The complete guide to moving to New Zealand

Moving to New Zealand can be an exciting new experience. With its stunning landscapes, diverse culture, and great opportunities for work and education, New Zealand is a place full of potential for personal and professional growth.

However, while it brings new opportunities, moving to New Zealand also comes with its own set of challenges. Adapting to life in a new country can be tricky. At Crown Relocations, we’ve created a helpful guide to assist you with moving to New Zealand from Australia. We’re a leading international moving company equipped with the expertise to ensure your relocation is as smooth as possible.

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Buying a House in NZ

As an expat, buying a house in New Zealand can be relatively straightforward. However, there are certain considerations to keep in mind before doing so.

Firstly, it’s important to assess your eligibility based on New Zealand’s laws and regulations. Non-residents can indeed purchase properties in New Zealand. However, the eligibility criteria can vary. Having a stable long-term work history in New Zealand can positively influence the loan approval process, as it showcases your commitment to the country and financial stability.

Secondly, securing a mortgage might involve different requirements compared to local citizens. This can include higher deposit amounts, often referred to as a Loan-to-Value Ration (LVR) requirement. It is quite common for non-resident buyers to need a higher deposit percentage.

Thirdly, it’s important to know that purchasing a property in New Zealand could take a few months. This is because there are certain legal processes to complete, and securing a lender who’s willing to provide you with a loan might take some time, especially if your credit history is relatively short.

If you’re considering moving house to New Zealand and buying a property, seeking advice from professionals like solicitors or real estate agents familiar with New Zealand’s property market is highly recommended. They can provide valuable guidance throughout the process.

Setting up home

When it comes to finding a place to call home in New Zealand, there’s a range of housing options available, from renting an apartment to buying a house. Various factors come into play when seeking a place to live, including your budget, the type of accommodation you’re interested in, and your preferred location.

Once you’ve carefully weighed these factors and settled on the type of housing that suits you, you can begin your search for a place to live. Several websites can assist you in finding a place to live in New Zealand, including:

Trade Me Property: This website is a great starting point for your accommodation search in New Zealand. It offers an extensive database of properties available for both rent and purchase. The site also provides valuable resources and advice on topics like renting versus buying.
co.nz: Another valuable platform with a wide range of properties for rent and sale. Realestate.co.nz features a user-friendly search function that enables you to filter properties based on price, location, and other important criteria.
Flatmates: If you’re interested in shared living arrangements, this website can be beneficial. It features an extensive database of rooms available for rent in apartments and houses across New Zealand, making it particularly useful for finding roommates.

These platforms can streamline your housing search and provide you with valuable insights into the New Zealand property market. As you explore your options, keep in mind that the local real estate landscape may have its unique characteristics and regulations, so it’s advisable to stay informed and possibly seek guidance from professionals in the field.

Transporting your belongings

Relocating an entire household to a different country can be a challenging task, especially when it involves moving to another country. Crown Relocations is your reliable partner when moving to New Zealand from Australia. Our team of experienced New Zealand removalists will manage all aspects of your move, ranging from packing and loading to transportation and delivery.

When it comes to moving your belongings, your items will be transported safely either by sea freight or air freight, depending on the volume of your items and how quickly you need them. As one of the world’s leading removalists, Crown Relocations can secure competitive sea freight rates. You also have the option to send essential items ahead, such as clothing, toys, or kitchen equipment, using our door-to-door air freight service.

At Crown Relocations, we recognise that moving to New Zealand can be a stressful process, and we’re dedicated to offering you peace of mind by handling every detail. Whether you’re moving for work or personal reasons, Crown Relocations is committed to assisting you in seamlessly transitioning to your new home in New Zealand.

Utilities

In New Zealand, utilities are paid monthly. The primary utilities commonly include broadband internet, water, gas, and electricity services.

Broadband internet in New Zealand offers fast and high-speed connectivity. Many providers have plans with unlimited data, so you don’t need to worry about going over monthly data limits. Getting it set up is usually a quick process.

Water, gas, and electricity services are managed by utility companies in New Zealand. Before signing up for any service, it’s crucial to review different tariff options, as prices can differ significantly. Comparison tools like PowerSwitch can assist in assessing a range of choices and finding the best deals that align with your requirements.

Finances

When relocating to New Zealand, ensuring your financial matters are well-handled is vital for a smooth transition and comfortable living.

Open a bank account in New Zealand: Prior to moving to New Zealand from Australia, it is essential to research and select a bank in New Zealand where you can create an account. This step will simplify the management of your finances and transactions upon your arrival.
Develop a budget: Moving to a new country often entails various expenses, so creating and adhering to a budget is crucial. Account for all potential costs, including housing, transportation, groceries, and recreational activities, and plan accordingly.
Keep an eye on the exchange rate: The currency can change, so it’s important to keep an eye on how much money you get when you change it. This can help you take advantage of good chances to get more for your money. You can use online tools to convert currency or ask money experts for advice. For more info, visit our Foreign Currency Transfer.

Lifestyle

Getting around

Getting around in New Zealand is a breeze, thanks to its excellent public transport system. In cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, you will find efficient public transportation systems, while the well-maintained roads offer scenic drives with captivating views.

