Summerset is a prominent provider of retirement living options in New Zealand, with 37 villages spanning the country (and 8 in planning), catering primarily to those over 70. They offer a diverse range of independent living choices, including villas, townhouses, and apartments, alongside serviced apartments and rest home care facilities. With plans for 8 additional villages, Summerset continues to expand its presence across Aotearoa.

The quality of Summerset villages and care is consistently recognised in the annual AgedAdvisor 'People's Choice Awards', which are based on independent reviews from residents, their families, and staff.

2025 Awards

This year Summerset have, once again, picked up several awards including a sole Finalist Award for Best National Group Excellence Award.

Village and Facility Finalists including previous years for Summerset

Summerset On Cavendish
FINALIST - 2025,23,21 WINNER - 2024 Best (Med/Large) Retirement/Lifestyle Village - SI

Summerset Richmond Ranges [Aged Care]
FINALIST - 2025 Best Aged Care Small Facility - SI

Summerset Blenheim
FINALIST - 2025 Best (Med/Large) Retirement/Lifestyle Village - SI

Summerset In The River City
FINALIST - 2024,23,21 Best (Medium/Large) Retirement/Lifestyle Village - NI

Summerset Prebbleton
FINALIST - 2024,23 Best (Small) Retirement/Lifestyle Village - SI

Summerset At Wigram
FINALIST - 2023,22,21,18 WINNER - 2020,19 Best (Medium/Large) Retirement/Lifestyle Village - SI

Summerset In The River City [Aged Care]
FINALIST - 2023,15,16 Best Aged Care (Small) Facility - NI

Summerset In The Orchard
FINALIST - 2023, 22,21,20 Best (Medium/Large) Retirement/Lifestyle Village - NI

Summerset On Cavendish [Aged Care]
FINALIST - 2023 Best Aged Care (Medium/Large) Facility - SI

Summerset In The Bay [Aged Care]
FINALIST - 2019 Best Aged Care (Med/Large) Facility - NI

Highlights from the 2024 AgedAdvisor 'People's Choice Awards':

Nationwide Recognition: Summerset Group was acknowledged as a Finalist for the Best Multi-Facility / Group Provider (Nationwide) award, signifying strong performance across their network.

South Island Winner: Summerset On Cavendish in Christchurch proudly secured the title of Winner for the Best Large Retirement/Lifestyle Village - South Island.

Further Finalists:
Summerset In The River City (Whanganui) was named a Finalist for Best Large Retirement/Lifestyle Village - North Island.

Summerset Prebbleton (Prebbleton) was recognised as a Finalist for Best Small Retirement/Lifestyle Village - South Island.

Seniors New Zealand with NZ Best is proud to showcase organisations like Summerset that are highly regarded by the people who know them best - their residents and visitors. Explore the various Summerset locations and read independent reviews on AgedAdvisor to help find the right retirement community for you.

Finalist – National Group Excellence Award 2025

Presented to Eleanor Young - Chief Operating Officer NZ, by Nigel Matthews, Seniors NZ

Winner – National Group Excellence Award 2023

In 1997 the first Summerset village opened with a vision of creating a retirement community that puts the respect for its residents at the heart of everything it does. Since then, Summerset has been bringing that philosophy to life throughout New Zealand.

As our country’s second largest retirement village operator, there are now 39 villages either completed or in development. Nationwide coverage from Whangārei to Dunedin, as well as a landbank of four exciting new sites. There are now more than 7,500 residents enjoying resort-style facilities in secure, vibrant and welcoming communities. The villages offer a range of independent living options and care; meaning that in the event your needs change, there is support and options within the village.

Their facilities have placed well in the People’s Choice Awards many times over the years, proving their ongoing dedication to Aged Care. Summerset were finalists for Best Multi-Facility / Group Provider (Nationwide) in 2022, while also being overall Best Group Provider for 2021, so it’s no surprise that they’ve moved to top spot for 2023! Six of their facilities were finalists across the North and South Island within the Best Aged Care up to 40 beds category, as well as Best Large Retirement / Lifestyle Village. It is well deserved recognition of their team’s dedication to provide the best of life to residents. Summerset staff are very excited to have been acknowledged for their hard work and dedication, and frequently receive positive feedback from residents such as “it feels great to have our residents and community acknowledge our efforts in nominating us.”

Presented to Scott Scoullar. Chief Executive Officer, by Tania Ryan, (Aged Advisor) Seniors NZ