Discover Luxury Living at The Botanic: Special Open Weekend on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd February 2025

Would you like to find out more about luxury retirement living on the beautiful Hibiscus Coast? Mark your calendars for The Botanic Silverdale’s Special Winter Open Weekend on Saturday, 19th July, and Sunday, 20th July, from 10am to 3pm. Come along to 17 Small Road, Silverdale and see first-hand what makes The Botanic Silverdale the Hibiscus Coast’s premier, luxury retirement village. Exclusive Access to Our Newly Completed Villas! The hard work is over, and our brand new two and three-bedroom villas are now available to view at The Botanic Silverdale – and they’re even better in person! The finishing touches are complete, and now is the perfect time to come and explore these beautifully designed luxury homes. From premium finishes to seamless access and sun-filled outlooks, every detail has been designed with lifestyle in mind, and now it’s yours to see! Step inside our new, single-level duplex villas, and you’ll find stylish, light-filled interiors with generous storage and a layout that makes everyday living easy. Each home includes an internally accessed carpark and enjoys easy access to all the village’s luxury amenities. Life at The Botanic, Silverdale Life at The Botanic is about so much more than living in a beautiful retirement home on the Hibiscus Coast. It’s about being part of a vibrant and connected community with luxury amenities right on your doorstep - from The Clubhouse Cafe to the wellness centre, pool, and Community Gardens - this is resort-style retirement living at its very best. What Can You Expect at the Open Weekend? 1. Tour Our Stunning New Two and Three-Bedroom Villas Meet our fabulous sales team, Michelle and Kathryn in the Show Home as they guide you through our luxury, light-filled retirement homes with high-spec finishing, fabulous indoor-outdoor flow, and the very best in modern retirement living. 2. Learn About Life at The Botanic Meet some of our Residents and hear their stories about retiring, village life, and how they contribute to our vibrant community. Whether it’s walking through The Botanic’s landscaped pathways, admiring the Community Gardens, or finding out more about The Botanic’s resident-led social activities, you’ll gain a true sense of what life is like here at The Botanic. 3. Explore World-Class Amenities You are free to walk through our village, or we can drive you in one of our golf carts. While here, be sure to check out our Wellness Centre, which includes a 20m lap pool, spa, sauna, steam room, and a fully equipped gym. And if you’re feeling peckish, make sure you visit The Clubhouse Café and grab a coffee and a sweet treat on us! 4. Discover Resort-Style Living The Botanic offers amenities that redefine retirement living, and as one of our recent blog posts highlights, The Botanic “is a modern retirement village that is rich in connection and community, supporting like-minded residents to live the retirement they choose in a vibrant, nature-rich environment”. Why Visit The Botanic? Situated on Auckland’s beautiful Hibiscus Coast, The Botanic offers people more than just a place to live—it provides a lifestyle which is rich in connection, wellness, purpose, and joy. It really is the ‘best-in-class’ in modern retirement living, supporting Residents to live well, naturally, in their golden years. Plan Your Visit When: Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th July 2025 Time: 10am-3pm Where: The Botanic Silverdale, 17 Small Road, Silverdale For more information, contact Michelle or Kathryn on 0508 268 264 or fill out a contact form, and we’ll get in touch with you. Come and see why more than 170 retirees now call The Botanic home. We can’t wait to welcome you! If you’re still not sure whether retirement living is for you, make sure you check out some of our recent posts, which are here to help guide you through the retirement process: https://thebotanic.co.nz/news/understanding-retirement-in-new-zealand-a-comprehensive-guide/ https://thebotanic.co.nz/news/the-right-time-to-make-the-move/ https://thebotanic.co.nz/news/the-botanic-a-premier-retirement-community/ https://thebotanic.co.nz/news/making-the-move-to-the-botanic/ https://thebotanic.co.nz/news/an-introduction-to-the-botanic-silverdale/ https://thebotanic.co.nz/news/how-to-embrace-your-retirement-years/

