Eldernet provides older people and those supporting them comprehensive information about moving to aged residential care (including rest homes, private hospitals, dementia care, and respite). Eldernet lists all Residential Care facilities in New Zealand.
Let us help you find somewhere
We are here to help
We'll explain what you can find and how the site works.
What is a rest home?
A New Zealand rest home, also known as a care home or residential aged care facility, is a place where older adults can receive around-the-clock care and support in a comfortable and secure environment. There are four levels of care delivered in residential care facilities in New Zealand: Rest Home, Hospital, Rest Home Dementia, and Psychogeriatric Specialist Hospital Care. All care home facilities are certified by the Ministry of Health, which involves an audit process to identify providers that deliver high levels of care.
My chosen rest home hasn't got any vacancies. What can I do?
You can contact the home and ask to go on a waiting list. Start to build a rapport with the home and if possible, give some reasons for why this is your first choice of home. In the meantime, make alternative arrangements with a care home elsewhere. You can move...
Need information about moving into a rest home?
You will find all the information you need here on the Eldernet site including, the process for accessing this service and a listing for every rest home or care home in the country. Eldernet Residential Care gives older people and those supporting them free, unbiased, and comprehensive information about moving...
I'm not happy. Can I transfer to a different rest home?
Remember, a care home (rest home) is your home; just like any home you live in, you can choose to move if you wish. The first step is to contact your local Needs Assessment Coordination Service (NASC) to let them know you want to transfer. They may do another interRAI...
Residential care
What should I look for in a rest home?
A New Zealand rest home, also known as a care home or residential aged care facility, is a place where older people live and receive care and support in a comfortable and secure environment.
Rest homes provide a range of services, including assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating, as well as medical care and supervision. They also offer various social and recreational activities, such as outings, hobbies, and entertainment, to help residents stay active and engaged.
There is no such thing as ‘the best’ rest home, as what suits one person doesn’t suit another: for some, being near family, friends and familiar places is crucial, while for others it’s the size and type of room available that's most important. The most important element in an ideal rest home is the philosophy and delivery of care.
Rest homes vary considerably and there can be a wide range of rooms to choose from – such as standard rooms, premium options that offer additional services, and care suites, which combines retirement village and residential care elements. Regardless of which room or residential care facility you choose, you will receive the same standard of care.
Make sure you visit a rest home more than once before you make a decision – you may want to try out a rest home first, either via a trial period or by booking short-stay respite care. When you are ready to consider a rest home, our checklist can help you navigate the process. Then start browsing care home and residential care vacancies.
Your options
Home and Community
Fully independent and still living in your own home. There are many options to help you.
Making Life EasierRetirement Village
Independent living in a purpose built property with varying levels of support.
Retirement VillagesResidential Care
The full service options for all the support and levels of care you could need.
Residential CareNews in the community
Want to read the latest news and events? See what's going on around NZ. This newsletter is created by contributions direct from the Eldernet community and is filled with good news and updates.
Hoon Hay House Dementia - Dementia
Here at Hoon Hay Village, we make the most of our days and engage with our residents in meaningful activities. This includes outings into the community, enjoying entertainment and music activities as well as doing craft, quizzes and gardening. Hoon Hay House also has a 10 bed "woman only" wing....
Hoon Hay Rest Home - Dementia
At Hoon Hay Rest Home Dementia Care our residents form new friendships and enjoy the ability to celebrate each day. Our residents love to engage out in the community and live an active lifestyle. Our care team ensures that every day counts, and that your loved family member or friend...
Wyndham and Districts Community Rest Home - Rest Home
Discover a safe and nurturing Rest Home in rural Southland, operated by a caring community, for your loved ones. With four vacancies available, we invite you to visit us and experience our welcoming environment firsthand. We understand the challenges that come with transitioning into a rest home, and our team...
Victoria Care (Family Owned) - Dementia
Our home has been revamped to become a modern, light, bright and airy unit with up to date artwork and access to seating in the garden areas being updated.