If city life has run its course and a move to somewhere more scenic is on the cards, then swapping Auckland for Dunedin might be the perfect next step. When it comes to relocating from North Island to South Island New Zealand, Allied’s moving experts have plenty of experience to share to help make your move smoother.
There can be a lot to think about during this time, and employing an inter-island moving company like Allied Moving Services is a great way to help ease the stress of your relocation.
Why Dunedin?
There are a number of reasons why Kiwis and foreigners alike choose to move from Auckland to Dunedin- here are some of the main considerations.
Population
Many are drawn towards the South’s less-densely populated areas, leaving more room for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the green space. That being said, Dunedin is the second largest city on the South Island, so you can still embrace an urban atmosphere, just on a smaller scale. While Auckland has a population of almost 1.7 million, Dunedin is home to just 114,000 people.
Lifestyle and culture
Dunedin is a truly picturesque place to live, with so much to explore and enjoy. Even for those who don’t want to stray too far from their home, coastal spots like Warrington beach, Aramoana Beach, and Karitane Beach are ideal places to unwind on the weekend.
The trendy city also boasts countless restaurants and insta-worthy food hubs where you can begin a night out on the town.
Not just for adventurers and trend-setters, sports fans will also have plenty to entertain them in Dunedin, as the Highlanders Rugby Union Team is based here.
Cost of living
It’s no surprise that the cost of living is on the increase all around the world, and Auckland is one of New Zealand’s most expensive cities. Everything from groceries and dining out to petrol and other day-to-day expenses are cheaper in Dunedin, with \rental prices also significantly cheaper than up north.
Things to Know
Transport
While Dunedin has the infrastructure for trains and trams, public transport in the city today is limited to buses, taxis, and airport shuttles. With this in mind, having your own vehicle could make life here a lot easier. If you opt to use public transport, then invest in a GoCard to save up to 25% of fare prices. Alternatively, driving might be a better option depending on your needs. When planning your move, ask Allied about car transport from Auckland to Dunedin, and how we can get your car safely to your new home.
Weather
New Zealand isn’t known for fabulous weather, and Dunedin can experience some cooler temperatures than other parts of the country. With summer averages of 19° and winter lows of 4°, you’ll want to make sure you pack for the weather. This is also something to consider when house hunting, as homes with good insulation and heating systems will be more comfortable during the colder months!
Planning your move
Deciding to move is an exciting step, but there’s some planning involved before it’s time to say goodbye to Auckland.
The perfect place
Take some time to research Dundedin’s suburbs, their facilities and amenities, and find one that suits your needs. The residential St Clair is popular thanks to its proximity to both Dunedin CBD and St Clair beach, while Opoho is a more up-market locale with easy access to the Botanic Gardens.
Getting there
Sitting up the top of the North Island, Auckland is 1,446 kilometres from Dunedin on the South Island. As the only way to cross the Cook Strait is by plane or ferry, you’ll need to dedicate some time to planning how you want to make the move. While air travel is fastest for both you and your belongings, it’s also the most expensive. The other option is the ferry; a journey that takes around four hours, and offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Get in Touch
To find out more about how the Allied team can assist in your inter-island move from Auckland to Dunedin, contact us to speak with our moving team.