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Chair of Retirement Villages' Residents' Council Interview on TVNZ

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 05:29:41 GMT

Watch the full interview here

New Chair Appointment

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 22:25:31 GMT

Welcoming Carol Shepherd as Chair of the Retirement Villages' Residents’ Council

The Retirement Villages' Residents’ Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Carol Shepherd as its new Chair, following the stepping down of Deborah Hart on 31 March 2026.

Carol has been a valued member of the Council since October 2023, bringing with her a strong sense of purpose and an unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of residents across retirement villages. During her time on the Council, she has been a passionate and effective advocate and spokesperson, consistently using both her own voice and that of the Council to champion the rights, dignity, and interests of residents.

Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. Carol’s appointment as Chair was unanimously supported by Council members, reflecting the confidence and respect she has earned in a relatively short time. Her collaborative approach, thoughtful leadership, and clear focus on advocacy make her well-placed to lead the Council into its next chapter.

As Chair, Carol will continue to prioritise the issues that matter most to residents, ensuring their voices are heard and represented at every level. Her leadership comes at an important time, as the Council continues its work to strengthen protections, improve transparency, and promote fair outcomes for those living in retirement villages.

We extend a warm welcome to Carol in her new role and look forward to supporting her as she leads the Council forward.

Just My Opinion “Isolated Issues not Typical of Happy Retirement Village Living

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 21:41:06 GMT

Retirement Villages' Residents" Council Member Tom Parsons writes his opinion on "Isolated issues not typical of happy retirement village living".

Read the full article HERE

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Council Chair and Council Member Meeting with MP for Bay Of Plenty

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 20:47:21 GMT

Newly appointed Chair of the Retirement Villages’ Residents’ Council Carol Shepherd and Council member Denise Whitehead had a positive catchup with the Bay of Plenty MP Tom Rutherford today.

Carol outlined her actions as the new Chair to Minister Rutherford who wishes her well in her new role.

The Post - Why realism is the key to balanced retirement village reform.

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 17:10:28 GMT

By Julie Shepherd, board member of the Retirement Villages’ Residents’ Council

OPINION: Debate about retirement village reform is both necessary and welcome. The sector touches the lives, homes and financial security of tens of thousands of older New Zealanders, and it is entirely proper that Parliament examines whether the balance between residents and operators is fair.

But reform must be grounded in realism, respect for the rule of law, and an understanding of the consequences of what is being proposed. Without that, advocacy risks becoming theatre rather than a serious contribution to public policy.

Read the full article HERE

Otago Daily Times - Council reflects reality of residents’ diverse views

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 20:09:23 GMT

Oversimplifying village residents’ voices won’t deliver fair reform ,

Carol Shepherd, Spokesperson for the Retirement Villages' Residents' Council

There is rarely a single legitimate voice for any large and diverse group of people. Retirement village residents are no exception.

More than 50,000 New Zealanders live in retirement villages. They come from different backgrounds, have different financial circumstances, different health needs and very different expectations about ageing. It should surprise no-one that they do not all speak with one voice — nor should they be expected to.

Much has been written recently about who represents residents and what residents want. In that debate, it is important to understand who the Retirement Villages’ Residents’ Council is — and, more importantly, what we hear directly from residents themselves.

Read full article HERE

Our December Newsletter

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 20:23:59 GMT

Our December Newsletter is available HERE .

You can subscribe by emailing: info@residentscouncil.org.nz with the subject "Subscribe to Newsletter", we will then add you to our database for updates/newsletters.

Otago Daily Times - Govt pushes ahead with retirement village rule changes

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 00:28:48 GMT

Read full article here

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RNZ Article -Government presses ahead with retirement village rule changes

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 00:28:43 GMT

Read full article here

Media Release - Retirement village reforms - step in right direction to strengthen rights of residents

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 00:28:37 GMT

Long awaited reforms to the retirement village sector will better protect residents and their families who have sometimes waited too long to be paid out for vacated and unsold village units, says the Retirement Villages’ Residents’ Council.

The reforms announced by the Government today include mandatory payment of capital on unsold or vacated units at 12 months, interest payable on capital after six months, clear rules on chattels - ‘you own it, you fix it.’ and a new independent complaints scheme. These are areas the Council has strongly advocated for.

“These changes are a welcome step in the right direction. They strike a better balance, being fairer for residents and village operators alike,” said Council spokesperson Carol Shepherd.

“As representatives of residents of villages across New Zealand, we would have liked the repayment of capital to have been six months, not 12 months.

“We also acknowledge that some residents who are in villages today will be upset that the new regime will not apply to their contracts.

“However, overall, these reforms strengthen protections for residents, particularly future residents, and their families without undermining the ability of operators, large or small, to invest, maintain quality, and provide a range of accommodation options for older Kiwis.

