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1. Am I ready to part with my home and some of my things?
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Moving into a retirement village usually involves downsizing. That could mean shifting from a three-bedroom home to a two-bedroom villa, or even an apartment. It can feel liberating to … View more1. Am I ready to part with my home and some of my things?
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Moving into a retirement village usually involves downsizing. That could mean shifting from a three-bedroom home to a two-bedroom villa, or even an apartment. It can feel liberating to simplify, but the emotional attachment to a family home and a lifetime of belongings is real.
Ask yourself:
What will I need day to day, and what can I let go of?
Am I prepared to sell or donate furniture, keepsakes, or tools?
Would I need storage for things I want to keep but can’t take with me?
It helps to walk through a few village homes and visualise what daily life might look like. Could this space feel like home?
2. How do I feel about community living?
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One of the biggest lifestyle shifts is moving into a more communal environment. Villages vary in size and each has its own unique culture.
Consider:
Do I enjoy meeting new people and joining in social activities?
Would I make use of the shared spaces, such as lounges and other facilities?
How do I feel about having neighbours close by?
All retirement villages let you choose how involved you want to be, but it’s worth thinking about whether a shared lifestyle suits your preferences.
3. Do I understand the costs and how they differ from buying a home?
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This is a big one. Retirement villages have a unique financial structure, and it’s important to go in with a clear understanding of how it works. Generally, you’ll encounter three main types of costs:
Upfront payment (capital sum):
This gives you the right to live in your chosen home and access the village facilities. You don’t technically own the home; instead, you are purchasing a ‘license to occupy’. Compare this initial capital sum to similar properties in the same area. It should be slightly lower, since you are unlikely to receive financial benefit from any resale gains.
Ongoing weekly fees:
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This fee covers the general running costs of the village, things like maintenance, rates, insurance, staff wages, and sometimes amenities or events.
Ask what’s included and how often the fees are reviewed.
Compare these to what you currently pay living independently (e.g. lawn care, house maintenance, rates, and water).
couple paperwork
Every village is different, so always review the Occupation Right Agreement and village disclosure statement closely.
Deferred management fee:
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This is charged when you leave and is usually a percentage of your initial capital sum (often capped at 20–30%). It contributes to long-term costs such as:
Refurbishment of your home prior to a new resident moving in
Maintenance of communal village areas, buildings, and facilities
Costs incurred during the resale process (e.g. marketing, admin, legal)
It’s not a cost you’d typically pay when selling a standalone home, so it’s worth understanding what’s included and how it may impact your estate.
4. Will the location work for me long-term?
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Moving to a retirement village could bring you closer to shops, cafés, or healthcare, but further from family, friends, or familiar surroundings.
Ask yourself:
Do I want to stay in my current area, or am I open to moving?
Will it be easy for friends and family to visit?
Are there transport options nearby if I stop driving?
Also think long term, what will matter most to you five or ten years from now?
5. What kind of support might I need later on, and does the village offer it?
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Not all villages offer healthcare services or higher levels of care. Some provide support within your home (e.g. help with medication or personal care), while others have an onsite care facility.
Consider:
Does the village offer ‘continuum of care’ if your needs change?
Would you prefer to move once now or potentially again if your health changes?
What kind of support is important to you - nursing, transport to appointments, meal services?
Even if you’re in great health now, having a plan for the future gives you and your family peace of mind.
Don’t wait too long to start looking
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Many people wait until a move feels urgent, but the best time to explore your options is when you have the time and energy to visit villages, talk to residents, and compare what’s out there.
Some people join waitlists years in advance - and that’s okay. Taking your time means you’re more likely to find a village that truly fits.
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The Long-Term Fiscal Statement just dropped. At first glance, it might seem a bit dry, but the message is pretty clear ... and a bit worrying. The big takeaway? Our financial pressures are only going to keep growing.
There’s no single fix. It’ll take a mix of solutions to deal with the … View moreThe Long-Term Fiscal Statement just dropped. At first glance, it might seem a bit dry, but the message is pretty clear ... and a bit worrying. The big takeaway? Our financial pressures are only going to keep growing.
There’s no single fix. It’ll take a mix of solutions to deal with the challenges ahead.
Want to read more? Andrea Vance shares her opinions here.
Road rage is a dangerous and all-too-common issue on our roads, one that can quickly turn an everyday commute into a stressful or even potentially harmful situation, regardless of whether it is you or someone else who is doing the raging.
However, understanding what causes road rage in ourselves … View moreRoad rage is a dangerous and all-too-common issue on our roads, one that can quickly turn an everyday commute into a stressful or even potentially harmful situation, regardless of whether it is you or someone else who is doing the raging.
