Finding the right support in Otago and Southland
Otago and Southland together cover the lower South Island. Dunedin, as the main city, has a well-established aged care sector — a significant older population, strong community organisations, and a range of services across all types. Queenstown and Central Otago have seen some retirement service growth. Southland, centred on Invercargill, has a functional if more modest range.
Dunedin has the most complete range of services in the combined region. In Queenstown, demand for retirement living has grown but supply remains relatively constrained. In rural Otago and in Southland, the range of services is narrower — families planning for a parent whose care needs will increase should consider whether the current location has the services likely to be needed. Early planning is particularly important in these areas.
ABOUT THIS PAGE
Services listed here are based in Otago and Southland. The guides and information on this site apply across all of New Zealand — the Residential Care Subsidy, Enduring Power of Attorney, and retirement village law are the same in Otago and Southland as everywhere else in NZ.
Elder care services in Otago and Southland
Browse services by type below. Each category lists providers operating in Otago and Southland.
Retirement villages in Otago and Southland
Home care and support in Otago and Southland
Rest homes and residential care in Otago and Southland
Dementia care in Otago and Southland
Legal help — elder law and estate planning in Otago and Southland
Financial advice for aged care in Otago and Southland
Transport services for elderly in Otago and Southland
Meal delivery services in Otago and Southland
Community groups and social activities in Otago and Southland
Respite care in Otago and Southland
Key organisations in Otago and Southland
Age Concern Otago and Age Concern Southland operate separately across their respective areas.
Alzheimers Otago and Alzheimers Southland provide dementia support.
The Southern NASC (under Health New Zealand Southern) coordinates government-funded support across both regions.
Guides for families
These guides cover national NZ rules and processes — fully relevant to families in Otago and Southland.
How to start the conversation with an ageing parent about needing more help
What enduring power of attorney means — and why you need it before a crisis
How to assess whether an elderly parent is safe living alone
Can't find what you need in Otago and Southland?
If a service you're looking for isn't listed yet, get in touch. We're building out Otago and Southland coverage and want to hear what's missing. If you're a provider in Otago and Southland, list your service here.