About us

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Summerset started from humble beginnings and with a simple vision to create a retirement community that our own parents would be happy to call home; and has since become one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing companies.

In 1997 the first Summerset village opened in Whanganui, after founder John O’Sullivan became so disheartened at what was available for his grandmother that he decided to build a village he would be happy to see her living in. His vision of creating a retirement community that his family would be proud to call home and that puts the respect for its residents at the heart of everything it does still guides us today.

Listen to John talk about what motivated him to establish the first Summerset village.


Since then Summerset has been bringing that philosophy to life throughout New Zealand. We now have 39 villages either completed or in development from Whangārei to Dunedin, as well as a landbank of five sites in New Zealand. In Victoria, Australia we have seven properties.

Within our villages we offer a range of independent living options and care; meaning that in the event your needs change, we have support and options within the village.

We are now proudly New Zealand’s second-largest retirement village operator, with more than 8,000 residents enjoying resort-style facilities in secure, vibrant and welcoming communities.

Free information pack

Request an information pack for the retirement village of your choice and we'll courier it out to you free of charge.

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It all began with a cherished nana

Get ready to blow out the candles, it’s our 25th birthday! A quarter of a century ago, the doors to the first Summerset village opened.

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Come and visit us

We have open days and events in our villages nationwide. Find an event near you and come for a visit.

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