Moving to New Zealand from UK – The Ultimate Guide

If you have ever dreamt of living abroad, chances are at some point you have considered New Zealand.

There are plenty of reasons why so many British ex-pats are already living the dream.

“Kiwis” as the local people are called, live an enviable lifestyle consisting of relaxation, surrounded by clean air, dramatic mountains, and more natural beauty than you care to imagine.

Plus, New Zealand is consistently rated as one of the most secure countries in the world enjoying low crime rates, religious tolerance, and close-knit friendly communities.

Whilst the country may be slightly bigger in size than Britain, the population of the UK is estimated at around 68 million people versus New Zealand’s 5½ million! A world of difference.

With plenty of elbow room, vast vistas and the Kiwi’s welcoming attitude, it’s no wonder so many Brits decide to relocate across the world every year.

Never has the phrase ‘A breath of fresh air’ ever been truer than when you move to New Zealand.

If you’re after space, then this is where you can find it.

Even with all these amazing positive aspects, moving to a different country should not be taken lightly.

Before you go, you must know as much as possible about the country to be sure it is for you.

This is why White & Company have created the ultimate guide on moving to New Zealand from the UK.

1. Before Setting Off

Man in the airport with a plane taking off. Image credit: Depositphotos

Now that the covid travel restrictions have been lifted, moving from country to country is almost back to normal including New Zealand.

However, it does make sense to keep your eye on the situation.

You can easily check current travel advice from the UK government website.

Not only does the website offer the most up-to-date information regarding Covid but it also provides detailed information about natural disasters, outbreaks of any diseases and any new rules or laws that may be applicable to anyone entering the country.

Keeping yourself fully informed means, you will avoid any nasty surprises at the last minute.

2. Quality of Life

There is only one word to describe the quality of life in New Zealand and that is excellent.

In fact, the country is in the top 10 across the globe in the 2023 World Happiness Report!

The World Happiness Report research considers six factors to help determine the levels of happiness across the world: social support, income, health, freedom, generosity, and absence of corruption.

The relaxed approach to life where equality is prized and there is little mention of class means that New Zealanders have got the balance pretty much right.

Combined all this with wonderful natural scenery and idyllic landscapes and you have the perfect recipe for a top quality of life.

3. Work/Life Balance

Even though Kiwi’s work hard, they have created a work-life balance that emphatically favours life.

The phrase ‘work to live; not live to work’ is readily enforced. New Zealanders believe life is for living, meeting friends, travelling and just recreation time in general and that is how they live it.

No one dresses to impress in the office, it is all very casual.

New Zealanders have a great work-life balance because their time off is protected by law.

Every worker gets at least 20 days (four weeks) of paid annual leave and an additional 11 days off a year for public holidays (on top of annual leave).

New Zealand was rated 2nd in the world for work/life balance by the HSBC Expat Explorer Survey. If you integrate from day one and commit your all to becoming a kiwi, you’ll be happier than ever.

4. Environment

Mount Maunganui Beach, New Zealand. Image credit: Unsplash

Living in New Zealand means that you will experience some of the cleanest and safest air on the planet.

The country is ranked as the 7th Greenest country in the world by Sustainabilitymag.com.

Its high raking comes from the country having one of the most sustainable farming systems in the world as well as a universal commitment to sustainable living, with the large majority of consumers only buying sustainable products.

New Zealand’s parliament has also recently passed legislation to aim for total net zero by 2050!

Hoever, it is not just the strict government attitude towards pollution that gives New Zealand its exemplary reputation for being so clean.

New Zealand is one of the world’s windiest countries.

It regularly experiences strong and prevailing winds from the surrounding oceans which are funnelled through mountainous regions. These winds blow away any pollutants.

The winds combined with a low population and very little heavy industry keep the air in tip-top condition.

5. Population

One of the things you will be very aware of when you get to New Zealand is the distinct drop in the number of people.

The majority of Kiwis live on the North Island.

The Auckland urban area is home to more than one and a half million people, which exceeds the population of the entire South Island.

Three out of four New Zealanders live in urban areas of 10,000 people or more. Half are concentrated in just four cities – Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, and Christchurch.

New Zealand may be 40,000 square kilometres bigger than the UK, but it has roughly… 60 million fewer people living there!

