They moved into the village's fourth villa, in Sevenoaks Court, and had a lot of input into the two-bedroom home design.
Many of the couple's friends questioned their move, thinking they would be told what to do, but it was quite the opposite.
"It's independent living and it really is," she said.
"We just do our own thing."
The couple, who have been married for 65 years, have lived happily in the villa, embracing village life and the many various activities.
"We've watched and helped the village grow.
"We got the recreation centre going and Trevor and I ran happy hour for quite a few years."
More than two years ago Trevor went into the village's aged care hospital, The Lodge, because of neuropathy in his feet and legs which led to a few falls, including one in their home where he fell backwards into a television screen.
"I was stone cold sober," Trevor chuckled.
And it is nearly two years since Noeline downsized from the villa into an independent living apartment.
The couple, who went to the same primary school together, Hawera Main School, are in contact each day beginning with Trevor bringing over a daily newspaper to give to his wife after he has read it.
They said they had no regrets with retirement village living, with Trevor adding "it's just so convenient".
Kapiti Retirement Trust chief executive Wendy Huston said the couple epitomised what a planned retirement can look like.
"By moving to Sevenoaks when first retired they were able to maximise their opportunities to enjoy their leisure activities together.
"Over their 30 years as residents at Sevenoaks they have been actively involved in resident matters and have made a huge contribution to the social life village residents enjoy.
"With Trevor now receiving hospital level care in The Lodge, it is wonderful that they are still under the same roof.
"Trevor can spend time with Noeline in her apartment as and when it suits and she can visit him in the hospital with ease."