However, understanding what causes road rage in ourselves and in others, and learning effective strategies to manage anger or deal with anger from others can significantly improve road safety and reduce stress for all drivers.
Why road rage happens
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Several factors can contribute to road rage. The physical separation from other road users when driving creates a sense of distance and anonymity, which can lower inhibitions and social filters.
This sense of being in a "bubble," combined with the stress of driving, can heighten frustration and anger, while the potentially high stakes of driving - where mistakes can have serious consequences – also contribute to heightened emotional responses.
Who is more likely to experience road rage?
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While anyone can experience road rage, certain groups are more susceptible. Younger, male drivers tend to exhibit aggressive driving behaviors more often, while female drivers who experience anger while driving as much as male drivers do are less likely to act on it negatively.
However, female drivers may experience more intense anger in certain situations, such as when faced with hostile gestures or traffic obstructions.
How to avoid road rage
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It's important to remember that other drivers are just people, and minor missteps are often unintentional. Approaching driving with the same patience and understanding that we generally apply in other situations can make a significant difference in reducing road rage incidents.
Try to "thingify" other drivers less and see them as real people. Putting pictures of loved ones in the car can help with this. There are many strategies and techniques that can help reduce road rage incidents:
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Self-awareness: Learn to identify the early signs of anger while driving. Recognising when you start to feel angry can help you take steps to prevent it from escalating.
Alternative explanations: Try to find alternative explanations for the behaviour of other drivers. Rather than assuming someone is deliberately rude, consider they may be distracted or having a bad day.
Mindfulness and relaxation: Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to remain calm. Deep breaths and focusing on the present can help reduce anger.
Move away from the trigger: If possible, move away from the situation that is causing you to feel angry. Change lanes or slow down to create distance from an aggressive driver.
Avoid anger rumination: Don’t replay anger-inducing events in your mind. Instead, shift your focus to something more positive.
Be a considerate driver: Practice being a courteous driver yourself by using your indicators, not cutting other drivers off, and maintaining a safe following distance.
What to do if you are threatened by a road rager
Handling road rage incidents means keeping a calm head, regardless of what the other driver is doing. While it is important to never engage in confrontation, it's also unwise to pretend that nothing is happening and a friendly wave to signal an apology is often enough to diffuse the situation.
Change lanes: If you are being tailgated, change lanes. If someone wants to pass, slow down and let them.
Do not engage: Don’t return gestures or shout back at them.
Stay behind: Stay behind the angry person at all costs, as they can do less damage if you are behind them.
Pull over: If necessary, pull off the road or take an exit and let them go by.
Don't get out of the car: Getting out of your car is the single easiest way to escalate road rage, so don't stop to confront them. If the are following you, contact the police or drive to the nearest police station.
Regardless of whether you are the victim of road rage or the perpetrator, understanding the triggers and trying to remain calm will create a safer and more pleasant experience for everyone on the road.
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According to a report by Gill Bonnett of RNZ, the Immigration and Protection Tribunal noted that her only son, a New Zealand citizen, works in a national security role and would face danger if he attempted to return to Iran with her. His dual citizenship and professional ties to Western security … View moreAccording to a report by Gill Bonnett of RNZ, the Immigration and Protection Tribunal noted that her only son, a New Zealand citizen, works in a national security role and would face danger if he attempted to return to Iran with her. His dual citizenship and professional ties to Western security projects could see him detained on arrival, the decision said.
The tribunal highlighted that deporting the woman would mean permanent separation from her son and force her into “a chaotic and unpredictable environment,” made worse by escalating conflict in the Middle East. At her age, without family support in Tehran, the risks to her survival were deemed “unmanageable” and potentially “fatal,” Gill Bonnett of RNZ reported.
The woman, a retired nurse, had previously travelled to New Zealand before the pandemic and again in recent years. On her last visit, however, she suffered a severe panic attack before boarding a flight back to Iran. A GP confirmed her extreme fear and anxiety about returning.
Her son, a software engineer, told the tribunal it would be impossible for him to live in Iran, given his clearance for restricted documents in New Zealand and affiliation with Western security projects. Such factors, the tribunal agreed, could be perceived by Iranian authorities as treason.
New Zealand’s official travel advisory currently warns against all travel to Iran, citing risks of civil unrest, arbitrary arrest, and detention, RNZ reported.
When the widow’s visitor visa renewal was declined, she became an overstayer. But the tribunal accepted her case on humanitarian grounds, concluding that deportation would be “unjust or unduly harsh,” RNZ reported.
“The country’s current volatile geopolitical situation makes it wholly unrealistic for the appellant to return,” the decision said, adding that her fragile emotional state and lack of social support would leave her unable to cope if sent back, as quoted by RNZ.
