Age-friendly communities
Introduction
Data from the 2023 Census tells us that 21 per cent of the population in the Taupō District is over 65 years of age. This is estimated to rise to 25 per cent of the population by 2035. To find out how we can make the Taupō District more age-friendly, we helped organise a steering committee to represent older people.
The committee involves various community groups, service providers and individuals working with or for older people in our district. Their purpose is to look at areas that can be improved for older people. The aim is to find out what needs to be done to improve our district's age-friendliness.
What is age friendliness?
The concept of age-friendliness was developed by the World Health Organisation (WHO). It encourages active ageing by utilising opportunities for health and community participation. It also looks at security to improve the quality of life for older people.
Eight areas are identified as influencing the health and quality of life for older people:
- Outdoor spaces and buildings
- Transportation
- Housing
- Social Participation
- Respect and social inclusion
- Civic participation and employment
- Communication and information
- Community support and health services
In practical terms, an age-friendly town adapts its structures and services to be accessible to and inclusive of older people with varying needs and capacities.
- Learn more about age-friendly environments on the WHO website
- WHO Global Network for age-friendly cities and communities (PDF, 1MB)
- WHO National programmes for age-friendly cities and communities (PDF, 3MB)
Contact
For more information on age friendliness in the Taupō District, please contact info@taupo.govt.nz or phone 07 376 0899.
Housing for older people (pensioner units)
We own 57 pensioner units in the Taupō District which are managed by Westerman Property Solutions.
The units range in size from one to two bedrooms and include a kitchen, bathroom, lounge and dining facilities. The aim of the amenities is to allow older people to live independent lives within their communities in safe, healthy and affordable homes.
Taupō units
We have 40 pensioner units in two locations in Taupō. 29 units are in a complex on the corner of Rifle Range Road and Konini Street, opposite the Paetiki Shopping Centre. 11 units are situated in Woodward Street, Nukuhau.
Each unit offers private spaces at both the front and rear, giving tenants a peaceful outdoor area to enjoy. Most units feature single bedrooms, while four larger units include double bedrooms for added comfort. Every residence is fully self-contained, with its own kitchen, bathroom, and combined lounge-dining area.
The property also benefits from an active Neighbourhood Watch Group, helping to foster a safe and connected community.
Tūrangi units
Known as the Tūrangi Retirement Complex, this peaceful enclave comprises six well-appointed pensioner units nestled in Wharepapa Close.
The complex includes four one-bedroom units and two larger two-bedroom units, offering comfortable living options tailored to individual needs.
Mangakino units
There are 11 single-bedroom pensioner units located on Karamu Street in Mangakino, just a short walk from the local shopping centre.
Each unit is thoughtfully designed with a separate kitchen and a combined lounge-dining area, offering residents comfort, privacy, and independence in a convenient location.
Eligibility criteria
In order to be eligible for one of the pensioner units, you must meet the following criteria:
- Only persons with assets below those stated are eligible to apply:
- Single - $15,000.00 Couple - $20,000.00
- (Car, furniture, and personal effects not included)
- To qualify the applicant(s) must be the age of sixty-five (65) and be in receipt of a benefit such as Invalids, Widows, Transitional, Emergency or National Superannuation
- Applications will only be accepted a year prior to turning the age of sixty-five (65) years
- NZ Residency qualifications also apply. Supporting documentation may be requested
- The applicant(s) must not own or have not sold any property in the last 5 years
- At least one reference must be provided with application.
Fees for pensioner units
How to apply
To make an application, or if you have any queries about pensioner units, contact Westerman Property Solutions on 07 378 6163.
