Advice & Resources
Costs, Funding & Planning
What home care costs in New Zealand, what may be funded through a needs assessment, and how to plan ahead as care needs change.
21 articles 1 videosLast reviewed September 2026
Quick overview
Understanding costs, funding & planning
Cost is usually one of the first questions families ask, and one of the hardest to answer simply — home care pricing depends on the type and amount of support needed, where you live, and whether any of it is publicly funded.
Some support is available through a needs assessment with your local NASC, and other costs are paid privately. Planning ahead — understanding what’s likely to be funded, what isn’t, and what a realistic budget looks like — makes later decisions easier when they need to be made quickly.
Below you’ll find where to start, all of our advice on costs and funding, answers to common questions, and the New Zealand organisations that can help with planning.
Start here
If you are new to this, start with these
The questions families ask first. Each one takes you straight to a full answer.
5
Do we need Enduring Power of Attorney in place, and when?
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Costs, Funding & Planning Content
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What respite actually looks like, how families arrange it, and what support may be funded through a needs assessment.
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Common questions
Questions families ask Cost, Funding & Planning
Short answers to the things we are asked most, with links to the full guidance where it helps.
Is home care fully funded by the government in New Zealand?
Not usually in full. Some support is available following a needs assessment, but many families pay privately for some or all of their care, especially in the early stages.
What's the difference between the Residential Care Subsidy and home support funding?
The Residential Care Subsidy applies to aged residential care (like a rest home), assessed against income and assets. Home support funding is assessed separately and covers care received at home.
When should a family start financial planning for future care?
Earlier than most people expect — ideally while the person needing care can still be involved in decisions about Enduring Power of Attorney and their own preferences.
What is an Enduring Power of Attorney and why does it matter for care planning?
It’s a legal document that lets someone else make decisions on your behalf — for property or personal care — if you’re no longer able to. Without one, family members may need to apply to the Family Court, which takes longer and costs more.
Does the cost of home care usually increase over time?
Often, yes, as needs grow from a few hours a week to more regular or specialised support. Planning with that in mind avoids being caught off guard.
Where can families get independent advice about care costs?
Citizens Advice Bureau, a financial advisor experienced in elder care, or your local NASC are good starting points for independent, New Zealand-specific guidance.
Trusted NZ sources
Trusted New Zealand information & support
Independent organisations that support families living with dementia across New Zealand.
Work and Income New Zealand
Information on the Residential Care Subsidy, means testing and financial assistance for care.
Public Trust
Guidance on Enduring Power of Attorney and planning ahead for care decisions.
Citizens Advice Bureau
Free, independent guidance on care funding, legal and financial questions.
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Other organisations that can help with planning and funding questions.
Need some extra support at home?
If someone you care about is finding everyday life more difficult, we’re happy to talk through what’s happening and help you understand your options — no pressure, no obligation.