Funding for Elder Care in New Zealand
Finding funding for elder care — whether you're a family carer, a community organisation, or a small provider setting up a service — is genuinely difficult. The information is scattered across government websites, charitable trust pages, and sector publications, with no single place to find it all.
This directory brings it together. We've listed every significant NZ funding source relevant to older people and those who support them — from government subsidies families can access directly, to grants available to community organisations setting up meals on wheels, day programmes, transport services, and social activities.
Each entry includes who administers the fund, who can apply, what it covers, how much is available, and how to apply. We verify these details regularly — the date each entry was last checked is shown.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Funding sources, eligibility criteria, and application dates change frequently. Always verify current details directly with the administering organisation before applying. The information here is a starting point — not a substitute for checking the current position with the fund directly.
Section 1 — For Families and Individual Carers
These funding sources are available directly to older people and their family carers — not organisations. If you're caring for a parent at home and looking for financial support, start here.
Carer Support Subsidy
Who administers it
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora — administered through local NASC services
Who can apply
Family members and others providing full-time unpaid care (more than 4 hours per day) for a person with a health condition or disability. The person being cared for must be assessed as needing support.
What it funds
Contributes toward the cost of a relief carer so the primary carer can take a break (respite). Can be used for a professional respite carer, a day programme, or short-term residential respite. Does not cover equipment, home modifications, or transport — these are handled by separate funding streams.
Amounts available
The number of funded days depends on the needs assessment outcome. Rates per day are set by Health New Zealand and reviewed periodically — verify current rates directly. Changed from 1 April 2026.
How to apply
Contact your parent's GP or your local NASC service to request a needs assessment. Carer Support is allocated as part of this assessment. Freephone Health New Zealand: 0800 855 066.
Website
healthnz.govt.nz — search 'Carer Support Subsidy'
Last verified
March 2026
Residential Care Subsidy
Who administers it
Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ)
Who can apply
People aged 50+ entering long-term residential care (rest home, hospital-level, or dementia care) who meet the asset and income threshold. A means assessment is required.
What it funds
Contributes toward the weekly cost of residential care. Covers the gap between the resident's assessed contribution (primarily their NZ Superannuation income) and the actual cost of care, up to the regional maximum.
Amounts available
Up to the regional Maximum Contribution rate set by Health New Zealand — varies by region and care level. Single person asset threshold: $291,825 (as at 1 July 2025, adjusted annually on 1 July). Verify current figures with Work and Income.
How to apply
A needs assessment (interRAI) must be completed first through your local NASC. Then apply to Work and Income for the means assessment. Apply as soon as the needs assessment indicates residential care — can be backdated to application date. Freephone Work and Income: 0800 559 009.
Website
workandincome.govt.nz — search 'Residential Care Subsidy'
Last verified
May 2026 — verify current asset thresholds as adjusted July 2025
Residential Care Loan
Who administers it
Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ)
Who can apply
People aged 65+ who do not qualify for the Residential Care Subsidy primarily because of the value of their family home, and who have no other liquid assets to meet care costs.
What it funds
A government loan against the value of the family home to fund residential care costs. Repayable (with interest) when the home is eventually sold. Prevents families having to sell the family home immediately to fund care.
Amounts available
Up to the weekly care fee — loan accrues interest at a set rate. No cap on total loan but repayable on sale of the home.
How to apply
Apply through Work and Income alongside the Residential Care Subsidy means assessment. Specialist financial advice recommended before proceeding.
Website
workandincome.govt.nz — search 'Residential Care Loan'
Last verified
May 2026
Lottery Individuals with Disabilities Fund
Who administers it
Department of Internal Affairs — Lottery Grants Board
Who can apply
Individuals with a disability or age-related condition of 6 months or longer that restricts their ability to participate in their community. Must be a NZ permanent resident or citizen.
What it funds
Equipment that enables community participation — mobility scooters, power chairs, communication devices, vehicle modifications, assistance dogs. Not for general household items or care costs.
Amounts available
Varies by equipment type. Scooters: typically covers most costs. Power chairs: usually full cost covered. Vehicles: approximately $40,000 toward cost. Process takes approximately 12 weeks.
