You might’ve noticed a few more grey heads around the Hibiscus Coast, and you’re not imagining things.

New census data shows the 65+ population in Auckland has grown by more than a third since 2013, now making up 13.3% of the region.

That’s 219,753 older Aucklanders, and while most still live in standalone homes, more are shifting into joined dwellings or retirement villages.

Nearly 79,000 are men, 93,000 are women, and over 100,000 were born overseas.

The numbers also reflect growing diversity.

While European New Zealanders still make up the majority, the proportion is declining.

More older Aucklanders now identify as Asian (21%) and Pacific Peoples (7.9%), with Northern Chinese, Yue, and Samoan among the most spoken languages after English.

Closer to home, that means more Coasties will likely be navigating life with a parent, grandparent, or neighbour needing a bit of extra care, or working well past retirement.

One in four older Aucklanders are still in the workforce, with most in professional or managerial roles.

Only 2.4% live in crowded homes, and fewer are dealing with damp or mouldy houses than five years ago.

Still, nearly one in five live alone, and one in six live with a disability.

It’s a reminder that ageing isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey.

Whether it’s supporting independence or building more accessible spaces, the Coast’s changing age mix is something we’ll all need to plan for.

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