9 Jun 2021

Retirement village residents need better protection: report

From Nine To Noon, 9:05 am on 9 June 2021
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Photo: Ryman Healthcare

45,000 New Zealanders live in retirement villages but they have less protection than tenants in the private rental market, according to a report by the Retirement Commissioner, Jane Wrightson.

She's calling for an urgent government review saying the laws and regulations covering the growing sector are not fit for purpose.

Among the issues identified in the Retirement Commission's report are contracts containing unfair terms, problems with the resale process, weekly fees charged after a resident vacates a unit, an overly complicated complaints system and confusing documentation.

Kathryn speaks with Jane Wrightson and Peter Carr, President of the Retirement Village Residents Association.