Approval clears way for Metlifecare’s first Hawke’s Bay village

Tuesday 24 February 2026

Metlifecare will begin construction on its first Hawke’s Bay retirement village in September, after receiving resource consent approval from Napier City Council.

Stage one will deliver the first 32 independent living villas by mid-2027, forming part of a 150-home village in Greenmeadows’ Te Roropipi precinct. Once fully operational, the village will include modern communal facilities and an aged residential care home, employing around 50 staff.

The milestone marks a significant moment for the company, with Greenmeadows set to become Metlifecare’s first retirement village in the Hawke’s Bay – a major investment and long-term commitment to the region.

Metlifecare CEO, Earl Gasparich, says the Greenmeadows village is just the beginning of the company’s presence in the region.

“This is a proud moment for us. While Greenmeadows will be Metlifecare’s first village built in Hawke’s Bay, plans for our site in Havelock North are also progressing well.

“We’re really pleased to be introducing Metlifecare to Hawke’s Bay and giving retirees another great option for an active, well-supported lifestyle. While we’re relatively new to the region, we’ve been developing and operating retirement communities across New Zealand since 1984.

“Opening a village in Hawke’s Bay has been on our radar for some time. It’s a significant growth region of the country,” Earl says.

According to the latest Stats NZ's report, Hawke’s Bay’s population grew more than 5% over the previous five years, and nearly one in five residents is aged 65 or older, highlighting the rising demand for retirement living options in the region.

This project continues Metlifecare’s collaborative relationship with Mana Ahuriri Hāpai Limited Partnership, a partnership between Mana Ahuriri Trust and iwi-owned property fund Hāpai, reflecting a shared commitment to creating a village that honours cultural values and contributes positively to the community.

Metlifecare Senior Development Manager, Joe Bartley, who is overseeing all aspects of the project, says working alongside Mana Ahuriri is an important part of how we approach this new development.

“We’re committed to building something that reflects the area, honours its history, and contributes positively to the wider community,” says Joe.

Lifestyle and connection from day one

Set within the Te Roropipi precinct, the future Greenmeadows village offers a highly convenient location.

“Location and convenience are key when people are considering their retirement options, and this site ticks all the boxes,” says Joe. “With a bus stop right outside and the well-established Taradale Club just across the road, residents will be able to stay well connected with their community.”

As with other premium Metlifecare builds, the Greenmeadows development will generate jobs and opportunities for the local economy during construction and beyond.

“Projects of this scale bring opportunities for local businesses and trades throughout the build. When the village and care home are fully operational, we expect to employ around 50 people in a range of roles, from village management and clinical care to hospitality and maintenance,” says Joe.

Earl adds: “Hawke’s Bay is a region with real momentum, and we’re proud to be contributing to its growth. This is just the beginning for Metlifecare here, and we’re excited about becoming an important part of the community.”

ENDS

Notes: Metlifecare would like to acknowledge the support of Napier City Council for their professionalism and excellent customer service during the resource consent process.