New Zealand is a stunning country, comprising two islands rich with undisturbed landscapes of rainforests, mountain ranges, glaciers, and gorgeous white sand beaches. It’s on the “must visit” list for many foreign travelers, but living down under as an expat is far different from visiting the country for a week or two.
From the cost of living to job opportunities to the unique aspects of the New Zealand lifestyle, here’s what it’s like to live in New Zealand as an expat.
Cost of Living in New Zealand
New Zealand is one of the most expensive countries to live in the world, but depending on where you’re moving from, the cost of living might not be off-putting. The average cost of living in New Zealand is about $1,935 per person, per month, including rent. Here’s how that compares to some other popular expat destinations around the world:
- Switzerland: $2,980 USD
- Hong Kong: $2,750 USD
- United States: $2,450 USD
- Australia: $2,365 USD
- United Kingdom: $2,295 USD
- Canada: $2,075 USD
- Norway: $2,035 USD
- Denmark: $2,020 USD
- Spain: $1,480 USD
- Costa Rica: $1,195 USD
- Mexico: $890 USD
- Thailand: $875 USD
New Zealand is a small, remote country, so the majority of goods are imported from overseas. This is one of the many reasons why things are so much more expensive than in most other countries.
However, there are ways to make your dollar stretch a bit further in Middle Earth. One easy way to do so is to live in a smaller city on the South Island, like Christchurch, as opposed to moving to a big metro area like Auckland on the North Island.
Visit International Citizens Group to learn more about the cost of living in New Zealand, including a breakdown of rents by city and the cost of everyday goods and services.
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The New Zealand Lifestyle
The New Zealand lifestyle is laid-back and peaceful, with friendly locals who welcome expats from around the world. The country has an incredible food culture, and it’s a highly desirable spot for those who enjoy outdoor activities like biking, hiking, surfing, and skiing. Kiwis also enjoy an excellent healthcare system and great personal liberties and freedoms under a full democracy system of government.
Kiwis have a healthy work-life balance as well, and they know how to take time away from work to enjoy themselves. Stress is much less prevalent in New Zealand than in many other parts of the world, and that may also contribute to why it’s as safe a country as it is.
According to the 2024 Global Peace Index, New Zealand is the 4th safest country to live in the world. A stable government, low crime rates, and strong social values all contribute to making this incredible country so safe and secure. It crushes most other countries in terms of safety and crime rates, including the United States, which ranks at #132 on that same list.
The Challenges of Living in New Zealand
No country is perfect, and while New Zealand comes close on many fronts, many expats find its remote location to be one of the most challenging aspects of day to day life. Even the “nearby” city of Sydney on the Australian mainland is nearly 1,400 miles away! Traveling outside the country can be both time-consuming and expensive.
Job Opportunities in New Zealand
Job opportunities exist throughout New Zealand, but some foreigners find it difficult to secure work. You’ll have a much easier time finding employment if you have skills in industries facing a shortage of workers, such as IT, healthcare, and engineering.
New Zealand offers several different types of work visas, some of which require you to have an employment offer prior to applying for your visa. If you’re thinking about moving to New Zealand to work, it’s best to look for a job before you pack your bags and hop on a plane.
In Conclusion
New Zealand is a beautiful and safe, but somewhat expensive, place to live. If you’re ready to make a move to The Land of the Long White Cloud, do thorough research before you go, find a job ahead of time if you intend to work, and prepare to be welcomed with open arms by friendly Kiwis with a laid-back mindset and easygoing approach to life.
Like all countries, New Zealand can be challenging for some expats, but most embrace the adventure and revel in its natural beauty, work-life balance, and high quality of life.