What is respite care?
Respite care provides temporary assistance for people who need extra support for a short time such as after a hospital discharge or when their usual caregiver is unavailable. It is flexible and can be adapted to suit your specific needs, such as when a caregiver goes on holiday.
Respite care options
If you qualify under government guidelines, respite care is often fully subsidised. It can be scheduled ahead of time or accessed urgently when unexpected situations arise.
What are the advantages of respite care?
Respite care offers caregivers a much-needed break while ensuring that the person receiving care continues to get safe, professional support.
When respite care is most helpful
- In urgent situations: If a regular caregiver is unexpectedly unavailable, emergency respite care can provide support.
- To support caregiver wellbeing: Regular breaks are important for those providing ongoing care to prevent exhaustion and maintain their own health.
- As an introduction to rest home care: Short stays in respite care can help people become familiar with the care centre. It’s a chance to meet staff and residents, which can make a future move into permanent care easier.
Where can I receive respite care?
Respite care can be tailored to suit your needs, preferences, and circumstances. It can be delivered at home, in the community, or in a residential setting.
- In-home respite care: Support is provided within your own home, allowing you to stay in familiar surroundings while receiving assistance.
- Day respite care: Ideal if you need daytime support only – such as when your carer is working or needs time during the day for other commitments.
- Residential respite care: Short-term stays in a care centre, offering 24/7 support, are ideal for higher care needs or when regular carers are away.
How long can someone stay in respite care?
In New Zealand, government-funded respite care can be accessed for up to 28 days per year, depending on your eligibility. These days can be used all at once or divided into shorter stays to suit your situation and preferences.
If you need more than your allocated number of days, you will need to pay privately for the extra time. Your allocated number of days will reset each year, and unused days cannot be carried over into the following year.
How much does respite care cost per day and per week?
The cost of respite care in New Zealand depends on several factors, including the type of care you need, the provider you choose, and the level of support required.
If you’re eligible for government-subsidised respite care, this will significantly reduce costs. However, if you require additional services or have specific care needs, there may be extra charges.
Because every situation is unique, the easiest way to find out how much respite care will cost per day or per week at Ryman is to contact us directly by calling your local village.
We can guide you through your options and offer clear, personalised information based on your individual needs.
Who pays for respite care in New Zealand?
There are two primary ways to pay for respite care in New Zealand: through government funding or by paying privately. Even if you qualify for a subsidy, you may still be responsible for covering part of the cost yourself.
Government subsidies
- Care subsidy: Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora may fund respite care if you’re assessed as eligible for a care subsidy. To determine your eligibility, you’ll need to undergo a formal needs assessment. If approved, the subsidy is paid directly to your chosen residential care provider.
- Carer Support Subsidy: This is a government-funded payment that helps reimburse full-time carers for some of the costs involved in caring for a loved one, giving carers time off to rest and recharge.
Private payment
If you’re not eligible for government funding, or if you choose additional services that aren’t covered by the subsidy, you may need to pay for some or all of your respite care privately. Costs can vary depending on the type of care you receive, where you’re located, and the level and duration of support required.
What are the disadvantages of respite care?
Although respite care offers valuable support for caregivers and people needing care, there may be challenges for some people.
- Adjusting can take time: Entering a new environment with unfamiliar routines and caregivers can be unsettling, especially for people with cognitive conditions or anxiety. It may take a while for them to feel comfortable.
- Limited availability in some areas: Access to respite care can vary depending on your location. In rural regions or during busy times like holidays, finding a suitable placement may be more difficult.
- There could be extra costs: While government subsidies cover standard respite care, additional services such as recreational outings, therapies, or premium rooms may incur extra fees. It’s important to clarify what’s included in your funding to avoid unexpected expenses.
Government-subsidised respite care: eligibility and access
Respite care is often available to:
- People who require temporary support due to age-related needs, disability, chronic health conditions, or recovery from illness or injury.
- Full-time carers (such as family members) to give them a break from caregiving responsibilities.
How to get an assessment for subsidised respite care
To find out if you or a loved one is eligible for subsidised respite care, you’ll need to get an assessment.
- Request an assessment: Start by getting approval from a Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) service. You can contact them directly or ask your doctor to refer you.
- Find out if you’re eligible: After the assessment, you’ll receive a letter confirming whether you’re eligible for care services and outlining the level of support and government funding available to you.
Find out more about respite care in New Zealand
Caring for someone you love can be fulfilling, but it also comes with its share of challenges for both the caregiver and the person receiving care.
If you're in a caregiving role, taking regular breaks is vital for your own wellbeing. We encourage you to explore respite care options and speak with healthcare professionals to find a solution that suits your unique situation and support needs.
To find out how Ryman can help, contact us on 0800 588 222 or book a tour to explore how our respite care offers trusted support when you and your family need it most.