Hawke's Bay is one of the fastest-growing areas for retirement living which Wickham said was likely due to the largely sunny and dry weather and the fact that there "is a lot for retired people to do".
"We know that people of all ages and stages are choosing to move to the region for the lifestyle benefits it provides, and there is significant demand for exceptional retirement village living."
There are often people from farms looking to retire in more urban areas, he said.
Wickham said they chose the Havelock North site as they liked the village feel, walking and cycling trails nearby, amenities and proximity to places such as vineyards or beaches.
"We are excited about securing this unique site with its stunning views of Te Mata Peak and close proximity to local amenities and wineries. It ticks all the boxes for a premium retirement living destination."
The sale is unconditional but is yet to be settled at the end of the year before the resource consent process can begin, likely to happen next year and they are planning on submitting on the upcoming Hastings District Council spatial plan.
Wickham said he was not concerned about potential criticism of the use of the land and said people moving into a retirement village frees up their houses.
"It definitely uses existing housing stock better... I think that is a definite positive because there is a shortage of housing in the greater Hawke's Bay."
They are setting up a website to take registrations of interest.
According to the Hastings District Plan, the addresses are currently zoned plains production. But the Brookvale Romanes Development Area Structure Plan says it is a future stage as identified in the Heretaunga Plains Urban Development Strategy.
