New Zealand will be ‘super-aged’ within a decade. Are our cities ready?

New Zealand’s population is getting older, and the way we design and plan our communities will need to change with it.

A recent article from The Conversation looks at New Zealand’s move towards becoming a “super-aged” society and asks an important question: are our cities and communities ready for an ageing population?

The change is already well underway. In the 2023 Census, 828,588 New Zealanders were aged 65 and over, making up 16.6% of the country’s population. That was up from 15.2% in 2018.

What does an ageing population mean for our communities?

Living longer can bring many opportunities, but it also means our towns and cities need to be designed with people of all ages and abilities in mind.

For older people, everyday things that might seem simple can have a big impact on independence and quality of life. Safe and well-maintained footpaths, accessible public transport, suitable housing, seating in public spaces and easy access to shops, services and community facilities can all help people remain active and connected.

Good community design can also help reduce isolation. Being able to get around independently, meet friends, attend activities and access essential services can make a significant difference to wellbeing.

Planning for the future

Stats NZ population projections show that the proportion of people aged 65 and over is expected to continue increasing across New Zealand. All regions and territorial authorities are expected to have more people aged 65+ in the coming decades, although the pace of ageing will vary between communities.

This means planning for an ageing population isn’t something that can be left until the future. Decisions being made about housing, transport, streets, public spaces and community services today will help shape how easily people can live and participate in their communities tomorrow.

For Age Concern South Canterbury, this is an important conversation. Age-friendly communities aren’t just about older people. Features such as accessible footpaths, good public transport, safe crossings, comfortable public spaces and a strong network of community services can benefit people of all ages.

As New Zealand’s population changes, making sure our communities change with it will be an important part of supporting people to age well, remain independent and stay connected.