The ruling now secures her future in New Zealand, allowing her to remain with her son after years of uncertainty.
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Join us for a FREE family-friendly celebration packed with workshops, performances, crafts, delicious food and cultural fun!
• FREE – bring the whānau!
• Saturday 4 October
• 10.30am-2.30pm
… View moreJoin us for a FREE family-friendly celebration packed with workshops, performances, crafts, delicious food and cultural fun!
• FREE – bring the whānau!
• Saturday 4 October
• 10.30am-2.30pm
• Open rain or shine!
• Epsom Community Centre, 202 Gillies Ave, Epsom
Activity Schedule:
Click here to download: www.epsom-community-centre.org.nz...
Parking:
All street parking is free on the weekends! We also have free parking at the back of the centre. Check here for more info: www.epsom-community-centre.org.nz...
For more information, check out our website: www.epsom-community-centre.org.nz...
See you tomorrow!
Make a floating bedside ledge that tones into your colour scheme with Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen or higher gloss Resene Lustacryl. Find out how to create and paint your own floating ledge with these easy step by step instructions.
Kia ora,
We’re your City Vision team for Puketāpapa. Our candidates for council and the local board are local, experienced and ready to make a difference for your community. In Puketāpapa, we’ll invest in parks and infrastructure, fix our footpaths, and listen to our diverse communities … View moreKia ora,
We’re your City Vision team for Puketāpapa. Our candidates for council and the local board are local, experienced and ready to make a difference for your community. In Puketāpapa, we’ll invest in parks and infrastructure, fix our footpaths, and listen to our diverse communities when making decisions. We want to hear from you: find us on Facebook, Instagram, or at our website
Your team for Puketāpapa
Raphaela Rose, Daniel Cliffords, Rowan Cant, Soraiya Daud and Jon Turner for Puketāpapa Local Board
Julie Fairey and Jon Turner for Council
Authorised by Gwen Shaw, 027 414 4074. Endorsed by City Vision, 2/21 Emmett Street, Herne Bay, Auckland"
It comes as the council continues to crack down on roaming dogs.
A total of 6027 infringements were yesterday issued to dog owners who had ignored earlier warnings from the council to register their animals.
The council said this was a 7.5% increase when compared with the 5572 sent last year.
… View moreIt comes as the council continues to crack down on roaming dogs.
A total of 6027 infringements were yesterday issued to dog owners who had ignored earlier warnings from the council to register their animals.
The council said this was a 7.5% increase when compared with the 5572 sent last year.
Owners who were sent infringement notices would have 28 days to pay up.
The council said more than 29,084 dogs remained unregistered as of August 1, when the council began charging a late fee.
More than 21,600 had been sent out to dog owners by email and post in early August. The council said it had "even extended the usual deadline by two weeks to give people extra time".
"Yet compliance remains stubbornly low."
The infringements sent out yesterday were the second time the council had issued them in bulk.
It said a total of 3372 infringements from last year remained unpaid, totalling $910,000 in outstanding fines.
Unpaid infringements would be forwarded to the Ministry of Justice to collect the debt.
Auckland Council's animal management manager, Elly Waitoa, said it was "frustrating and deeply disappointing" to see so little progress on dog registration.
"We’ve done everything we can to make it easy for people: multiple reminders, extended grace periods, and clear communication, but too many dog owners are still refusing to meet their basic responsibilities,” she said.
Waitoa said registration "isn't optional" and "isn't red tape".
"It’s a legal requirement, and it’s how we fund critical animal management services from dealing with roaming dogs to prosecuting owners whose animals attack people or other pets.”
The council said its own data showed a "clear link" between unregistered dogs and higher rates of roaming dogs.
Waitoa said that while more than a third of the animals infringed last year had since been registered, it was still "nowhere enough" with overall compliance remaining "too low".
“It’s frustrating and disheartening to see the message still isn’t sinking in, that dog owners think the rules don’t apply to them.”
She said the time for leniency was over, and called on dog owners to "do the right thing".
"If you haven’t registered your dog yet, do it now or face the consequences."
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As the days get warmer, you will probably be spending more time outdoors.
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In New Zealand, UV levels are high from September to April — even on cool or cloudy days. Too much UV exposure increases the risk of skin cancer, and the effects build up … View moreAs the days get warmer, you will probably be spending more time outdoors.
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In New Zealand, UV levels are high from September to April — even on cool or cloudy days. Too much UV exposure increases the risk of skin cancer, and the effects build up over time. Fortunately, staying safe is simple:
• Slip on clothing: Light, loose, long-sleeved tops and trousers keep you cool while protecting your skin.
• Slip into shade: Use natural or built shade like trees, gazebos, or buildings, especially during peak UV hours.
• Slop on sunscreen: Use broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF30 or higher. Apply 20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, or after swimming.