Retirement is a milestone to be celebrated—a time to enjoy the freedom, comfort, and lifestyle you’ve worked hard for all of your life. At The Botanic, Silverdale’s premier luxury retirement village, we know that careful financial planning is the foundation for a fulfilling retirement. Whether you’re just starting to think about your future or you’re ready to make the move, understanding the key financial steps, how to save for retirement village living, and the value that The Botanic offers is really important. The Botanic fosters a strong sense of community and support In this article, we will walk you through the essential steps of financial planning for retirement, from understanding your options to making confident decisions about how, when, and where you’d like to enjoy your retirement years.  At The Botanic, we believe retirement should be anything but ordinary. That’s why we support our residents in exploring what’s truly possible, and we know that thoughtful financial planning is a key part of unlocking a lifestyle that’s enriching, inspiring, and purposeful. Key Financial Planning Steps for Retirement 1. Assess Your Retirement Goals and Lifestyle Start by visualising your ideal retirement. Do you see yourself travelling, joining a club, taking up a hobby, entertaining friends, or enjoying a peaceful garden? Your lifestyle goals will shape your financial needs. Tools like the Sorted retirement calculator can help you estimate how much you’ll need for retirement, taking into account both your essential living costs and the lifestyle extras you want to enjoy. 2. Estimate Your Retirement Income For most New Zealanders, retirement income comes from a mix of sources: NZ Superannuation: The government pension, paid from age 65, forms the bedrock of retirement income for many. However, it may not be sufficient for a comfortable lifestyle, especially if you’re renting or have ongoing medical expenses. KiwiSaver: If you’ve contributed to KiwiSaver, you can access your savings from age 65. You can choose lump-sum withdrawals or regular payments to supplement your income. Personal Savings and Investments: These might include term deposits, shares, managed funds, or proceeds from selling your family home. Other Income: Rental income, part-time work, or iwi-based schemes (such as Ngāi Tahu’s Whai Rawa) can also play a role. 3. Budget for Retirement Living A clear budget is your best defence against financial surprises. Start by listing your expected income and expenses. Essentials like housing, utilities, food, and insurance should be covered first. Then, allocate funds for hobbies, travel, and unexpected costs such as healthcare or home repairs. A popular budgeting approach is the 50-30-20 rule: 50% for essentials 30% for wants 20% for savings or debt repayment Planning now means you can enjoy retirement living in the peaceful and relaxing environment at The Botanic 4. Plan for Longevity With many retirees living well into their 80s and beyond, it’s wise to plan for 25–30 years of retirement. The Massey University Retirement Expenditure Guidelines highlight the importance of balancing your desire to enjoy life now with the need to avoid running out of funds too soon. 5. Aim to be Mortgage-Free Being mortgage-free by retirement is a significant advantage. Without the burden of repayments, you’ll have more control over your finances and less risk of being affected by rent increases or housing market changes. 6. Consider Professional Advice A qualified financial adviser can help you create a personalised retirement plan, optimise your investments, and ensure you’re making the most of government entitlements and tax efficiencies. Saving for Retirement Village Living Understanding the Costs Moving into a retirement village is a major financial decision. Here’s what you need to know: Entry Price: Most villages, including The Botanic, operate on a Licence to Occupy (LTO) or Occupational Rights Agreement (ORA) basis. This means you pay a lump sum for the right to live in your chosen home, but you don’t own the property. Entry prices typically range from $400,000 to $800,000+, depending on location, size, and amenities. Weekly Fees:  These fees cover maintenance, security, insurance, gardening, and communal facilities. At The Botanic, the Outgoings Payment (weekly fee) is $185 per apartment or villa, and is fixed for life. Deferred Management Fee (DMF): When you leave, a DMF—usually 20–30% of your entry price—is deducted. This fee is often capped after 3–5 years. At The Botanic, the DMF is calculated at 10% per year for three years and will not exceed 30% of your entry payment. If you live with us for less than three years, the DMF will be accrued on a pro-rata basis. Budgeting for Village Living When planning your move, consider: How much equity you’ll release from selling your home Your expected weekly expenses Potential for future care needs The value of amenities and services included in your fees Michelle Pipping, the Sales Manager at The Botanic Silverdale, says, “Retirees deserve and welcome the transparency of our pricing and the peace of mind that comes from having a good understanding of your living costs. It means they don’t have to worry about the bills, and they can focus on enjoying life!” How The Botanic Offers Value for Investment Choosing the right retirement village is about more than just cost—it’s about value, security, and lifestyle. Transparent Pricing and No Hidden Costs At The Botanic, all fees are clearly