When it’s time to stop working full time, many people realise they have at least a decade or two of reasonable health to invest in doing the things they enjoy the most. Of course, everyone has a different view of what that might entail, so we’ve based our tips on where to retire in New Zealand around the three most common lifestyle choices – big city, coastal and rural.
Retiring to the buzz and excitement of a big city
If culture, entertainment and convenience are part of your retirement wish list, then one of New Zealand’s main centres could be the best place to spend your retirement years.
A modern inner-city apartment can put you in the heart of the action, provide reassuring security, and remove the time-stealing chores of gardening and home maintenance.
You’ll have easy access to transport options with frequent and affordable bus, train, taxi and Uber services at your doorstep. Numerous public parks, bike tracks and walkways provide opportunities for exercise. Plus you’re within easy reach of hospital and medical care to deal with the more serious niggles that can hinder plans for your golden years.
Auckland – city of sails, volcanoes and multiple cultures
New Zealand’s largest city Auckland is home to more than a third of the population, for some very good reasons.
The city‘s diversity of cultures has created a seemingly endless range of artistic, entertainment and dining opportunities. Inner-city apartment living is well-established and growing rapidly, and there are still options to suit most budgets.
With a comfortable temperate climate, two huge harbours, island nature reserves, green volcanic cones and several forest parks, there’s no shortage of opportunities to relax in nature when you live or retire in Auckland.
What’s more, if travel to the Pacific Islands, Australia or Southeast Asia is part of your retirement plans, Auckland’s airport is the country’s main gateway to the world.
Wellington – New Zealand’s cool little capital
Compact and easily explored on foot, central Wellington is a wonderfully artistic hub. It’s known as the creative capital of New Zealand, and not just because it’s the capital city. Theatre, film and art are strong and well-supported here. Alongside that runs a long-standing culture of dining out, great coffee and local craft breweries.
For outdoor pursuits, popular harbour beaches are only a short distance from top surf spots and rugged ocean coastlines. And the inner city is surrounded by steep green hills, with forest walks and spectacular long-range views. Wellington’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring New Zealand, with flights to all major cities and provincial hubs, plus vehicular ferry services to the South Island.
Christchurch – a marvellous mix of old and new
Completely rebuilt following the 2011 earthquake, the centre of Christchurch is designed for today’s lifestyles. An emphasis on pedestrian-friendly streets and laneways make the CBD remarkably easy to get around. There’s also a perfect balance of commerce, modern inner-city accommodation and entertainment venues.
Art, theatre and history sit comfortably alongside cosy eateries, riverside bars, parks and walking trails. Christchurch has always been a cycling city and the rebuild has enhanced this with numerous cycle trails. On the city’s coastal border, the scenic Port Hills lead to Banks Peninsula and historic Akaroa Harbour with its quaint French-influenced township.
Dunedin – gothic charm and incredible views
If you prefer a cooler climate, Dunedin offers well-preserved historic architecture from the late 1800s and a thriving arts and food scene. Created by Scottish migrants and built on the wealth of an early gold rush, today this graceful harbour city is among the most affordable main centres for real estate.
And the vineyards, cycle trails, alpine lakes and winter ski fields of Central Otago are only a few hours away for year-round adventures in the most amazing landscapes.
Coastal living for water-based fun and sea views
If beach walks, ocean swims, boating or fishing are part of your ideal retirement lifestyle, New Zealand’s larger coastal communities deliver all the above, plus the infrastructure and essential services required for convenient living.
Whangarei – subtropical living in Northland
Now one of the most popular New Zealand retirement destinations, this city is known for affordable real estate and an almost-winterless climate.
The town basin area is a particularly pleasant stop for a restaurant meal beside a marina full of visiting yachts from around the world. For recreation, boating, fishing and hiking reign supreme.
If you love gardening, almost anything can be grown in Northland’s warm climate. The nearby areas of Whangarei Heads and the Tutukaka Coast are popular with retirees who want coastal perfection that’s still relatively close to the city.
Tauranga – sunny, beachy and growing fast
Fuelled by its spectacular beaches, sheltered harbour and proximity to Central North Island lakes and ski fields, Tauranga has experienced significant population growth across all ages over recent decades. Property values have climbed as a result, but the average house price is still less than in Auckland.
