Retirement housing for older New Zealanders is unevenly spread across the country, with some regions well served and others lagging behind, according to new analysis.

Penetration rates, which measure the share of older people living in retirement villages, sit around 18 per cent in the Bay of Plenty but closer to 14–15 per cent nationally.

Canterbury is catching up as new projects are completed, while Auckland, despite having the most units, struggles to keep pace with demand from its growing ageing population.

The Retirement Villages Association says the imbalance means access to later-life housing often depends on geography.

Wellington and parts of the lower North Island are particularly short of supply.

Senior Trust Retirement Village Income Generator’s lending highlights where new capacity is being added.

Funding has been provided to The Botanic in Silverdale and Orewa Sands in Orewa, alongside projects in Paeroa, Amberley and Kerikeri.

Executive Director Scott Lester says national averages mask local realities.

“Some regions are well served, others risk falling further behind,” he said.

Without new projects, families may face travelling further to support loved ones, and older people risk isolation or longer waits for care.

With the population aged 75-plus forecast to grow by more than 40 per cent by 2033, pressure to lift build rates is mounting.

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