Getting road ready in retirement
With Summer hot on our heels and COVID-19 restrictions loosening, many people are planning to hit the road to visit whānau (family) and friends these holidays.
Experience from time behind the wheel often leads to safer drivers who can be great role models for younger drivers. However, as we get older, our health changes can impact our ability to drive.
Renewing your licence at 65
When you turn 65, the process for renewing your drivers’ licence changes. The 10-year renewal period shortens, you will be asked to renew your licence with a medical certificate when you turn 75.
You will receive a driver licence reminder in the mail before your 75th birthday. You’ll be asked to complete a driver licence application form and book an appointment with your local health centre to get a medical check-up to make sure you’re still safe behind the wheel.
Your doctor or nurse will advise whether you are medically fit to drive. If you are ok to drive or drive with some conditions, you then take your application with the medical certificate to your local driver licencing agent to apply for your new licence.
You can find about more about the driver licence process for seniors at the Waka Kotahi NZTA website.
Age Concern offers free classroom based “Staying Safe” refresher courses for older drivers
Working with Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency and with the support of the New Zealand Police, Age Concern is delivering free “Staying Safe” refresher courses for older drivers in every region of New Zealand.
These courses are opportunities for you to refresh your knowledge about driving.
How can the Staying Safe refresher course help?
Staying Safe is four-hour, interactive classroom-based learning course designed to answer any questions you might have. The theory-based course is divided into 4 parts:
- Keeping Safe: thinking about your driving safety
- Being Safe: driving skills
- Safe Journeys: managing road situations
- Keep Moving Safely: safe alternatives to driving
Everyone who attends will be issued with a certificate and a workbook to take away.
Want to learn as a group? You can request larger bookings of around 15-20 people.
SuperGold card holders and Māori or Pasifika drivers over 60 are eligible.
Classes are on now across Aotearoa and will take place through the year. To book your spot, call 0800 65 2 105 or visit www.ageconcern.org.nz.
Whether it’s time to treat yourself to a new car, or you need a more reliable and cost-efficient vehicle, a reverse mortgage could help. A Heartland Reverse Mortgage allows you to access the wealth you have in your home to purchase that new car or fund the much needed repairs and maintenance on your existing car.
To find out more about whether a Heartland Reverse Mortgage could help you in retirement, get in touch with our friendly team on 0800 488 740 or [email protected] to discuss your options.
Applications are subject to loan approval criteria. Heartland Bank Limited’s responsible lending criteria, fees and charges apply.
