Key considerations when choosing a retirement village in Auckland
When it comes to choosing a retirement village in Auckland that’s right for you, location is an important consideration, especially when it comes to what matters to you most. Things to think about might include:
Proximity to family and friends
If seeing children, grandchildren, family, or friends regularly is important to you, you might like to consider how easy it will be for them to visit you at the village you are looking at. Is the location easily accessible? Is there plenty of parking? Are there nearby transport links for people who don’t drive?
It's also worth thinking about places that are already part of your routine such as your local library, church, community group, or perhaps a café where you regularly meet friends. Staying close to familiar places can help make the transition to retirement village living feel more like home.
Access to healthcare
Auckland is well-served by healthcare providers with hospitals and specialists located across the city.
If you have a long-standing GP, specialist, dentist, optometrist, physiotherapist or pharmacy, you may prefer to stay within easy reach of those providers rather than having to travel too far, or starting again elsewhere.
You may also want to ask whether the village has a care home on site and what care options may be available if your needs change over time.
Transport and getting around
Think about how easy it will be to get around. Having public transport nearby, and easy access to local amenities by car, can make it easier to be both independent and connected.
When you’re touring Auckland retirement villages, it’s worth considering how easy it would be to get to places you visit regularly.
Some people prefer a central location, while others enjoy a quieter setting. Whichever you prefer, consider how manageable it will be to access the amenities, services and activities that are important to you. The right choice will depend on your lifestyle, how often you like to be out and about, and what helps you feel confident getting from place to place.
Everyday life
Each suburb of Auckland has something different to offer. Some have a strong arts and community vibe, while others are known for excellent eateries and shopping. The mix of places and activities nearby can help shape how well an area suits your lifestyle.
Auckland’s main regions
As you compare retirement villages, it can be helpful to look beyond the village itself and consider what you'll have close by for day-to-day living. Each of Auckland’s regions has something different to offer:
North Shore
The North Shore includes areas such as Albany, Milford, Birkenhead and Devonport. Beaches, coastal walks, cafés and village-type shopping areas are all part of the appeal of life on the shore. It may suit you if you enjoy being near the water, while still having North Shore Hospital, motorway links and ferry services within easy reach, depending on the suburb.
Central Auckland
Central Auckland suburbs such as Parnell, St John’s, Epsom and Mount Eden all offer residential areas close to the city’s galleries, theatres, restaurants and waterfront areas. Central Auckland retirement villages may be a good option if you’d like to be close to major healthcare services such as Auckland City Hospital and specialist services, as well as transport hubs such as Britomart with regular bus and train connections.
Eastern suburbs
East Auckland includes areas such as Howick, Pakuranga, Botany and Mount Wellington, each with something different to offer. Howick has a village-style centre and is close to beaches and coastal walks, while Mount Wellington is handy to Sylvia Park shopping centre with good motorway connections and public transport.
West Auckland
If you'd like to be close to everyday amenities without feeling too far from nature, West Auckland offers plenty of choice. Shopping centres, healthcare services and public transport are centred around Henderson and New Lynn, while nearby parks, walking tracks, the Waitākere Ranges and west coast beaches provide plenty of opportunities to get outdoors.
South Auckland
South Auckland encompasses suburbs such as Manukau, Wattle Downs, Papakura and Pukekohe. Manurewa is close to the Auckland Botanic Gardens, while Manukau provides shopping, healthcare services and transport connections. Papakura and Pukekohe may also appeal if staying connected to communities further south is important to you.
Questions to ask when touring a retirement village in Auckland
Before deciding if an Auckland retirement village is right for you, it can help to take a tour of the village. This can help you get a feel for the homes, facilities on offer, and general vibe or sense of community. Questions that can be helpful to ask include:
- What types of homes are available, such as villas, apartments, or serviced apartments? Does the village offer any assisted living services?
- What facilities are available for residents – e.g. gym, pool, van outings, communal gardens or vege garden, social groups etc?
- Are there local amenities close by? For example, shops, cafés, parks or medical centres?
- Is there public transport nearby, i.e. a bus stop/train station? Does the village provide its own transport options for residents?
- Can I speak with a resident about life at the village?
- What support is available if my needs change in the future? Is there a care home on site?
Bupa retirement villages in Auckland
Bupa has seven retirement villages across Auckland, with a range of locations and types of homes to explore.
Each Bupa village has its own character, community, and range of facilities, so the best way to learn more is to visit in person by attending an open day or booking a personal tour. You can also take a virtual tour.
Our friendly team can answer your questions and help you explore the options available in your preferred area.