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9ththMay May 2014 2017 27 Jan--15 3rdth Feb
FIRST ON THE STREET
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No No 434 599
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It was announced last week that the self-proclaimed ‘world’s most experienced plaque unveiler’, Prince Philip, would retire at the age of 96. Though plaque-unveiling is a far less strenuous job than most of us will ever do, 96 is a grand old age to work to. But the Prince is in a very privileged position. He’s able to enjoy retirement in a comfortable home and food, healthcare and heating costs have never been an issue for the Prince. We commoners aren’t afforded the same luxury and here in Queenstown, the cost of retirement is too high for many. Queenstown, Arrowtown and Cromwell retirement homes are being planned and developed, but the marketing guff places these firmly at the expensive end of the scale. They’re described as “retirement without compromise” and “arguably the most luxurious and prestigious retirement home New Zealand has ever seen.” While there’s nothing wrong with luxurious retirement homes catering to the rich few who choose that lifestyle, it makes me wonder how our other retirees will fare now and in the future. A study published in 2011 by health economists said that today’s retirees need to spend $5,600 - $7,400 a year on top of their NZ Super to live a healthy, happy lifestyle. Interestingly, the ‘healthy, happy lifestyle’ defined in the study includes a landline connection, but no internet; a pet cat, but no dental care and magazines, no booze and no holidays. The study wasn’t specific to Queenstown, so in our area there’s other factors and costs to consider in addition.
Old School Dunedin band The Chills reunited in Queenstown on Saturday.
(Photo: Lauren Prebble)
Our weather is colder and damper than other areas of New Zealand, so heating costs are likely to be higher. The study also presumes that pensioners have access to free, off-peak public transport; but here in Queenstown, public transport isn’t accessible or regular enough, particularly for those who live in areas like Arthur’s Point. Queenstown has limited resources to assist older people, so many will need to add travel costs into their healthcare budgets. I know of families who have moved older relatives with dementia or serious health care issues out of town, to cities with more comprehensive healthcare facilities. Perhaps most difficult of all, property and rental prices in Queenstown have skyrocketed. The high price tag of Queenstown living is driving young families out of town and some may be leaving their older relatives behind. This is not only a lonely predicament, it’s a vulnerable one. The retirement age has gone up, but to continue living in Queenstown, many older people may have to work past this age. Unless Queenstown figures out affordable housing, better transport and healthcare in the future, some may have to work until they’re 96 years old out of necessity rather than privilege. Bethany G. Rogers Geordie Off-Shore
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