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Living in New Zealand: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in New Zealand | Expat Exchange
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Auckland, New Zealand

Living in New Zealand

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 08, 2024

Summary: The approximate population of New Zealand is 4.9 million people. The largest cities in New Zealand are Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, and Tauranga. Expats love living in New Zealand for its stunning natural beauty, friendly people, and laid-back lifestyle. People describe life in New Zealand as relaxed, peaceful, and full of adventure. Popular foods in New Zealand include seafood, lamb, and pies. Other popular dishes include fish and chips, pavlova, and h?ngi (a traditional Maori dish cooked in an underground oven). The cons of living in New Zealand include the high cost of living, the lack of job opportunities, and the long distances between cities. The average cost of living for an expat is around $2,500 to $3,500 USD per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and other living expenses.

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What do I need to know about living in New Zealand?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to New Zealand, they said:

"It's a great place to live. It's beautiful and interesting. I would stock up on all the products you love. You won't be able to buy them here, or they will just be too expensive to purchase. New Zealand is an island. The cost of shipping goods in, is pricey," commented one expat who made the move to Wellington.

"Before retiring in New Zealand, expats should research the cost of living in the area they plan to live in. They should also familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the country's immigration and visa requirements. Additionally, expats should consider the healthcare system in New Zealand and whether they will need to purchase private health insurance. It is also important to research the tax system in New Zealand and any tax implications for expats. Finally, expats should consider the climate and geography of the area they plan to live in, as well as the availability of recreational activities," remarked one expat living in New Zealand.

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How do I meet people in New Zealand?

When we asked people living in New Zealand about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in New Zealand often join local clubs and activities such as sports teams, book clubs, and language classes. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals alike. Finally, expats can also meet people by simply exploring their new city and talking to people they meet along the way," remarked one expat who made the move to New Zealand.

"There are numerous groups: I would recommend taking a trip to the visitors' bureau to get more information. They offer heaps of brochures and schedules," explained one expat living in Wellington, New Zealand.

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What is life like in New Zealand?

When we asked people living in New Zealand what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in New Zealand is generally very pleasant. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and kayaking. The cities are modern and vibrant, with plenty of cultural attractions and activities to explore. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other developed countries, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad. The people are friendly and welcoming, and the country is known for its excellent healthcare system. Expats and digital nomads can also benefit from the country's strong economy and job opportunities," remarked one expat who made the move to New Zealand.

"Everything is important here. The city is mostly about business and socializing; while, the suburbs are more family oriented. Cricket and rugby are the favorite sports," explained one expat living in Wellington, New Zealand.

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Is there a lot of crime in New Zealand?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"New Zealand generally has a low crime rate compared to other countries. However, there are still some areas where crime is more prevalent. In recent years, there has been an increase in certain types of crime, such as burglary and drug-related offences. The government is taking steps to address these issues, including increasing police presence in affected areas and introducing tougher sentencing for certain offences," said one expat in New Zealand.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in New Zealand accepting of differences?

"It is a fairly diverse group of people for the population size. New Zealanders have a love/hate relationship with Americans, though. They will be quite nice to your face, but behind your back they constantly criticize the US and Americans. There is also slight racial tension with people of color. The Maoris (natives) and the pakehas (white Europeans) have had years of strife and war. A treaty was signed, that is still in place today," explained one expat living in Wellington, New Zealand.

"New Zealand is a diverse country with people from many different backgrounds and cultures. The country is known for its acceptance of differences, and its people are generally welcoming and tolerant of different cultures, religions, and lifestyles. New Zealand has a strong commitment to multiculturalism and diversity, and the government has taken steps to ensure that all citizens are treated equally and with respect," said one expat in New Zealand.

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What are the schools in New Zealand like?

"You must buy/rent or lease a house in the school zone first. You will have to have proof of where you are residing when you begin the enrollment process. The school has a uniform. Bring all recent school records. Your child will be accessed via various tests to see which level class would be best for them. The school is located in Mountain Road, Epsom, Auckland," explained one expat living in Auckland, New Zealand.

