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.
Being able to access respite care means you'll receive flexible, short‑term support that can help to ease pressure on you and your family if extra help is needed.
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.
Respite care offers caregivers a much-needed break while ensuring that the person receiving care continues to get safe, professional support.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Although respite care offers valuable support for caregivers and people needing care, there may be challenges for some people.
Respite care is often available to:
To find out if you or a loved one is eligible for subsidised respite care, you’ll need to get an assessment.
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.