The 5 Best Nursing Homes in Auckland That Really Feel Like Home
Jessica McNamara
| Last Updated: December 2024 As our parents get older, it can be tough to feel at ease leaving them home alone, especially when you’re juggling your own family and work. You want to make sure they’re safe, happy, and well taken care of.
However, finding a trustworthy nursing home for them can feel overwhelming, especially with how many nursing homes Auckland has.
But don’t worry! My team and I visited a bunch of them and chatted with some residents to get the inside scoop.
After evaluating them all, we’ve put together a list of the best options out there. Find out more here!
How much do nursing homes charge in Auckland?
How We Chose The Best Nursing Homes in Auckland
1. Claire House Rest Home
When we stopped by Claire House Rest Home, it instantly gave off a warm and cozy vibe. It felt pretty intimate with 57 beds divided into smaller wings of 8 to 10 residents.
We also saw that the residents and staff were close—it had a real sense of community.
We spoke to some residents and many told us that the care feels personalized. Whether it’s dementia care or palliative care, they felt like everyone’s needs were being looked after.
But we did notice that they seem a bit short-staffed. While we were there, we saw some staff rushing around trying to keep up with residents’ needs, which gave us the impression that they might be stretched thin.
Each wing has its own lounge and dining area, where residents can relax, have meals together, and chat. There’s also a nice range of activities to keep people engaged and socially connected.
The location itself is peaceful but still close to all the essentials. They’ve also added thoughtful touches like Wi-Fi, private phone lines, and even the option to bring your own furniture to make it feel more personal.
It is a home away from home
“I am so grateful to the staff and management of Claire Home. It is a home away from home. Warm, loving and caring. Absolutely the best for my mum.”
Linley Porter, Google review
Very friendly helpful staff and a wonderful level of care
“Just beautiful. Lovely rooms. Stunning gardens. Very friendly helpful staff and a wonderful level of care.”
Sheree Foster, Google review
2. Bupa Hugh Green Retirement Village and Care Home
Bupa Hugh Green Retirement Village and Care Home has a fantastic setup.
During our visit, we checked out their four buildings with 100 beds, including a dedicated dementia ward with 25 rooms. Every apartment opens to its own deck, perfect for some fresh air.
We happened to be there on quiz night, and it was heartwarming to see the residents having fun.
There’s plenty to keep everyone busy, like an indoor pool, library, and beautiful gardens. The nearby park and wetland boardwalk are great for walks, too.
They really focus on personalizing care and involving residents and their families in care plans, so it’s tailored to individual needs.
On the flip side, some residents have mentioned that the food could use more variety. Meals can get repetitive, which has been a bit of a downer for some.
We cannot praise the staff highly enough
“Our friend has been a resident for the past few months. It is of a very high standard and we cannot praise the staff highly enough. The other residents we have made friends with are also very pleased. Keep up the good work.”
Gina Freeman, Google review
It’s 5-star style inside and they’ve got a warm and friendly staff
“Don’t let the location fool you, this is a hidden gem! Its 5-star style inside and warm, friendly staff are what sets Bupa apart as a Health and Care company.”
Tamz Taumalolo, Google review
3. Edmund Hillary Retirement Village
After learning that Edmund Hillary Retirement Village won Best Provider Nationwide at the 2024 Aged Advisor People’s Choice Awards, we had to pay a visit.
We were impressed by the amenities—imagine living on over 10 hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens that’s complete with a spa, bowling green, and croquet lawn.
There are plenty of opportunities to stay active. Plus, with regular social events, making friends is easy.
We also got to check out the on-site café serving up barista-made coffee and delicious meals.
Living arrangements cater to everyone, with comfy apartments and townhouses that are spacious and accessible. They feature modern kitchens and bathrooms for seniors, allowing residents to maintain their independence.
For those needing extra support, there are serviced apartments with housekeeping and chef-prepared meals.
However, during our research, we found out about an incident in which the clinical manager denied a woman the chance to visit her mother.
Excellent competent and friendly staff, and excellent facilities
“My wife’s mum lives here and this place is fantastic. Amazing gardens and grounds, excellent competent and friendly staff, and excellent facilities. No hesitation in having our loved ones here where they are extremely well cared for.”
Grant Harris, Google review
5-star facilities and managed by people who care about people
“Wonderful place. 5-star facilities and managed by people who care about people. Mum was here for a few years and being ocd these guys really looked after Mum very well! Highly recommended over and above other villages around Auckland.”
GenX Guy, Google review
4. Lexham Gardens Rest Home
Our team and I absolutely loved Lexham Gardens Rest Home! The central garden adds such a peaceful vibe, and it was great to see residents enjoying the fresh air and engaging in outdoor activities.
The staff really goes above and beyond to ensure everyone feels comfortable and respected. We noticed how they value each resident’s individuality by allowing them to personalize their rooms for a more homey feel.
There are also tons of activities to keep residents busy! One resident shared how much he enjoys the weekly coach trips to local attractions.
The staff also mentioned they’re always getting training to meet the diverse needs of residents, especially those who might need a bit more patience.
Plus, Lexham Gardens is conveniently close to the St. Lukes shopping center but still away from the hustle and bustle of busy roads. It’s a lovely, safe space for residents to stroll around.
That said, some residents mentioned that extra attention to maintenance and cleanliness in some common areas would be helpful.
Great view of the garden
“Most rooms have a great view of the garden that keeps residents’ mood up. Staff are friendly.”
April Zoe Lando, Google review
The staff are so friendly and welcoming
“The staff are so friendly and welcoming. The gardens are immaculately maintained and kept clean at all times by the friendly gardener. The moment you enter you’d be greeted by smiling Residents who normally sit around the foyer, a gesture to somewhat welcome you into their home. I would highly recommend this facility for your loved ones.”
Frances Vavaitamana, Google review
5. Concord House Rest Home
At Concord House Rest Home, even though it’s a small community, the caregivers really create a family atmosphere with the residents. It feels more like home than a facility, and the staff genuinely go the extra mile to tailor their care to meet each person’s needs.
When we visited, we chatted with one resident who raved about having someone on hand 24/7. It’s such a comfort to know that even in the middle of the night, help is just a call away!
Like any care facility, there are times when the staff can feel a bit stretched, especially with such a small team. Some of the families we talked to mentioned they sometimes worry about whether their loved ones are getting the attention they need right away.
On the bright side, Concord House offers a great mix of specialized services, including dementia care, palliative care, and respite care.
All the staff are friendly, helpful, and very caring
“I can not recommend Concord more highly. All the staff are friendly, helpful, and very caring and my brother felt happy and completely at home while living there. Special mention to Olive, who gave my brother exemplary care, and is a lovely lady. Jenni runs this home as if everyone is family, and the many, many times she has gone out of her way to do extra running around for my brother and being extremely helpful, to his needs, is really humbling. You will not be disappointed if you leave your loved ones’ care to Jenni and Concord.”
Cathy Hughes, Google review
My senior’s health improved a lot under them
“Excellent care. My senior friend moved into the rest home 1 year ago. they have provided excellent care for him. His health improved a lot. Definitely recommended.”
Tony Liu, Google review
