But here’s the good news: you’re not alone. Not even close. Plenty of people in retirement are in the same boat, looking to connect, share stories, and enjoy this chapter with people who get it.

Whether you’re the outgoing type or a little more reserved, there are small steps you can take that open the door to genuine friendship. Because even one good conversation can be the start of something meaningful.

Let’s get this out of the way: starting over socially is a bit awkward at first. That’s normal. Moving into a new village or simply trying to meet new people later in life can stir up nerves. But most people you’ll meet feel the same way. Everyone’s looking for connection—they just might be waiting for someone else to make the first move.

So don’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect words. A simple “Mind if I join you?” or “How long have you been here?” is often all it takes.

1. Say Yes to Activities

  It might be a walking group, an art class, a quiz night, or a low-key morning coffee. Qestral’s villages are known for having full-time activity coordinators who keep things lively with a calendar full of events. These aren’t just time-fillers—they’re designed to bring people together. Try one or two, even if you’re not sure it’s your thing. You never know who you’ll sit beside.

2. Introduce Yourself—Even If It Feels a Bit Old-Fashioned

  Take a walk around the village and stop for a chat. Knock on your neighbour’s door and say hello. People appreciate a friendly face, and that little gesture can plant the seed for future friendship. You don’t have to become best mates overnight—just start with a smile and see where it leads.

3. Share What You Know

  Volunteering or simply offering to help with a group activity is a fantastic way to meet others. If you’ve got a skill—organising events, gardening tips, knitting patterns, even tech advice—there’s almost always someone who’d love to learn. And helping others often leads to meaningful bonds.

4. Keep Showing Up

  Friendships don’t usually form after one chat. They build slowly, over shared cups of tea, familiar routines, and chance encounters. The more you show up—at events, at the café, on the walking track—the more familiar your face becomes, and the easier it gets to connect.

There’s a myth that once we reach a certain age, our social world shrinks and that’s just the way it is. But that’s not true—and frankly, it’s not healthy. Research has shown that loneliness can be just as damaging as smoking or poor diet when it comes to our health. Strong social ties boost mood, memory, immunity, and even longevity.

Friendship isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s vital.

At Qestral, we design our villages around the idea that community isn’t just about shared spaces—it’s about shared experiences. That’s why we put so much effort into our events, workshops, clubs, and wellness activities. They’re built to help you connect—naturally, comfortably, and without pressure.

We’ve seen it happen time and again: someone moves in, unsure of how they’ll fit, and within weeks they’re laughing with new friends over lunch or joining a group outing to a local gallery. It’s not magic. It’s the environment—and the people—doing what they’re meant to do: support each other.

This stage of life can be one of the most social, fulfilling, and exciting—especially if you surround yourself with people who lift you up and share your interests.

So if you’ve been craving connection, or just hoping to find your people, maybe this is the sign you needed.

Come see what life looks like when community and friendship are built in. Visit www.qestral.co.nz and explore the possibilities waiting just outside your door.