Chris and I used to live on Bluff Hill in Napier and began noticing how challenging the steep, narrow roads were becoming for older residents. Realising it would eventually affect us too, we decided it was time to plan ahead and start looking for a more suitable place to live.
After searching around Napier without success, we widened our search. With our children living overseas and our extended family spread across New Zealand, we had the freedom to consider other locations.
When we discovered the Matamata Country Club, we knew it was exactly what we were looking for. Some friends were surprised by our decision to move to a different part of the country, but they’ve since realised Matamata isn’t as far-flung as it might seem!
We’re passionate about e-biking and have cycled in places like Athens, Germany, and along the Amalfi Coast. In New Zealand, we’ve enjoyed the Otago Rail Trail, the Hauraki Trail, and the Old Coach Road in Taranaki.
Now in Matamata, we love being able to hop on our bikes and ride straight from our doorstep. We’ve joined a local cycling group and are enjoying both road and off-road trails, including connections to the Hauraki Trail.
One of the unexpected perks is being able to walk into town in just 15 minutes. Unlike many retirement villages located on the outskirts, we can stroll down for a coffee or to do some shopping. The town has a warm, friendly vibe, and locals are always up for a chat—which we really enjoy.
Matamata’s central location also makes it easy to explore the region by car. We’ve joined a few local clubs, including an art group where I can pursue my love of watercolour painting, and I also attend a weekly balance and strength class.
While our villa was being built, we made several trips to check on progress. Trish always made sure we could walk through and see how things were coming along, which we really appreciated.
We chose the Waipa floor plan and loved it from the moment we saw it. The home is spacious, with two bedrooms and a media room that could easily serve as a third bedroom. We were able to select our own curtains, flooring, benchtops, and appliances. The quality is outstanding—truly excellent craftsmanship.
Since moving in at the end of July 2025 and have never looked back. From day one, we felt welcomed by both the residents and the management. It’s been surprisingly easy to settle in. People are friendly and sociable, yet everyone respects each other’s privacy. The layout of the homes ensures that your living space doesn’t face anyone else’s, which we hadn’t even noticed on the plans but now really value.
Our advice to others? Make the most of it. We loved our new home from the moment we moved in and have absolutely no regrets.
