The need for a lifestyle retirement village in Queenstown was identified a decade ago by developer Fraser Sanderson whose company, the Sanderson Group, has built retirement facilities in New Zealand for almost 30 years.

However, it was not until recently that the company was able to pinpoint a site which met their criteria – namely at, sunny and close to community facilities.

The Queenstown Country Club is currently being constructed on the Ladies Mile with several homes already occupied. Once the village is complete it is anticipated there will be 237 homes, between 70-100 apartments, some serviced, and a 60-80 bed hospital, rest home and dementia care facility.

Sales manager Warren White says there has been strong demand from people wanting the opportunity to live in a luxury five-star lifestyle village and there are around $50 million worth of applications in the pipeline.

“There has been a gap in the Queenstown market for luxury retirement and care facilities and the village has a lot of appeal because people can move in here at a younger age. Queenstown people have been waiting for a development like this and we’re saying come in while you’re still young enough to enjoy the lifestyle. In saying that, the village is designed just as much for older people where they can come and live safely and independently but still feel part of a community.”

The 48-hectare property, backdropped by the Remarkables Mountain range, has all day sun and 360-degree alpine views. It is close to biking rails and other recreational amenities and shopping centres in the Wakatipu.

“The architects for the project are the well-known firm of Warren and Mahoney of Dunedin and there’s around 20 different outstanding designs to choose from in a price range from $700,000 to $2 million,” he says. “The beautifully designed eco-friendly homes maximise sun and natural light and use superior specifications throughout, including a Rolls Royce heating system.”

Plans for a centrally located clubhouse are being finalised, which is exclusively for residents and includes a swimming pool, gym and spa as well as a library and a movie theatre.

“Work on the complex, near the village green, is expected to start later this year and The Clubhouse will be a focal point for residents to get together and play billiards, indoor bowls, majong or bridge or simply read a book in a quiet space.”

A proposed rest home, hospital and dementia facilities are on the drawing board to commence in July 2019 while construction of a planned commercial precinct begins in January next year.

“It will be a New Zealand first. No other lifestyle or retirement village has a commercial centre like this which will cater for a cafe and deli and boutique shops,” says Warren.

“A medical centre and pharmacy are proposed as well as a childcare centre. People living outside the village will be encouraged to use the commercial area, again helping to create a dynamic integrated community for the Queenstown Country Club.”