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Moving to New Zealand – What You Need to Know

So, you are moving to New Zealand!

Whether you are emigrating, taking a short term assignment or joining family in New Zealand we have put together the information you will need to make your move a smooth one.

Where Are The Best Places To Live In New Zealand?

There are many factors that will decide where to live in New Zealand. For most the work that you will be doing will determine where you will be living. Wherever you live you will be close to the stunning scenery and have access to an outdoor lifestyle. The cities around the country have rather different…

Top Tips For Expats Renting Property In New Zealand

If you are thinking about starting a life in New Zealand, finding a place to stay is likely one of your top priorities. To help you navigate the confusing process of renting property in New Zealand and learn more about your rights and necessary legal requirements, here are some essential tips for renting a…

The Safest Places For Expats To Live In New Zealand

New Zealand is one of the safest places in the world but even here some places are safer than others. Here International Citizens set out the factors that impact New Zealand and which places are safest. Originally published by International Citizens Insurance and published with their agreement If you’re looking for a safe place…

Living and Working in New Zealand

Are you considering a permanent or contract post based in New Zealand? Here is a brief introduction to what you can expect. Informal and relaxed, the New Zealanders generally have open and friendly personalities. Practical, strong and self-reliant, they are dedicated to a family, home, and leisure oriented life-style. They are proud and patriotic, and…

New Zealand – Land Of The Long White Cloud

Thinking of moving to New Zealand? It is one of the most popular destinations for people wanting to move to a more relaxed and healthy outdoor lifestyle. New Zealand, with its unique blend of Maori and European cultures combined with spectacular scenery, is one of the most popular destinations for both tourists and emigrants. In…

5 Things To Consider Before Relocating To New Zealand

In a world in which there is greater mobility, and more opportunities to work remotely than ever before, being able to live in a location where you can achieve a better work/life balance naturally has great appeal. For a growing number of people, there are now modes of working that essentially make it possible…

Buying Property In New Zealand

Buying property in New Zealand is generally quick, efficient and safe. It takes four to six weeks from offer to moving in, and is relatively inexpensive compared to most European countries. There are few restrictions on foreigners buying property there, although ownership certainly does not guarantee residency rights. It is worth mentioning though, that buying/building…

Top Tips When Moving To New Zealand

Moving to to New Zealand? Read our tops tips from Crown Relocations to help you plan an easy move! Written exclusively for Expat Network by Crown Relocations Start with the visa! We recommend that you start the visa process as soon as possible. In some cases it can take a year or more to gain…

The NZeTA: Which Conditions Do I Need To Meet?

A visa is necessary to enter New Zealand, but the exact type of visa you need largely depends on the length and purpose of your visit. If you are travelling to New Zealand for tourism or business, you can apply for a NZeTA. But what exactly does the New Zealand e-visa entail and what…

Renting Property In New Zealand

Renting property in New Zealand is a very good option for those who are only staying for a limited period. It is also a good option when you first arrive to allow you to get to know the local property market before considering buying a home. The Department of Building and Housing has standard agreements…

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.