"The schools in New Zealand are known for their high quality of education and excellent student outcomes. One of the best international schools in New Zealand is the International School of Auckland, which offers a comprehensive curriculum for students from Kindergarten to Year 13. The school has a strong focus on academic excellence, with a range of extra-curricular activities and a diverse student body. Another great international school is the Auckland International College, which offers a range of courses from the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme to the Cambridge International Examinations. The college also has a strong focus on developing students’ leadership skills and global awareness. For those looking for a bilingual education, the Auckland Japanese Supplementary School is a great option. The school offers a range of Japanese language classes and cultural activities, as well as a range of other subjects. The school also has a strong focus on developing students’ understanding of Japanese culture and history. The Wellington Japanese Supplementary School is another great option for those looking for a bilingual education, offering a range of Japanese language classes and cultural activities," said one parent with children at in .

Is the cost of living in New Zealand high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in New Zealand, they wrote:

"The cost of living in New Zealand varies depending on the city and lifestyle. Generally, the cost of living in New Zealand is higher than in many other countries, with the average cost of living in Auckland being the highest. Rent, groceries, and transportation are all more expensive than in other countries. However, the cost of living in New Zealand is offset by the high quality of life, with excellent healthcare, education, and infrastructure," remarked one expat who made the move to New Zealand.

"The cost of living in New Zealand is generally considered to be quite high. The cities of Auckland and Wellington are particularly expensive, with higher prices for goods and services than the rest of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in New Zealand is around $1,500 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $2,000 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in New Zealand will cost around $20 USD per person," mentioned one expat inNew Zealand.

What type of recreational facilities are in New Zealand?

When we asked people living in New Zealand about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In New Zealand, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and trails for walking, running, and biking. There are also many outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and sailing. For those who prefer indoor activities, there are plenty of gyms, swimming pools, and sports centers. Additionally, there are plenty of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theaters. Finally, New Zealand is home to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, providing plenty of entertainment for residents," said an expat in New Zealand.

What is the weather like in New Zealand?

"New Zealand has a temperate climate with relatively mild temperatures throughout the year. The weather can vary greatly from region to region, with the North Island generally experiencing warmer temperatures than the South Island. In summer, temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F) in the North Island and up to 20°C (68°F) in the South Island. In winter, temperatures can drop to as low as 0°C (32°F) in the North Island and -5°C (23°F) in the South Island. Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the North Island receiving more rain than the South Island," wrote one expat living in New Zealand.

Are there good restaurants in New Zealand?

"One of the most popular restaurants in New Zealand is The Grove, located in Auckland. The Grove is known for its modern New Zealand cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and a great selection of wines. Another popular restaurant is The Sugar Club, located in Wellington. The Sugar Club is renowned for its innovative and creative dishes, as well as its stunning views of the city. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a great selection of cocktails. Lastly, The French Café in Auckland is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The French Café offers classic French cuisine with a modern twist, and its atmosphere is warm and inviting. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a great selection of desserts," remarked one expat in New Zealand.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in New Zealand?

"People living in New Zealand typically buy groceries from supermarkets, such as Countdown, Pak'nSave, and New World. Other shopping can be done at department stores, such as Farmers, Kmart, and The Warehouse, as well as specialty stores, such as Bunnings, Mitre 10, and Smiths City. Online shopping is also popular in New Zealand, with many people using websites such as Trade Me and Amazon to purchase items," remarked one expat in New Zealand.

What are the visa & residency requirements in New Zealand?

"In order to visit New Zealand, visitors must apply for a visa. The visa application process requires applicants to provide personal information, such as passport details, travel plans, and proof of financial support. Depending on the type of visa, applicants may also need to provide additional documents, such as a medical certificate or a police clearance certificate. In order to become a resident of New Zealand, applicants must apply for a residence visa. The residence visa application process requires applicants to provide personal information, such as passport details, travel plans, and proof of financial support. Depending on the type of residence visa, applicants may also need to provide additional documents, such as a medical certificate or a police clearance certificate. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate that they have the skills and qualifications to contribute to the New Zealand economy," remarked one expat living in New Zealand.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in New Zealand?

"Healthcare and health insurance in New Zealand can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services required. The cost of health insurance is determined by the level of coverage and the type of services included. Healthcare costs vary depending on the type of treatment and the provider. Generally, public healthcare is free or low cost, while private healthcare can be more expensive. Additionally, some services may not be covered by public healthcare, and may require private health insurance," commented one expat who moved to New Zealand.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Auckland, New Zealand

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