REST & RECUPERATE
CaringStay
Practical, personal support for people when they need it most – whether in the comfort of their own home or at one of ours.
We can walk the dog, cook your meals, hold your hand, and laugh at your jokes.
Whether you're looking for a safe and restful place to recover, or prefer support in your own space, CaringStay can help. Choose the option that suits you best – or find out more about how it all works.

Lizzie Scott
Welcome to CaringStay
CaringStay is New Zealand’s first country-wide provider of private-home recovery and respite services. Whether you need companionship over a nutritious meal or a helping hand as you regain your strength, we’re here to support you—either in your own home or with one of our welcoming hosts.
When you're worried about the people you're close to
For those you care about who may not ask for help (but really need it)
- We know it’s not easy to ask
Some people find it hard to say it's hard – that’s where we can quietly step in. - Support without fuss
We offer help in a way that feels natural and respectful – no big gestures, just thoughtful care. - A helping hand for vulnerable times
We’re not medical professionals, but we’re here to be a steady, reliable presence when support is needed - Real people who understand
We’re like neighbours and friends there to give a bit of help. - We’ve walked this path too
We know what it's like when someone needs support, but says 'I'm fine, don't worry'. - Making a difference
Whether it’s practical assistance or being there to brighten a lonely day.
Our wonderful hosts & carers
Our Carers come from all walks of life—engineering, law, nursing, and hospitality—each bringing a unique, caring touch. Every one of them is background-checked and comes with solid references, but most importantly, they share a genuine passion for helping people recover.
They’re there when you need a hand and know when to step back, ensuring you feel supported and respected on your journey to regaining strength.






Testimonials
it was heaven to arrive at lunchtime and be offered home-made pumpkin soup and a grilled cheese sandwich.
I was booked in for hip replacement surgery and due to living in a multi story apartment I needed somewhere to stay until I could feel stable enough walking and without having to manage flights of stairs. As I have no family living nearby, I needed to find another option. My surgeon’s office mentioned a pamphlet advertising Caring Stay.
I contacted Lizzie Scott, the Manager of Caring Stay, to enquire if there were any homes available in my area, during the timeframe I required. Lizzie put me in touch with a host, who I then visited prior to my surgery, to see whether the facilities would be appropriate for my recuperation. I ended up staying for 7 days, with a lovely host who prepared all my meals and provided a nice warm home where I could relax and recover from my surgery.
Having had hospital food for 4 days, it was heaven to arrive at lunchtime and be offered home-made pumpkin soup and a grilled cheese sandwich.
Caring Stay is a wonderful option for recuperating from surgery or even needing some peaceful downtime. Even someone having day surgery and needing somewhere to stay for the night, Caring Stay would be a great choice.
It was easy to organise and friendly.
what I got was a host who made me feel completely at ease, creating a warm, nurturing environment that was just what I needed during my recovery.
I recently underwent a full hip replacement surgery and due to a change in personal circumstances I did not have a place to recover directly after my hospital discharge. My family and I began searching for post surgery care and stay options in the community following surgery, and found there were very few, if any options available. I did not require nursing level care, rather a bed, meals, companionship, and help putting my socks on! I was able to shower and use the bathroom on my own, with a little difficulty.
Following some additional searching through various internet search engines we came across the CaringStay website and after reading through the information we made contact through the website's contact form. Not long afterward Lizzie replied and we were able to explain my situation and ask whether CaringStay may be in a position to help. I was looking for care in Whangarei. Lizzie said she would get onto it and get back to us.
The following day Lizzie from CaringStay again made contact to let us know she had a place for me to stay in Whangarei post surgery, and Lizzie put me in contact with the host, Jeanette. As I was in town, and still mobile, I arranged with Jeanette to have a quick visit prior to the stay. I instantly connected with the hostn who made me feel very welcome and a 5 minute stay turned into a 60 minute visit.
On my release from hospital, Jeanette had offered to pick me up, as I was unable to drive and had planned to take a taxi. I was very grateful for this offer and her level of care for me. I was provided with meals, a bedroom, and as much, or as little company as I was ready for during the course of my stay. My host was caring, flexible and friendly. She even helped me put my socks on!
For low level post operative care, I could not recommend my experience with CaringStay enough. Thank you Lizzie and team.
The care I received was so friendly, comforting, and constant that’s my overriding feeling about the entire experience.
I needed a place where I could recover comfortably, as the stairs at home were too much to manage. This accommodation turned out to be absolutely perfect for my needs.
The care I received was so friendly, comforting, and constant that’s my overriding feeling about the entire experience.
I know it’s not a grand hotel but better – what I got was a host who made me feel completely at ease, creating a warm, nurturing environment that was just what I needed during my recovery. We had great chats and conversations, and we will stay in touch.
One of my favourite things was the beautiful garden – a tranquil space to relax and unwind. When my family came to see me they were welcomed just as warmly, with cups of tea all round.
I’ve already shared my wonderful experience with many people and recommended both the home and Kate wholeheartedly. What could have been a difficult time was a positive and supportive experience. I’m so grateful.
I was recovering from a 2nd bout of pneumonia & lived a 12 hr drive away. The host & home you were able to offer was an enormous blessing.
Greetings Lizzie - I just want to reiterate what a marvellous relief it was not only to discover CaringStay existed but your positive response to my query. I was feeling very anxious regarding my son's discharge from hospital and being so far away, unable to help. I was recovering from a 2nd bout of pneumonia & lived a 12 hr drive away. The host & home you were able to offer was an enormous blessing.
Another positive is that the host & my son related so well to each other that they will keep in touch. Just marvellous! Thank you Lizzie and CaringStay for such an effective & worthwhile service.
The hosts were really friendly and welcoming, spending time chatting with me and providing company, which I truly appreciated.
"I was put in touch with Lizzie at CaringStay because I needed a break. She found me a fantastic homestay that seemed ideal, and offered a peaceful environment.
The hosts were really friendly and welcoming, spending time chatting with me and providing company, which I truly appreciated. Their warm hospitality made me feel at ease and well looked after. The food was good and very plentiful!
I would recommend this to anyone looking for a nice, quiet place to stay with genuinely kind hosts.
My experience was just wonderful."
I ended up staying for 7 days, with a lovely host who prepared all my meals Caring Stay is a wonderful option for recuperating from surgery or even needing some peaceful downtime.
I was booked in for hip replacement surgery and needed somewhere to stay until I could feel stable enough walking and without having to manage flights of stairs. My surgeon’s office mentioned Caring Stay.
I contacted Lizzie Scott, the Manager of Caring Stay put who me in touch with a host.
I ended up staying for 7 days, with a lovely host who prepared all my meals
Caring Stay is a wonderful option for recuperating from surgery or even needing some peaceful downtime.