Paeroa, New Zealand

At just 4,510 residents, Paeroa hardly qualifies as a bustling metropolis. The town's remote location and aging population mean services can be a persistent headache. Bureaucracy is a particular thorn, with the town's mining heritage necessitating a convoluted permitting process for any new development. Still, the temperate climate and proximity to outdoor recreation make Paeroa an appealing option for retirees seeking a slower pace of life.