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This report presents the independent evaluation of the Senior Enterprise Pilot, a programme funded by the Office for Seniors to test how best to support people aged 50 and over to start businesses later in life.
The pilot was developed as part of the Better Later Life | He Oranga Kaumātua 2019–2034 strategy and its Action Plan 2021–2024, which identified financial security and economic participation as key priorities for older New Zealanders.
The evaluation was commissioned by the Office for Seniors and undertaken by Geoff Pearman of Partners in Change. It examines the effectiveness of five pilot programmes delivered in different regions and communities across Aotearoa New Zealand, including programmes designed for Māori, Pacific peoples, urban and rural participants, and those delivered online.
Drawing on surveys, interviews, case studies, provider feedback, and programme data, the evaluation assesses participant outcomes, programme design, delivery approaches, and longer-term opportunities for senior entrepreneurship. The report found strong participant satisfaction, high completion rates, increased confidence, and evidence that many participants had launched, developed, or refined business ideas following programme participation. It highlights the value of age-specific business support, coaching and mentoring, peer networks, culturally responsive approaches, and flexible delivery models, including online learning.
PDF, 2449 KB • Published June 2024The report also identifies 12 better practice guidelines for future programmes and explores options for creating sustainable pathways that help older New Zealanders remain economically active through self-employment and entrepreneurship. It concludes that the pilot successfully demonstrated the need for targeted support and provides insights to inform future policy, programme design, and investment decisions.
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Dr Bev James of Public Policy & Research Ltd prepared the report “Shine the spotlight on accessibility: Accessible-design housing for the ageing population”, for the Office for Seniors in August 2025. It sits within the Functional, Accessible, Affordable, Buildable (FAAB) small homes research programme, funded through the Building Better Homes, Towns and Cities National Science Challenge. The report captures the voices of older New Zealanders and people with disabilities, asking them directly what they need from their homes to age well. Thirty-four participants joined workshops, completed questionnaires, and took part in interviews. They critiqued five accessible small-home plans, highlighting what worked—such as flexible spaces, safe layouts, good storage, and private outdoor areas—and what failed, including poor lighting, limited storage, and impractical room designs.
Note that this is a companion to the report “Improving Housing Accessibility to Meet the Needs of an Ageing Population: A Rapid Review of Literature. Report for the Ageing Well National Science Challenge, University of Otago Dunedin. This is available at on the Functional, Accessible, Affordable, Buildable Small Homes website
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This document is intended for a witness to an enduring power of attorney (EPA) in relation to property to use with a person who is considering creating such an EPA.
PDF, 278 KB • Published July 2021 -
This document is intended for a witness to an enduring power of attorney (EPA) in relation to personal care and welfare to use with a person who is considering creating such an EPA.
PDF, 154 KB • Published July 2021 -
This document outlines the structure and aims of the 2025 Taranaki 50+ Startup Course, delivered in partnership with Venture Taranaki and Univentures. Designed for aspiring entrepreneurs aged 50 and over, the course combines online modules with local coaching to support participants in developing viable business models and launching their first ventures.
PDF, 606 KB • Published July 2025 -
This document includes the feedback the Office for Seniors received during its consultation while developing the Older Workers Employment Action Plan.
PDF, 623 KB • Published January 2022 -
This report evaluates the outcomes of a regional pilot programme supporting entrepreneurship for those aged 50 and over in Taranaki. The hybrid model combined national online resources with local coaching, resulting in promising business development across diverse sectors. The findings highlight the effectiveness of tailored support for older entrepreneurs and offer recommendations for future regional rollouts.
PDF, 317 KB • Published July 2025 -
This research report by Dr Patricia Morgan and colleagues at University of Auckland, describes the benefits of an innovative model of ageing in place. Through participation in arts workshops and qualitative interviews with participants, researchers gained an understanding of the how the Virtual Eastern Bay Villages: Te Kokoru Manaakitanga model is experienced and the benefits of the workshop activities themselves. To see more on this project visit https://www.ageingwelltogether.co.nz/.
PDF, 1904 KB • Published March 2024 -
This case study was developed by the Office for Seniors to provide more information about Waimakariri's process to becoming age friendly
PDF, 192 KB • Published November 2019 -
This case study was developed by the Office for Seniors to provide more information about Wairarapa's process to becoming age friendly
PDF, 178 KB • Published November 2019