outlined from the start. There are no hidden costs, so you can budget with confidence. Your beautiful home, the landscaped gardens, and a host of amenities throughout the village are all available to you. Premium Amenities Residents enjoy access to a wellness centre, gym, pool, The Clubhouse Café, community gardens, and a full calendar of social events and hobby groups. These amenities are included in your weekly fee, offering exceptional value compared to maintaining similar facilities in a private home. More village amenities are also in the pipeline at The Botanic. World-class amenities help our residents stay active As well as staying active, our world-class amenities help residents to socialise Community and Connection Kathryn Rule, a Sales Consultant at The Botanic, shares, “The sense of community here is incredible. Residents quickly build friendships and find support, whether it’s joining a gardening club, attending a fitness class, or simply sharing a coffee in The Clubhouse Café.” Security and Peace of Mind With onsite staff, secure facilities, and emergency support, you and your family can rest easy knowing help is always close at hand. Flexibility for Future Needs In time, an aged care home and specialist memory suite will ensure residents have access to the full range of aged care at The Botanic, enabling you to remain in the community you love as you age. Learn More About Your Retirement Journey Understanding Retirement in New Zealand: A Comprehensive Guide Retirement Age in New Zealand: What You Need to Know NZ Superannuation and Eligibility: What It Means for Residents at The Botanic Final Thoughts Financial planning for retirement is about more than just numbers—it’s about creating the life you want. By understanding your income sources, budgeting for your needs, and choosing a retirement village that offers genuine value, you can step confidently into this exciting next chapter of life. At The Botanic, our team, including Michelle and Kathryn, are always available to chat about your options and share what makes our community special. We invite you to visit, ask questions, and see for yourself how luxury retirement living can be both attainable and rewarding. Ready to plan your future? Contact The Botanic today and start your journey towards a life less ordinary.

Retirement is a time to enjoy the rewards of a life well lived, and for many New Zealanders, NZ Superannuation provides a vital financial foundation for this next chapter. At The Botanic, Silverdale’s premier luxury retirement village, we understand how important it is to make informed decisions about your entitlements and how to make the most of them. This guide explains how NZ Super works, who’s eligible, how to apply, and how it fits with the lifestyle and financial model offered at The Botanic. Learn more: Understanding Retirement in New Zealand: A Comprehensive Guide The Botanic helps residents to make informed decisions about retirement Overview of NZ Superannuation and Eligibility Criteria NZ Superannuation is New Zealand’s universal retirement benefit, designed to provide a regular income to eligible seniors from age 65. It is funded through general taxation and is not means-tested, meaning your assets and most other income sources generally do not affect your payments. Who Is Eligible for NZ Super? To qualify, you need to meet the following criteria: Age: You must be 65 years or older. Residency: You must be a New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or hold a residence class visa. Ordinary Residence: You must be ordinarily resident in New Zealand, the Cook Islands, Niue, or Tokelau at the time of your application. Time in NZ: You must have lived in New Zealand for at least 10 years since turning 20, including at least 5 years since turning 50. Important Update: From July 2024, the residency requirement will gradually increase to 20 years by July 2042. This means that if you turn 65 after July 2042, you’ll need to have lived in New Zealand (or the qualifying Pacific nations) for 20 years since age 20, with at least 5 years since age 50. Special Cases: Different rules may apply if you’re a refugee or protected person, or if you’ve lived in a country with a social security agreement with New Zealand (such as Australia or the UK). Read more: Retirement Age in New Zealand: What You Need to Know Can You Work and Receive NZ Super? Yes. You can continue to work while receiving NZ Superannuation. Your payments are taxed as income, and your tax code may change based on your total income. However, NZ Super is not reduced if you keep working, though other benefits (like Accommodation Supplement) may be affected. How to Apply for NZ Superannuation and What to Expect Applying for NZ Super is a straightforward process, but timing and preparation matter. When to Apply You can apply up to 12 weeks before your 65th birthday or at any time after turning 65. If you apply before or on your 65th birthday, payments start from your birthday. If you apply after turning 65, payments start from the date you apply (they are not backdated). The Application Process Get a Client Number: If you don’t already have one, you’ll need to register with Work and Income to receive a client number. Apply Online or In Person: Most people apply online via MyMSD, but you can also apply in person at a Work and Income office. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the required details, including your residency history and personal information. Provide Documentation: You’ll need to supply original government-issued identity documents such as a passport or birth certificate (not copies), proof of your bank account, and, if applicable, evidence of residency or citizenship. Attend an Appointment (if required): You may be asked to attend a meeting to verify your documents and answer any questions. Processing Time: Once submitted, your application is processed, and you’ll be notified of the outcome. Payments are made fortnightly. Tip: Delays in providing documents can result in payment delays or a cancelled application. Make sure everything’s ready to go. Special Circumstances Living Overseas: If you’re living in the Cook Islands, Niue, or Tokelau, the process is slightly different. If you’re in another country, contact Work and Income’s International Services for guidance. Overseas Pensions: If you or your partner qualify for an overseas pension from another country, you are legally required to apply for it. This can affect your NZ Super payments. For more information, visit the Work and Income NZ Superannuation page or the New Zealand Government guide. At The Botanic, there are no hidden costs, so you can enjoy being part of the community The Botanic's fees include access to shared amenities Supplementing NZ Super with Village Living: Cost Considerations While NZ Superannuation provides a reliable base income, many retirees choose to supplement it through savings, KiwiSaver, or the sale of their family home. This is where retirement village living at villages like The Botanic can offer both value and lifestyle. Understanding the Costs Weekly Fees: Retirement villages typically charge a regular weekly fee covering the upkeep of facilities, maintenance, staff, insurance, and communal amenities. At The Botanic, this fee is fixed for life, for predictable budgeting. Occupational Right Agreement (ORA): When moving into a village, residents usually purchase an ORA, which gives them the right to occupy their chosen apartment or villa. The cost reflects the home and the amenities provided. Equity Release: Many residents fund their entry into a retirement village by selling their home, and freeing up capital to enhance their retirement lifestyle. The Botanic Advantage At The Botanic, we’re upfront about costs and committed to providing exceptional value and support. Our model is designed to give residents the freedom to enjoy life – with fewer financial surprises. Maximising Your NZ Super at The Botanic Predictable Costs: Fixed weekly fees help you plan your finances with confidence. No Hidden Costs: The maintenance and repairs are taken care of. Shared Amenities: Access to premium facilities like the café, wellness centre, gardens, and events. A Vibrant, Supportive Community: Enjoy a vibrant, social lifestyle with opportunities to connect, participate, and thrive. Peace of Mind: Onsite support and security allow you to focus on what matters most. Frequently Asked Questions What is the residency requirement for NZ Super eligibility? Currently, you must have lived in New Zealand for at least 10 years since age 20, including 5 years since age 50. This will gradually increase to 20 years by July 2042. Can I receive NZ Super if I’m still working? Yes, you can. NZ Super is not means-tested, so you can work and receive your Super, although your tax rate may change. What documents do I need to apply for NZ Super? You’ll need original identity documents (passport, birth certificate), proof of residency or citizenship, proof of bank account, and your tax number. Additional documents may be required if you have a partner or are applying for extra help. Is NZ Super enough to cover retirement village living costs? NZ Super provides a base income, but many residents supplement it with savings, KiwiSaver, or proceeds from selling their home. The predictable costs and shared amenities at The Botanic help residents to budget, and make the most of their income during their retirement. Conclusion NZ Superannuation offers certainty in retirement, but planning how to make the most of it is key. With transparent costs, supportive community living, and easy access to everything you need, The Botanic is a place where your Super supports the lifestyle you’ve earned, and life feels richer. Ready to learn more? Contact The Botanic today and discover how we can support your next chapter and help you retire with confidence, comfort, and care.