New Zealand's top seven retirement towns for a relaxed, connected life
Retirement in New Zealand isn’t just about coastal escapes or scenic outlooks.
For many buyers, it’s about finding value—affordable homes, walkable town centres, and tight-knit communities where lifestyle and convenience meet.
From Northland to Southland, heritage-rich towns offer retirees a smart alternative: low-maintenance living, local amenities, and real connection—without the premium postcode price tag.
WorldAtlas highlighted seven standout retirement towns based on median home price, healthcare access, local amenities, and livability.
From Waikanae’s flat river paths to Greymouth’s Sunday market buzz, these towns are where the pace is slow, but the lifestyle is full.
And with Trade Me reporting the highest buyer confidence in two years, it’s an encouraging time for those planning their next chapter.
Cambridge: Where retirement feels like an upgrade
With its leafy avenues, local art scene, and friendly coffee culture, Cambridge blends sophistication with small-town warmth.
The median home price is $1,015,000, but residents gain access to Te Awa Lifecare and Cambridge Medical Centre, plus scenic spots like Lake Te Koutu and the Heritage Gallery.
Retirement here is active, social, and full of good gossip.
Feilding: Rural charm with modern comforts
Feilding balances rural roots with lively community offerings.
With a median home value of $597,500, the town is still affordable—and busy.
From the Feilding Saleyards to Coach House Museum, there’s always something on. Healthcare is covered with Coombrae Home and Ranfurly Manor, while Awahuri Forest invites leisurely strolls through ancient native trees.
Motueka: Unpretentious and naturally peaceful
Retirees in Motueka enjoy understated beauty.
The median home price of $670,000 is modest, and The Doctors Motueka provides healthcare support. Locals favour sea breezes over pool chemicals at the Saltwater Baths, and Sundays at Motueka Market offer fresh bread, vintage books, and familiar smiles.
Waikanae: Flat, friendly, and full of community
Just an hour north of Wellington, Waikanae offers retirees flat terrain, vibrant nature walks, and friendly locals.
With a median home price of $860,000, options like Arvida Waikanae Lodge and Parkwood Village add comfort. Enjoy birdwatching on the Waikanae River Walkway or fresh produce at the Saturday community market.
Alexandra: Central Otago sunshine and stone fruit
Alexandra offers retirees good weather, great scenery, and housing around $735,000.
Medical needs are handled nearby at Dunstan Hospital, while Ranui Court Retirement Village provides care. Enjoy the Otago Central Rail Trail, the Blossom Festival, and Friday mornings at Pioneer Park Market.
Masterton: Quiet, affordable, and culturally rich
At a median price of $557,000, Masterton offers exceptional value.
Wairarapa Hospital and Lansdowne Park Lifestyle Village provide health and support. Locals embrace Queen Elizabeth Park, art at Aratoi Museum, and a glass of wine at Le Grá Vineyard, all without the city rush.
Greymouth: Low-cost living with character
Greymouth is laid-back and budget-friendly, with a median home price of $450,000.
Te Nīkau Grey Hospital and Granger House Lifecare are well-established. Whether it’s cycling the West Coast Wilderness Trail, sipping at Monteith’s Brewery, or browsing the Left Bank Art Gallery, the town exudes no-frills charm.
Where life slows down—and opens up
These towns don’t offer glamour—they offer grace. Whether it’s a weekly market, a quiet garden, or knowing your neighbours by name, these retirement destinations prove that slowing down doesn’t mean missing out. In New Zealand, retirement isn’t retreating—it’s arriving.