“It’s critical to have a sustainable village industry to meet the needs of our growing elderly population and these reforms recognise that village operators vary from the very large to the very small, run by charities and trusts. We need all kinds of operators that can thrive across New Zealand.

“The reforms also deal with other pain points for residents. For example, interest accruing at six months on capital, clarification of who fixes chattels, and no fees to be paid once units are vacated, coupled with an independent complaints resolution scheme.

“It’s important that residents and their families who make such a significant investment in their twilight years can access a low cost, independent process to resolve issues - this will reduce stress and speed resolution.

“All up the reforms mean residents in the future can look forward to a more consistent approach to how their interests are managed by village operators no matter where they live - that’s a good thing.

“Residents tell us what they need so we encourage the Minister and officials to work with the Council to co-design the complaints scheme, a standard ORA template, and a chattel-ownership framework.

“We need a regime that is fairer for residents and one that also ensures we have a sustainable industry - the quicker the law changes pass through Parliament the better for all,” said Shepherd.

For more information contact:

Carol Shepherd

027 465 3661

About the Retirement Villages’ Residents’ Council

Who does the Council represent?

The Council is a fresh independent voice to advocate on behalf of retirement village residents.

Who are the Council members?

The Council currently has 7 members who were nominated by their villages and / or residents and selected by the independent chair. They reside in various retirement villages, both large and small, throughout the country and bring significant experience to the council, many having served or are serving on the residents committees of villages.

Why was the Council formed?

The Council aims to act as an independent body representing the interests of retirement village residents.

How is the Council independent when funded by operators?

The Council is funded by the Retirement Villages Association (RVA), which represents most of the operators, developers and managers of retirement villages throughout New Zealand. However, the RVA has no say in anything that the Council does, including its views on policies or how it spends its budget. It does not attend meetings, does not receive agendas or minutes and has no influence over how the Council’s budget is applied. This independence is underpinned by the Council’s terms of reference.

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The Post Article - Retirement Village Demand Outpacing Supply

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 02:34:48 GMT

Read the full article here

Stuff Article - Are we fleecing our Elderly - Truth about Retirement Villages

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 02:34:44 GMT

Read the full article here

Initial Research Findings

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 14:27:48 GMT

The Retirement Villages’ Residents’ Council has undertaken research that has included quantitative and qualitative research, as well as regular surveying of residents.

As an evidence-led organisation, the Council relies on its research as well as its in-depth understanding of retirement villages, to inform its advocacy. Its research highlights some complex issues that warrant careful and further investigation.

It is releasing key themes and implications, whilst noting that further investigation is warranted into some areas. Those investigations are ongoing.

Research undertaken thus far in 2025 finds that:

· There is a strong preference for there to be a choice in retirement village living.

· There is a strong preference for a fair and independent complaints scheme.

· There is a strong preference for a Standardised Occupation Rights Agreement.

· There is a strong preference for clarity over ownership of chattels and fixtures and responsibility for repair.

· Views on termination and repayment were highly dependent on personal situations of people now living in retirement villages.

· There was a preference for repayment of capital so that families/estates did not have to wait, with the next highest rank need being funding for their aged care.

· Most residents want a mandatory capital repayment within 3-6 months or less. There are indications that longer waiting times for repayment of capital would generally be accepted by residents if it helped avoid higher costs to pay for it.

· Both qualitative and qualitative research, as well as surveys, indicate most residents would accept a longer wait if interest were paid immediately or if a lump-sum was paid within 5 days.

· There is little appetite for higher costs with the majority of residents opposed to paying higher deferred management fees (DMF) or weekly fees to secure faster repayment. However, if costs have to be met, increased weekly fees were the least acceptable option, followed by DMF and capital input.

· In quantitative research most residents would like changes to apply to them, but qualitative surveying indicates that many residents worried about the impact of costs and some thought retrospectivity was fundamentally unfair.

About the Research

Initial quantitative research was independently undertaken by Talbot Mills in August 2025, with 290 residents responding. Initial qualitative research was independently undertaken by Talbot Mills in August 2025, with 23 resident interviews.

Surveying by the Council has been undertaken over the past 18 months during village presentations to 950 residents throughout NZ with 25% of them completing a survey.

Our August Newsletter

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 01:32:37 GMT

Our August Newsletter is available HERE .

You can subscribe by emailing: info@residentscouncil.org.nz with the subject "Subscribe to Newsletter", we will then add you to our database for updates/newsletters.

Residents Want Balanced, Fair and Sustainable Retirement Village Reforms

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 22:32:09 GMT

The Retirement Villages' Residents’ Council believes reforms are needed that ensure sustainability and fairness – protecting resident choice and assets while safeguarding the long-term viability of all kinds of villages.

The Council says its engagement with residents shows that the vast majority are happy with village life, but improvements are needed to ensure fairness and consistency across the sector. Villages serve more than 53,000 New Zealanders, ranging from large listed companies to small rural charitable facilities. With an ageing population, the importance of getting the balance right is crucial.

