Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know

It's a big decision. We'll help you understand it.

Financial & Fees

How does the Occupation Rights Agreement work?

When you move to The Grove, you purchase an Occupation Rights Agreement (ORA). This gives you the right to live in your home for as long as you choose. You do not own the property itself, but you have security of tenure - your home is yours to enjoy.

This is standard across New Zealand retirement villages and is governed by the Retirement Villages Act, which protects your rights. Think of it as purchasing the right to live in a well-maintained, secure community without the hassles of traditional home ownership.

What is the Deferred Management Fee and why is it 25%?

The Deferred Management Fee (DMF) is a one-time fee paid when you leave The Grove, calculated as a percentage of your original purchase price. At The Grove, our DMF is 25% - lower than most villages in the area, where 25-30% is standard.

The DMF covers the costs of refurbishing your home for the next resident and contributes to village operations. Because it is deferred, you pay nothing upfront - the fee only applies when you move out. This structure keeps your entry costs lower and gives you certainty about what you will pay.

What do the Weekly Fees cover and why are they "Fixed for Life"?

Your Weekly Fees of $189 cover rates, insurance, building maintenance, gardening, rubbish collection, and village management. Everything outside your front door is taken care of.

"Fixed for Life" means exactly that - the fee you pay when you move in is the fee you will always pay. It will never increase, no matter how long you live here or how costs rise. This is increasingly rare among retirement villages, where most increase fees annually. At The Grove, you have complete certainty about your ongoing costs.

What happens financially when I move out?

When you leave The Grove, your home is sold to the next resident. From the sale proceeds, the 25% Deferred Management Fee is deducted, and the remaining amount is paid to you or your estate.

There is no capital gain on your ORA, but there are also no unexpected costs - you will never be asked to pay for major repairs, repainting, or maintenance. Many residents find this trade-off gives them peace of mind and financial certainty they did not have as homeowners.

Are there any hidden costs?

No. Your purchase price and Weekly Fee are your only costs. The Weekly Fee covers all external maintenance, gardens, rates, insurance, and building upkeep. You will never receive an unexpected bill for a new roof, exterior painting, or plumbing repairs.

Inside your home, you are responsible for your own power, phone, and contents insurance - just as you would be anywhere. But everything else is included. What you see is what you pay.

Moving In

What is the process for moving in?

Moving to The Grove is straightforward. First, come and visit us - no appointment needed between 10am and 4pm any day. Take a tour, see the homes available, and get a feel for the community.

If you find a home you like, our team will walk you through the Occupation Rights Agreement and answer any questions. You will have time to seek independent legal advice (which we encourage). Once you are ready to proceed, we will agree on a settlement date that works for you. Most people take a few weeks to a few months from first visit to moving in, depending on their situation.

What can I bring to my new home?

Your apartment is your home, so bring whatever makes it feel that way. All our homes come with quality Bosch appliances including a washer/dryer, but everything else is up to you - your furniture, artwork, and personal belongings.

Many residents find they do not need as much as they thought. Our homes are designed with good storage, and you will no longer need garden tools, ladders, or maintenance equipment. Some people see moving as a chance to lighten the load.

Do you offer help with moving?

Yes. We offer a $5,000 moving support package to help with the transition. This can go towards professional movers, decluttering services, cleaning, or whatever makes your move easier.

Moving can feel overwhelming, but you are not doing it alone. Our team has helped many people through the process and can recommend local services. We want your move to be as smooth as possible.

What is the minimum age to move in?

You can move to The Grove from age 65. This is younger than many retirement villages, where the minimum is often 70 or older.

We welcome people at different stages of retirement. Some residents move in their mid-60s while they are active and want to enjoy the lifestyle and location. Others come later. There is no upper age limit - just a minimum of 65.

How long does the whole process take?

This varies depending on your circumstances. From your first visit to moving in, most people take between a few weeks and a few months. There is no pressure to rush.

If you need to sell your current home first, that might extend the timeline. We are happy to work with your situation. Some people visit several times over a year or more before they are ready - and that is perfectly fine. We are here when you are.

Living at The Grove

What facilities are available?

The Grove has a community centre with a cafe - where our French chef serves excellent food - plus a spa pool, library, cinema space, and lounge areas for catching up with friends. Outside, you will find landscaped gardens and outdoor spaces to enjoy.