• Slap on a hat: Wear a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face, ears, and neck.
• Wrap on sunglasses: Not all sunglasses protect against UV radiation – always check the label for the sun protection rating or AS/NZ1067:2016 sunglasses Standard.
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Friday 17 & Saturday 18 October, 10am - 2pm.
Experience the award-winning lifestyle at a Ryman village.
Join us at our open days and explore our lifestyle and care options, tour our show homes and see the premium amenities on offer.
We look forward to seeing you.
I am organized, efficient, attentive, and detail-oriented. If you need someone to help take care of your home — including cleaning, dishwashing, toilet scrubbing, vacuuming, dusting, and more — please call or text me at 0223041263. I will come to help reduce your household burden. Thank you!
For two decades, Aotearoa’s favourite feathery showdown has crowned our top bird ... and the competition has never been fiercer.
Behind the fun is a serious mission. Many of New Zealand’s native species are in serious trouble. Bird of the Year raises awareness of their habitats, the threats … View moreFor two decades, Aotearoa’s favourite feathery showdown has crowned our top bird ... and the competition has never been fiercer.
Behind the fun is a serious mission. Many of New Zealand’s native species are in serious trouble. Bird of the Year raises awareness of their habitats, the threats they face, and how we can protect our feathered taonga. Important work that we love seeing!
Who was last year’s champ? 🏆 The Yellow-eyed penguin, one of the world’s rarest penguins. But this year, Neighbourly is keeping a close eye on another ocean wanderer: the Tītī (Cook’s petrel).
Who is getting your vote this year? 🐦💛
🗳 Voting closes: Sunday 28 September
🏅 Winner announced: Monday 29 September
We hope this brings a smile!
One job stands out as being in particularly high demand in the tough job market.
Latest Stats NZ data shows the number of filled jobs increased 0.2% in August, with increases across the primary, manufacturing and service sectors, and across Auckland, Wellington and Canterbury.
But total jobs are … View moreOne job stands out as being in particularly high demand in the tough job market.
Latest Stats NZ data shows the number of filled jobs increased 0.2% in August, with increases across the primary, manufacturing and service sectors, and across Auckland, Wellington and Canterbury.
But total jobs are still down 0.7% on a year ago, with New Zealand losing more than 10,000 construction jobs, more than 5000 professional service jobs and almost 5000 healthcare and social assistance jobs over the past year.
New data from employment platform Seek shows some jobs are still in high demand, with sales account managers the most advertised role by far.
Sales business development managers, accountants, electricians, community support workers, nurses and administrative officers are also in high demand.
Retail sales assistants, chefs and retail store managers also feature in the top 10.
Seek senior economist Blair Chapman said there was a clear need for aged care and disability workers.
“With an estimated 7.5% of Kiwis now over the age of 75, and around another 9% over the age of 65, support workers and nurses are likely to remain in-demand for some time as the demand for care from these older Kiwis grows.”
Chapman said another key factor was the resurgence in tourism, particularly the rise in Australian visitors in recent months.
“The growth in tourism is supporting demand for chefs and retail workers. Despite the overall weakness in the New Zealand economy, household consumption has continued to grow, which is also supporting demand for chefs and retail workers.”
Seek recently reported a 4% annual rise in job ads – the first year-on-year increase in almost three years.
However, applications per job have also reached a record high and advertised salaries have increased below the rate of inflation over the past year.
ASB economists have noted the recent rise in filled jobs in the Stats NZ figures reflects a downward revision of job figures from previous months.
“There is still significant spare capacity in the labour market, and it will take a concerted period of strong growth to push the unemployment rate down to the 4-4.5% goldilocks zone,” they said.
Top 10 most in-demand roles in New Zealand in 2025, based on job ad volume on Seek on September 24, 2025, and the number of job ads for each
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Sales account manager – 3533
Sales business development manager – 2568
Accountant – 2339
Electrician – 2153
Community services & development support worker – 1863
Nurse – 1854
Administration officer – 1460
Retail sales assistant – 1285
Chef – 1157
Retail store manager – 1016
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The treatment for someone’s serious illness can begin with the kind donation of
plasma from a New Zealander. Donated plasma can help treat up to 50 different
illnesses including cancer, kidney disease and severe burns, and make up to 11
life-saving products. It’s a precious gift to those in … View moreThe treatment for someone’s serious illness can begin with the kind donation of
plasma from a New Zealander. Donated plasma can help treat up to 50 different
illnesses including cancer, kidney disease and severe burns, and make up to 11
life-saving products. It’s a precious gift to those in need. But it’s in high demand.
Please help someone start their new life today.Book now to donate, download the NZ Blood App or call 0800 448 325.
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