How To Make Your Transition To Living In New Zealand a Success: Our Advice

Ensure Success in Your Transition to Living in New Zealand

Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure filled with opportunities and experiences waiting to be embraced. If New Zealand is your chosen destination, congratulations on making a fantastic choice! This guide will walk you through the steps to ensure your transition to living in New Zealand is a resounding success.

New Zealand is a nation that appeals to both travelers and expats alike. In pursuit of a harmonious work-life balance, numerous individuals leap and relocate to this beautiful country each year. Suppose you, too, are considering the prospect of living in New Zealand. In that case, it's crucial to prepare beforehand, whether you're by yourself or with your loved ones, a professional, student, volunteer, or intern. Please find our recommendations for making your expat experience on the other side of the world as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

Why Go to New Zealand

Most expats choose to settle in New Zealand for its excellent quality of life, streamlined administrative processes, stable economy, picturesque landscapes, and abundant recreational activities. Students worldwide are primarily motivated by the appealing job market and the opportunity to improve their English skills by interacting with the locals. The country, known as "The country of the long white cloud," provides a delightful living environment and stunning natural landscapes. With a relatively relaxed lifestyle, Study in New Zealand offers proximity to Asia-Pacific and Australia.

Understanding New Zealand's Culture and Lifestyle

Before you even step foot in New Zealand, take some time to familiarize yourself with the local culture and way of life. Kiwis are known for their friendly and laid-back nature, and understanding this will help you integrate more smoothly.

Researching Suitable Accommodation Options: Finding the right place to live is crucial for your comfort and well-being. Consider factors like proximity to amenities, public transport, and your workplace. Websites like Trade Me and Airbnb are great places to start your search.

Budgeting and Financial Considerations: Create a comprehensive budget that covers all aspects of your daily life, including accommodation, groceries, transportation, and leisure activities. Understanding the cost of living in New Zealand will help you plan effectively.

Legal Requirements and Documentation: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation in order. This includes your passport, visa, work permits, and any other legal paperwork. Familiarize yourself with New Zealand's immigration requirements.

Navigating the Job Market

Job Search Strategies: Start your job search well in advance. Online platforms like Seek, Trade Me Jobs, and LinkedIn are excellent resources. Tailor your CV to the New Zealand market and be proactive in reaching out to potential employers.

Work Visa and Permits: Understanding the visa process is crucial. Visit the official New Zealand immigration website for detailed information on work visas and permits. Ensure you have all the required documents and meet eligibility criteria.

Things to Know Before Going to New Zealand

The kiwi, a wingless bird with fur-like plumage, is New Zealand's emblem and gives the locals their nickname. While the country offers a relaxed lifestyle, it's crucial to understand that the cost of living is high, and the native customs and ways differ from those of other countries. Proficiency in English is necessary for integration.

The cost of living in New Zealand: Living in New Zealand requires a significant financial commitment, as the cost of living is generally high, with rents being relatively expensive, particularly in larger cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Shared accommodation and hostels offer cheaper alternatives. Food can also be costly, with PAK'nSAVE offering the most affordable products. While petrol prices may be lower than in your country, traveling between cities can be pricey. Additionally, ferry costs for inter-island travel must be taken into account.

Public Transport in New Zealand: In New Zealand, cars are necessary as public transport is scarce and pricey. Road trips are popular, and campervans are expected, with all vehicles convertible for sleeping. Tourist apps like CamperMate and WikiCamps are helpful, and hitchhiking is common.

Cultural differences: New Zealanders are welcoming but value their privacy in the evenings. At the supermarket, customer service is exceptional with packing and storage. Amounts are rounded to the nearest dollar as 1, 2, and 5-cent coins do not exist. Kiwis are generally laidback and casual, and it's common to see people walking barefoot on the streets.

Where to settle in New Zealand?
New Zealand is situated in the southeastern region of the Pacific Ocean, and it takes at least 28 hours to fly from Paris to Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch. The city of Auckland, situated on the North Island, is often suggested as a starting point for visitors and serves as the country's primary transit hub. Auckland stretches between two coasts - the Pacific Ocean to the east and the Tasman Sea to the west.

How to find work in New Zealand?
Finding a qualified job in New Zealand may be challenging, but it's still possible with solid experience, references, and excellent English proficiency. Job seekers must submit their CVs and cover letter in English. The Department of Immigration lists the needed skills and positions on its website, and job search sites and recruitment agencies can be helpful. BackpackerBoard is an efficient site for finding small seasonal jobs, while tax refunds can be claimed when leaving New Zealand.

How to find accommodation?
Finding a place to stay in New Zealand is easy, with various options such as renting, sharing, and buying. For temporary accommodation, essential sites are Trademe, Airbnb, FlateMate, and Helpx. Check real estate websites or agencies to rent an apartment or share accommodation. Administrative formalities are simple for shared accommodation.

With its modern cities and breathtaking landscapes, New Zealand is an increasingly popular destination for holidays and a place to live. If you're an adventurer who appreciates authenticity and wide-open spaces, we highly recommend you consider this fantastic expatriate destination!

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