Caring for elderly individuals in New Zealand, involves various options, each with distinct services and associated costs. Generally, the in-home elderly care services cost anywhere between $30 to $50 in Auckland. A study published in BMC Geriatrics found that the average healthcare expenditure in the last year of life for older New Zealanders was approximately $16,816 NZD per person.
Elderly Care Cost in Auckland
Here’s a table below that breaksdown the overall costs of an elderly care service in Auckland:
| Service Type | Description | Cost Range (NZD) |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Care | Assistance with showering, dressing, mouth care, pill dispensing | $30 – $50 per hour |
| Housekeeping | Cleaning, meal prep, shopping (excludes food) | $30 – $45 per hour |
| Support Worker Travel | Travel reimbursement | $0.72 per km |
| High Needs (After-Hours) | Specialist care outside standard hours | $67.50 + GST per hour |
| Night Sleepover | Overnight care support | $350 + GST per night |
| Residential Care (Standard) | Basic nursing home accommodation | $1,400 per week (~$72,800 annually) |
| Residential Care (Premium) | Private ensuite, upgraded amenities | $10 – $120 extra per day (~$76,440 – $116,480 annually) |
| Government Subsidy | Income- and asset-tested care funding | Varies by assessment |
1. Personal Care
Personal care is essential for many elderly individuals, especially those with limited mobility or chronic conditions. Services typically include help with daily hygiene such as showering, oral care, dressing, and assistance with medications. In Auckland, the cost for personal care generally ranges between $30 to $50 per hour. These services can significantly improve quality of life for older adults who wish to remain independent at home but need support with physical tasks.
2. Housekeeping Services
Housekeeping assistance goes beyond cleanliness—it ensures a safe and livable environment for older adults. This includes vacuuming, dusting, laundry, shopping, and meal preparation. These tasks help reduce fall risks and promote a healthier routine. The cost is slightly lower than personal care, typically between $30 and $45 per hour, not including the cost of groceries for meal prep.
3. Support Worker Travel
For in-home services, travel expenses are an additional cost often overlooked. Most providers in Auckland charge 72 cents per kilometer for the distance a support worker travels to and from the client’s home. This is an important consideration for elderly clients living in rural or less central parts of the city. Planning visits in blocks or coordinating care with nearby clients may help reduce this cost.
4. High Needs and After-Hours Care
Some elderly individuals require more intensive support. These may include clients with dementia, post-operative conditions, or terminal illnesses. When care is needed outside regular working hours—such as evenings or weekends—the cost rises to around $67.50 + GST per hour. After-hours care ensures the availability of skilled assistance at any time, providing peace of mind for families.
A report by the Aged Care Association of New Zealand (2023) revealed that the cost of providing aged care services has increased by over 15% in the last five years, driven by rising wages, increased demand for skilled workers, and the higher cost of regulatory compliance. This upward trend is reflected in the growing rates for high-needs and after-hours care across Auckland.
5. Night Sleepover
Sleepover support involves having a caregiver remain in the home overnight. This is essential for seniors who are prone to night-time wandering, falls, or medical episodes. The typical charge is $350 + GST per night. Some providers may apply additional fees if care is required during the night (rather than passive monitoring). This option is particularly suitable for individuals with severe cognitive or physical impairments.
6. Residential Care (Standard)
Also known as nursing homes or aged care facilities, residential care homes provide full-time support. Standard care typically includes accommodation, meals, personal care, and nursing. In Auckland, a standard room in a care facility costs approximately $1,400 per week, which amounts to nearly $72,800 annually. Many facilities follow a government-assessed fee structure, though private options may vary slightly.
7. Residential Care (Premium)
Premium rooms offer additional comfort, such as larger spaces, personal bathrooms, or scenic views. These extras come at an added cost ranging from $10 to $120 per day, raising the annual cost to between $76,440 and $116,480. While these features are not medically necessary, they do provide a better living experience for residents and are often chosen by families looking for high-end care.
8. Government Subsidies
To support elderly care affordability, the New Zealand government offers the Residential Care Subsidy. This financial assistance is available to seniors who meet income and asset criteria. The subsidy helps cover accommodation and care costs in approved facilities. For example, if a resident is assessed to contribute $300 per week but their care costs $900, the government pays the remaining $600. Eligibility assessments are done by Work and Income NZ.
Conclusion
Elderly care services cost anywhere betweemn $30 to $50 in Auckland and suburbs. At ServiiPro, care for older adults as our own family members. ServiiPro offers the most compeititve and affordable prices for in-home care services in Auckland.