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The Right Time to Make the Move: When to Consider a Retirement Village

Retirement signals the start of the golden years of your life, and the beginning of a whole new chapter. It can be filled with opportunities to embrace long-held passions, explore new hobbies, travel extensively overseas or at home, and enjoy a well-deserved sense of the freedom to live on ‘your time’.

Choosing how and where you live during your retirement years is a significant decision, and one of the most empowering choices you can make. Retirees sometimes look to villages to enhance their quality of life and gain access to health and wellness amenities.

Timing is fundamentally important. Most retirees will tell you ‘don’t leave it too late’ because moving at the right time allows you to fully embrace the benefits of retirement village living, and become a much valued and much loved member of our village.

The Botanic Silverdale is the Hibiscus Coast’s premier retirement village and offers retirees a luxury and supportive community where everyone can thrive in their golden years.

Our Sales manager, Michelle, can answer any questions you might have about life at The Botanic.

Signs It Might Be Time to Consider a Retirement Village

How do you know when the time is right? Here are some key signs that it could be time to start researching your next chapter in life at a retirement village.

Lifestyle Needs Are Changing

Difficulty Maintaining Your Home: Is the upkeep of a large home and garden becoming a burden? If you’re spending a lot of time maintaining your home and not enough time doing the things you love, it could be a sign that you need to downsize.

Desire for Less Responsibility: Would you like to trade property maintenance for pursuing hobbies, travel, or spending time with loved ones?

Health and Safety Concerns

Increased Risk of Falls or Accidents: Are you worried about navigating stairs, managing household tasks, or the possibility of having an accident in your current home?

Need for Accessible Living Spaces: Would a single-level home with wider doorways and safety features make your life easier and more secure?

Social Isolation or Loneliness

Fewer Opportunities for Social Interaction: Have you found that you have fewer social connections now that you’re retired and are you feeling isolated?

Desire to Be Part of an Active, Supportive Community: Do you yearn for a sense of belonging and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals?

Future-Proofing for Care Needs

Planning Ahead for Potential Health or Mobility Changes: Are you thinking about the future and the possibility of needing more support as you age?

Interest in Aged Care or Memory Care Options: Would it give you peace of mind to know that aged care or memory care services are available if needed, without having to move away from your community? At The Botanic, we are planning future aged care and memory care suites to provide this very reassurance, and all of our properties are designed for independent care.

The resident community at The Botanic is welcoming, supportive, and young at heart.

Benefits of Moving at the Right Time

Moving to a retirement village isn’t just about addressing current needs; it’s about proactively creating a richer, more fulfilling future. Here’s how:

Maximising Enjoyment of Retirement Village Living

Access to Amenities: Retirement villages like The Botanic offer a range of amenities designed to enhance your well-being, including pools, gyms, resident-led activities, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Moving while you’re still active and independent allows you to fully enjoy these offerings.

Building New Friendships: Moving earlier provides more opportunities to connect with fellow residents, build meaningful relationships, and establish a strong social network.

Reducing Stress for Yourself and Family

Avoiding Last-Minute Decisions: Planning ahead eliminates the stress of making hasty decisions during a health crisis or another emergency. Our residents range in age from mid-60s, to their 80s.

Giving Family Peace of Mind: Knowing that you’re in a safe, supportive environment with access to care services provides immense peace of mind for your family and loved ones.

Simplifying Daily Life

Downsizing to a More Manageable Home: Moving to a smaller, more manageable home can release you from the burden of owning large amounts of furniture and fittings, and unnecessary upkeep.

Enjoying Convenient Services: Retirement villages often offer services like housekeeping, maintenance, and meal options, allowing you to spend more time on the things you enjoy. At The Botanic, we take care of the chores so you can focus on living a life less ordinary.

Homes at The Botanic empower residents to lead active, independent lives.

Apartments and Villas are open-plan, spacious and light-filled.

Overcoming Common Hesitations About Moving

It’s natural to have reservations about moving home. Let’s address some common concerns:

“I’m Not Ready Yet”

Many people think they need to wait until they need the support of a retirement village. However, moving earlier allows you to embrace the lifestyle benefits while you’re still active and independent. It’s about choosing how you want to live, not waiting until circumstances dictate or restrict your choices.

“I’ll Miss My Home”

Of course! You’ll have cherished memories in your current home. However, moving to a retirement village doesn’t mean leaving those memories behind. At The Botanic, you have the opportunity to personalise your new villa or apartment, creating a space that reflects your unique style and personality.

Downsizing can be a liberating experience, allowing you to focus on the possessions that truly matter and create a clutter-free environment. (Check out our recent post on “Downsizing Tips and Advice” for practical guidance.)

