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In a village you purchase tenure, for example an
Occupation Right Agreement and pay an ongoing service fee. This usually
covers emergency call, rates, building insurance, security, lawns,
gardening and exterior maintenance.
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Serviced apartment fees are generally higher and include extra services
such as meals, housekeeping and personal care. Some packages do not
allow you to access publicly funded help for personal care such as help
with showering. |
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Villages with District Health Board contracted rest homes and hospitals
may offer units where the occupant claims subsidy for care in that unit.
Check details with your Needs Assessor and lawyer before making a
commitment. |
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Information on village vacancies is available on
www.eldernet.co.nz and
www.trademe.co.nz . |
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The following resources may also be helpful: |
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The Law Society |
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| Good legal advice is vital. The Law Society website lists lawyers experienced in retirement village work visit their website
or phone them on 04 472 7837.
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| The Commission for Financial Capability |
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The commission website has useful information, including a summary of the Retirement Villages Act 2003 which provides resident safeguards, the Code of Practice and Code of Residents’ Rights. The commission is also responsible for public education on legal requirements for retirement villages and publishes a booklet called “Thinking of Living in a Retirement Village”.
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If village management is not able to resolve a financial issue, residents can appeal to the statutory supervisor who acts as an independent ‘watchdog’ for the village. The disclosure statement lists supervisor contacts. Disputes not resolved within the village can go to an independent disputes panel. The Commission appoint and publish lists of panel members, see website for details.
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If you have questions about the legal framework of villages phone 0800 268 269 or email
retirement.villages@cffc.org.nz |
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The Retirement Village Association (RVA)
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Check if the village is a member of the RVA. The association has a code of practice and offers an alternate complaint process. Their website has resident information or you can phone them on 04 499 7090.
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Ministry of Health
