If someone told you that a Kera hoist could be funded for you—at no personal cost—it might sound like something from an alternate universe. But it’s very real in New Zealand when you go through the right channels and can show need.
In this post, I have broken down the pathways, the paperwork, and the little scripts you can copy-paste to get the process moving.
The two main funding paths
1) You’re covered by ACC (injury-related disability)
ACC can fund aids and equipment—including hoists—when an assessor shows they meet your injury-related needs. Complex items are commonly trialed first to confirm safety and fit, then purchased (it’s typically a loan via ACC’s equipment partner).
Good to know
Complex or non-list equipment can usually be trialed for up to 20 working days (often extendable once). That’s long enough to see if a Kera Sit2Sit hoist can work in your real life.
Further Resources
2) You’re not covered by ACC (non-injury disability)
Maybe you’re living with Multiple Sclerosis, Motor Neurone disease, or you’re simply finding things harder as you age.
You’ll go through a NASC (Needs Assessment and Service Coordination) for Disability Support Services (DSS).
The Government has just confirmed changes that will restore flexibility and choice around how disabled people and caregivers use support funding, with a staged rollout in 2026 (including a pause on most reassessments during part of the transition).
Community organisations are welcoming these changes as a turning point for more practical, person-led funding.
What to actually do (step-by-step)
If you’re under ACC:
- Email your case manager asking for an OT assessment and a trial of the Kera Sit2Sit hoist (Kera Home or Kera Travel).
- Mention why it’s a need (safe transfers, dignity, independence; e.g., home armchair, car seat, travel).
- Your assessor/Occupational Therapist (OT) arranges the trial; if it proves suitable and cost-effective, ACC can fund it (via Enable New Zealand).
Copy-paste starter:
Hi [Name], I’d like an OT assessment and trial of the Kera Sit2Sit hoist to support safe transfers and travel/home independence. I believe this meets a need for safety and daily living. Could we please arrange the assessment and trial? Thanks, [Your Name]
If It’s Not an Accident (Other Conditions)
- Talk to your GP and request a NASC assessment
- NASC assessment – An Occupational Therapist (OT) will come to your home to check what supports you need to manage your condition.
- Ask for the Kera by name:
- Point out that sling hoists are too complex, need two people, or aren’t practical in a residential home. The Kera sit2sit is simpler, faster, and more dignified.
- Emphasise that the Kera is the least-restrictive option that preserves dignity and reduces risk for you and your caregiver(s).
4. Trial approval and delivery – If NASC agrees, your hoist can be funded through the Ministry of Health / DSS following a successful trial.
Reforms in 2026 aim to make flexible funding simpler to use.
Copy-paste starter:
Hi [Name], I’d like a NASC assessment and trial of the Kera Sit2Sit hoist to support safe transfers at home and when travelling. Please consider this in my plan and budget as the least-restrictive option to meet my needs. Thank you, [Your Name]
“Can I get the Kera sit2sit with no cost to me?”
Short answer: This is a strong possibility, when funded by ACC or DSS after assessment and a successful trial. However, equipment funding is needs-based, not automatic. You’ll need to show that a hoist is the safest and most practical solution for your situation. Trials are there to prove that.
How long will this take?
Honest answer: it varies. Trials and approvals take time, and DSS is in a transition period toward a more flexible system rolling out in 2026. Build in a little patience—but take the first step now so you’re in the queue.
If the main paths stall: try charitable trusts
Charitable funding is a solid fallback. It can be slower than ACC/DSS, but many families succeed this way—especially when they submit a clear letter from their Occupational Therapist (or similar Health Professional) and a quote after a successful trial.
Quick checklist before you email
- I can explain why I need a sit-to-sit hoist (safety, dignity, independence).
- I have (or can link) product info/videos so my assessor understands what the Kera does.
- I’m asking specifically for a trial (so we can prove fit and safety).
About the Kera Sit2Sit (Kera Home / Kera Travel)
Kera’s “sit-to-sit” design is built for everyday life: transfers between real-world seats (armchairs, car seats, dining chairs, etc.) and a portable option for trips.
If you’re outside New Zealand, you can still purchase directly; inside NZ, try the funding paths above first.
Final word
You don’t have to cope alone, and your caregiver doesn’t either. Whether it’s via ACC or NASC/DSS, ask for the assessment and trial. That’s how fully funded can become real.
If you want help wording your request—or you’d like to arrange a demo—email Mark Williams at mwilliams@htsystems.co.nz. I can point you and your OT to the right info and set up a trial.
Mark Williams is a Kera Travel user, Investor and National Sales Manager in HT Systems.
Want to see if a Kera sit2sit hoist is the right solution for you:
Learn more about our Kera sit2sit hoists
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