6. Natural Habitat

Mount Ruapehu. Image credit: Depositphotos

The beauty of New Zealand’s natural habitat is beyond measure or compare, it really does demand a standing ovation.

From the peaks of its mountains and volcanoes to the depths of its surrounding oceans, the country has a natural habitat that is as diverse as it is astounding.

If you want to explore one of its beaches, start with Ninety Mile Beach.

Facing the Tasman Sea, it is one of the most natural and unspoilt beaches in the world. The beach lies on the edge of a long slender sand dune with an uninterrupted vista of endless sand that stretches as far as the eye can see.

The South Islands is known for its vast green space and mountains.

The east side of the island is home to the Canterbury Plains while the West Coast is famous for its rough coastlines such as Fiordland.

The South Island is shaped by the Southern Alps which run along it from north to south. They include New Zealand’s highest peak, Aoraki / Mount Cook at 3,724 metres (12,218 ft).

The beauty of the two islands has attracted many film producers. The Lord of the Rings was filmed here spanning 150 locations in both the North and South Islands.

7. Animals & Nature

Kiwi Bird. Image credit: Depositphotos

Due to the isolation of New Zealand throughout the millennia, the evolution of flora and fauna alike has created many unique species only found in New Zealand.

New Zealand has been dubbed the ‘seabird capital of the world’, home to an array of birds including the renowned Kiwi bird.

Native fish, birds, lizards, frogs, two types of mammals (bats and marine mammals) and more; you’ll see plenty of new creatures here on the other side of the world, many of which will be sure to amaze.

8. Abundance of Sheep

Herd of Sheep on a road in New Zealand. Image credit: Depositphotos

You may think that the Welsh have it down pat when it comes to sheep numbers. But you would be wrong, very wrong.

The Kiwis beat the Wesh hands down.

To put it into perspective, there are an estimated 10 million sheep in Wales. In New Zealand, there are around 39 million!

There are in fact an estimated 10 sheep to every Kiwi. That is a lot of sheep.

The meat industry is huge.

In June 2022, the export revenue from lamb from New Zealand amounted to over 3.6 billion New Zealand dollars.

The USA, Belgium and Germany being the biggest importers of NZ lamb.

9. Weather & Climate

NEW ZEALAND WEATHER

New Zealand’s climate is complex and varies from warm subtropical in the far north to cool temperate climates in the far south, with severe alpine conditions in the mountainous areas.

Depending on your point of view, if there was one thing you may hold against New Zealand, is that it does at times, experience unpredictable weather conditions including a lot of rain.

This is due not only to the latitude of the country but to the fact that most of New Zealand’s landmass is relatively close to the sea.

Generally, New Zealand enjoys a moderate climate, without extremes of hot or cold.

Kiwis have a summer average of around 20 to 25 degrees and a winter average of around 12°.

When you compare the weather conditions to the UK, it is fair to say that almost all of New Zealand is warmer and sunnier more often when compared to the UK.

For a real-time weather check anywhere in New Zealand click here.

10. Outdoor Life

People Hiking on Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand. Image credit: Unsplash

With the climate being generally mild you can get outside so much more than you can at home.

This is just as well because the Kiwis are a nation of outdoor lovers.

New Zealanders are known for their love of outdoors activities, such as mountain biking, hunting, fishing, and hiking.

They also love to relax and laze on the beach and socialise around the “barbie”.

The crown jewel of any Kiwi backyard in the summertime, the barbie, is a staple in most homes.

The country is a haven for those who want to really make the most of their downtime outside the house.

11. Beaches

Tupou Bay, New Zealand. Image credit: Depositphotos

There are literally hundreds of beaches around the country’s 9320 miles of coastline.

Each one is stunning in its own way. All are clean, the water is crystal clear supporting an abundance of marine life.

Depending on what you like to do at the beach, will determine which one you visit.

Surfer’s favourites include Surf Highway 45 in Taranaki, on the west coast of the North Island. Mangamaunu Bay, Kaikoura is another surfing hot spot.

The further north you go in New Zealand, the warmer the seas tend to be, and the long skinny Northland province is awash with gorgeous beaches.

Ninety Mile Beach, in Northland, which actually runs for 55 miles, is spectacular. Ideal for hiking, fishing and surfing.

For families, a good choice is Maitai Bay on the Karikari Peninsula.