The Council has been engaging with residents to understand their needs via research meetings and village visits.

Key Council proposals include:

Occupation Rights Agreements (ORAs):
Mandatory capital repayment within six months of ORA termination for new contracts.
Interest paid on amounts owing after three months for existing contracts.

For all contracts:

Cessation of weekly fees once a resident vacates
Operators responsible for ensuring residents can move to care (including interest-free loans and fast payouts if necessary).
Later repayment only if a village faces genuine financial hardship.
Standardised ORAs:
Introduction of a basic ORA across all operators to enable easier comparison and informed decision-making.
No retrospective changes to existing ORAs, recognising the contractual commitments already made, except as above.
Complaints Scheme:
A fair, accessible and independent complaints scheme, funded by operators, to protect residents.
The Council has worked closely with the Retirement Commissioner’s investigation and broadly supports its proposed scheme.
Other points:
Fixtures and fittings: “You own it – you fix it.”
Capital gains and losses: if residents don’t share in gains, they should not share in losses.

These changes will strengthen protections for residents, provide clarity and consistency across the sector, and ensure villages can continue to meet the diverse needs of New Zealand’s growing ageing population.

Residents’ Council Meets with Minister for Seniors, Hon. Casey Costello

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 20:31:45 GMT

The entire governing body of the Retirement Villages' Residents’ Council was hosted by the Minister for Seniors, Hon. Casey Costello at the Beehive this week. She was joined by officials keen to understand the work of the Council.

We updated the Minister on our work advocating for the interests of retirement village residents across New Zealand. The discussion was constructive and underscored the importance of ensuring residents’ voices are heard in decisions that affect their lives.

The Council will continue to keep the Minister informed as we progress our work.

Nominations Now Open – Help Lead the Voice of Retirement Village Residents

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 20:31:33 GMT

Nominations Now Open – Help Lead the Voice of Retirement Village Residents

The Retirement Villages’ Residents’ Council is calling for nominations to join its governing body. The Council is an independent voice representing the collective interests of retirement village residents across New Zealand. It provides a platform where residents’ concerns are heard, ideas are shared, and informed decisions are made.

Working closely with stakeholders – including residents, the Retirement Villages Association and Government – the Council offers guidance on policy matters affecting the sector.

We are seeking residents who are interested in policy, can reflect their fellow residents’ views impartially, and have mana in their village community. Whether you are on a residents’ committee or simply want to contribute your perspective, your voice matters.

Council members meet up to once a month, with travel and accommodation costs covered. There is no cost to you or your village – just your time and commitment. Your costs of attending meetings are paid.

Nominations must be made by a residents’ committee or by at least 2 residents. If you would like to be part of shaping the future for retirement village residents, complete the nomination form here and send it to info@residentscouncil.org.nz by 5pm, Friday 19 September 2025.

Council Members Meeting with MP for Bay Of Plenty

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 21:21:20 GMT

Council members Carol Shepherd (L) and Denise Whitehead (R) met with their local BOP MP Tom Rutherford on Monday 4 Aug to update him on the work of the Council, our position of the review of legislation and urging support to hasten the review process.

Council Helps Drive New Complaints Scheme for Residents

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 20:57:15 GMT

The Residents’ Council made formal submissions and met with the designer of a new complaints scheme for residents, advocating strongly for a fairer and clearer complaints scheme. The Council was also able to meet with operators to explain how a fair and independent complaints scheme could work to the benefit of all.

Retirement Commissioner Jane Wrightson has said "the system needed changing."

“The existing complaints and disputes system does not meet best-practice standards, and both the Retirement Commission and Te Tūāpapa Kura Kāinga – Ministry of Housing and Urban Development want to address these issues as part of the broader sector review under way,”

Read full article HERE

Have Your Say: New Survey on Occupation Rights Agreements

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 00:30:32 GMT

We want to know what residents think and we are always looking for ways to better understand resident needs.

So the Retirement Villages’ Residents’ Council this week invited residents to take part in a short survey about Occupation Rights Agreements — specifically, what matters most when it comes to getting your money back after the agreement ends.

Many residents have raised concerns about covering costs after they leave their village or when their estate is managing financial matters.

This anonymous survey, conducted by independent firm Talbot Mills Research, will help ensure residents’ voices are heard on this important issue. The survey takes just a few minutes to complete and will remain open for around a week.

As a thank you, everyone who completes it will go into the draw to win one of three $100 Prezzy Cards. (Contact details are only used for the prize draw and are kept separate from survey responses.)

You can take part in the survey and please share this with other village residents — every voice counts. Take the survey HERE

Resident Insights

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 00:26:37 GMT

Insights from Residents

It is important for the Council to understand what residents want. Council members are all residents themselves and actively engage with other residents, including traveling nationwide to hear concerns firsthand, conducting regular surveys, reviewing research, and meeting frequently with stakeholders.

