New Zealand is a beautiful and unique country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It is a relatively small country with a population of around 5 million people. It is popular with tourists from all over the world for its stunning scenery and laid-back culture. 

As the concept of working remotely has become more commonplace in 2023, we are seeing migration to New Zealand’s two islands becoming more and more popular. But what can newcomers expect from their new laid-back lifestyle, living in this quiet corner of the world? 

Here’s 5 things you should know about living in working in New Zealand, if you are considering using overseas moving services to relocate there and it will help you decide if it is right for you. 

Scenery and Nature: 

New Zealand is famous for its stunning landscapes, including mountains, beaches, forests, and lakes. The country’s natural beauty is a significant draw for tourists and locals alike, and many people enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and surfing.

If your ideal weekend looks like exploring geysers, hot springs, and mud pools, or going whale watching and hiking on coastal trails – then New Zealandis a great option for you! 

Some of NZ’s most popular outdoor attractions include: 

• Fiordland National Park 
• Tongariro National Park 
• Mount Cook (also known as Aoraki) 
• Abel Tasman National Park 
• Franz Josef Glacier 
• Rotorua 
• Kaikoura 

Lifestyle and Culture: 

New Zealand has a rich and diverse culture that is influenced by its history and geography. The indigenous Maori people have a significant presence in New Zealand culture, and their traditions and customs are widely respected and celebrated. In addition, New Zealand has a vibrant contemporary culture that reflects its multicultural population and modern outlook.

Here are some culture aspects about New Zealand which you should know if you are considering moving from Australia to New Zealand:

Maori Culture: 

The Maori people have a rich cultural heritage that includes language, art, music, and dance. The traditional Maori greeting, the hongi, involves pressing noses together and sharing breath, symbolising the exchange of life force between two people. The haka, a traditional Maori war dance, is performed at significant events and is also performed by New Zealand’s national rugby team, the All Blacks, before matches.

Sports: 

Sports play a significant role in New Zealand culture, and rugby is particularly important. The national rugby team, the All Blacks, is one of the most successful in the world and is widely supported by New Zealanders. Other popular sports include cricket, netball, and football (soccer).

Food and Drink: 

New Zealand has a rich food culture that is influenced by its geography and multicultural population. Seafood is particularly popular, and New Zealand is known for its green-lipped mussels, oysters, and crayfish. Other popular dishes include lamb, venison, and pavlova, a dessert made with meringue and fruit. New Zealand also has a thriving wine industry, with Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Central Otago Pinot Noir being particularly renowned.

Art and Music: 

New Zealand has a vibrant art and music scene, with many talented artists and musicians calling the country home. Maori art and design is particularly influential, with traditional motifs and patterns being incorporated into contemporary art and design. Popular music genres in New Zealand include indie rock, electronic music, and reggae.

Weather: 

New Zealand’s weather and seasons are highly variable, and it is important to be prepared for all types of weather when moving to the country. The climate in New Zealand is influenced by its location in the Southern Hemisphere and its diverse geography, which includes mountains, coasts, and plains.

Here is an overview of New Zealand’s weather and seasons:

Summer: 

Summer in New Zealand runs from December to February and is generally warm and sunny, although temperatures can vary widely depending on the region. In the North Island, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while the South Island is generally slightly cooler. Summer is the peak tourist season in New Zealand, and many outdoor activities are popular during this time, including hiking, swimming, and boating.

Autumn: 

Autumn in New Zealand runs from March to May and is a beautiful time to visit the country. The leaves on the trees change color, and the weather is generally mild and pleasant. Temperatures can range from 10-20°C (50-68°F), depending on the region. Autumn is a great time for hiking and outdoor activities, as the crowds are smaller than during the peak summer season.

Winter: 

Winter in New Zealand runs from June to August and is generally cooler and wetter than the other seasons. Temperatures can drop below freezing in some parts of the country, especially in the mountains. Snow is common in the higher elevations, and many ski resorts are open during this time. Winter is also a good time to visit New Zealand’s hot springs and thermal pools, which are especially appealing during the cooler months.

Spring: 

Spring in New Zealand runs from September to November and is a time of renewal and growth. Temperatures start to warm up, and the landscape bursts into bloom with colourful wildflowers. Spring is a great time for outdoor activities, as the weather is generally mild and pleasant. However, it can also be unpredictable, with occasional cold snaps and rain showers.

Healthcare: 

New Zealand’s healthcare system is a publicly funded and largely government-run system called the “New Zealand Health System.” The system is designed to provide universal access to healthcare for all New Zealand citizens and permanent residents.

The Ministry of Health is responsible for overseeing the system, while district health boards (DHBs) are responsible for providing healthcare services at the local level.

Under the New Zealand Health System, many primary care services, such as general practitioner visits, are heavily subsidised or free for citizens and residents. Specialist services, such as hospital care, are also provided free of charge or at a heavily subsidised rate.

The New Zealand Health System also prioritises preventative healthcare and public health measures, such as vaccination programs and health education campaigns.

While the New Zealand Health System is generally well-regarded, there are still challenges to be addressed, such as increasing demand for services, workforce shortages, and funding issues.

Cost of living: 

The cost of living in New Zealand varies depending on a variety of factors, such as your location, lifestyle, and personal spending habits.

Overall, New Zealand can be considered a relatively expensive country to live in, particularly in its largest cities, such as Auckland and Wellington. The cost of housing is generally high, with prices varying significantly between regions. Rental prices are also high in urban areas, particularly in desirable neighbourhoods.

Food costs are generally reasonable, with a variety of options available to suit different budgets and tastes. However, eating out at restaurants can be expensive, particularly in higher-end establishments.

Transportation costs can also vary widely depending on location and mode of transportation. Public transportation, such as buses and trains, is generally affordable, but owning a car can be expensive due to high fuel prices and the cost of vehicle registration and insurance.

Utilities such as electricity, gas, and water can also be relatively expensive, particularly in colder regions where heating costs can be significant.

It’s worth noting that wages in New Zealand are generally high compared to many other countries, and there are many social services and benefits available, such as subsidised healthcare and education. Overall, while the cost of living in New Zealand can be high, it is often considered worth it for the country’s quality of life and natural beauty.

Seth Erhart