Retire to Raglan
There comes a time to start thinking about downsizing a larger family home and buying somewhere smaller that suits a quieter pace of life. There are many things to consider when looking to slow down or retire, and we believe that Raglan is a great spot!
Here are a few reasons to look to Raglan for when you are ready to retire.
Nature at your doorstep
One of the biggest draw cards to Raglan is being surrounded by nature. Water is a large part of the Raglan lifestyle with many options to keep you on the move: surfing the waves, paddle boarding, kayaking up the harbour, or make the most of the still days and heading out for a fishing trip. There are plenty of water-based options to enjoy regularly, and the Raglan Coast Guard offers local safety lessons and a volunteer service.
If water sports are not your thing, there are many outdoor walks to enjoy. From full-day treks up Mt Karioi to 15-minute strolls to take in the view above Ngarunui beach, there is something for everyone including 14km worth of mostly coastal tracks around the Rangitahi peninsula. Check out a post we did HERE of our favourite walks to do in and around Raglan. There is even a local walking group, The Raglan Ramblers that meet every Wednesday morning to go on walking expeditions around the Raglan area.
Close to major cities for work and medical care
While Raglan is a small coastal village, it is situated only 35 minutes from Hamilton or 2 hours from Auckland. Raglan is part of the Waikato DHB, with the Hamilton hospital which is 42 km away being the closest public hospital. Many private health care options are also available. If you are semi-retired and still need to be close to a main town centre for work and meetings, Hamilton, Auckland and Tauranga are all near with an easy drive to each. Hamilton Airport is only 45 minutes away and Raglan Shuttles is an easy service to get you there.
Natural health & wellness
Raglan is well known for its laid-back lifestyle and preference for natural health and wellness. So it should come as no surprise that there are many different services to keep you fit and healthy - naturally. As well as the local GP, there are also many natural health providers. For example, the Herbal Dispensary has a dedicated team of registered Naturopaths & Medical Herbalists. In addition, there is a good selection of health care providers to keep the aches and pains at bay, such as Raglan Chiropractic and Nikau Osteo. And of course, Raglan has many Pilates and Yoga classes available such as Seed Pilates, Lifted and The Space Raglan.
Finding a massage won't be an issue with businesses like Raglan Seaside Massage on hand.
We are especially excited for the completion of the Whaingaroa public pool and gym which will be located here on Rangitahi as well.
Excellent cuisine & café culture
Our local cuisine has a lot going for a small town! We have over ten seated restaurants / cafés serving high-quality and unique dining options. In addition to these, we also have a good handful of takeaway coffee shops with locally roasted coffee on order. Two of our favourite local eateries are:
IsoBar, which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, is all about celebrating local growers and quality ingredients. Their modern European menu is clean and simple, yet packed with flavour and designed around fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The Shack, Is everyone's favourite breakfast and lunch venue, they have been a part of the local scene for 10 solid years and work hard to provide Raglan locals and travellers alike a great place to eat, drink and just be. The Shack serves up delicious coffee, satisfying breakfasts and tasty lunches. The team use the finest local produce to devise a delicious menu and ever-changing daily specials.
You will be spoilt for choice with our range of eat-in and takeaway options. Also, If you want to get involved with the local community, you can join in the quiz night at the Harbour View Hotel or join The Raglan Club for local's nights and bowls.
The local art scene
There is no doubt that Raglan locals are a creative bunch! Raglan is home to many residing artists who display their work around the various and many local art galleries. The Wharf area is home to the likes of Tony Sly Pottery and The Wharf Gallery, and in town, you can find local artists in La Petite Galerie, Kanuka Design Gallery and other boutique galleries in and around the smaller lanes in town. Here is a handy MAP for the Raglan arts weekend showing some of the many local artists.The Raglan Arts Centre is home to many exhibitions and holds various community groups and classes, such as The Clay Shed. Joining a group is a great way to be involved with the local artistic community, meet new friends, and learn new skills, there are many workshops on offer at the art centre - you could join the film club, get creative with the art classes or even take up a new instrument with the ukulele group!
Rangitahi Peninsula
The Rangitahi Peninsula is Raglan's newest property offering: A new urban sustainable neighbourhood. Rangitahi aims to provide land for those wanting to join this laid-back seaside community, build their own dreams, and to create a life that promises beauty and simplicity. With a variety of sections available, you can start your next journey in a beautiful new neighbourhood. There are 14km of walking tracks around the peninsula surrounded by NZ native greenery and bird life. Along the trail, there are many pockets of producing fruit trees for all to enjoy. In addition, there will be a selection of boutique shops, including a licensed cafe/restaurant and a planned indoor pool and fitness centre. With amazing views and easy access to the water, you will find everything you need and more.
To find out more about what is available at Rangitahi, you can contact Sam HERE to have a personal tour of the available sections, and he can take you through the Rangitahi vision. You will be amazed at some of the high-quality housing being built here in this modern, sustainable part of New Zealand.