How to apply
Apply online through the Department of Internal Affairs Community Advice and Grants portal. Requires a RealMe login. Committee meets 6 times per year. An occupational therapist assessment may be required.
Website
communitymatters.govt.nz — search 'Lottery Individuals with Disabilities'
Last verified
May 2026
NZ Superannuation
Who administers it
Work and Income New Zealand
Who can apply
New Zealand citizens and permanent residents aged 65 and over who meet the residency requirements (generally must have lived in NZ for at least 10 years since age 20, with 5 of those years after age 50).
What it funds
A universal government pension. Continues when entering residential care — most of it is then directed toward care costs. Also provides basis for SuperGold Card discounts on public transport and services.
Amounts available
Rates set by government and adjusted periodically. Single living alone rate approximately $530-700 per week net — verify current rates with Work and Income.
How to apply
Apply through Work and Income up to 12 weeks before turning 65. Online, by phone (0800 552 002), or in person.
Website
workandincome.govt.nz — search 'NZ Superannuation'
Last verified
May 2026 — verify current weekly rates
Veteran's Pension
Who administers it
Work and Income New Zealand — Veterans' Affairs
Who can apply
Veterans who served in qualifying operational service and who meet age and residency criteria. Also available to surviving spouses/partners in some circumstances.
What it funds
A pension equivalent to NZ Superannuation but with additional entitlements for veterans — including some healthcare and support costs depending on the nature of service and any service-related conditions.
Amounts available
At least equivalent to NZ Superannuation rate. Additional entitlements vary by circumstances.
How to apply
Contact Veterans' Affairs NZ — 0800 483 8372. Assessment of service history and eligibility required.
Website
Last verified
May 2026
Equipment and Modification Services (EMS)
Who administers it
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora — administered through ACC and health services
Who can apply
People assessed as needing equipment or home modifications to remain safely at home. Assessment through a health professional (occupational therapist, GP, or NASC) is required.
What it funds
Home modifications to support safe independent living — grab rails, ramps, widened doorways, shower modifications, raised toilet seats. Also equipment loans — shower chairs, hospital beds, walkers. Not cosmetic alterations.
Amounts available
Varies by assessed need. Some equipment is on loan rather than gifted. Home modifications typically funded up to assessed amount — may require a contribution depending on circumstances.
How to apply
Referral from a GP, occupational therapist, or NASC coordinator. ACC administers for injury-related needs; Health New Zealand for health/age-related needs.
Website
health.govt.nz — search 'Equipment and Modification Services'
Last verified
May 2026
Total Mobility Scheme
Who administers it
Administered jointly by local/regional councils and the NZ Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi)
Who can apply
People with significant and permanent impairment that prevents them from using public transport independently. Must be assessed and registered by the local scheme administrator.
What it funds
Subsidised taxi and accessible transport fares — typically a 50% subsidy on taxi fares up to a maximum per trip. Enables access to medical appointments, shopping, and social activities for people who cannot use public transport.
Amounts available
50% subsidy on eligible trips, up to a per-trip maximum set by each regional scheme. Maximum varies by region — check with your local council.
How to apply
Contact your local regional council or visit the Waka Kotahi Total Mobility page to find your regional administrator. Assessment required.
Website
nzta.govt.nz — search 'Total Mobility'
Last verified
May 2026 — subsidy maximums vary by region, verify locally
Section 2 — For Community Organisations and Service Providers
These grants are available to registered charities, incorporated societies, community trusts, and in some cases local councils — not to individuals. If you're setting up or running a community service for older people, these are your primary funding sources.
Office for Seniors — Age Friendly Fund
Who administers it
Office for Seniors | Te Tari Kaumātua (Ministry of Social Development)
Who can apply
Councils, incorporated societies, charitable trusts, and community organisations. Businesses and individuals are not eligible. Organisations that have previously received a grant must wait two funding rounds before applying again.
What it funds
Community-led projects that encourage older people to actively participate and contribute to their communities. Projects must address a clear community need and aim for lasting positive impact. Examples: social connection programmes, dementia-friendly initiatives, intergenerational projects, age-friendly planning.