Cyclists and pedestrians have dedicated paths, and exploring rural areas is simple through public transport, car, or guided tours. Another option is navigating between the North and South Islands picturesque affair via ferries, where water lovers can dive into bays, lakes, and coastal waters. Whether you’re into city vibes, road trips, or nature adventures, New Zealand’s transportation has you covered.

Everyday life

Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and a laid-back lifestyle, New Zealand offers a tapestry of experiences that distinguish it from the rest. Embracing a rich Māori culture alongside modern influences, the nation celebrates unique holidays and festivals, providing a glimpse into its heritage.

New Zealand’s culinary diversity and an array of outdoor adventures shape its character. From savouring innovative cuisine to embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures, everyday life is a fusion of tastes and experiences that mirror the country’s dynamic landscapes. By exploring the Māori heritage, engaging in outdoor pursuits, or uncovering hidden gems, New Zealand promises an enriching journey of discovery for those who make it their home.

Transport

Can I drive in New Zealand?

If you’re moving to New Zealand from another country, you can legally drive there for up to 12 months with a valid driver’s license. You can also drive for the same duration if you hold an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in English or translated into English, as long as you carry the current driver’s license that the permit is based on. If your license isn’t in English, a certified translation might be necessary. Keep in mind that in New Zealand, driving is on the left side of the road, which may require adjustment if you’re accustomed to driving on the right. You can find more details on the government website about driving in New Zealand.

Moving your vehicle

The similarity between Australia and New Zealand’s vehicle registration standards means that usually, you don’t have to make changes to vehicles when importing them to this market. Opting for reliable New Zealand removal companies, like Crown Relocations, can be a cost-effective choice, as New Zealand offers customs entry exemptions, making the process easy. To learn more about how Crown Relocations can help move your vehicle to New Zealand, visit our Vehicle Shipping page.

Education

School options in New Zealand

In New Zealand, there’s a wide range of school options available, catering to various preferences and needs. Public schools offer a solid education and are often the choice for locals, while private institutions provide specialised programs and smaller class sizes. International schools are ideal for expat families, offering a globally recognised curriculum. New Zealand also embraces a strong homeschooling community for those seeking alternative approaches. Regardless of your preference, the country’s education system ensures that your child’s learning journey will be enriched and well-supported.

Legal System

The legal system in New Zealand follows the British common law tradition, which blends statue law (laws passed by Parliament) with common law (laws shaped by court decisions).

The judges operate independently from the executive and legislative branches. The system is about being fair, following the rules, and treating everyone equally.

Courts in the New Zealand Legal System include:

District Court
Family Court
Environment Court
Māori Land Court

For more serious crimes, there are:

Supreme Court
Court of Appeal
High Court

These courts collectively form the legal framework in New Zealand, ensuring access to justice and the rule of law for its citizens.

Employment, Visas and Permits

Securing a job is a key step when moving to another country, and the good news is that there’s a wealth of job opportunities when moving to New Zealand, particularly in fields like technology, finance, and healthcare.

To land a suitable position, engaging with a recruitment agency that aligns roles with your skills and background is a recommended approach. Online job platforms such as Seek and Trade Me Jobs are also valuable resources for job seekers.

Before you commence work in New Zealand, it’s vital to hold a valid work visa. The specific visa required hinges on your nationality, the purpose of your stay, and the intended duration of your visit. Detailed information on visa categories and application procedures can be found on the official Immigration New Zealand website.

Work conditions in New Zealand generally offer favourable benefits to employees, including paid vacations, sick leave, and contributions to retirement funds.

Keep in mind that working hours in New Zealand can be relatively longer than in certain other countries. The standard work week is around 40 hours, although some positions might involve additional hours.

Salaries in New Zealand are generally competitive and are influenced by your skills, experience, and the region you’re in. For instance, salaries in major cities like Auckland and Wellington tend to be higher compared to other areas.

It’s worth noting that the cost of living, especially in larger cities, can be relatively high. Expenses like rent, groceries, and transportation, particularly in cities such as Auckland, may be substantial.

Health

New Zealand takes pride in its accessible healthcare system. Both citizens and residents have access to comprehensive medical services that are largely funded by the government. This ensures that essential healthcare is available to everyone. For those seeking extra coverage and more options, a variety of private health insurance providers are available. This way, you can tailor your healthcare to your needs, whether you prefer government-funded and/or private options.

Moving to New Zealand with Crown Relocations

Moving to New Zealand with Crown Relocations is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a reliable and experienced international moving company. With our expertise in international moving, you can trust that your belongings will be handled with care and precision. Our dedication to providing comprehensive relocation services ensures that you can focus on embracing the opportunities and experiences awaiting you in New Zealand, while we take care of the logistics. Crown Relocations ensures a seamlessly smooth transition and expert management as you step into your new home with confidence.

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We understand that waiting at home for a moving consultant may not be convenient, which is why we offer a simple video assessment using your smartphone.

You can choose between a guided live video consultation “Smart Consult” with one of our moving experts or a self-service video option. Either choice will provide us with everything we need to know to accurately assess and prepare your moving quotation.