Retire in New Zealand
Last updated on Jul 15, 2023
Summary: Retirees are attracted to New Zealand for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and friendly people. The country is known for its outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and skiing, making it an ideal destination for retirees looking to stay active. Additionally, New Zealand has a high quality of life and a low cost of living, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their retirement savings. The weather in New Zealand varies greatly depending on the region, but generally the temperatures range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (12-24 Celsius).
What is it like to retire in New Zealand?
"New Zealand is a great place for retirees to enjoy their golden years. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly people, it is a great place to relax and enjoy life. There is an active expat community in New Zealand, with many retirees from all over the world living in the country. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the many museums, galleries, and historic sites. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. For those looking for a bit of nightlife, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore. All in all, New Zealand is a great place for retirees to enjoy their retirement," said one retiree in living in New Zealand.

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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in New Zealand?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in New Zealand is the cost of living. New Zealand is known for its high cost of living, especially in the larger cities, which can make it difficult for retirees to make ends meet. Additionally, the cost of healthcare in New Zealand can be expensive, and retirees may need to purchase private health insurance to cover any medical costs. Another challenge is the lack of public transportation in some areas, which can make it difficult for retirees to get around. Finally, the weather in New Zealand can be unpredictable, with cold winters and hot summers, which can be difficult for retirees to adjust to," commented one retiree living in New Zealand.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in New Zealand?
"Retiring in New Zealand offers a wealth of opportunities to enjoy the country's stunning natural beauty. From the majestic mountains of the South Island to the stunning beaches of the North Island, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The country also offers a relaxed lifestyle, with plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy. Additionally, New Zealand has a strong social safety net, providing retirees with access to quality healthcare and other services. Finally, the country is known for its friendly people and welcoming culture, making it a great place to settle down and enjoy your retirement," explained a retiree in New Zealand.
What are healthcare services like in New Zealand?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in New Zealand. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in New Zealand are provided by both the public and private sectors. The public sector is funded by the government and provides free or low-cost healthcare to all citizens and permanent residents. The private sector provides more specialized services and is generally more expensive. All New Zealanders are entitled to free or low-cost primary healthcare services, such as GP visits, hospital care, and prescription medications. In addition, the government provides free or low-cost access to specialist services, such as mental health services, and subsidizes the cost of some medical treatments. New Zealand also has a strong focus on preventative health care, with a range of initiatives to promote healthy lifestyles and reduce the risk of chronic diseases," said a person in New Zealand.
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:
"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," remarked one retiree in Wellington.
"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," said a retiree who moved to New Zealand.
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," said one retiree in living in 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 a retiree in Wellington.

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What do I need to know before retiring 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," said a person in 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 retiree in New Zealand.
What type of recreational activities are there in New Zealand?
"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," explained one member 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," said one retiree in New Zealand.
About the Author
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.
Additional Information:
- New Zealand Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in New Zealand
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in New Zealand
- Best Places to Live in New Zealand
- Guide to Real Estate in New Zealand
- Pros & Cons of Living in New Zealand
- Cost of Living in New Zealand
- Best Places to Visit in New Zealand for Christmas Cheer
- Christmas in New Zealand
- Culture Shock in New Zealand
- Homeschooling in New Zealand
- Pros and Cons of Living in New Zealand 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to New Zealand