After decades in the hospitality industry, witnessing the highs and lows of human behaviour, I have to say that among the most heartbreaking is that of addiction. 

My own brush with this came when a valued mentor, someone I looked up to, found himself struggling with alcohol dependency. Helping him find his way to recovery underscored the importance of choosing the right rehabilitation facility. 

Luckily, New Zealand offers some of the best options for those seeking to rebuild their lives free from substance abuse. My mentor’s family found him an excellent one, but now, I and the rest of the Top Reviews team want to help others do the same.

That’s why we already did the hard work for you—we looked into different recommendations and spoke with former patients and their families. These are the ones we found to be the cream of the crop.

How much does it cost to go to do drug/alcohol rehab in New Zealand?

A private drug/alcohol rehab centre in New Zealand can cost at least 15,000 NZD for a 30-day stay. However, if you’re doing a government-funded rehab centre then it’s free.

This price is just an estimate and will vary depending on the type of rehab centre you choose, the duration you stay, and more. 

How We Chose

Trust and Credibility: We spoke with patients and their families to gather firsthand insights and made sure to check for any national or international seals of approval.

Diverse Treatments: We looked into everything from individual and group counselling to medical detox, holistic therapies, and aftercare support. 

Expert and Caring Staff: We made sure that the shortlisted places only employed top-notch professionals. We looked for qualified doctors, seasoned therapists, dedicated nurses, and supportive staff members who truly care about their patients’ well-being.

Healing Environment: We inspected the location, ambiance, and amenities of each facility. Centres that offered a serene, comfortable, and well-kept space got our tick of approval. 

1. House of Hope Drug and Alcohol Rehab 

House of Hope addresses all aspects of addiction, making it a top choice for many seeking help. With its holistic approach that includes everything from therapy to yoga, it was easy for us to see why patients and their families rave about it.

Here, the focus is on addressing the core issues of addiction. Their mental health support helps get to the root of the problem.

Patients we talked to praised this and the comprehensive treatment programme, especially the 12-step one, for its structured path to recovery. 

Several raved about the group socialisation activities during the day too. And many liked the private rooms provided by the facility, which seem to be used as sanctuaries for healing at the end of the day.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that they don’t offer on-site medical detox. This is probably the only real issue we had with the place.

Customer Reviews

Offers hope to those suffering in addiction

“The House of Hope is more than just a treatment facility; it is a place of healing and transformation. With its compassionate staff, serene surroundings, and strong sense of community, it offers hope to those suffering in addiction, guiding them towards a brighter future free from the chains of substance abuse. Truely grateful for the time I spent there.”

• Mark Palmer Google Review

After 30 days I can honestly say that it has been life changing 

” House of Hope is amazing!!  When I arrived at the house I was broken.  Addiction had taken over my life completely and was unmanageable.  Within hours of arriving I knew I was in the right place.  Kobus and the team genuinely cared for my well being.  After 30 days I can honestly say that it has been life changing and although my recovery path will always be ongoing, I am extremely thankful to the whole team who have set me up with a solid foundation.  I call them family now!”

• Karla Atkinson Google Review 

2. Zen Detox Premium Wellness Retreat

Zen Detox creates a serene environment that mirrors the inner peace they aim to help people achieve. 

We observed the staff’s flexibility in adjusting programmes to individual needs, and the AA/NA meetings we attended are ideal for those seeking peer support. They take on a holistic approach and offer therapies ranging from yoga to naturopathic. 

The patients we spoke to highlighted the 24/7 care and medically assisted detox as particularly valuable, providing a sense of security during the challenging initial phase.

Sure, some found the programme’s intensity overwhelming, especially during the detox phase. But family members commented that the strictness of the programme is what made the aftercare and transition back into daily life smoother.

However, they only accept a limited number of people into this rehab centre. You might have to wait for a spot to open up. 

Customer Reviews

Zen saved my life after a 20 year addiction

“Zen saved my life, after a 20 year addiction, finding a way out of that was impossible for me to do alone. The staff at Zen carried hope for me till they taught me how to carry hope for myself. Today I’ve living proof that no matter the depths substance abuse takes you there’s a better life. Zen fostered a holistic approach to my recovery,  they help me face my core issues and loved me back to health and emotional stability. I don’t know where I would be today if not for my Zen family. Forever grateful for this truly life changing experience that Zen gave me.”

• Rya Emshoff Google Review 

 I feel truly blessed to have found Zen 

“Zen is a truly special place. The opposite of addiction is connection, I have been to a few rehabs and from my experience there is nowhere quite like Zen where you will find that true connection.  Addiction is not a quick fix it is lifelong disease and Zen is like a family where you are always welcomed back and they do follow up and check on how you are after leaving treatment.  I feel truly blessed to have found Zen after I relapsed I wanted to just disappear but the love felt and shown at Zen really did prevent me from continuing down the dark path of addiction and isolation.  If you want the best treatment that actually deliver on what they say, one on one peer support, group therapy, medical assisted detoxication which is professionally run than I highly recommend Zen.  If you have a loved one that needs help then take them to Zen.  Join the family xx

• Tracey Clarke Google Review 

3. Ocean Hills Wellness and Rehabilitation

If you’re seeking data-based rehab programmes for alcohol addiction, Ocean Hill provides a compassionate and scientifically-backed service. 

