Northington Partners is very pleased to have advised Freedom Lifestyle Villages (“Freedom”) on a major strategic investment from Assetz ANZ, part of AGP Sustainable Real Assets group (“AGP”). The initial transaction involves two key components – AGP has acquired a 24.9% stake in Freedom for $40m and will invest an initial $40m into a JV entity alongside Freedom.
Freedom started ten years ago and is now home to more than 1,000 residents in five villages across New Zealand, including Papamoa, Matamata, Cambridge, Rotorua and Ravenswood (near Christchurch). The JV entity will be used as the vehicle to fund an accelerated program of new village developments throughout New Zealand. Starting with sites in Ashburton and Masterton, Freedom and AGP have committed to an ambitious plan to more than double the number of villages over the medium term. That growth will be supported by a funding commitment from both parties and leverage AGP’s expertise in sustainable infrastructure and capital management.
Freedom’s purpose-driven approach to retirement living aligns seamlessly with AGP’s values, making this strategic investment a natural fit. The investment underpins the growth of sustainable, community-driven lifestyle villages across New Zealand, empowering more Kiwis to retain their financial independence while enjoying vibrant, purpose-built communities.
About Assetz ANZ / AGP
Singapore-based, Assetz ANZ is a sustainability-focused property developer with a growing portfolio of residential assets across Australia and New Zealand. Focused on the urban and regional build-to-rent, student accommodation, and lifestyle leisure living (over-50s) markets, AGP develops value-driven properties that cater to diverse needs and lifestyles through smart, sustainable design solutions. AGP is a global investor in sustainable infrastructure assets that generate positive impact for people and the environment.