When considering an international move deciding on the destination is half the fun, as relocating is one of the best and most exciting ways to break out of your routine and start fresh. From meeting new people and seizing new opportunities, too immersing yourself in a completely unfamiliar environment, we share our top reasons why you should move to New Zealand.
1. Exploring the outdoors and taking in the scenery
New Zealand is known by the indigenous Māori people as Aotearoa, or “Land of the Long White Cloud.” From cloud-dotted skies, crystal-clear lakes and rugged mountains, to its glaciers, geysers and lush green hills, the country’s South Pacific islands are world famous for their incredible landscapes.
Given the close proximity of these stunning vistas across the country, New Zealand is perfect for anyone after an outdoor lifestyle. If you’ve got the energy, you can enjoy a meditative hike amongst the hills in the morning, and then change it up in the afternoon with surfing and a rowdy rugby match at night.
3. Vibrant cities that are close to the beach
Well over half of New Zealand’s population live within five kilometres of the shoreline. Whilst packing for your international move, make sure to clearly mark the box with your togs and jandals (bathers and thongs). You’ll surely want to hit the golden sands or lively shoals soon after arrival.
The North and South Islands are in fact dotted with dynamic, liveable cities, many of which boast historic charm and natural splendour as well as cosmopolitan culture. Whether you’re moving to Auckland, Christchurch, Nelson, or the capital city Wellington, each city are popular spots to work, live and play.
4. Exquisite wildlife
In addition to shoals teeming with marine life, New Zealand is home to a menagerie of creatures you won’t find anywhere else on the planet. While penguin lovers will know it as the seabird capital of the world, the country’s forests are where you’ll find the iconic, nocturnal kiwi bird.
5. High quality of life for everyone
All of the top reasons to move to New Zealand help contribute to a quality of life that’s hard to beat. It’s no wonder New Zealand is home to more than a handful of the most liveable cities in the world. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Better Life Index, “New Zealand ranks above the average in health status, income and wealth, environmental quality, personal security, civic engagement, housing, subjective well-being, education and skills, jobs and earnings, and social connections.”
6. Low population density with an active job market
Anyone looking for some breathing room will appreciate New Zealand’s low population density. While the number of residents and expats is steadily rising — the population just reached 5 million in early 2020, with plenty of space for newcomers.
Foreign professionals looking to live and work in New Zealand will discover that there are plenty of job opportunities to consider. Many skilled professions in fields like construction and medicine are in demand. Others can be easily identified through Immigration New Zealand’s Skill Shortage website.
7. Family friendliness
If you’re planning to move with children, you’ll soon find that New Zealand’s strong educational system, spacious housing options, great outdoors and welcoming community all make it a top choice for families. Prospective homebuyers will have plenty of options on choosing where to live within their budget, thanks to the generously sized properties located throughout New Zealand’s cities and suburbs.
8. Māori culture & a diverse population
Today, the heritage, traditions, culture and language of the indigenous Māori people who first settled in New Zealand some 700 years ago, are respected and appreciated as being central to the nation’s overall culture and identity. The rights of Māori and Pakeha (non-Māori) people are outlined in one of the country’s founding documents, the Treaty of Waitangi.
Waves of immigration continue to make New Zealand’s population an increasingly diverse one. Those who call themselves Kiwis most commonly have ethnic ties to Europe, Asia or an indigenous Pacific Island group.
For individuals moving from Australia, Great Britain, the United States or another English-speaking country, New Zealand offers the warm familiarity of a shared language — with its own unique flavour, of course.
9. Progressive leadership
Political turbulence does not often shake New Zealand’s largely calm and progressive political landscape, which often yields forward-looking decisions regarding health care, gender equity and sustainability.
Residents of New Zealand enjoy low-cost or free health care services thanks to substantial government subsidies. The quality of public health care is widely considered exceptional. In recent years, New Zealand has successfully weathered economic downturns and experienced steady economic growth — in part due to migrant-led population expansion, according to the New Zealand Treasury. By moving to New Zealand you can actually have a positive impact!
Additional factors like low crime rates, the government’s response to minimise gun violence, and a general attitude of community acceptance, has helped contribute to the fact that New Zealand was identified as the second safest country in the 2019 Global Peace Index.
10. Fantastic food culture
Foodie culture flourishes throughout New Zealand, from Wellington’s vibrant food festivals to Auckland’s high-end dining experiences. You’ll also find some incredible seafood around the islands. Given its grape-friendly climate and topography, New Zealand is home to 10 leading wine-producing regions and roughly 500 wineries. Once you’re ready to become a Kiwi, why not raise a glass of the Marlborough region’s world-renowned sauvignon blanc or Otago’s popular pinot noir?
If you’ve considered the top reasons to move to New Zealand and feel ready to make this island nation your new home, it’s important that you work with an expert removalist team to ensure your next international move is safe, efficient and stress free. The team at Allied help singles, couples and families relocate to New Zealand on a regular basis. Call 0800 255 433 today for a free quote and explore our international moving resources.