If you want a Council member to visit at your village, click HERE .

To ensure more understanding of what residents want, the Council has now appointed research company Talbot Mills to undertake research on Occupation Rights Agreements.

To take part in that survey, click HERE

Between September 2023 – May 2025, Council members visited over 30 villages of all sizes and types across the country, meeting with over 650 residents. They also collected resident responses through a survey collected in-person and online. The Council has received over 200 responses to surveys. The results from survey data are HERE .

A New Council Member

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 23:14:31 GMT

New Council Member

We are delighted to announce a new Council member to help steer the Retirement Villages’ Residents' Council.

Thomas Parsons, MNZM, is an army veteran having served in New Zealand and overseas for 24 years. Prior to retirement he was a high school principal and advisor to the Minister of Education and national president of the Secondary Schools Association. His 28-year career in education earned him the New Zealand Order of Merit and an honorary life membership to SPANZ. Tom is a resident and has served two terms on the Resident's Committee after being nominated to the position by his peers.

If you live in a retirement village and wish to join the governing body of the Retirement Villages’ Residents' Council, to make a real difference for residents, please email info@residentscouncil.org.nz , with the subject line ‘Join the Council’.

All Council must be nominated by two residents of a retirement village or by a residents’ committee.

Watch Minister Tama Potaka

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 03:04:37 GMT

WATCH: Associate Minister of Housing Hon. Tama Potaka gives a big thumbs up to the mahi of the Retirement Villages’ Residents’ Council here

He recognised the growing voice of residents and the Council’s role in shaping fairer outcomes for older New Zealanders. We're proud to have his support as we keep pushing for meaningful change.

Our June 2025 Newsletter

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 20:47:00 GMT

Our June 2025 newsletter is available today. See below link. You can subscribe by pushing the button at the top of the newsletter or by emailing: info@residentscouncil.org.nz with the subject "Subscribe to Newsletter", we will then add you to our database for updates/newsletters.

Media Release, Retirement Villages Act Gains Momentum – Minister Applauded

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 22:45:24 GMT

To read the media release, click HERE

Article in The Post

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 23:01:43 GMT

"Like many others, I enjoy retirement village life and have embraced this new phase wholeheartedly. But there’s a lot that needs fixing, which is why the last Government launched a review of retirement villages."

Click here to read the full article

Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has released a compilation of submissions to the Retirement Villages Act review.

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 21:07:32 GMT

To read the summary of feedback for Retirement Villages Act 2003 Review, click HERE

Our December Newsletter

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 20:30:34 GMT

Our December newsletter is available today. See below link. You can subscribe by pushing the button at the top of the newsletter or by emailing: info@residentscouncil.org.nz with the subject "Subscribe to Newsletter", we will then add you to our database for updates/newsletters.

Review is too slow

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 21:10:31 GMT

We agree with the Retirement Commissioner - the review is too slow. The Council is working with other key stakeholders to try and agree on key developments that are required and to speed up the process for implementation.

Pleasing but slow progress in ensuring viability of retirement village industry

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 20:06:21 GMT

The Government appears on the right track in signalling changes to better balance the needs of residents of retirement villages and operators and ensure this critical industry remains viable.

"We welcome the direction of travel for future reform following the review of the industry carried out by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development," said Carol Shepherd of the Retirement Villages’ Residents’ Council (Council).

The next stage of the review including key priorities for further work was announced by Ministers on 16 October 2024. This includes the intention to bring new legislation to reform the Retirement Villages Act to Parliament in the next term.

"The Council has advocated for legislative change to provide improved consumer protections for residents and ensure the industry is sustainable so this is much needed, albeit slower progress than we would have wanted.

"The country faces big challenges in this sector with the population of villages set to more than double from 50,000 residents today within the next 20 or so years.

"It is pleasing that the Government has recognised the need to balance the needs of residents and the need for a sustainable industry. As our population grows and ages, residents need to have choices, their assets need to be better protected and the industry must be able to provide affordable options.

"Specifically, the Council is pleased the Government has decided to look at options for incentivising or requiring early capital repayments when residents move out of a village.

"This has been a big issue for residents. They quite rightly want their capital returned to them or their families quickly and interest should be paid as well if the process takes too long.

"The Council also welcomes the intention to prioritise work on better managing complaints and disputes and who should pay for the maintenance of operator-owned chattels and fixtures. These are also areas of great concern for residents.

"The Council looks forward to working with the Government on the next stage of the review to ensure changes that benefit residents," said Carol Shepherd.

To view the Government announcement, click HERE

New Council Appointed

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 22:37:17 GMT

New Council Appointed

John Mills

Following a call for council members, we are delighted to announce the new council will be comprised of a diverse group of residents from throughout the country who reside in both large and small retirement villages in cites and in the regions.