“It’s Too Big of a Change”

Change can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The Botanic Silverdale has ‘transition support services’ to make the process seamless and stress-free. (check out our post post on “Transition Support Services Offered” to learn more about how we can help.)

Why The Botanic is an Ideal Choice When You’re Ready

The Botanic offers a unique blend of luxury, community, and care, making it an ideal choice for discerning retirees:

Modern villas and apartments designed with accessibility and style in mind, ensuring comfort and convenience.

World-class amenities including an indoor swimming pool, wellness centre, spa, bowling green, communal spaces, and award-winning Clubhouse Café fostering social connections and promoting well-being.

Future-proof care options with planned aged care and memory care suites, providing peace of mind for the future.

Integration with Silverdale’s vibrant community and proximity to beaches, shopping, transport links, and the natural beauty of the Hibiscus Coast.

Testimonials: Real Stories from Residents Who Made the Move Early

Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what some of our residents have to say:

“Don’t put it off! The benefits of village life will enrich your life each and every day.”

– Bets

“There’s a lot of joy in listening to other people’s life stories. You get to know so many people and they have such interesting life experiences. At my age, it has provided an opportunity for growth because I’m learning so much from others.”

– Barry

“Find a place that gladdens your heart, and go early. The Botanic is where so many people are starting new lives and so you get an opportunity to make new friendships. That is a gift.”

– Mary

“Don’t leave it too late. Go while you are still young enough to enjoy all there is on offer.”

– Chris and Stuart

“I love the freedom that comes with retirement. How I spend each day is entirely up to me. I especially enjoy lingering over a long lunch with friends.”

– Julie

“If we had our time again, we would have moved sooner. We’re now 82 and 80, and in hindsight we should have moved about five years ago. The older you are, the more stressful it can be to move, but now that we’re here it’s wonderful.”

– Laurie and Lanie

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is there an ideal age to move into a retirement village?

A: There’s no “perfect” age—it depends on your lifestyle needs and goals. Many residents find that moving earlier allows them to enjoy all the amenities and social opportunities while they’re still active.

Q: What if I don’t need care now but might in the future?

A: The Botanic offers future-proof living with plans for aged care and memory care facilities so you can stay within the same community if your needs change.

Q: Can I bring my furniture or personalise my new home?

A: Absolutely! At The Botanic, you can bring your cherished belongings and personalise your villa or apartment to make it feel like home.

The Clubhouse Cafe is just one of the world-class amenities at The Botanic Silverdale.

Conclusion: Take the First Step Toward an Enhanced Lifestyle

Recognising when it’s time to consider moving to a retirement village is a proactive step toward a more fulfilling future. Look for signs like changing lifestyle needs or health concerns, and remember that moving early allows you to fully enjoy the benefits of community living at places like The Botanic.

Ready to explore your options? Schedule a visit today and see how The Botanic can transform your retirement.