A gentle arc of golden sand, this sheltered bay is ideal for swimming, as the waters are warm and clear.

No matter what you want from a day at the beach, New Zealand can provide it.

12. Stunning Landscape

Lake Pukaki, New Zealand. Image credit: Pixabay

Both islands are packed with diverse and beautiful landscapes.

From the dense humid rainforest to white, snow-capped mountains, caves, volcanoes and pristine beaches, the landscape is often wild and untouched.

Small wonder it has been chosen as a backdrop for epic movies.

You will be able to see the resounding beauty of the country up close, there are hundreds of well-maintained walks which take you to the heart of the land.

Only a few places on Earth have as much variation in their landscape in such a small space as New Zealand.

13. Healthcare System

Health care for you and your family will be a priority. It is good to know that the quality and accessibility of care in the country are first-class.

Unless you are moving to NZ via a work contract, it is advisable to arrange some kind of temporary health insurance coverage until you can integrate into the national system.

New Zealand residents and some work visa holders benefit from free or very low-cost public healthcare.

You can also opt-in for private healthcare as you can everywhere, but many residents do not bother with this.

For more general information on how the Healthcare, system operates use Your Local Doctor.

14. Education System

Study in New Zealand. Image credit: Depositphotos

If you are thinking of moving to New Zealand with your family you will be pleased to hear that the country ranks extremely highly when it comes to education.

In fact, New Zealand sits at number 11 in the world in the education rankings, according to Data Pandas.

A world-class education is available to everyone in New Zealand, with the latest technology, computers and teaching methods employed around the country.

For more information on the educational system within New Zealand, visit NewZealandNow.

15. Working in New Zealand

Auckland New Zealand cityscape. Image credit: Depositphotos

Due to NZ having such a small population, there are many areas in the country where employers cannot find suitable candidates to fit their requirements.

The NZ government actively encourages immigrants to fulfil these vacant roles.

If you want to find out if your skills may be in demand currently, you can visit the NZ government website and register your occupation.

Some professions don’t even need to register such as engineers.

In demand right now are Construction Project Managers, Quantity Surveyors, Chemical Engineers, Civil Engineers, Electricians, Psychologists, nurses, and vets. Plus. many more.

Once you’ve registered with the professional body in New Zealand, you will be issued a work visa.

Some jobs also require a DBS check and others may need your qualifications assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.

16. Taxes

Calculator with taxes text. Image credit: Depositphotos

Just as with the UK, there are taxes to be paid on your earnings. Depending on how much you earn annually, tax is deducted incrementally.

In 2023, the maximum personal tax rate is 39%, on income over $180,000. (£90,936).

This rate is lower than in the UK. UK Income Tax rate is 45%, there is a quirk in the system which means that UK taxpayers with income between £100,000–£125,000 (2019/20 rates) fall prey to a 60% tax rate.

On top of this, New Zealand offers no inheritance tax, no capital gains tax, no social security tax, no healthcare tax and no local or council tax.

The lack of tax in this country means there is far more disposable income left at the end of each month.

17. Pensions

Those retiring to New Zealand to be with family, do not have to sacrifice their UK pension.

Providing you have paid enough UK National Insurance contributions to qualify for your UK pension, you can continue to be paid whilst you live in New Zealand. www.gov.uk/state-pension-if-you-retire-abroad

Reciprocal agreements between New Zealand and the UK allow ex-pats to claim the pension in both countries with some deductions occurring between the two, making it more or less a regular pension.

The other route is Superannuation. To receive this, you must have been a resident of New Zealand for at least ten years as well as a few other points.

Superannuation sees that you get 66% of your annual salary as your pension. Many people will save in a private pension pot as well, as the superannuation is only really enough for basic living costs.

18. Benefits

Benefits are only offered to New Zealand’s permanent residents.

You may be receiving benefits in the UK, however, be aware that most will be withdrawn once you have been out of the country for a period of four weeks.

The International Pension Centre in the United Kingdom decides who can receive United Kingdom benefits and pensions in NZ and how much will be paid.

If you have made contributions to the United Kingdom National Insurance Scheme and you meet the general criteria for United Kingdom benefits and pensions, you may be able to receive some of the following benefits or pensions when you are in NZ:

• State Pension (formerly Retirement Pension)
• Widow’s Benefits
• Child Benefit
• Incapacity Benefits (short-term assistance only)
• Guardian’s Allowance.