All council members were nominated by resident committees or at least two residents. No nominations were allowed to be made by operators.

The new council members are: Carole Shepherd, Denise Whitehead, Julie Shepherd, Deborah Bradley, Roger Parton, Andrew McEwan, Roger Shallcrass and John Mills.

John Mills is new to the Council and comes from Lockerbie Village in Morrinsville and was nominated by his village resident committee. He works full-time in community support. He is a retired chartered accountant and a former electoral officer. We welcome John to the Council.

Whilst applications for the Council have closed this round, the Council is wanting to fill a role on the Council of a resident who lives in Auckland. If you live in a retirement village in Auckland and wish to join the Council, please email info@residentscouncil.org.nz

Our Newsletter

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 22:40:28 GMT

Our first newsletter is available today. See below link. You can subscribe by pushing the button at the top of the newsletter or by emailing: info@residentscouncil.org.nz with the subject "Subscribe to Newsletter", we will then add you to our database for updates/newsletters.

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Easier Resolution of Complaints

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 21:06:06 GMT

Easier Resolution of Complaints

The Council has been working on an effective new dispute resolution process that could support both residents and operators to resolve their complaints. It believes residents need an easier way to complain and have their complaints dealt with effectively and efficiently by a new independent service. To see what our dispute resolution system would look like, click HERE .

Call for Council Members

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 21:01:29 GMT

Call for Council Members

Last year the Retirement Villages’ Residents’ Council was formed to be a voice for residents, with strong links to both residents and operators for the benefit of those living in retirement villages. The Council members' terms will all be at an end 10 October, so the Council is calling for residents to be nominated for the Council.

All nominated residents will ideally be put forward by a resident committee, but can also be nominated by two other residents. Last year, the chair was delighted by the large number of high calibre applicants who wanted to be on the Council. That enabled a Council that was diverse and representative of those living in retirement villages. This year, we expect a similar response and with the new criteria that residents can only be nominated by resident committees or other residents, the Council’s representative nature will be bolstered.

The independent chair of the Council, Deborah Hart will make appointments by early October.

To apply, click HERE

Retirement villages residents deserve a review of the sector

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 05:22:23 GMT

The Retirement Villages’ Residents’ Council spokesperson, Carol Shepherd, says a full legislative review of retirement villages, that is currently under way, needs to run its course.”

The Council submitted to the review, saying that there were fundamental changes needed, a few of which could be taken care of by code changes, while the majority need legislative amendments. The Ministry for Housing and Urban Development is due to report back to the Minister of Consumer Affairs, on the review by the end of the year.

Ms Shepherd says, “the Council eagerly awaits the Minister’s advice on the changes the government will advance for increased consumer protection for residents, whilst safeguarding the village experience residents choose.”

The Council hopes that the changes will include mandatory repayment of capital within set timelines, standardised ORAs, a new independent dispute resolution scheme, ensuring that residents who don’t share capital gains, do not have to share capital losses and the cessation of outgoings and fees when residents depart.

To view the Council’s full submission, click HERE

Council spokeperson and independent chair meets with Retirement Commissioner

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 01:48:44 GMT

Retirement Villages' Residents' Council spokesperson Carol Shepherd, and independent chair Deborah Hart met with the Retirement Commissioner Jane Wrightson and retirement village specialist at the Retirement Commission Tristan Fluerty.

Carol and Deborah were able to have a wide-ranging discussion with Jane and Tristan about the review of retirement villages and the most important issues for village residents.

Media release RVRC submission on review of Retirement Villages Act

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 00:49:54 GMT

Media release RVRC submission on review of Retirement Villages Act

To read the media release, click HERE

Council submits on the review of the Retirement Villages Act

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 00:36:54 GMT

Council submits on the review on the Retirement Villages Act

The Council made a late submission to the Ministry of Housing and Urban development on the Review of the retirement Villages Act. Its submission was informed by research and data made available by a number of organisations including the Retirement Commission, Retirement Village Residents' Association and the Retirement Villages Association. As well Council members made use of their extensive networks and their own expertise.

To read the Council's submission, click HERE

Retirement Villages' Residents' Council Meets for the first Time

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 23:25:24 GMT

The Council had their first meeting in Wellington on 10 October 2023

Review of the Retirement Villages Act now underway

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 01:02:11 GMT

In 2023 the Ministry, working in partnership with the retirement sector, will begin a review of the Retirement Villages Act. This review will be part of the Ministry’s wider housing work programme and our commitment to creating thriving communities where everyone has a place to call home.

They are working towards the release of a discussion document in September 2023.

The Retirement Villages Act 2003

The Retirement Villages Act 2003 (the Act) sets out obligations for retirement village operators and the rights of residents and anyone considering moving into a retirement village. The Act has two main purposes

protecting the interests of residents and intending residents,
to enable retirement villages to develop under a legal framework that is easy for residents, intending residents, and village operators to understand.

