New Zealand
What do I need to know before moving to New Zealand?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to New Zealand, they said...
"Go into town (Warkworth) and just walk the streets. There are 5 or 6 major real estate offices there, and they have hndreds of postings for the entire region. Go to the "Information Centre" (every town has one) and get a good local map. Just drive around and find an area that suits you. If you see a property that is posted by an agent, you can call that number. However, if you aren't afraid to do so, just go up to the door and ask the owners if they are willing to sell directly to you. Then bargain...politely. Everyone saves on that kind of deal...well except the agent doesn't get a fee! Watch out for the direction of and exposure to the wind. And that is true anywhere in New Zealand! The storms off the ocean can be really severe and can last for days. An easy way to see what the wind is doing, is to look at the trees and vegetation in exposed areas or along ridge lines. If everything is leaning over, you can be assured you will be too come May or June," said a member in Warkworth, New Zealand.
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"Here in Dunedin, the location of the home with relation to the sun is very important! Take your time choosing a neighborhood and schools for your children. Find an organization to ask questions about everything, as NZ is ahead of other countries in some areas (on-line access to most government agencies) but very behind in other areas (home insulation and internet speed). We formed such an agency for Dunedin, the web site is www.maverickgroup.co.nz," remarked another expat who made the move to Dunedin, Otago - South Island NZ, New Zealand.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to New Zealand?
- How do I find a place to live in New Zealand?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in New Zealand?
- What is the average cost of housing in New Zealand?
- Should I buy or rent a home in New Zealand?
- What should I pack when moving to New Zealand?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in New Zealand?
- Why do people move to New Zealand?
- What are healthcare services like in New Zealand?
- What are medical services in New Zealand like?
- What are typical rents in New Zealand?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do I need to know before moving to New Zealand?
If you live in New Zealand, newcomers to New Zealand would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