Amounts available
Grants range from $5,000 to $15,000 excluding GST depending on project size and scope. Annual funding round — applications typically open mid-year.
How to apply
Download the application form from the Office for Seniors website. Submit to agefriendlyfund@msd.govt.nz. Note: the 2025 round closed 30 September 2025 — check for the 2026 round opening date.
Website
officeforseniors.govt.nz — search 'Age Friendly Fund'
Last verified
May 2026 — check current round opening dates
Lottery Community Fund
Who administers it
Department of Internal Affairs — Lottery Grants Board (11 regional committees plus one national committee)
Who can apply
Incorporated societies, charitable trusts, and registered charities. Unregistered or informal groups may be eligible for grants under $10,000. Organisations apply to either the national committee or the relevant regional committee.
What it funds
A wide range of community activities and services including social support programmes, community transport, day activities, equipment purchases (under $50,000), and operating costs for community services. Priority outcomes vary by region — check your regional committee's current priorities. Must benefit groups named in the Gambling Act 2003 including older people.
Amounts available
Varies — the regional committees set their own grant ranges based on available funding each year. Contact your regional committee for indicative amounts.
How to apply
Apply online through the DIA Community Advice and Grants portal at communitymatters.govt.nz. Requires a RealMe login. Check regional committee opening and closing dates before applying — these vary.
Website
communitymatters.govt.nz — search 'Lottery Community'
Last verified
May 2026 — check regional committee dates
Lottery Community Facilities Fund
Who administers it
Department of Internal Affairs — Lottery Grants Board
Who can apply
Incorporated societies, charitable trusts, and registered charities needing to build or improve community facilities. Councils and community boards are also eligible in some circumstances.
What it funds
Capital works projects for community facilities — construction, renovation, or improvement of buildings used for community purposes. Examples relevant to elder care: day centre facilities, community spaces, accessible transport vehicle purchases. Maximum project cost for small grants is $250,000.
Amounts available
Small grants: under $250,000 total project cost. Large grants: $250,000 and over. Applicants must demonstrate partnership funding from other sources.
How to apply
Apply online at communitymatters.govt.nz. Two rounds per year — check current opening and closing dates. Requires project planning documentation and at least two independent letters of support.
Website
communitymatters.govt.nz — search 'Lottery Community Facilities'
Last verified
May 2026 — check current round dates
Selwyn Foundation — Community Research Award
Who administers it
Selwyn Foundation (in partnership with former Ageing Well National Science Challenge)
Who can apply
New Zealand-based registered charities working directly with older people, and NZ-based researchers. Applications must show alignment with the purpose of supporting healthy, independent ageing.
What it funds
Research and community innovation projects that help people stay healthy, maintain independence, and contribute to their communities as they age. Projects should reflect the resourcefulness of older people. Community Research Award is specifically for community organisations rather than academic institutions.
Amounts available
Grant amounts not publicly specified — check with Selwyn Foundation. Two-stage application process: Expression of Interest followed by full proposal.
How to apply
Expressions of Interest open 5 December 2025 and close 18 February 2026 for the current round. Shortlisted applicants invited to submit full proposals. Results announced April 2026. Check for subsequent rounds.
Website
Last verified
May 2026 — verify current round status
Meals on Wheels — Health New Zealand Funding
Who administers it
Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora — contracted through regional health services
Who can apply
Established Meals on Wheels service providers — typically Age Concern regional organisations and Red Cross. This is contract funding for existing providers, not a grant for new services. New providers seeking to establish a Meals on Wheels service should contact their regional Health New Zealand office to discuss contracting arrangements.
What it funds
Delivery of nutritious meals to older people and others who cannot prepare their own meals safely. Covers operational costs of the meal preparation and delivery service.
Amounts available
Contract-based — funding levels set through Health New Zealand contracting processes. Not a publicly advertised grant.
How to apply
Contact your regional Health New Zealand office. For established organisations seeking to deliver Meals on Wheels, discuss contracting arrangements directly with the regional commissioning team.