The Act also sets out further specific purposes such as promoting understanding of the financial and occupancy interests of residents and intending residents, providing a regulatory and monitoring regime and a way to introduce rules and procedures that give effect to this regime.

Oversight of the conditions in which operators enter the sector and run retirement villages is also included. The Act also gives powers and duties to the Registrar of Retirement Villages and the Retirement Commissioner. 

Reviewing the Retirement Villages Act

It’s almost been 20 years since the Act and related regulations and codes were introduced and these have not been reviewed since. The review aims to address issues and strike a balance between the rights and responsibilities of residents and operators of retirement villages.

Scope of the Review

At a high level, the review is set to consider whether the current Act and all its parts remain fit for purpose to ensure:

adequate consumer protections for residents and intending residents of retirement villages,
an effective balance between the rights and responsibilities of residents and operators of retirement villages,
the on-going viability of the retirement village sector and its ability to provide a range of retirement housing options and consumer choice, and
appropriately defined rights and responsibilities of residents and operators, including where they may differ for different occupancy rights.

The review will also consider specific aspects related to the main phases of retirement village experience, such as moving in, living in and moving and on, and some wider issues.

Law firm advises on the review of the Retirement Villages Act.

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 01:25:39 GMT

On Wednesday, 2 August, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development released its anticipated discussion paper, The Retirement Villages Act 2003: Options for change. This is the latest step in the regulatory review which was announced in December 2022.

The Discussion Paper outlines proposals to change the Retirement Villages Act 2003 (and associated regulations and codes) and seeks feedback on the same. The Discussion Paper, summary and cost benefit analysis are available here . We are reviewing with interest and note some of our initial thoughts below.Legal documents

The proposals in the Discussion Paper include changes to disclosure statements and occupation right agreements, both of which will be significant:

We agree with the overall goal of making disclosure statements shorter and less complex. The proposals also look to increase the ability to hold operators to account for statements made in their disclosure statements (and made verbally). Operators will need to continue to take care in all representations made, including those made by sales staff, and to ensure they are reviewing and updating their disclosure statements regularly.

Proposals to standardise occupation right agreements are more complex and require careful consideration to ensure the benefits of standardisation are achieved without succumbing to the pitfalls. Standardisation of ORAs was considered in depth in the Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission Investigative Report 2021-22 available here .

Proposals front-footed by RVA / industry

A number of the proposals made in the Discussion Paper have been front footed by the Retirement Villages Association, including through the remits recently passed at its July Annual General Meeting. These include making it the operator’s responsibility to maintain and replace operator owned chattels, requiring better disclosure of information around transfer to care, and meeting healthy homes standards.

Fees

On fees, the proposals include requirements (i) to stop charging outgoings and accruing fixed deductions either immediately or soon after an ORA has been terminated and vacated, and (ii) for operators to pay interest on capital sums if the unit remains vacant after a period of time. These are matters which have already been adopted and endorsed by a large number of operators in the industry (particularly ceasing to charge / accrue fees on termination). The proposals also include a potential requirement to repay a resident’s capital sum within a fixed period after termination of an ORA (eg 6 or 12 months). Concerns by operators regarding the impact of guaranteed buybacks have been well canvassed in submissions on the previous White Paper, and we expect will be noted again in this consultation process.

Some sensible ideas

The proposal that operators no longer be required to hold full replacement cover and should be allowed to obtain sum-insured and collective policies is positive and reflects the reality of the current insurance environment. Legislating the requirement for statutory supervisors to hold security reflects industry practice and the role of the statutory supervisor and is appropriate.

Some for further consideration

Some of the proposals we are keen to consider further include the replacement of the existing complaints and disputes scheme with an independent dispute resolution scheme, the appropriate roles and powers of government agencies in the retirement villages system, and fiduciary duties to residents in the sale and transfer of retirement villages.

Next steps

The release of the Discussion Paper on Wednesday began a period of public consultation on the proposals, which closes on Monday, 20 November 2023. The Discussion Paper and consultation will most likely result in a draft bill to amend the Retirement Villages Act being introduced to Parliament. If the bill passes and changes are adopted, there will be a transition period between when the legislation is passed and when the changes take effect, to allow the sector time to adjust.

Article originally published by Minter Ellison Rudd Waters

New research reveals more than half of New Zealanders are struggling with money

Sun, 14 Aug 2022 13:17:35 GMT

New research shows that 55% of New Zealanders are struggling with their financial situation – up 17% compared to February 2021 and the highest level since surveying began.

Out of those surveyed, 51% say they are ‘starting to sink, or treading water’ and a further 3.5% are ‘sinking badly’.

Since February 2021, Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission has commissioned TRA to survey 4000 people annually, gathering insights on how people are feeling about money and how they are coping.