The facility specialises in alcohol addiction using evidence-based cognitive therapies. But it’s not all cold data – there’s real dedication here. Every time we spoke with Stephanie and Andrew, the clinical leads, they just lit up with passion for their work and helping people break free from alcohol addiction.

Many of their patients also told us how supportive the staff were. Several commented on how the comprehensive aftercare, including personalised phone support and group therapy, helped them stay sober long-term.

Yes, some complained that their approach wasn’t 12-step-based. But for the most part, many we spoke to believed in their methods and liked the personalised approach.

Customer Reviews

My time there truly helped me become a better me

“Warm, welcoming and understanding. Cared for and educated in a non threatening, non judgemental environment but under no illusions as to why I was there. My time there truly helped me become a better me, understand myself and others, and live a happy sober life. Of course it’s not easy, but Ocean Hills made it possible.” 

• Sarah Weidmann Google Review  

Education, recovery activities and sober fun

“Ocean Hills has been my home away from home for the treatment of my persistent addiction. Elaine and her team have treated me with understanding, compassion, dignity and respect; and they are all clearly skilled at their jobs. The facility provides a very comfortable, safe and healing environment. I appreciate the finer details you would expect for the discerning. The food is outstanding and we can even cook if we want! There is a good balance between education, recovery activities and sober fun. Ocean Hills holistic approach introduced me to a range of recovery tools and the community, because recovery from addiction is not just about abstinence.”

• Brett Google Review 

4. Clinic 77

When we first stepped into Clinic 77, we couldn’t help but sense a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. A good thing, as they offer a lifeline for those juggling the demands of family, work, and education while battling alcohol and drug abuse. 

Several patients and their families told us they appreciated the freedom to continue their everyday lives with this clinic. The flexibility here is the biggest blessing for many.

With access to individual counselling, psychotherapy, psychoeducation, and group therapy, patients have several options to turn to for their recovery. They seem effective too: family members noted that their loved ones were able to rebuild strained relationships and heal. 

However, family members of those with more severe addiction felt they needed more than what Clinic 77’s intensive outpatient treatment programme offers. 

We also heard complaints that Clinic 77 often faces limited availability and waiting lists. This can be frustrating, especially for those eager to start treatment immediately. 

Customer Reviews

Clinic 77 is top-notch and it’s such a safe and warm environment

“Clinic 77 is a God send. I have nothing but amazing things to say about the programmes, the staff and the setting. The support provided at Clinic 77 is top-notch and it’s such a safe and warm environment, that it feels like a home away from home. I love these people. Thanks for all you do.”

• Samantha Jane Google Review 

5. The Difference Rehab

The Difference develops recovery programmes tailored to individuals. Whether you’re seeking a week-long detox or an intensive 30-day treatment, they seem to have it all covered.

A holistic approach is a significant part of their offering, encompassing counselling, yoga, and group therapy, which many patients found incredibly beneficial. Several patients told us the group therapy sessions in particular helped them feel less alone in their struggle.

Additionally, the presence of a gym and personal training sessions three times a week was a big hit among many patients trying to stay in shape during their stay. 

We also heard numerous compliments about the staff, which is one of our requirements for a place being shortlisted. According to the families we spoke to, the staff are incredibly compassionate and committed. 

They also offer assisted detox to help safely eliminate dependency on drugs or alcohol, which is a relief for many worried loved ones.

However, several patients and their families noted a lack of individual attention due to what seemed like a somewhat rigid adherence to the 12-step model. Some felt lost in the standardised programme, and others wished there was a bit more one-on-one time with counsellors.

Customer Reviews

Professional, considerate and always on hand to help

“An exceptionally well appointed facility that truly live up to the name and make ‘The Difference’. The team are professional, considerate and always on hand to help, not only during my stay but also afterwards. I cannot thank Celia, Kobus and the crew enough for all the effort they put into my recovery. I would highly recommend to anyone struggling with any form of addiction.”

• benjamin erren Google Review  

My experience here has given me great insight into myself

“For a long time I was in denial and I thought I could do this journey on my own. After admitting defeat, I came to The Difference with an open mind I can’t even begin to express my gratitude for this establishment. From the beautiful serene rural setting to the amazing staff. My experience here has given me great insight into myself. The programme and the facilitators made my stay so comfortable. I applied myself in every way to get my life back on track. Upon my completion of my time here I have taken full advantage of the after care programme which  has been imperative for my reintegration back into my everyday life. if your struggling or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse I strongly recommend you make contact.”

• Robert Wildman Google Review 

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