Website
tewhatuora.govt.nz — contact regional office
Last verified
May 2026
J R McKenzie Trust
Who administers it
J R McKenzie Trust (independent charitable trust)
Who can apply
Registered charities working with disadvantaged New Zealanders. The Trust has specific funding priorities reviewed periodically — check current priorities before applying. Has previously funded programmes supporting older people in need and community social services.
What it funds
Community social services addressing disadvantage and social exclusion. Relevant areas include programmes for isolated elderly people, support for older people in poverty, and services addressing loneliness and disconnection.
Amounts available
Varies by project and funding round. The Trust makes grants across a range of sizes — check current guidelines.
How to apply
Apply through the J R McKenzie Trust website. Check current funding priorities and whether applications are open before applying — the Trust has specific intake periods.
Website
Last verified
May 2026 — verify current priorities and intake status
Todd Foundation
Who administers it
Todd Foundation (independent charitable trust)
Who can apply
New Zealand registered charities. The Foundation has several funding streams with different priorities. Community grants relevant to elder care include programmes addressing social isolation and community wellbeing.
What it funds
Community wellbeing programmes including social connection, addressing isolation, and community-based services. Has funded programmes supporting elderly and vulnerable populations.
Amounts available
Varies — check current guidelines on website. Multiple funding streams with different amounts.
How to apply
Apply through the Todd Foundation website. Check current priorities and application windows.
Website
Last verified
May 2026 — verify current priorities
Rata Foundation (Canterbury/West Coast)
Who administers it
Rata Foundation (formerly Canterbury Community Trust)
Who can apply
Charitable organisations and community groups in Canterbury and the West Coast. Rata Foundation is specifically regional — Canterbury and West Coast only.
What it funds
Community wellbeing programmes across a wide range of areas. Relevant to Ageing Well NZ readers in the Canterbury region: programmes supporting older people, social connection, transport, and community services.
Amounts available
Various grant sizes depending on the programme. Rata Foundation has multiple funding streams — check which is most relevant to your project.
How to apply
Apply through the Rata Foundation website. Multiple funding rounds throughout the year depending on the programme.
Website
Last verified
May 2026 — Canterbury/West Coast only
NZ Community Trust (multiple regions)
Who administers it
NZ Community Trust — operates across multiple regions including Otago, Southland, and others not covered by region-specific trusts
Who can apply
Registered charities and community organisations in the relevant geographic area.
What it funds
Community services and programmes including elder care support, social connection, and community wellbeing programmes.
Amounts available
Varies by programme and region.
How to apply
Apply through the relevant regional NZ Community Trust office. Check geographic coverage — different trusts cover different regions.
Website
Last verified
May 2026 — check regional coverage
Pub Charity
Who administers it
Pub Charity Ltd (gaming machine profits)
Who can apply
Registered charities and incorporated societies. Pub Charity funds a wide range of community organisations including those providing services for elderly people.
What it funds
Operating costs, equipment, and programmes for community organisations. Has funded transport services, social programmes, and equipment for organisations serving older people.
Amounts available
Varies — grants typically range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars depending on the project.
How to apply
Apply online through the Pub Charity website. Applications assessed on a rolling basis.
Website
Last verified
May 2026
Lion Foundation
Who administers it
Lion Foundation (gaming machine profits)
Who can apply
Registered charities and incorporated societies. One of NZ's largest gaming grant distributors.
What it funds
Community services and programmes across a wide range. Has funded community transport, social programmes, equipment, and facilities relevant to elder care organisations.
Amounts available
Varies — up to tens of thousands of dollars for eligible projects.
How to apply
Apply online through the Lion Foundation website. Applications accepted on a rolling basis with regular assessment rounds.
Website
Last verified
May 2026
Four Winds Foundation
Who administers it
Four Winds Foundation (gaming machine profits)
Who can apply
Registered charities and community organisations in NZ.
What it funds
Community benefit programmes. Has funded social and wellbeing programmes including those supporting older people.
Amounts available
Varies.
How to apply
Apply through the Four Winds Foundation website.
