Retirement villages are home to 50,000 people in New Zealand. Despite the comfort and community these villages often provide, there are significant concerns regarding fairness and consumer protection for these residents, who are an average age of 82 years old.
The Retirement Village Residents Association of New Zealand (RV Residents) represents retirees living in more than 70% of New Zealand’s retirement villages.
In November 2021, a petition supported by 13,000 residents highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive review of the Retirement Villages Act. This call for reform stems from numerous issues, including disproportionate contractual rights, excessive costs, and delays in the return of money after exiting a village. Our mission is to ensure these voices are heard, and to secure a fair and dignified future for all retirees.
We believe all New Zealanders living in retirement villages have a right to feel safe, secure, and heard. Backed by organisations like Consumer NZ, GreyPower, and Age Concern we are calling on the Government to prioritise reform.
What do I need to know?
Companies that own retirement villages want to tinker around the edges of legislation that benefits them and their profits; the last thing they want is fairness to be regulated by the government.
New Zealand is the most lucrative market in the world for retirement village companies, and village owners want to keep it that way.
If New Zealand is to be ready to support the next generation into retirement, we must get this sector in order now.
Without decisive leadership, too many New Zealanders will enter retirement on an uneven footing, unclear of their rights, and without simple recourse should something not go to plan.
What can I do?
We need your support to make this change happen. By signing our petition, you are helping to amplify the voices of our elderly and urging the government to reform weak laws. Together, we can ensure justice and security for New Zealand’s seniors, protecting their rights and enhancing their quality of life.
Join us in this crucial campaign to safeguard the future of our elderly population. Sign the petition today and help us advocate for a fairer, more just system for all.
