Retirement village beckons displaced Christchurch elderly | Canterbury News | Local News in Canterbury

A new $100 million dollar retirement village in North East Christchurch will be home to 450 residents and employ more than 150 staff.

In the wake of February's devastating earthquake, more than 300 elderly rest home residents were displaced out of town, away from friends and family.

The new Ryman Healthcare retirement village is hoping to change that.

Ryman managing director Simon Challies said the new 120 room rest home, hospital and dementia care facility will allow many people to return home.

"We see the new village as a way in which we can contribute to the rebuilding of our hometown, by establishing a flourishing and caring community for the older people of north-east Christchurch. We are committed to Christchurch, and we are delighted to be making this $100 million investment in the city. We hope our display of confidence will inspire others to invest in the rebuild."

The home will be located off East Ellington Drive- close to the communities of St Albans, Shirley and Mairehau. Scheduled for an opening next year, the village will include an indoor swimming pool, spa, gym, beauty salon, bowling green and a movie theatre. Mr Challies said Ryman would like to start work on the village immediately.

The new village has been named after Lady Diana Isaac, one of Canterbury's most respected and admired citizens. The Canterbury businesswoman is known for her generosity and support for the arts, and her conservation work.

"Lady Isaac is a truly remarkable woman. We're honoured and privileged to be able to name the village after her," Mr Challies said.