Website
Last verified
May 2026
Section 3 — Funding for Specific Types of Services
This section covers funding pathways for organisations wanting to establish or expand specific types of elder care services.
Starting or expanding a community transport service
Community transport for elderly people is primarily funded through a combination of:
Health New Zealand contracting — for transport to medical appointments for eligible clients. Contact your regional Health NZ commissioning team.
Total Mobility Scheme — regional councils subsidise taxi and accessible transport fares. Contact your regional council about becoming an approved provider.
Lottery Community Fund — for operating costs of non-profit community transport services. Apply through communitymatters.govt.nz.
Gaming grants (Lion Foundation, Pub Charity, Four Winds) — for vehicles, equipment, and operating costs.
Local council community grants — most councils have community funding available for local transport services.
Starting or expanding a meals service
Meals on Wheels services in NZ are primarily government-contracted through Health New Zealand. New providers should:
Contact the regional Health New Zealand commissioning team to discuss whether there is capacity for a new contracted provider in the area.
For meals services not seeking government contracting — gaming grants (Pub Charity, Lion Foundation) can fund kitchen equipment and operating costs.
Lottery Community Fund can fund operating costs for non-profit meals services.
Local council grants may be available for community food initiatives.
Starting or expanding day activity programmes
Day activity and social programmes for elderly people can be funded through:
Office for Seniors Age Friendly Fund — specifically for community-led programmes encouraging older people's participation. $5,000-$15,000 per project.
Lottery Community Fund — operating costs, equipment, and activities for day programmes.
Health New Zealand — day programmes for people with assessed needs may be contractable. Contact your regional HNZ team.
Gaming grants — equipment, activities, and operating costs for day centres.
Selwyn Foundation — for innovative programmes supporting independent ageing.
Local council community grants — many councils fund day activities for elderly residents.
Starting a social or community group for older people
Informal social groups and community clubs for older people are among the most straightforward to fund:
Lottery Community Fund — small grants for community groups, including unregistered groups for amounts under $10,000.
Local council community grants — most councils actively fund social activities for older residents.
Age Concern regional offices — can sometimes provide small grants or in-kind support to new social groups.
Gaming grants — small operating costs for registered groups.
SuperGold Card partner discounts — encourage members to use their SuperGold Card for relevant discounts.
Home modifications and equipment
For individuals needing home modifications or equipment to remain safely at home:
Equipment and Modification Services (EMS) — government-funded through Health NZ. Referral from GP or occupational therapist required.
ACC — for modifications related to an injury.
Lottery Individuals with Disabilities Fund — for mobility equipment enabling community participation.
Whaikaha (Ministry of Disabled People) — for people with disabilities needing home modifications.
Section 4 — Finding Additional Funding Sources
The sources listed above cover the most significant and widely applicable NZ funding for elder care. Additional sources worth exploring:
Generosity NZ / Philanthropy New Zealand
philanthropy.org.nz maintains a directory of NZ charitable trusts and foundations. Use their search to find funders relevant to your specific type of service and geographic area.
Your local council
Every NZ council has community grants — some specifically for older residents. Contact your local council's community development team and ask what funding is available for services supporting older people. Canterbury, Auckland, Wellington, and most other councils have dedicated community grant programmes.
Community Waikato / Volunteer Centres
Regional volunteer centres and community resource centres often maintain local funding databases that are more current than national directories. Search for your regional community resource centre.
Funders' Information Service
Some regions have dedicated funders' information services that maintain databases of available grants. Contact your regional community foundation for advice on local funding.
For Maori organisations
Te Puni Kokiri (Ministry for Maori Development) administers specific funding for Maori community services including some relevant to kaumatua and older Maori. tepunikokiri.govt.nz
For Pacific organisations
The Office for Pacific Peoples administers funding relevant to Pacific community services. dia.govt.nz/pacific
SUGGEST A FUNDING SOURCE
If you know of a NZ funding source relevant to elder care that isn't listed here, please get in touch. We update this directory regularly and want it to be as complete as possible.
Last review of this directory: May 2026. Individual entries show their own last-verified dates.