New Zealand has several government programs supporting unpaid carers — but most carers have never accessed any of them. This guide covers the main programs available to New Zealand caregivers in 2026, who qualifies for each, and how to apply. Carer Support — funded respite Carer Support provides funded relief for people who are the primary carer of someone with a disability or chronic health condition. It is administered by Whaikaha — the Ministry of Disabled People — and funded through your local health provider. What it provides: Carer Support pays for someone to take over your caring role temporarily so you can have a break. This can include paid respite workers coming to your home, or the person you care for attending a day programme or short-term residential respite facility. Who qualifies: You must be the primary carer of a person with a disability or chronic health condition who requires ongoing support. The person you care for must be assessed as eligible for disability support services. How to apply: Contact Whaikaha at whaikaha.govt.nz or phone 0800 575 004. A needs assessment will be arranged to confirm eligibility and determine the level of Carer Support funding. Supported Living Payment — income support for carers The Supported Living Payment is a weekly benefit from Work and Income New Zealand for people who have a health condition or disability that significantly limits their ability to work. Some full-time carers whose own health has been affected by their caring role may qualify. Who qualifies: You must have a health condition or disability that is likely to continue for at least two years and significantly limits your capacity for work. A medical certificate from your doctor is required. How to apply: Contact Work and Income on 0800 559 009 or visit workandincome.govt.nz to apply online. Child Disability Allowance — for parents of disabled children The Child Disability Allowance is a fortnightly payment for parents or guardians who are caring for a child with a serious disability at home. The disability must require ongoing care and attention substantially more than a child of the same age without a disability. How to apply: Apply through Work and Income at workandincome.govt.nz/products/a-z-benefits/child-disability-allowance.html or call 0800 559 009. NASC — Needs Assessment and Service Coordination NASC is the process through which New Zealanders with disabilities access funded support services. A needs assessment identifies what support is required and a service coordinator helps connect the person with appropriate services — which can include equipment, home modifications, personal care, and respite. How to access: Contact your local NASC organisation. Your GP or specialist can make a referral. You can also self-refer by contacting Whaikaha at whaikaha.govt.nz. National Travel Assistance — travel costs to specialist appointments The National Travel Assistance Scheme covers travel costs for patients who need to travel significant distances to access specialist health care that is not available locally. This applies to the person receiving care — not the carer — but significantly reduces the financial burden on caregiving families. How to access: Ask your GP or specialist to apply on behalf of the patient. Contact your local District Health Board for eligibility information. IRD mileage rate — vehicle expenses If you use your vehicle for caregiving purposes the IRD approved mileage rate for 2026 is 73 cents per kilometre. Keep a logbook of caregiving-related trips including date, destination, purpose, and kilometres driven. Confirm eligibility to claim with a qualified New Zealand accountant. Official sources
Whaikaha — whaikaha.govt.nz Carer Support — whaikaha.govt.nz/support-and-services/for-disabled-people/carer-support Supported Living Payment — workandincome.govt.nz/products/a-z-benefits/supported-living-payment.html Child Disability Allowance — workandincome.govt.nz/products/a-z-benefits/child-disability-allowance.html National Travel Assistance — health.govt.nz/your-health/services-and-support/health-care-services/national-travel-assistance IRD mileage rates — ird.govt.nz
This article is for informational purposes only. FeatherKeep does not assess benefit eligibility. Always confirm your specific situation with Work and Income, Whaikaha, or a qualified New Zealand accountant.