Central Otago's newest retirement village, Aurum on Clutha, has welcomed its first residents.

After a two-year process from planning, and a successful open day last month (which attracted more than 500 people), the first residents have settled into their new homes. 

Two couples from Alexandra moved in on June 7 and are enjoying all the village has to offer. 

“While the majority of residents signed up to move in are from Alexandra and Clyde, a few couples are moving down from the North Island to be closer to family,” village manager Sonya Attfield said.  

Aurum is currently in stage one of four with its development. The build is set to be completed in four years' time with a total of 128 villas. 

Once all four stages are completed, the hospital complex will be added which will have dementia and hospital beds. 

The HPA group which has been building the village in Clyde also built the recently finished Golden View in Cromwell, adding to Arrowtown Lifestyle Village and the Queenstown Country Club retirement village options.

PHOTO: Supplied