100 | Freedom Lifestyle Villages Ltd: Ravenswood T T Kim Newth Providing a better way to downsize LIFESTYLE In a first for the South Island, a new lifestyle village at Ravenswood has opened to meet growing demand from over 50s who love to lock up and leave. More than 1000 Cantabrians attended Freedom Lifestyle Village’s opening day at Ravenswood in June, drawn by the prospect of independent lifestyle living and the opportunity to explore the Freedom living choice. The new village, which has been designed to accommodate 234 homes, continues to attract a consistent level of interest. “Many of the people that visited Ravenswood on opening day are looking to downsize but they also want an alternative to traditional retirement options,” says Steve Smits-Murray, CEO of Freedom Lifestyle Villages. “The vast majority of interest is coming from immediate towns on the doorstep of Woodend, with a large number also from Christchurch.” Founded by Rudy Van Het Woot, Freedom’s evolution in the New Zealand market started a decade ago. Their first over 50s lifestyle village opened in 2014 at Papamoa Sands in the Golden Sands subdivision. Cambridge Oaks, Matamata Longlands and Rotorua Lakes have since joined the line-up. The sought-after Ravenswood subdivision, just north of Christchurch in the fast-growing Waimakariri district, is proving an ideal location for Freedom’s first South Island lifestyle village. “Ravenswood boasts excellent amenities and leisure activities in close proximity and, additionally, the village provides breathtaking views of the Southern Alps.” Just half an hour north of Christchurch, Ravenswood has much to offer. The active relaxer will find there is plenty to do with championship golf courses, beaches and walk- “Many of the people that visited Ravenswood on opening day are looking to downsize but they also want an alternative to traditional retirement options.” ways close by, along with local towns. Quality retailers, eateries and amenities are on the doorstep. Five new food outlets opened recently at Ravenswood Central – Joe’s Garage, Thai Station, King of Spices, The Coffee Club and Mifan – further expanding this exciting retail park. Freedom offers a fairer financial model so that residents who decide to sell know their home will be sold for its true market value and they will keep capital gains, subject to market conditions and modest exit fees. Residents at Freedom’s first village, Papamoa Sands, were able to make capital gains within three years when they sold on the open market. T T to page 102 - Steel, Aluminium or Solid Timber Gates - Gate Automation - Custom Fencing Your local gate and automation specialists 03 310 6700 | info@designergates.co.nz | www.designergates.co.nz
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