Agreements between New Zealand and the UK outline many social security benefits and provide more in-depth information.

19. Arriving in New Zealand, Visas and Residency

New Zealand Passport. Image credit: Pixabay

New Zealand has rigorous rules and regulations regarding entry requirements into the country.

You do not need a visa to enter New Zealand as a visitor for up to 6 months, but you will need to get a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before you travel.

This is the best way to really spend time in the country before deciding you want to emigrate there.

The NZeTA costs NZD $17 if applying via the dedicated mobile app, or NZD $23 if completed online via the Immigration NZ website. You will also need to pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD $35 when you apply.

Once issued, the NZeTA is valid for up to two years. The New Zealand immigration authorities recommend that applicants allow up to 72 hours for processing.

There are quite a few ways you can enter the country if you are looking to become a permanent resident.

What visa will suit you is very much dependent on your personal circumstances.

To find out what one would be best for you visit the New Zealand Immigration website.

It is also worth noting that from the 9th October 2023, changes were made to the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.

These changes have seen a simplified points system put in place that sets a clear skills threshold for residence and offers several ways for people to demonstrate their skill level.

Under this new system, applicants need six points to be granted residence.

You can find out more about this new Skilled Migrant Visa on the New Zealand Immigration website.

20. GBP to NZD Exchange Rate

As of March 2023, the NZ Dollar v UK Pound exchange rate is $1.97 dollars to £1.

You can easily work on halving everything that is in Dollars to compare it with the Pound.

If you are intending to move large sums of money in the future, perhaps for a deposit on a home or an outright purchase, it really does pay to keep an eye on exchange rates.

When you move large amounts, if the rates are in your favour you can stand to gain a nice bonus. But be aware, it does mean moving it at the wrong time you could lose out.

If you want to keep a regular eye on the situation you can use this handy real-time currency converter.

21. Cultural Differences

Traditional Maori carving and Taranaki Mount, New Zealand. Image credit: Depositphotos

Culturally the UK and New Zealand have very much in common, but they also have a unique culture.

That is why many Brits choose to move to New Zealand because of their similarities.

Here are a few of them:

One of the obvious similarities is the language, both speak English.

Kiwis are mostly much more friendly and genuinely welcome newcomers from other parts of the world.

The relaxed lifestyle of NZ and sunnier weather means everyone wears shorts and T’s for around 9 months of the year.

Office protocol is also very much dealt with in a more relaxed way. But don’t be deceived, Kiwis are hard-working and serious about their jobs.

A much less class-orientated society. people don’t care too much for status.

Most cars are automatic.

Life is lived outside. If it can be done outdoors it will be.

Kiwis follow their Rugby Union with pride. The All Blacks are sacred!

New Zealand culture also has some aspects that are totally unique.

The culture of its indigenous Māori people affects the language, the arts, and even the accents of all New Zealanders.

Their place in the South Pacific, and their love of the outdoors, sports, and the arts make New Zealanders and their culture unique in the world.

22. A New Start

Many of us long for a new start in life, something alternative to the drudge of the norm.

Moving to another country, even if it is just for a few years, is an incomparable experience. The term “travel broadens the mind” is very true.

Because of the similarities which we have already talked about, New Zealand is a good choice.

As so many Brits already live there, finding someone who has been through the whole thing before is incredibly helpful.

Plus, they will introduce you to their friends and before you know it, you will be integrated into the life of a Kiwi and enjoying every minute of it.

23. Realising a Dream

For some, it’s been a dream to move to New Zealand. You can pop over to Australia as quickly as you can to Europe from the UK.

Travel certainly broadens your horizons and changes your outlook on life and people.

Trying new foods, seeing new places and possibly discovering new hobbies you would never have attempted in the UK all help to make your dreams a reality.

It looks great on your CV too. Employers love people who have experience working abroad.

It requires tenacity, self-sufficiency, and independence.

Living and working abroad can help you develop the soft and hard skills you need to succeed in nearly any industry.

Take the leap which many fail to do and begin a life you’ll never regret in an entirely new part of the world.

24. Familiarity

New Zealand was once known as “Little Britain”. Much of it will be familiar to you.