You also have underground parking for your car, and everything is designed for easy, comfortable living. The beach is a four-minute walk away, and the Orewa bowling club, library, and cafes are even closer.

Are pets allowed?

Yes, pets are welcome at The Grove. We know how much companionship a pet provides, and we want your home to feel like home.

We ask that pets are well-behaved and do not disturb neighbours. Please let us know if you plan to bring a pet so we can discuss any specific considerations for your apartment.

Can family and friends visit and stay?

Absolutely. Your home is your home, and visitors are always welcome. Many of our apartments have space for guests to stay overnight - some residents have grandchildren visit regularly.

There is visitor parking available, and family are welcome to join you for meals in the cafe or use the community facilities. We love seeing families here.

What happens if I need to go away?

Lock up and leave - that is one of the great freedoms of living here. Whether you are away for a weekend or a few months, your home is secure. Our on-site team keeps an eye on things, and the gated community gives extra peace of mind.

Many residents travel more after moving to The Grove because they no longer worry about leaving a large house unattended. No lawns to arrange, no mail piling up, no stress.

Can I make changes to my apartment?

Your apartment is your home, so you can personalise it to suit you. Hanging pictures, changing curtains, adding furniture - that is all up to you.

For any structural changes or modifications, please talk to our team first. We want to help you make your home perfect while ensuring the building stays in good condition for everyone.

Our Community

How big is The Grove compared to other villages?

The Grove has fewer than 90 apartments, making us smaller and more personal than most retirement villages in the area. Some villages have 200, 300, or even more residents.

We think smaller is better. At The Grove, everyone knows your name. You see familiar faces, not strangers. Our management team knows every resident personally. It is a genuine community, not a complex.

Do I have to join in with activities?

Not at all. Some residents are involved in everything - happy hours, movie nights, group outings. Others prefer their own company and simply enjoy the convenience and security of living here.

There is no pressure either way. The activities are there if you want them, but your time is your own. That is what independent living means.

What support is available if I need it?

Our team is here to help with everyday needs - from healthcare support like blood pressure checks to helping you arrange services. We focus on keeping you independent in your own home for as long as possible.

If you need additional support, we can help arrange in-home care services. And for complete peace of mind, there is a rest home located right next door should your needs ever change significantly.

What if my needs change over time?

The Grove is designed for independent living, and our goal is to support you staying in your apartment as long as possible. If you need extra help, we can assist with arranging in-home care services.

If your needs change significantly and you require full-time care, the rest home next door provides an option without having to move far from the community and friendships you have built. Your family can still visit you just as easily.

Is The Grove part of a corporate chain?

No. The Grove is independently owned and operated, not part of a large corporate chain. This means decisions are made locally by people who know the community, not in a distant head office.

You will deal with the same friendly team every day - people who genuinely care about making this a great place to live. That personal touch is something we are proud of.

Location & Getting Around

How close is the beach really?

Four minutes on foot. We have measured it. Orewa Beach is not "nearby" or "close" - it is genuinely a short stroll from your front door.

This is what makes The Grove unique. You can walk to the beach for your morning coffee, an afternoon swim, or just to watch the sunset. No driving, no parking, no effort. Just you and the beach.

Do I need a car?

Many residents find they use their car far less after moving here. The beach, bowling club, estuary walks, and bus stop are all within five minutes on foot. The supermarket, library, cafes, and medical centre are about ten minutes.

You can keep your car in underground parking if you want it for trips further afield. But for daily life, most of what you need is within easy walking distance on flat, accessible paths.

What is within walking distance?

Almost everything. Within five minutes: Orewa Beach, the bowling club, estuary walking tracks, and a bus stop. Within ten minutes: New World supermarket, Orewa Library, numerous cafes, and a medical centre.

The Grove sits in the heart of Orewa, not on the outskirts. You are part of the community, with everything you need on your doorstep.

How accessible is the area?

The entire area around The Grove is flat - no hills to manage when walking to the beach, shops, or anywhere else. This is one reason our location works so well for retirement living.

Footpaths are well-maintained, pedestrian crossings are available on main roads, and most local shops and services are single-level or have good access. Getting around is comfortable and easy, whether you walk, use a mobility scooter, or drive.

Visit us. We’d love to meet you.