (DMF) of 20-30% when you leave. Residents typically don't benefit from capital gains. Alternatives include downsizing or aging in place. Before committing, visit villages, compare all costs, and get independent legal advice.
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
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