Brian Anderson The Western Front www.sunlive.co.nz

There is plenty of information on solving retirement problems but there is very little sound advice on opportunities that are available.

How long do you intend to be retired? Many are planning semi-retirement even before 60, using words like ‘slowing down', ‘leaving the rat race' and ‘smelling the roses'.

Retirement today doesn't mean a well-earned holiday after we are compulsorily retired and before we fall off the perch. The definition of retirement has changed. We are fitter and more able to hold a place in society and many people are contemplating a significant period of semi-retirement. For a start, they have to measure their quality of life in a small town and balance that against what could be a significantly reduced income. What opportunities are there in small towns? There is no doubt that the skills gained in the big city are actually needed in all the small towns of New Zealand.

Networking is a fact of life and goes with the patch in a town of 3000 and your enterprising entrepreneurship is more likely to be encouraged and supported in this environment. The recent study by Priority One which was instigated by the Ministry of Science and Innovation discovered that the internationally successful businesses in Katikati are being supported by the wealth of knowledge available within the town. Semi-retirees are valued and are seen as genuine instruments for change in our society.

It is pleasing to note that support groups for the aged in the Bay are not just looking after the welfare of the aged; they are fast becoming more proactive in encouraging the elderly to become movers and shakers in their communities. The old rule of ‘use it or lose it' is a positive message for retirees. The University of the Third Age based in Tauranga has over 600 members who have regular meetings and organise courses but, more importantly, it encourages the elderly to come together to share ideas and implement positive changes for our society. Age Concern's meetings are reflecting a proactive role for the elderly in our towns but new life is not just opportunity, it needs a change of attitude towards retirement and retirees.

I am thoroughly enjoying my life as a second-time-round teenager. This period in our lives has probably never been investigated in any depth before. I know that second childhood is a terminal form of retirement and does follow second teenagerhood but there is a lot more life to be lived in semi-retirement before that.

Just compare your current situation with that of teenagers. Teenagers don't believe they have enough money but they are still expected to contribute to the family income. Their families tolerate them and sometimes listen to them. They are not trusted. If that sounds familiar, you have a ticket to ride. You are now in second teenagerhood. What are you waiting for? It's time to shake rattle in a new role. Move it. Move it. Move it. Life begins when you are 55. You don't have to worry about your career. You have the time. Aged Concern in Fraser Street Tauranga is a first contact and they will help you work through the opportunities that are out there already just waiting for you... Are you not interested? The idea sound boring? You haven't got the time? That proves it! You are a teenager again!