Yes, relocating to New Zealand is going to be a challenge and no doubt a little overwhelming at times.

Getting your personal belongings transported across is a stressful experience in itself. But once you are there, surrounded by your own things from home you won’t feel so out of place.

All towns will have pubs and restaurants selling a range of food similar to home.

Supermarkets may have some unusual products you are not aware of, but hey, that’s the beauty of living in another country, experiencing different tastes and smells.

Embrace it all and you will be fine.

25. Friendly Culture

With large numbers of immigrants moving to New Zealand each year, you’ll likely meet as many foreigners as you will natives.

It is incredibly easy to make friends in NZ. Kiwis could not be more friendly and open.

They are a very tolerant nation and as you walk down the street, don’t be surprised if complete strangers want to say hello and exchange pleasantries.

If you move to a place close to neighbours, in no time you will be invited around to attend a barbie.

Cooking and eating outside on long summer days is no-fuss entertaining, and an invitation to drop in on friends often ends with, “Bring something to throw on the barbie”.

Take a bottle of wine too and you will be best buddies with the whole street in no time.

26. Making Friends

Laughing friends looking at tablet at coffee shop. Image credit: Depositphotos

With large numbers of immigrants moving to New Zealand each year, you’ll likely meet as many foreigners as you will natives.

It is incredibly easy to make friends in NZ. Kiwis could not be more friendly and open.

They are a very tolerant nation and as you walk down the street, don’t be surprised if complete strangers want to say hello and exchange pleasantries.

If you move to a place close to neighbours, in no time you will be invited around to attend a barbie.

Cooking and eating outside on long summer days is no-fuss entertaining, and an invitation to drop in on friends often ends with, “Bring something to throw on the barbie”.

Take a bottle of wine too and you will be best buddies with the whole street in no time.

27. Family Friendly

Parents choose New Zealand because of the high quality of education and the lifestyle the country offers their family.

Its envious low crime figures make it one of the safest counties in the world.

Many Kiwis who have spent years travelling to other countries have come home to raise their families.

The tight-knit community living most towns offer means that people look out for each other.

Plus, there is so much you can do to spend time outside together as a family in New Zealand, which is so much healthier than many UK children confined to the inside and choosing to play games on their tablets, PCs or mobile phones.

28. Property Market

Houses in Queenstown, New Zealand. Image credit: Unsplash

There is no chance of being stuck in an overcrowded, over-populated place in NZ unless that is what you are after.

Rarely are homes built here all looking the same. Individuality is the norm with house styles in New Zealand.

You can live in a home with plenty of land around you, or you can live in the suburbs but even then, you will have far more space when compared to the UK.

Alternatively, if you want to be in the midst of city life, there is that option too.

Homes in New Zealand are more expensive than in the UK.

However, the good news for newcomers is that house prices in NZ over the past two years have decreased in value.

The market has been on a steady decline in recent years, with September 2023 being the first steady month since April 2021!

While the property market is seemingly settling, it is still a good time to buy with far more competitive prices than before Covid.

Prices vary wildly depending on where you are planning to live and homes within the city or close to it, are going to be more expensive when compared to outer suburb prices.

29. Renting Property

Rental property prices will vary dramatically depending on where you are looking to move to.

The cost of living in cities can range from 20% – 50% more expensive than living in the countryside.

The cost of a rental property, on the whole, is noticeably cheaper than in the UK, with a 3 bedroom home costing 8% less in New Zealand.

30. Voting

Many Brits still have an interest in what goes on in the UK. Just because you reside in New Zealand doesn’t mean you cannot vote.

British Citizens living abroad have the right to vote in some elections in the UK.

In order to cast your vote, you will be required to register. You can vote for up to 15 years after leaving the UK.

If you have committed to New Zealand and are sure you won’t be returning to England for the foreseeable future, you may want to vote for a political party in New Zealand.

Only NZ citizens or permanent residents are allowed to vote. Voting is taken very seriously, and the turnout is high.

31. Births

Baby in Yellow Robe. Image credit: Depositphotos

If you start a family whilst you are living in New Zealand, just like the UK, you will need to legally register your child’s birth.

Following registration, you will receive a local birth certificate here in New Zealand.

