History

 Elizabeth and Charles Knox were some of the early settlers in Auckland in the leaving County Tyrone, Northern Ireland in the early 1840's-landing first in Sydney then two years later settling in NZ. Charles Knox farmed 500 acres in West Tamaki, within 20 years he had built up a prosperous farm and had gained a reputation as a philanthropist who generously assisted fellow settlers. He died in 1871 after which time his wife, Elizabeth took over this role.

 Elizabeth died in 1908 aged 99 leaving a bequest for the "purpose of building, endowing and maintaining a hospital or home for poor people suffering from incurable diseases". In the early 1900's (30 years before the advent of Social Security) there was very little provided in support of those who were destitute, sick and / or old. It is interesting to note that that the provisions of Elizabeth Knox's Will did not limit care to the elderly but rather for poor of any age.

 The inaugural meeting of the Trust Board was held in Auckland on 12 June 1911 with the Mayor Mr C.J. Parr in the chair,

The early task of the newly formed Board was the construction of the Home, this was located on a portion of the Knox farm in Tamaki. By August 1914 the Home was completed at a cost (inclusive of water, gas, drainage system and furnishings) of 25,000. A number of patients were transferred from Auckland Hospital, Knox also reached agreement with the Defence Department to accept wounded or sick soldiers returning from the war and in 1939 the fortunes of Knox improved with the advent of Social Security from which time a payment of 5/- per day was paid per patient.

 In the early years of The Knox Home all staff lived on site and the farm continued until 1949.

 Through the 1950's improvements were made to the facilities however by the close of the 1960's the decision was taken to relocate to more central location.

 By October 1974 the new Home was open - it had cost $1,000,000 and since the opening the facilities have been progressively developed.

 Today the Elizabeth Knox Home and Hospital admits both subsidised and fee paying private residents with care extended across the age spectrum from young to older residents.

The values of Elizabeth Knox continue with our team focused on providing high quality professional care with a commitment to independence and dignity irrespective of age or ability to pay.