Hawke’s Bay – fruit, wine and Art Deco
Sunshine, surf beaches, forest walks, fruit, vegetables and award-winning vineyards are all part of the attraction for people moving to Hawke’s Bay. Napier, the main city, is a treasure-trove of Art Deco architecture and has a thriving arts community. It also has a network of cycle trails and plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants with ocean or harbour views. The nearby town of Hastings is a hub for the local wine region, artists and artisan food producers. Daily flights from Napier to Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch provide easy connections for travel.
Nelson – creative and outdoorsy
Celebrated for its high sunshine hours, seafood, wine and creative arts scene, Nelson sits at the top of the South Island. Cycle trails lead to vineyards and craft breweries on the plains, while inland national parks protect the northern-most mountains of the Southern Alps. Two of New Zealand’s Great Walks are close by – the Heaphy Track in the Kahurangi National Park and the Abel Tasman Coastal Track.
Country living for freedom and outdoor pursuits
Rolling green fields, forest parks, lifestyle blocks and food-producing gardens lure retirees and families to these centres for country living.
Retire in Kerikeri – a lush paradise in the far north
Rich in Maori and early European history, Kerikeri became a centre for fruit growing decades ago. Today it’s still home to people who enjoy living off the fertile land, which produces most of New Zealand’s citrus crops. Residents enjoy Northland’s warm temperate climate and close proximity to ancient kauri forests, sandy beaches and the sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands.
Retire in Cambridge – an English-feeling country town
This quaint town with tree lined streets and an old-English feel lies in the heart of the Waikato dairy farming region. Whether you’re interested in home gardening or the tranquillity of living on a few acres in the countryside, you’ll find yourself at home in Cambridge.
Extensive cycle and walking trails lead along the mighty Waikato River, and the town is dotted with friendly cafes. Only 90 minutes south of Auckland International Airport and 30 minutes from the city of Hamilton, Cambridge is a popular rural retreat with close connections to big-city services and the world.
Wairarapa – wine country that’s handy to Wellington
An hour north of Wellington over the Rimutaka Ranges lies a vast fertile river valley that’s one of New Zealand’s top wine growing regions. Along the main highway, historic farming villages – like Greytown – have grown into welcoming communities with art galleries, cafes, restaurants and boutique shops to explore.
Martinborough is the centre of the wine region and hosts a popular annual festival. Walks in the ranges and scenic cycle trails provide endless outdoor adventures and the rugged southern coast is home to fur seals. There’s even a commuter train service for relaxing visits to the capital.
Marlborough – wine country for an outdoorsy lifestyle
Located at the top of the South Island and blessed with high sunshine hours, Marlborough is another top wine and food region. The long, broad Wairau and Awatere river valleys lie between towering mountain ranges creating ideal soil and climatic conditions for award-winning wines.
Near the coast, around the town of Blenheim, homes with large gardens or a few acres of land provide an idyllic rural lifestyle. The relatively flat countryside is criss-crossed with cycle trails leading to vineyards for wine-tasting and lunch among the vines. You’re also on the doorstep of the spectacular Marlborough Sounds, a boating and hiking wonderland. Daily flights from Blenheim to Auckland and Wellington provide easy connections to the main centres.
Waipara – a foodie’s paradise close to the mountains
Less than an hour north of Christchurch, Waipara is a foodie’s paradise and one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing wine regions. Attracting all kinds of organic and boutique food producers, there’s a real enthusiasm in the region for caring for the land and making the most of the lifestyle opportunities it offers. A climate of hot summers and cool winters adds definition to the seasons and provides ideal growing conditions for a wide range of produce.
Central Otago and the Southern Lakes district – mountains, high country and snow sports
Known for exceptional wines, gorgeous landscapes and year-round adventure activities, Central Otago and the Southern Lakes district are among New Zealand’s most sought-after visitor destinations. The climate here is warm and dry in summer and cold enough for snow sports in the winter. Cycle the Otago Rail Trail, fish the crystal clear rivers, hike around lakes and mountains, and ski New Zealand’s best runs in winter. Indulge in the day spas and restaurants in bustling tourist towns like Queenstown and Wanaka, or relax in rural, vineyard and stone fruit orchard settings.