If you were born in New Zealand, then you are considered to be a citizen by birth even if your parents are UK citizens or permanent residents.

32. Deaths

If you need to deal with this situation whilst you are living in the country, you are required to register a death with your local authority.

You can also register with the UK authorities as well if that is something that is important to you.

If you need a little help with what to do, there is some helpful information on the UK Government’s website page called Tell Us Once.

A registrar will explain the Tell Us Once service when you register the death.

33. Getting Married

New Zealand makes the perfect backdrop to any wedding and “getting hitched” is a straightforward affair.

If you’re getting married or having a civil union overseas, you usually do not need to do anything in NZ beforehand.

Your marriage will be registered in NZ.

As a precaution, if you have been married before in the UK, you may be asked by the NZ registrar to provide evidence that you are legally divorced. Your Decree Absolute document, will be sufficient evidence.

In NZ, this document is called a ‘Certificate of no impediment to marriage’. Other countries might call it something different.

There are also no residency requirements to get married in New Zealand, making this step very easy.

As with births and deaths, it is important you are familiar with what is required of you to ensure you follow the legalities.

You can find out exactly what you need to do if you plan to get married in New Zealand here.

34. Taking Pets

Happy Dog in Field. Image credit: Unsplash

Because of the strict pet import rules and regulations importing a pet can be a lengthy process.

However, most people find it unthinkable to leave their beloved pets behind.

The shipment of pets is a specialised procedure, and you will need the services of a good pet transporter. There are plenty of them who will be glad to assist you.

You need to be aware that all animals will have to serve a mandatory 10-day quarantine period before they are ready for you to collect.

Pets need to be fully vaccinated as per NZ requirements and in some cases, blood tests are required too.

Here is a step-by-step guide so you can see exactly what’s involved.

35. Becoming a Citizen

Though becoming a citizen is not particularly difficult, there are certain criteria that need to be met before it is possible.

• Must have lived here for five years (option to apply after three years is no longer possible)
• Be able to use conversational English
• Be of Good Character. Convictions may negatively affect your application
• Understand the responsibilities and privileges of New Zealand citizenship

The Government website offers more information on citizenship within New Zealand.

36. Driving on the Left

Ocean view from the road in Christchurch, New Zealand. Image credit: Depositphotos

At least you don’t have to get used to driving on a different side of the road in New Zealand because driving is done on the same side as in the UK.

Driving long distances is the norm and the main roads are well-maintained, and most roads are wider than at home.

Driving in New Zealand is a mixture of experiences. The country has a diverse terrain with long straight motorways.

In some areas, particularly the more mountainous regions, you will encounter narrow winding roads and often sections of roads with single-lane traffic with passing points.

Plan your route so you know exactly what to expect.

37. Public Transport

Bus in Wellington, New Zealand. Image credit: Unsplash

In the larger locations across the country such as its cities, public transport is by far the most popular way to get around.

Buses are the main form of public transport in New Zealand, with some areas also offering trains, ferries, and trams.

No matter which you choose, you will find that public transport is cheap, efficient, clean, and timely.

Rail travel is not as prolific as it is in England, mainly due to the vast distances between cities. But there are some beautiful routes to discover and again, fares are reasonably priced.

The two largest airports are Auckland Airport and the Christchurch International Airport, providing international transport for holidaygoers and young professionals alike.

38. No Language Barrier

As there is no language barrier you don’t have the added pressure of learning a new language in NZ.

English may be the main language spoken, however, there are others. Māori and New Zealand Sign Language.

It is just the New Zealand accent that can cause a few misunderstandings at first.

But you will soon get used to the local humour and the way Kiwis talk and probably start developing the NZ accent yourself over time, it happens without you realising.

Your families back home will notice it though!

39. Slang & Expressions

Just like the Australians, Kiwis have a habit of shortening things or giving them nicknames you may never have heard of.

Slang words to look out for include:

• Yea nah – a positive and negative in the same sentence
• Chur – beer
• Bro – everyone is bro, family or not
• Wops – in NZ it means somewhere in the middle of nowhere
• Chocka – eaten too much, totally full
• No worries – same as Australia, meaning don’t worry
• Skux – has many meanings. The most popular is when someone looks cool or trendy

There is a lot of slang in everyday conversations in NZ.

You can Brush up on your lingo before you go and know your ‘stubbie’ from your ‘stubbies’.

