You may be able to get help with regular housework, some essential maintenance and buying furniture or appliances. To qualify you’ll need to have ongoing health problems, an injury or be disabled.
Get help with your home and garden
The government can provide help around your home if you need it. Find out if you’re eligible to get government-funded home help.
Before you can get these services, your local Needs Assessment Service Coordination (NASC) team must assess your needs. The NASC service is part of Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand.
You may be able to get a grant that pays up to 80-90% of the cost for ceiling and floor insulation and efficient heating. You need to own your own home and have a Community Services Card or live in an area identified as low-income.
There is some government help to maintain your house that is available to all New Zealanders.
Essential furniture, bedding or appliances
If you’re on a low income and do not have enough money to buy bedding, essential furniture or whiteware, for example a washing machine or fridge, talk to Work and Income about applying for financial help.
The type of payment they offer you depends on your personal situation. You normally have to pay this money back to Work and Income.
If you’re on a benefit or NZ pension, ask for an advance to help with essential repairs to your home. You have to pay back the money to Work and Income.
The most you can apply for is usually $1,000, but it can be more or less depending on your situation.