The latest findings have revealed that women, Māori and Pacific Peoples are being hit the hardest, with 61% of women saying they are in a difficult position financially (compared to 48% of men) and 60% of Māori and 58% of Pasifika are also struggling.

Sorted Personal Finance Lead Tom Hartmann says it’s concerning so many Kiwi are feeling the pressures of cost increases.

“We have now tipped into more than half the population feeling squeezed financially. This significantly reduces people’s ability to grow their money for tomorrow, which has long-term consequences for their future financial wellbeing.”

Those people in the survey who are struggling with money have reported experiencing more financial stress as a result.

Te Ara Ahunga Ora Research Lead Dr Jo Gamble says financial stress impacts relationships with more women, Māori and Pasifika hiding or concealing their financial situation from their family or friends than the average New Zealander.

“Sixty percent of the average population have experienced financial stress within the last year, however this was significantly higher for 18–35-year-olds at 76%, Māori at 76% and 78% of Pasifika,” she says.

“Financial stress can ripple across a person’s whole life impacting not only their financial wellbeing but how they relate to the friends and family, and the choices they make socially.

“It’s important for New Zealanders to reach out for help if they are struggling, as with support and small changes it can be easier to manage money, which benefits your mental wellbeing.”

This research also looked at New Zealander’s financial behaviour in four key areas; budgeting, saving, tackling debt, and KiwiSaver and retirement, which link to Sorted’s key money management pillars.

The research showed some positive movements across all groups with people focusing on their money management skills – including keeping a close watch on their money and considering purchases before they buy them.

“Developing these skills means New Zealanders may be in a better position to improve their financial position once cost of living pressures ease,” says Hartmann.

“When money is tight it can be challenging to keep budgets on track, but developing money management skills can help people keep going during tough times, and then help them get ahead when costs decrease.

“As part of Sorted Money Month, we’ve been encouraging people to hit pause, and take a moment to look at their money situation, and seek out help where they need it. This might be using the tools on Sorted, joining a money event or seeking out help from financial mentors or advisers.

“Even when times are tough, small changes can make an outsized difference and help you stay on track.”

Retirement Commissioner welcomes proposed improvements to the Retirement Villages Act 2003, encourages feedback

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 13:17:35 GMT

Retirement Commissioner Jane Wrightson is calling on people to submit their views on the Review of the Retirement Villages Act 2003, following the Government’s release today of a discussion paper detailing options for change.

“I am really pleased to see the review progress to this consultation phase. The proposed changes tabled in the discussion document address many of the issues we have raised, along with important others,” she says.

“The sector provides important and valued housing options for some older New Zealanders and is by no means broken. I acknowledge recent voluntary changes made by the industry itself. But the Act has not been reviewed in 20 years: it’s important for residents, their families and operators that sector-wide best practice is clearly set out in legislation. I encourage all interested parties to submit their feedback on the proposals put forward.”

The discussion paper is calling for feedback on a raft of proposals relating to the three phases of retirement living: moving in, living in and moving out. This spans everything from plain language disclosure statements, partially standardised occupation right agreements, replacing the current complaints and disputes scheme, right through to introducing mandatory timeframes for repayment of capital sums after units have been vacated.

Submissions can be made to Te Tūāpapa Kura Kainga – Ministry of Housing and Urban Development , which is leading the review work.

The options paper comes on the heels of the Retirement Commission’s latest investigation into residents’ experiences in moving out of, or within, a retirement village.

Research found that the experience can be quite varied, with some residents feeling informed and supported, while others feeling rushed and taken advantage of.
A lack of understanding of how the buying and selling of retirement village accommodation differs from the wider residential real estate market can lead to disappointment and dissatisfaction among both residents and whānau.
Many residents and whānau expect a duty of care from a retirement village to be also applied throughout the exit process, and their interpretation and expectation of this duty of care greatly affected their exit experience.

Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission proposed a review of retirement village legislation in December 2020 and released a white paper setting out issues around the retirement villages framework. The need was confirmed in June 2021 after public consultation on the white paper, in which 3,300 submissions were received. The Commission provided a summary and recommendations report to Government.

The Retirement Commissioner has statutory obligations under the Act to monitor the framework’s effectiveness.

In the Commission white paper, Wrightson said the legislation was at risk of becoming outdated and unfit for purpose. Key concerns were raised about the resale process, weekly fees charged after a resident vacates a unit, flaws in an overly complicated complaints system, confusing documentation and the tricky interface between village and care facilities.

“Retirement villages remain an attractive choice for some older New Zealanders, providing a sense of community and a quality option for those who wish to downsize,” says the Retirement Commissioner.

“This review is an opportunity to assess what updates to the legislation are needed, for both residents and retirement village operators.”

rvrc

Chair of Retirement Villages' Residents' Council Interview on TVNZ

Watch the full interview here

New Chair Appointment

Welcoming Carol Shepherd as Chair of the Retirement Villages' Residents’ Council

Just My Opinion “Isolated Issues not Typical of Happy Retirement Village Living

Retirement Villages' Residents" Council Member Tom Parsons writes his opinion on "Isolated issues not typical of happy retirement village living".