40. Cost of Living

You will find the cost of living in New Zealand is on the high side but affordable.

Prices have been increasing the same as in the UK.

It is a swings and roundabouts situation where some things are cheaper some less so when compared to the UK.

As a general rule, a single person’s estimated monthly costs in the country are £2,342 (NZ$4,863) with a family of four’s estimated monthly costs being £4,060 (NZ$8,431).

For an up-to-date price comparison of the cost of living in NZ, visit the Expatistan website.

41. Nearby Destinations

Beach in Fiji. Image credit: Pixabay

Although New Zealand may be far away from England, it is not so remote that you cannot visit other countries for holidays.

Whilst you are living here you can take advantage of all the wonderful locations that can take many hours to reach from home.

Bali is a popular holiday destination for Kiwis. The obvious is Australia, an easy trip of just under a 4-hour flight away.

Fiji, this island paradise might seem like an exotic destination to those in the northern hemisphere, but to Kiwis, it’s our handy local (ish) holiday spot.

With the unbelievable number of places to visit in New Zealand, it may be a while before you attempt or even want to explore anywhere else.

42. Watching Sports

New Zealand Rugby. Image credit: Unsplash

There is nothing Kiwis like better than relaxing with a beer and watching sports.

Some of the most popular sports here are rugby union, rugby league, cricket, football, basketball, and netball.

There is no better way to make friends than at your local sports bar, or just organising a get-together and watching sports in the comfort of your own home with friends.

43. Playing Sports

Whilst Kiwis indeed love to watch sport, they also love to play it too.

There has been a slight shift recently, with New Zealanders becoming more interested in individual sports such as adventure sports or badminton while the growth of American sports like basketball and baseball continues to rise

They also enjoy keeping fit. Outdoor activities like walking, jogging, swimming, and the gym are ideal ways to keep fit and healthy and again offer the opportunity to meet new people.

Adventure Racing has seen massive growth over the past 10 years as people turn away from time-consuming team-oriented sports and focus more specifically on individual sports as a means of fitness and goal-specific achievement.

Another sport gaining momentum in NZ is Futsal, a five-a-side indoor version of football.

A less well-known fact is that New Zealand invented four sports that you’ve probably heard of throughout your lifetime but didn’t realise: Bungy jumping; Zorbing; Fly by wire and Jet Boating.

44. Safety

New Zealand Police Officer. Image credit: Depositphotos

New Zealand remains one of the safest countries in the world.

This is not to say that there is no crime, of course it does experience some incidences of criminal behaviour, however by global standards, based on crime and violence, most of New Zealand is safe and peaceful.

According to the Global Peace Index New Zealand rates as the second safest country in the world and statistically, the New Zealand crime rate decreased in 2020 and 2021.

The advice is that no matter where you live within the country, just be vigilant.

45. Closer Than You Think

One of the most common reasons many people don’t make that final jump to New Zealand is the distance.

It does seem an awfully long way from home. You must weigh the pros and cons and New Zealand has far more pros that is for sure.

But, with technology such as FaceTime and Zoom, you can keep in touch with your loved ones and friends daily if you so wish.

Although it may be a 24-hour flight, in an emergency you can be home within the day. You might be tired, but home.

Another positive is that you will be inundated as family and friends book their holidays to come and stay with you.

Better make sure you choose a home with at least one guest room because you are going to need it.

Are you Ready to Move to New Zealand from the UK?

If you are now ready to take on the challenge and relocate to NZ, there is a lot to organize.

Whist you carry on with all the arrangements, you can rest assured that if you choose White & Company as your International removal company, one thing you don’t have to fret over is shipping your belongings.

We guarantee to do what we can to make the transition from door to door as hassle-free as we possibly can.

Over the years, White & Company has positioned itself as the international removals firm of choice for removals worldwide.

Our experience is second to none. As members of BAR, FIDI and OMNI, White & Company have been relocating people to destinations worldwide for over 150 years.

Our experienced teams located across the UK will pack and prepare your valuable, fragile and bulky furniture ready for export

To find out more about how we could get your dream move underway, don’t hesitate to give us a call today. Alternatively, fill out a quick quote form or chat with our Bot and we’ll get in touch with you straight away.

Max Peterson

Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.