Published 8 April 2025

Recent Posts

Understanding Retirement in New Zealand: A Comprehensive Guide

Retirement marks a fresh chapter - a time to pursue passions, spend more time with loved ones, and enjoy the rewards of a life well lived. At The Botanic Silverdale, the Hibiscus Coast’s premier luxury retirement village, we understand that planning for retirement is about more than just numbers; it’s about creating the lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of. Whether you’re approaching retirement age, supporting a family member, or simply planning ahead, understanding the landscape of retirement in New Zealand is essential. In this guide, we explore financial considerations, lifestyle choices, and the evolving role of retirement villages – including how The Botanic can help you to live a life less ordinary. Retirement in New Zealand: An Overview Retirement in New Zealand is unique in its flexibility and the opportunities it offers. Unlike many countries, New Zealand does not have an official retirement age. Instead, most people choose to retire around 65, coinciding with eligibility for NZ Superannuation (NZ Super). However, the decision of when and how to retire is deeply personal, influenced by health, financial readiness, and lifestyle aspirations. The Importance of Planning Despite this flexibility, retirement is a major life shift that requires forward planning. A 2022 study by Te Ara Ahunga Ora, the Retirement Commission, found that 65% of New Zealanders over 55 had no clear plan for funding their retirement. Having a plan helps ensure you can maintain your lifestyle, navigate unexpected challenges, and feel confident about the future. Retirement Age in New Zealand No Official Retirement Age There is no legal or mandatory retirement age in New Zealand. While 65 is commonly regarded as the “retirement age” due to NZ Super eligibility, many continue to work beyond this milestone, either out of passion, necessity, or a desire to stay active and engaged. Flexibility and Trends The flexibility in retirement age reflects changing attitudes and longer life expectancies. Increasingly, New Zealanders are choosing to remain in the workforce past 65, whether full-time, part-time, or in volunteer roles. This trend supports not only financial security but also social connection and a sense of purpose. Residents at The Botanic Enjoy Working in the Community Gardens Flexible retirement is about doing the things that you enjoy NZ Superannuation: The Basics What is NZ Super? NZ Superannuation is the government’s primary pension scheme, providing a regular income to eligible residents aged 65 and over. Its purpose is to ensure that older New Zealanders can live with dignity, participate in society, and enjoy a high level of belonging and connection. Eligibility Criteria To qualify for NZ Super, you must: Be 65 years or older Be a New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or hold a residence class visa Be ordinarily resident in New Zealand, the Cook Islands, Niue, or Tokelau when you apply Have lived in New Zealand for at least 10 years since age 20, including five years since age 50 Payment Rates and Frequency As of early 1 April 2025, NZ Super pays $1,254.28 per fortnight (before tax) for a single person living alone, and $1,905.88 per fortnight for a couple (before tax). Payments are made fortnightly and are not means-tested, meaning you can continue to work and receive NZ Super, though your tax rate may change. Financial Considerations for Retirement The Importance of Early Planning One of the most common questions is, “How much do I need to retire?” The answer depends on your desired lifestyle and where you choose to live. While NZ Super provides a foundation, it is rarely enough to fund a comfortable retirement on its own. Potential Sources of Retirement Income NZ Superannuation: The base government pension. KiwiSaver: New Zealand’s voluntary, work-based savings initiative. Personal Savings and Investments: Including shares, term deposits, and property. Other Pensions: Such as overseas pensions or private superannuation schemes. Budgeting for Your Lifestyle According to the latest Massey University Retirement Expenditure Guidelines, a modest retirement in a metropolitan area requires about $42,966 per year for an individual, leaving a significant gap after NZ Super. A “comfortable” lifestyle - allowing for more discretionary spending and occasional travel - requires around $60,480 per year, meaning many retirees need to supplement NZ Super with personal savings or investments. Investment Options Early and consistent contributions to KiwiSaver, diversified investments, and professional financial advice are key strategies for building a robust retirement fund. It’s also wise to review your investment risk as you approach retirement, balancing growth with security. Planning for your retirement is all about budgeting for your lifestyle The Role of Retirement Villages in New Zealand What is a Retirement Village? Retirement villages are purpose-built communities offering a range of accommodation, amenities, and support services for older adults. With over 480 villages nationwide in New Zealand, they cater to a variety of lifestyles, preferences, and care needs. Benefits of Retirement Village Living Low Maintenance Living: Say goodbye to home maintenance and enjoy more leisure time. Onsite Facilities: Access to gyms, pools, gardens, cafes, and communal lounges. Services: Optional housekeeping, meals, and health services. Community Spirit: Vibrant social calendars, hobby groups, and a supportive environment. Security and Peace of Mind: Safe, secure environments with staff on hand. The Botanic: Luxury Retirement Living in Silverdale The Botanic Silverdale is redefining retirement living on Auckland’s Hibiscus Coast. Our resort-style village offers modern, spacious villas and apartments nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens. Residents enjoy world-class amenities, including a wellness centre, Clubhouse Café, community gardens, and a future aged care home and memory suite. Our philosophy is simple: support residents to live the lives they choose, surrounded by nature, purpose, wellness, connection, and joy. With easy access to Silverdale’s shops, cafes, and transport, The Botanic is perfectly positioned for a vibrant, independent retirement. The Botanic in Silverdale has a range of world-class amenities, including a swimming pool The sauna at The Botanic is popular with residents Transitioning to Retirement Gradual Retirement Options Retirement doesn’t have to be an abrupt change. Many choose to transition gradually, reducing work hours, exploring new interests, or volunteering. This approach can ease the emotional and financial adjustment. Emotional and Social Wellbeing Retirement brings opportunities, but also challenges. Maintaining social connections, pursuing hobbies, and staying active are vital for emotional wellbeing. Retirement villages like The Botanic foster a strong sense of community, helping residents thrive. Maintaining an Active Lifestyle From fitness centres and swimming pools to arts and crafts and gardening, The Botanic offers activities to keep mind and body engaged. Our proximity to parks, golf courses, and the coast encourages outdoor living and exploration. The Future of Retirement in New Zealand Potential Changes to NZ Super With an aging population and increasing life expectancy, discussions continue around the sustainability of NZ Super. The government has signalled a possible gradual increase in the eligibility age to 67 by 2040, making personal savings and planning even more important. Demographic Shifts and Emerging Trends Longer life spans mean retirees need to plan for potentially 25–30 years of retirement. This shift is driving demand for flexible retirement living, greater healthcare support, and technology-enabled services. The Rise of Luxury Retirement Living Today’s retirees seek more than just comfort - they want lifestyle, independence, and choice. Luxury retirement villages like The Botanic are meeting this demand with high-spec homes, exceptional amenities, and tailored support. MyLumin screens are fitted in every home and ensure residents remain connected at any time of the day and night. Additional Considerations The SuperGold Card All NZ Super recipients receive the SuperGold Card, offering discounts on public transport, retail, and health services - a valuable benefit for retirees. Health and Wellness Good health is the foundation of a fulfilling retirement. Regular health checks, active living, and access to wellness facilities are essential. The Botanic’s state-of-the-art wellness centre and community gardens support residents’ physical and mental wellbeing. Legal Planning Wills, enduring powers of attorney, and advance care plans are vital elements of retirement planning, ensuring your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected. The Role of Technology Modern retirement living leverages technology for security, communication, and convenience. From smart home features to telehealth and online community events, technology enhances independence and connection. Community Support and Resilience The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of community support and adaptability. Retirement villages, like many places in New Zealand, responded with robust health protocols, virtual events, and enhanced resident care, ensuring safety and connection during challenging times. Conclusion Retirement in New Zealand is full of possibilities, but achieving your ideal lifestyle requires informed planning and the right support. From understanding NZ Superannuation to choosing the perfect retirement village, every decision shapes your future. At The Botanic, we believe retirement should be a time of joy, connection, and purpose. Our luxury village in Silverdale offers the very best in independent living, community, and care - empowering you to live a life less ordinary. Start planning your future today. Discover the difference at The Botanic Silverdale - where luxury retirement living meets community, nature, and wellbeing. For more information or to arrange a visit, contact our team or explore our website.

