Moving to Rotorua, New Zealand
Last updated on Jul 10, 2023
Summary: Moving to Rotorua, New Zealand? Expats talk about what you need to know before moving to Rotorua.
What do I need to know before moving to Rotorua?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Rotorua, they said:
"Rotorua is known for its geothermal activity, Maori culture, and outdoor adventures, making it a unique and exciting place to live. The cost of living in Rotorua is relatively low compared to other parts of New Zealand, but it's still important to budget carefully. The city is small, so while it offers a relaxed lifestyle, it may not have all the amenities of a larger city. Rotorua has a strong Maori presence, and understanding and respecting their culture is important for anyone moving to the area. The city is also a popular tourist destination, so it can get busy during peak travel times. The weather in Rotorua is mild, with warm summers and cool, wet winters. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including lakes, forests, and geothermal parks, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The healthcare system in New Zealand is of a high standard, but it's advisable to have health insurance to cover any additional costs. Rotorua's economy is largely based on tourism, forestry, and agriculture, so job opportunities may be limited in other sectors. The education system in New Zealand is well-regarded, and Rotorua has a range of schools to choose from. Public transportation in Rotorua is limited, so having a car can be beneficial. English is the main language spoken in Rotorua, but Te Reo Maori is also commonly used. Finally, it's important to be aware of the city's geothermal activity, which can cause occasional earth tremors and has resulted in certain areas having a strong sulphur smell," said one expat who made the move to Rotorua.
How do I find a place to live in Rotorua?
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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.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Rotorua?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Rotorua?
- Will I be able to find a job in Rotorua?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Rotorua appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Rotorua?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Rotorua accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Rotorua like?
- How are healthcare services in Rotorua?
- What are medical services in Rotorua like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Rotorua?
- What are emergency services like in Rotorua?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Rotorua?
- How are local medical facilities in Rotorua?
- As a foreigner living in Rotorua, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?