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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.

How To Take Your Vehicle To New Zealand

If you are moving to New Zealand and taking up residence you may not have to pay tax on importing your vehicle, but there are certification and other requirements you will need to comply with. Should I take my vehicle to New Zealand? Before deciding to take a vehicle with you when moving to…

Finding A Job In New Zealand

Whether you are planning to work in New Zealand for a few years or emigrate permanently you will need to find a job and understand your visa options. Finding a job in New Zealand is similar to anywhere else in the world but we set out some of the issues you will face so you…

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…

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…

Taking Care Of Your Mental Health Overseas

Why is expat mental health important? Expat mental health is a critical issue to address because it is the foundation for happiness and satisfaction abroad. International life presents a unique set of experiences for the expat that can affect mental health. This article was written exclusively for Expat Network by Therapy Solutions Abroad According to…

Mental Health Growing Issue For Expats

Mental health is a growing issue for expat workers and their employers, as well as those relocating independently, according to a research study. To ensure expats have the support they need when relocating or working away from their home country, health benefits provider Aetna International is calling for businesses and individuals to take more pre-emptive…

Moving With Family

Any international move is complicated, but moving with family takes even more planning. The first challenge is to deliver the message to the family. This will require a detailed discussion; they are likely to have a large number of questions but it may not be easy to get them to ask them initially. Children of…

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…

New Zealand Desperate For IT Specialists

It has recently been announced in New Zealand that migration is the only way to bridge the current skills gap for IT companies. The IT industry in New Zealand is growing rapidly, generating an estimated 3,000 new jobs each year. These roles aren’t being filled by existing training initiatives, even though there are more IT…

New Zealand Continues To Attract Britons

New Zealand has voted, following a national referendum, to keep its current flag, which features the British Union Jack alongside the Southern Cross star constellation. It is also attracting record numbers of migrants. Britain has a rich history with New Zealand. People, commerce and ideas have flowed between the two countries for many generations. The first…

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.