Meet The Residents – Kaye and Tony

Where did you move from?Torbay What do you love most about The Botanic?The people! We have made some wonderful new friends and love spending time with them. There are a lot of very impromptu meals and wines together in our homes or The Clubhouse Café! What are you enjoying about retired life?The opportunity to spend more time with family and being able to do more with our grandchildren. Tony can play golf three times a week, and I can help at the school where my daughter teaches. What have you learnt about retirement that you wished you’d known before? That every day is a weekend. It’s wonderful. How do you live a life filled with purpose? I am on the Botanic Residents Committee, I help with fundraising for a few charities, I am a Mother Help at Red Beach School, Tony is our grandchildren’s chauffeur, he plays golf and bowls, and we also help out whenever we’re needed for events at The Clubhouse Café. What’s the best thing about living on the Hibiscus Coast? Everything is so handy. I used to work for North Harbour Law so before I retired I drove up here every day from Torbay. I know the area well. How would you describe the community at The Botanic? The best people live here! If you’re retired, come and live in this fabulous village and really enjoy life. What’s your advice to retirees thinking about moving to a retirement village? Don’t put it off. Do it now! How has the ‘Lock up and Leave’ lifestyle changed your life? It’s so easy to plan trips knowing there are people here who can help out with watering your indoor plants, and there’s never any maintenance to worry about. It’s all taken care of. What’s your favourite dish or food at The Clubhouse Café? I love the ‘Specials Board’ and it changes regularly. The staff are just fabulous and greet you with a big smile every day – and they do a great coffee. Tony loves the Big Breakfast! What is some good advice to live by? Treat others with kindness, and a smile goes a long way!

Discover Luxury Living at The Botanic: Special Autumn Open Weekend on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th May 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 Autumn Open Weekend on Saturday, 17th May, and Sunday, 18th May, from 10am to 4pm. Come along to 17 Small Road, Silverdale and see first-hand what makes The Botanic Silverdale the Hibiscus Coast’s premier, luxury retirement village. What Can You Expect at the Open Weekend? 1. Tour Our Stunning Apartments and see Villas under construction 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 17th and Sunday 18th May 2025Time: 10am-4pmWhere: 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/choosing-a-retirement-village-that-is-right-for-you/ https://thebotanic.co.nz/news/how-to-embrace-your-retirement-years/ https://thebotanic.co.nz/news/unique-features-and-benefits-of-the-botanic/ https://thebotanic.co.nz/news/embracing-a-new-chapter/ https://thebotanic.co.nz/news/the-right-time-to-make-the-move/ https://thebotanic.co.nz/news/downsizing-tips-and-advice/ https://thebotanic.co.nz/news/moving-to-the-botanic-luxury-retirement-village/