Read the full article HERE

Council Chair and Council Member Meeting with MP for Bay Of Plenty

The Post - Why realism is the key to balanced retirement village reform.

Otago Daily Times - Council reflects reality of residents’ diverse views

Our December Newsletter

Otago Daily Times - Govt pushes ahead with retirement village rule changes

Read full article here

RNZ Article -Government presses ahead with retirement village rule changes

Read full article here

Media Release - Retirement village reforms - step in right direction to strengthen rights of residents

The Post Article - Retirement Village Demand Outpacing Supply

Read the full article here

Stuff Article - Are we fleecing our Elderly - Truth about Retirement Villages

Read the full article here

Initial Research Findings

Our August Newsletter

Our August Newsletter is available HERE .

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You can subscribe by emailing: info@residentscouncil.org.nz with the subject "Subscribe to Newsletter", we will then add you to our database for updates/newsletters.

Residents Want Balanced, Fair and Sustainable Retirement Village Reforms

Residents’ Council Meets with Minister for Seniors, Hon. Casey Costello

Nominations Now Open – Help Lead the Voice of Retirement Village Residents

Nominations must be made by a residents’ committee or by at least 2 residents. If you would like to be part of shaping the future for retirement village residents, complete the nomination form here and send it to info@residentscouncil.org.nz by 5pm, Friday 19 September 2025.

Council Members Meeting with MP for Bay Of Plenty

Council members Carol Shepherd (L) and Denise Whitehead (R) met with their local BOP MP Tom Rutherford on Monday 4 Aug to update him on the work of the Council, our position of the review of legislation and urging support to hasten the review process.

Council Helps Drive New Complaints Scheme for Residents

Have Your Say: New Survey on Occupation Rights Agreements

You can take part in the survey and please share this with other village residents — every voice counts. Take the survey HERE

Resident Insights

A New Council Member

New Council Member

Watch Minister Tama Potaka

Our June 2025 Newsletter

Our June 2025 newsletter is available today. See below link. You can subscribe by pushing the button at the top of the newsletter or by emailing: info@residentscouncil.org.nz with the subject "Subscribe to Newsletter", we will then add you to our database for updates/newsletters.

Media Release, Retirement Villages Act Gains Momentum – Minister Applauded

To read the media release, click HERE

Article in The Post

"Like many others, I enjoy retirement village life and have embraced this new phase wholeheartedly. But there’s a lot that needs fixing, which is why the last Government launched a review of retirement villages."

Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has released a compilation of submissions to the Retirement Villages Act review.

To read the summary of feedback for Retirement Villages Act 2003 Review, click HERE

Our December Newsletter

Our December newsletter is available today. See below link. You can subscribe by pushing the button at the top of the newsletter or by emailing: info@residentscouncil.org.nz with the subject "Subscribe to Newsletter", we will then add you to our database for updates/newsletters.

Review is too slow

We agree with the Retirement Commissioner - the review is too slow. The Council is working with other key stakeholders to try and agree on key developments that are required and to speed up the process for implementation.

Read more here .

Pleasing but slow progress in ensuring viability of retirement village industry

New Council Appointed

Whilst applications for the Council have closed this round, the Council is wanting to fill a role on the Council of a resident who lives in Auckland. If you live in a retirement village in Auckland and wish to join the Council, please email info@residentscouncil.org.nz

Our Newsletter

Our first newsletter is available today. See below link. You can subscribe by pushing the button at the top of the newsletter or by emailing: info@residentscouncil.org.nz with the subject "Subscribe to Newsletter", we will then add you to our database for updates/newsletters.

Easier Resolution of Complaints

Call for Council Members

Retirement villages residents deserve a review of the sector

Council spokeperson and independent chair meets with Retirement Commissioner

Media release RVRC submission on review of Retirement Villages Act

Media release RVRC submission on review of Retirement Villages Act

Council submits on the review of the Retirement Villages Act

Council submits on the review on the Retirement Villages Act

Retirement Villages' Residents' Council Meets for the first Time

The Council had their first meeting in Wellington on 10 October 2023

Review of the Retirement Villages Act now underway

The Retirement Villages Act 2003

Reviewing the Retirement Villages Act

Scope of the Review

Law firm advises on the review of the Retirement Villages Act.

On Wednesday, 2 August, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development released its anticipated discussion paper, The Retirement Villages Act 2003: Options for change. This is the latest step in the regulatory review which was announced in December 2022.

Proposals front-footed by RVA / industry

Fees

Some sensible ideas

Some for further consideration

Next steps

New research reveals more than half of New Zealanders are struggling with money

Retirement Commissioner welcomes proposed improvements to the Retirement Villages Act 2003, encourages feedback