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," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Warkworth, New Zealand.
"Before moving to New Zealand, expats should research the cost of living in the area they plan to live in. They should also familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the climate and weather patterns. It is also important to research the job market and the availability of housing. Expats should also make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits before arriving in New Zealand. Additionally, expats should consider the healthcare system and the availability of medical services in the area they plan to live in. Finally, expats should make sure to bring all the necessary documents and items with them when they move to New Zealand," commented one expat who made the move to New Zealand.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in New Zealand?
- How do I meet people in New Zealand?
- What is life like in New Zealand?
- Is there a lot of crime in New Zealand?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in New Zealand accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in New Zealand like?
- Is the cost of living in New Zealand high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in New Zealand?
- What are healthcare services like in New Zealand?
- Is the cost of living in New Zealand high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in New Zealand?
- What is the weather like in New Zealand?
- Are there good restaurants in New Zealand?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in New Zealand?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in New Zealand?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in New Zealand?
- What do I need to know when buying property in New Zealand?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property 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.