A directory of belonging

Find a community near you

Places where community is built into where you live — not another club to visit, but somewhere the people around you are part of daily life. Monasteries that welcome guests, cohousing, co-ops, ecovillages, seniors villages, and neighbourhoods that actually function. Start where you are.

All types Monasteries & religious staysCohousingEcovillagesHousing co-operativesColiving & share housesIntentional communitiesLive-in care communitiesSeniors villagesCommunity-strong neighbourhoods & councils

Compiled with AI, checked by nobody yet. These are starting points, gathered for Southland — real places as far as we know, but details change. Verify with a phone call before you set your heart or drive across the state.

Live-in care communities

Clutha Views Lifecare

Balclutha · Clutha District Council

While technically just outside Southland, Clutha Views Lifecare serves the wider South Otago/Southland region with comprehensive care options. It provides a supportive community for seniors needing various levels of assistance.

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Live-in care communities

Donovan Residential Care

Invercargill · Invercargill City Council

Donovan Residential Care provides comprehensive care services in a welcoming community setting. They focus on individualised care plans and creating a vibrant atmosphere for residents.

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Live-in care communities

Rose Lodge

Invercargill · Invercargill City Council

Rose Lodge offers a warm and friendly environment for residents requiring rest home and hospital level care. The facility emphasizes a person-centred approach to care, ensuring comfort and dignity.

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Live-in care communities

The Homestead Invercargill

Invercargill · Invercargill City Council

The Homestead provides a supportive and caring environment for residents requiring various levels of assistance. It offers a range of services designed to promote well-being and a sense of community among its residents.

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Live-in care communities

Walmsley House

Invercargill · Invercargill City Council

Walmsley House offers a comfortable and secure living option for individuals needing residential care. Residents benefit from dedicated staff and a program of activities that foster social connection.

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Community-strong neighbourhoods & councils

Clifton

Invercargill · Invercargill City Council

Clifton is a well-established residential suburb in Invercargill known for its strong local community feel and family-friendly atmosphere. It features local parks and schools, fostering a sense of belonging among residents.

Community-strong neighbourhoods & councils

Ocean Beach Road Community

Bluff · Southland District Council

This tight-knit neighbourhood in Bluff is known for its strong local connections and community events. Residents often collaborate on local projects and support each other, fostering a genuine sense of belonging.

Community-strong neighbourhoods & councils

Riverton/Aparima Community

Riverton · Southland District Council

Riverton is a historic coastal town with a vibrant community spirit, evident in its active local groups and shared cultural spaces. The community frequently organises events that bring residents together, celebrating their unique heritage and environment.

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Community-strong neighbourhoods & councils

South Alive

Invercargill · Invercargill City Council

An award-winning urban regeneration trust run by residents of South Invercargill, with community gardens, a pantry, events and neighbourhood projects. Everyone in the south city is welcome to pitch in and help their neighbourhood flourish.

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Community-strong neighbourhoods & councils

Windsor

Invercargill · Invercargill City Council

Windsor is a desirable residential area in Invercargill, characterized by its tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes. The neighbourhood boasts a strong community spirit, with local shops and amenities contributing to its appeal.

Community-strong neighbourhoods & councils

Winton Community

Winton · Southland District Council

Winton is a thriving rural service town known for its friendly atmosphere and active community organisations. Residents benefit from numerous clubs, events, and shared facilities that encourage social interaction and mutual support.

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Seniors villages

Aspiring Lifestyle Retirement Village

Wanaka · Queenstown-Lakes District Council

While technically just outside the Southland region, Aspiring Lifestyle Retirement Village serves many from the wider southern area, offering modern villas and apartments with a focus on active independent living. It provides a vibrant community with various facilities and social opportunities for its residents.

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Seniors villages

Fiordland Retirement Village

Te Anau · Southland District Council

This retirement village offers a supportive and engaging environment for seniors in the picturesque Fiordland region. Residents enjoy a range of social activities and amenities designed to foster community and well-being.

Seniors villages

Gladstone Retirement Village

Invercargill · Invercargill City Council

Gladstone Retirement Village offers independent living units and serviced apartments for seniors in a supportive community environment. Residents can enjoy a range of social activities and amenities designed for a comfortable lifestyle.

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Seniors villages

Gracelands Community

Invercargill · Invercargill City Council

Gracelands Community provides a range of care options for seniors, including independent living and assisted living services. It focuses on creating a supportive and engaging environment where residents can thrive.

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Seniors villages

Peacehaven Village

Invercargill · Invercargill City Council

Peacehaven Village provides comprehensive care and community living options for seniors in Invercargill. It offers a variety of services and social opportunities, promoting an active and connected lifestyle for its residents.

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Seniors villages

Rowena Jackson Retirement Village

Invercargill · Invercargill City Council

Rowena Jackson Retirement Village is a modern facility offering independent living and care options for seniors in Invercargill. The village fosters a strong sense of community through its diverse activities and shared spaces, encouraging residents to connect and thrive.

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The other path

Nothing near you? Start one — smaller than you think.

If your state's list is thin, that's not a dead end; it's the reason this project exists. Three friends on one street is already a community. The guide walks you through the whole path.

Start a community — the guide Create or join a group Register your interest

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