Frequently asked questions

Absolutely! Pets are welcome at Longridge Country Estate.

Many of our residents have dogs and cats, and our wide-open spaces mean there’s plenty of room for walks and play. We know pets are part of the family, so while a few simple conditions apply, our village is designed to be pet-friendly and respectful of neighbours.

Yes, you can. At Longridge we encourage independent living, and that includes tending your own villa garden for veggies, herbs, or flowers.

But what really sets us apart is our resident-led communal gardens. Spread across two big sections of land, they produce more fruit and veg than most residents can carry - everything from broccoli and snow peas to citrus, corn, and pumpkins, depending on the season.

Residents are closely involved, with raised beds for those who can’t kneel and our village team stepping in for the heavier jobs.

Residents enjoy fresh produce for their kitchens, share recipes, make jams and chutneys, and even donate surplus to the community. It’s hands-on, heart-filled, and something visitors often notice straight away. With over 90 acres at Longridge, there’s always space to grow.

Paeroa is a welcoming community that is looking forward to meeting new residents.

You'll find plenty of clubs, groups, and volunteer opportunities to keep you engaged and active. Our village is designed for retirement living that's fulfilling and fun.

We've got Line Dancing, golfing at the local Golf Club, and the RSA for some social action. Plus, you can try Croquet, Outdoor Bowls, Tennis, Cycling, and Walking groups to keep you active. And don't forget our Dog Exercise Areas and Menz Shed!

These FAQs are brief so call us on 0800 928 928 to find out more.

Welcoming, down-to-earth, and laid-back. Residents describe Longridge as having a unique feeling of space and freedom, combined with genuine friendships and a supportive environment. It’s retirement living on your terms.

Longridge offers a wide range of amenities and activities, including:

• Resident centre for social gatherings

• Landscaped grounds and walking areas

• Resort-style recreation centre (stage 1 underway, being built in 3 stages)

• Library, lounge, bar, weekly happy hour, and on-site coffee barista

• Gym, spa, massage chairs, petanque, pool tables

• Communal vege garden and active gardening group

• Village van for outings

• Organised events such as craft/sewing groups, men’s shed, darts, bowls, poker nights, dances, and the annual potato growing competition

Activities range from resident-led clubs and interest groups to village-hosted events. Popular options include fitness classes, gardening, crafts, book clubs, and outings. Participation is entirely optional, you can join in as much or as little as you like.

At Longridge, you live independently in your own home, while still having easy access to healthcare when you need it. Visiting health professionals, connections to local services, and a supportive community help make life simple and stress-free.

Local medical centres include Te Korowai Hauora o Hauraki in Paeroa and Ngatea Medical Centre, and you’re also close to Thames Hospital and Hamilton Hospital.

Of course - your villa is your home. Friends and family are welcome to visit or stay, provided village guidelines are respected.

Your Occupation Right Agreement (ORA) provides you with the right to live in your villa at Longridge for as long as you are able to or choose to. This agreement ensures your security and peace of mind in your retirement villa, and it’s backed by New Zealand’s Retirement Villages Act 2003, which is designed to protect residents.

Nearly every retirement village in New Zealand runs on a DMF. It’s the standard model that makes this lifestyle possible. At Longridge, the DMF is capped at 30% and builds up gradually over the first four years:

Example:

• After 1 year: 7.5%

• After 2 years: 15% (you’d receive back 85% of your entry payment)

• After 3 years: 22.5%

• After 4 years: 30% (the maximum - it never goes higher)

Whether you stay four years or twenty-four years, the most you’ll ever pay is 30% of your original entry payment.

The DMF helps cover the long-term costs of maintaining the village so residents can enjoy the lifestyle, facilities, and community without high weekly fees. At Longridge there are also no refurbishment charges (except for unusual damage), no sales commissions, and no hidden extras.

As of 25 August 2025, the weekly fee at Longridge is $149. This covers:

• Council, district, and water rates

• Insurance for your villa

• Maintenance of external villa areas

• Gardening and lawns

• Upkeep of shared community facilities

• Village operations and staff salaries

It does not include contents insurance, internet, telephone, or electricity. However, Longridge bulk-purchases electricity, so you benefit from significant savings and receive a monthly invoice for your actual usage.

For residents and their partners who are both over 75, the weekly fee is fixed for life.

Otherwise, it adjusts annually with the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Cambridge has some excellent villages, but Longridge offers something unique: spacious villas, a huge 90-acre estate, and a community feel that’s hard to beat. You’ll also find that our homes are often more affordable than city-based villages, while still offering modern design, landscaped grounds, and shared amenities. It’s the best of both worlds—space and affordability, with a vibrant community around you.

Longridge Country Estate is just 45 minutes from Matamata and offers a serene countryside lifestyle with easy access to local amenities. Our villas are designed for those who want a mix of active living and peaceful surroundings.

You’ll enjoy spacious villas, big backyards, and sweeping views of the Coromandel Ranges. Many residents say they love the balance Longridge offers, close enough to stay connected with friends and family in Matamata, yet far enough to enjoy fresh air, open space, and a true village lifestyle.

Longridge Country Estate is only a short drive from Thames, offering the best of both worlds. You can enjoy the convenience of nearby shops, cafes, and services while living in a spacious village setting surrounded by green countryside and views of the Coromandel Ranges.

Residents often say they value having a modern villa and plenty of space while still being close enough to Thames for family visits, shopping, or appointments. It’s a place where you can relax, stay active, and be part of a welcoming community.