Moving to New Zealand
Last updated on Jun 08, 2023
Summary: Expats and digital nomads move to New Zealand for its stunning natural beauty, its friendly people, and its excellent quality of life. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in New Zealand are Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. People looking for a place to live in New Zealand can search online for rental properties, contact real estate agents, or look for shared accommodation.
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," remarked one expat in Warkworth, New Zealand.
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How do I find a place to live in New Zealand?
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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a Quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA. Plus, get 10% Off Expat Health Insurance for Life through December 30, 2023.

Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a Quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA. Plus, get 10% Off Expat Health Insurance for Life through December 30, 2023.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat 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.
Additional Information:
- New Zealand Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in New Zealand
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in New Zealand
- Best Places to Live in New Zealand
- Guide to Real Estate in New Zealand
- Pros & Cons of Living in New Zealand
- Cost of Living in New Zealand
- Retire in Napier Guide
- Retire in Christchurch Guide
- Retire in Auckland Guide
- 10 Things to Know Before Moving to New Zealand
- Pros and Cons of Living in New Zealand 2023
- 2023 Guide to Moving to New Zealand