Commonly Asked Questions:

Are there any special requirements to become a resident?

At the time of entry applicants generally need to be over the age of 55 years and age and be able to cope with the day to day running of their accommodation.

Can I reserve a unit or apartment for the future?

There are always units and serviced apartments available or becoming available in the village. We find that most people like to familiarise themselves with the village and our concept, and then record their interest with us. When a particular unit or serviced apartment of your choice becomes available we will contact you. We give you ample time to sell your own home. If you don’t plan moving for a year or two, you are still very welcome to visit the village now, to learn more about the village concept and lifestyle.

You live as independently as you choose with the added security of knowing that excellent support services are available whenever you may need them.

It’s your choice. Our villages are beautifully landscaped in a manner which harmonises with the total village and its surrounding environment. The grounds staff maintain all areas to a carefully planned and monitored programme. Residents can change the gardens around their units to reflect their own personality and taste, provided they continue to maintain them. In addition, garden plots are available in a separately designated part of the village. Individuals can garden to their hearts content in their own individual areas, and even propagate seedlings in the nearby potting shed/glasshouse.

Are pets allowed?

For the sake of other residents, pets are discouraged. However, subject to management approval,small house trained animals or caged birds may be permitted.

Can I have visitors and can they stay with me?

Yes. It’s your home and visitors are always welcome. The community centre, barbecue and recreational facilities are available for both residents and their guests. You can also book your visitors into the village motel unit.

Do the units and apartments have personal telephones?

There are telephone connections in each unit and apartment and it is simply a matter of you getting them reconnected with a telephone company of your choice.

How long can I be away from my home at the village?

You can come and go as you please, just as you would living in your own home. One of the many advantages of the village lifestyle is that residents can go on their holidays, be it for a week or six months, with much greater peace of mind regarding the maintenance of their homes. Just advise management of the intended period of absence and of anything which my happen while you are away. Payment of the village outgoings fee must be maintained as these costs are naturally ongoing whether a person is in residence or not. Serviced apartment residents pay a reduced service fee if they are absent for a week or more at a time.

Are there any “hidden” restrictions?

No – quite the reverse. Our villages provide much more freedom from chores and responsibilities than can be readily envisaged. The only limitations are those brought about by the normal considerations and courtesies which any community of people require from one another.

Who pays for the maintenance in the village?

The village outgoings fee provides for the maintenance of the village property. The occupation right agreement does provide that the resident is responsible for the maintenance of appliances in the unit and any damage to the unit which is not as a result of fair wear and tear. After the agreement terminates and the unit or apartment is re-licensed to another person, the refund of the original capital sum, less the facilities fee will also include deductions covering any cleaning, repairs or redecoration costs that are not fair wear and tear.

Who pays for the village insurance?

The village outgoings fee includes all insurance premiums with the exception of your normal household contents insurance. Residents are therefore required to insure their own personal effects.

Who pays the rates?

The village outgoings fee includes water and general rates.

What happens when I want to leave my unit or apartment?

It is a similar process to selling a house. The village consultant will issue a new licence to another person. Once your unit or apartment is re-issued to a new resident, you will receive the money from the capital sum less the facilities fee. If the licensee dies, payment is made on the issuing of a new licence. If a new licence is not yet issued after nine months then the company will pay interest on the repayment amount.

Are there any hidden costs?

No. The facilities fee will be deducted from the refund of the capital sum after termination of your occupation right agreement. The ongoing village outgoings fee covers most village costs and services provided. Serviced apartment costs are covered by the service fee. The village consultant will talk with you about all costs. Explanations of these costs can also be found in our statutory disclosure documents.

How do I apply?

The village consultants assist incoming residents with the application process. The right to occupy is secured by a first registered charge granted by the operator over the village land in favour of the statutory supervisor.

How can I get a statutory disclosure document?

Statutory disclosure documents are available by emailing info@villages.co.nz, or by phoning, faxing or visiting the village.

Yes. Ask about a short stay in the village “home stay” apartment.