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The world's largest expat community

Your Expat Community in New Zealand

  • Connect with fellow expats in New Zealand

  • Join exciting events and groups for expats

  • Get information in our expat guides

  • Exchange tips about expat life in New Zealand

  • Serhat Ahmed

    With all of the information that InterNations provided on Wellington, it made my move from Turkey easier than I could have imagined.

Our Expat Community in New Zealand Welcomes You!

Kia ora and a warm welcome to our InterNations Communities in New Zealand! Learn everything you need to know about a move to New Zealand with the helpful and experienced network of expats at InterNations. By becoming part of a global community of expats you can gain valuable knowledge and insights about New Zealand without having to conduct hours of research yourself — it's all right here! You might be wondering “what's the education system like in New Zealand?” or “what's the public transportation like in Auckland?” or even “where is safe to live with a young family in Wellington?”. Our InterNations Communities in New Zealand can help in answering those questions, and more. Whatever you need to know, our network of expats is here to support you when you make that big move abroad.

With InterNations, you never stand alone. Whether you are moving to another country or going on a business trip somewhere — our communities around the world are there to make you feel at home wherever you are. Feel free to check out our vibrant InterNations Communities in countries like Peru or Qatar.

Jump right in:

Living in New Zealand: Your Questions, Answered

As a new or soon-to-be expat in New Zealand, you may have some questions about what life is like in this beautiful island nation. To help you get started, we've put together answers to seven common questions about living in New Zealand. For more specific questions or to share your own experiences, consider joining InterNations, a community of expats who enjoy helping one another.

1. Is it necessary to speak the local language?
English is the primary language spoken in New Zealand, so if you're fluent in English, you should have no trouble communicating. However, learning some Māori phrases and understanding the local culture can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals.

2. What are the average rent prices in popular expat locations?

Auckland:

  • Single-room flat: 1,400–2,000 NZD (965–1,380 USD) per month
  • Three-bedroom flat: 2,500–3,500 NZD (1,725–2,415 USD) per month

Wellington:

  • Single-room flat: 1,200–1,800 NZD (830–1,245 USD) per month
  • Three-bedroom flat: 2,200–3,200 NZD (1,520–2,210 USD) per month

Christchurch:

  • Single-room flat: 1,000–1,600 NZD (690–1,105 USD) per month
  • Three-bedroom flat: 1,800–2,800 NZD (1,245–1,935 USD) per month

3. How safe is New Zealand for expats?
New Zealand is generally a very safe country for expats. As with any destination, it's important to practice common-sense precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night, keeping an eye on your belongings, and staying informed about local security updates.

4. How does the healthcare system work in New Zealand?
New Zealand has a public healthcare system called the New Zealand Public Health Service, which provides free or low-cost healthcare services to residents. Expats with a residence permit are eligible to access the public healthcare system. Private healthcare is also available, offering shorter wait times and more specialized care. Many expats choose to have private health insurance to access private facilities.

5. How can I open a bank account in New Zealand?
To open a bank account in New Zealand, you will typically need to provide identification (such as a passport), proof of address (such as a utility bill), and a valid visa or residence permit. Some banks may require additional documentation or an appointment, so it's a good idea to check with the specific bank you plan to use.

6. What is the cost of living in New Zealand?
The cost of living in New Zealand varies depending on the location, with larger cities like Auckland being more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas. Housing, food, and transportation are relatively affordable, but imported goods can be more expensive. As an expat, you can expect to live comfortably on a moderate budget.

7. Can I drive with my foreign driver's license in New Zealand?
Foreigners can drive in New Zealand using their foreign driver's license for up to 12 months. After that period, you'll need to obtain a New Zealand driver's license. This process may require taking a driving test, depending on your nationality and the type of license you hold.

Join Our Online and In-Person Events in New Zealand

Attend our many events to get to know like-minded expats, both in New Zealand and around the world! Our new online events even let you find connection and inspiration without leaving your home.

Join us for the March edition of more thought-provoking talks and chats ✨ Get your pay-what-you-feel ticket now 🎟 https://events.humanitix.com/ted-style-talks-26th-mar-24-intercultural-competency-inc
Mar 28, 2024, 6:31 AM
6 attendees
We will be trying a newish curry house in Christchurch..menu looks very pleasing and the premises are convenient for parking, as InterNations, we have been there before when it was in a different Curr
Apr 5, 2024, 8:30 AM
5 attendees
Music, Bluegrass, Blues. Live band playing Auckland Powerstation

Want to see all the upcoming events in New Zealand?

Connect with Like-Minded Expatriates in New Zealand

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    From Brazil, living in Christchurch
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    From Poland, living in Wellington
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    From Argentina, living in Christchurch
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    From Iran, living in Auckland
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    From Canada, living in Christchurch
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    From Portugal, living in Auckland
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Meet other expats like you in New Zealand

Our Global Partners

Share your hobbies and interests with expats in New Zealand

Embark on Your Life as an Expat in New Zealand

New Zealand may be a sparsely populated island country, but with its spectacular scenery and awe-inspiring nature, New Zealand offers a high-quality way of life for expats. This is shown by the statistics, with over fifth of the people that live and work in the country born overseas. New Zealand particularly attracts young families and couples who are looking for a better work-life balance, and has the appeal of a state-sponsored healthcare system and good public education. Expats have praised New Zealand for being one of the easiest places to settle in; with warm welcomes from locals and fellow expats alike, Kiwis are a friendly bunch. It also has a high number of leisure options, with its impressive landscape and beaches, and is considered one of the safest locations for expats to live. The main language in New Zealand is English, which makes many British, American, Australia and Canadian expats instantly feel at home. And while New Zealand still respects and pays close attention to its Maori roots, its culture is now primarily Western, due to its history as former British colony.

InterNations is the largest global network for expatriates, with communities in 420 cities around the world. Meet fellow global minds in your city of residence or get to know local expatriates before you're moving or traveling abroad and never feel like a stranger. InterNations makes it easy for you to stay in touch with your expat friends, both online and offline, so you can grow your network of friends and contacts from all over the world. Whether they live in Malaysia or France, InterNations allows you to be close to them even if they are miles away.

Find New Friends Even before You Start Your Life in New Zealand

Every InterNations member has gone through an approval process prior to being part of our international community, and before they are able to communicate with other members. This means you can trust the community and take part in both online and offline interaction with InterNations members without worries. Whether you're in Wellington, Christchurch, Auckland, or Polynesia, you can join up with some of your fellow expats face-to-face with the many groups and events that are available through InterNations. From exploring the city of Christchurch to salsa dancing in Auckland, whatever your interests may be there is always something to do in New Zealand. It's a great way to make new friends!

Further Reading: 8 Things That Make New Zealand a Perfect Expat Destination

  • Serhat Ahmed

    With all of the information that InterNations provided on Wellington, it made my move from Turkey easier than I could have imagined.

  • Melanie Rasbery

    Since I knew about the active expat network in New Zealand, InterNations made moving to Wellington more exciting than it had seemed before.

Our Global Partners

Communities in New Zealand

Like-Minded Expatriates in New Zealand

New Zealand Guide Topics

Upcoming Communities in New Zealand

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