Moving From US to New Zealand

Expats from the US are quite selective when it comes to places they want to relocate to. Those who choose New Zealand as their ultimate work, vacation, or study destination may not be used to its gentler pace of life. Fortunately for them, New Zealanders are the easiest people to mingle with, and the cost of living is not as high as it is in the US. If you are planning to relocate from the US to New Zealand, it is essential to learn more about the benefits, the cost of moving, and the popular areas to visit.

Benefits of moving from the US to New Zealand

High quality of life

No other place can offer a peaceful atmosphere like New Zealand. New Zealanders are relaxed and approachable people. You will experience the serene atmosphere right from when you land at the airport. Whether you want someone to show you around the place or to book a hotel, they will be right there for you.

All areas in New Zealand are accessible by road, so commuting is not a challenge. Also, their work culture is flexible, giving both employers and expats are entitled to rest at the end of a hard day's work. You will have pretty much all the time to explore your hobbies including, jogging, watching movies, or taking a walk.

Conducive weather favors outdoor activities

If you are a fan of outdoor activities such as swimming, diving, or sight-seeing, then New Zealand's favorable climate will impress you. Right from December to February, you will experience warm and dry summers. Most Americans find it profitable to work in places that come with touring benefits. All you need is to identify your favorite outdoor activity, and go with the flow.

Beautiful scenery

The famous television series Lord of the Rings was shot in New Zealand, which accentuates the country's scenic beauty. Whenever you get the time off your busy, explore the tropical surf beaches, mysterious forests, braided rivers, mud pools, and dramatic mountains. If you are coming as an expat, you will have more time to travel to different places to marvel at the beauty.

Richness in culture

Before you make an international move, it is crucial to learn more about the people you will find in the country. New Zealanders are made up of two ethnic groups; Maori and Polynesian people. Together, they form a unique culture known as "Pasifika." As you interact with them, you will savor the excellent art pieces they have put together. New Zealanders are known to make guests feel welcome.

Healthcare

If you are planning to live in NZ, you need to enroll in the public healthcare system. As long as you have a work visa, you can receive free-to-low healthcare services. Even if you are injured in an accident, the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) will cover all your medical expenses.

Education

New Zealand's state education system allows its citizens and expat's children to enroll for early childhood to the secondary school level and tertiary institutions. Most of the subjects taught in schools are in English, making it easier for Americans to join in. To qualify for the programs, you will need to get a work visa and any other documents to prove your identity and residency status.

How to move from the US to New Zealand

Ever imagined how long it will take you to move from the US to New Zealand? From your Google Map, it seems far away as possible, but it depends on where you are coming from. For instance, a person living on the West Coast of the US will take a shorter time and route to travel to New Zealand. Americans will find it easier to get to New Zealand compared to people coming from Europe.

Flights scheduled from the US to New Zealand often take place in the evening. This allows you to sleep all through the flight. You will hardly notice the long distance due to the similarity in the time zones; the Pacific and NZ times differ by only three hours. You can use airlines such as Air New Zealand, American Airlines, United Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, or Continental Airlines for long-distance travel.

Cost of moving from the US to New Zealand

It is vital to research a place before relocating, regardless of how you want a change of scenery and the promise of a well-paying job. If you have spent your life in NZ for five years with indefinite leave, you can apply for citizenship by grant costs $337 as an adult. Children under 16 can apply to become a citizen for $168.90.

If you are planning to buy relatively cheap properties in New Zealand, you will be spoilt for choice. Places like Wellington, Christchurch, and Canterbury have more affordable homes compared to others like Auckland. When you are not looking to buy property, you can rent an apartment at an average price of $1,100 per month throughout the nation. This is on the lower side compared to major cities in the US.

Most Popular Areas in New Zealand

If you are looking for a place to work, study, or raise your kids, New Zealand is the place to be. Here are some of the most popular areas you can look forward to visiting.

Bay of Islands

If you are into fishing, surfing, sailing, scuba diving, and other water sports, Bay of Islands is the best place to visit. You can access the place from Auckland by car, which is only a three hour drive. Get immersed in the scenic beauty of 144 islands between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula. Get ready to explore the underwater and have a dance with the dolphins.

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is known for its glaciers that were formed during the Ice Age. The landscape has since remained the same decades later, making it perfect for nature lovers and sightseeing enthusiasts. From the rising cliffs to the mountains and waterfalls, you will be spoilt for choice. No wonder the place was ranked the "eighth wonder of the world" by a scientific explorer- Rudyard Kiplig.

Auckland

If you are visiting NZ as an expat for the first time, you will most probably land at Auckland Airport. You will have every opportunity to explore the magnificent metropolis before heading out to other places. Get ready to explore the museums and participate in adventure activities once you land there.

Waiheke Island

Sitting downtown Auckland is Waiheke Island, a place known for fine and mature wine, and finger-licking meals. The small island is located in the Hauraki Gulf. You will need a boat to access the island. The place is perfect for wine tasters, art fans, sightseers and nature lovers.

Christchurch

Back in September 2010- December 2011, a major earthquake was felt in Christchurch. Unlike other places, it did not lose most of its historical sites after the natural disaster. Instead of going with the ruins, it experienced rebirth everywhere, including the newly refurbished buildings made out of old shipping containers. Get ready to explore the Christchurch Botanic gardens that include the largest, tallest, and the oldest trees in the country.

Queenstown

Queenstown has earned an excellent reputation for its world-class skiing. Fans of jumping, skydiving, jet boating and river rafting have more to gain from visiting the place. You can access most parts of this city by car.

New Zealand is a preferred place to live by expats from the US, and other countries across the globe. Whether you are looking to study, vacation, raise kids or work in New Zealand, it is vital to understand the benefits that come with traveling and living there. Even as you plan to renew your work visa, always remember to follow the right channels. New Zealand is a fantastic place to live, work and play.