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Retire in Wanaka, New Zealand

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jun 06, 2023

Summary: Retirees share their experiences living in Wanaka, New Zealand. What are the challenges and rewards of retiring in Wanaka?

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What is it like to retire in Wanaka?

"Life for a retiree in Wanaka is often described as peaceful, yet active. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty, with Lake Wanaka, Mount Aspiring National Park, and numerous vineyards and orchards in the surrounding areas. This makes it a perfect place for retirees who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, skiing, and wine tasting. There is a small but active expat community in Wanaka, with people from all over the world choosing to retire in this beautiful part of New Zealand. The locals are known for their friendliness and welcoming nature, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home. Cultural attractions in Wanaka include the local museum and art galleries, as well as regular farmers' markets where you can buy fresh local produce. The town also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Wanaka A&P Show, the Festival of Colour, and the Wanaka Food and Wine Festival. Recreational activities are plentiful in Wanaka. The town has a number of golf courses, tennis courts, and bowling greens, as well as a leisure centre with a swimming pool and gym. The nearby lake and mountains offer opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and skiing. Nightlife in Wanaka is more laid-back than in larger cities, but there are still plenty of options for those who enjoy socializing in the evenings. The town has a number of pubs and restaurants, many of which offer live music. There is also a cinema and a theatre, where you can catch the latest films or enjoy a local production. In summary, life for a retiree in Wanaka, New Zealand offers a balance of tranquility and activity, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, engage with the local community, and experience the local culture," said one retiree in living in Wanaka, New Zealand.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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