See where to live and work in Auckland and discover thousands of job opportunities in major trades and industries, safe housing, top-notch cuisine from around the world, great coffee, and importantly, plenty of amazing beaches and regional parks.

Auckland Population and Demographics

Auckland is the most populous city in New Zealand, home to more than 1.4 million people – 40% of whom were born overseas. Over recent decades, people of dozens of nationalities have settled in Auckland, adding their own work ethic and positive values to New Zealand’s innovative culture.

Immigration has created uniquely multicultural demographics in Auckland, with a thriving working-age population that totals a third of New Zealand’s entire workforce and continues to grow every year.

Auckland Weather and Climate

Auckland has a temperate climate similar to most of New Zealand’s Upper North Island, reaching average peak temperatures of about 24°C in summer and lows around 14°C in winter.

Snow is a rare sight even during Auckland’s coldest winters, with the most recent snowfall recorded in 2011 – the first time since the 1930s. Due to its temperate climate, Auckland’s average annual rainfall is around 1,115.5 mm per year.

Upon landing in Auckland, you may notice the weather change several times before you even leave the airport. People living in Auckland often joke that the city experiences four seasons in a day – with rainfall, clouds and strong winds a common occurrence between bouts of warm sunshine.

This is partly due to Auckland’s coastal location and hilly, volcanic geography, but also means you can enjoy excellent sailing weather nearly every week.

Major Industries in Auckland

Construction, Engineering and Infrastructure and Technology sectors are constantly recruiting in the city, with ongoing development easily visible from Auckland’s skyline in the form of cranes and rising buildings. As well as trades, key industries throughout Auckland include hospitality and social work, with roles available in hotels, restaurants, and tourism, as well as nursing and education.

Places to Live in Auckland

Constantly growing and changing, the city offers a range of housing options for different people working in Auckland, including stand-alone residential properties, refurbished villas, apartments, and terraced homes.

Renting a single-room apartment in Central Auckland costs an average of $395 NZD rent per week, with the average sale price of a three-bedroom house in the Central suburbs, for example, at 1,181,929 NZD for a three-bedroom house in Mt Albert (as of January 2018). Housing prices vary according to proximity to local schools, business areas and amenities such as parks or beaches.

Cost of Living in Auckland

Some people migrating to Auckland may find the average prices for products such as fruit and vegetables more expensive compared to other countries. For comparison, the average cost of living in Auckland is similar to that of cities such as Melbourne, Australia.

Aucklanders can choose from various providers for individual or bundled electricity, gas, and internet plans, with ongoing costs slightly higher than the OECD average. Cellphone coverage is widespread, and the Government has an active extension plan to deliver ultra-fast broadband throughout Auckland by 2022. Click the Cost of Living calculator (INZ).

Getting Around in Auckland

Auckland has an established, ever-expanding public transport network of buses, train lines, and ferries connecting its suburbs and city – you can buy and top up an Auckland Transport HOP card for continual discount rates and monthly pass options. Taxis and Uber transport rides are widely available near Auckland Airport and throughout the CBD for travelling between work meetings or catching a ride home from the bar or a night out on the weekend.

Education in Auckland

If you are moving to Auckland with a young family, you will find many world-class primary and secondary schools within walking or biking range of friendly, safe neighbourhoods.

Study recognised industry qualifications and gain practical work knowledge at Auckland’s institutes of technology and polytechnics (ITPs) and universities such as the University of Auckland, AUT University, and Massey University.  All New Zealand’s ITPs and universities are funded and supported by the Government and must meet stringent standards of excellence each year.

People working in Auckland will need a comfortable grasp on the English language. Full and part-time English Language Training (ESOL) courses for business, academic, and conversational English are available throughout Auckland.

Auckland Entertainment and Things to Do

Auckland boasts the perfect blend of culture, historical gems, and entertainment. In the Auckland Domain, the Auckland War Memorial Museum houses extensive natural history collections and artefacts from New Zealand’s earliest settlements.  Albert Park, Western Springs, the CBD Waterfront and venues such as Eden Park and the ASB Stadium often host concerts, sports games, and cultural activities and events such as the Pasifika Festival and Lantern Festival.

Find thousands of books, audiobooks, magazines, DVDs, and more in Auckland’s local library network. For the latest music, operas, plays, and local and international film screenings visit the Auckland Town Hall and Civic Theatre.  Shoppers can find excellent locally-made products and world-renowned brands along Queen Street in the CBD. Centrally-located Sylvia Park is currently the largest shopping mall in Auckland, with over 200 retail stores. Auckland also offers hundreds of cafes, restaurants, and bakeries with a diverse selection of cuisines and price ranges.

New Zealanders open their hearts to newcomers. In fact, nine out of ten migrants find the welcome they receive meets or exceeds their expectations, according to a recent Immigration New Zealand survey. What are you waiting for? Apply Now

Gisborne is famous for its sunny climate, friendly community and gorgeous beaches. Find out where to live and work in Gisborne on Working In today. Discover a range of job opportunities in the region and find affordable housing. Plus, get useful information on Gisborne entertainment and things to do.

Gisborne Population and Demographics

Gisborne is a stunning coastal city on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. This historic city was the first and largest settlement in the Gisborne District.

Gisborne’s population (37,200) is made up of various ethnicities. This includes European, Maori, Asian, Pacific Islanders, Latin American and African. The city has a fairly youthful population, with a median age of 37 years.

Places to Live in Gisborne

Gisborne’s laidback lifestyle has made it an attractive place to live in New Zealand. If you’re planning to move to Gisborne, you’ll have a wide choice of accommodation options. This includes beachfront homes, riverfront homes, lifestyle blocks, city apartments, and cheap townhouses.

There are low-cost options and luxurious options available in various suburbs. No matter where you settle down in Gisborne, you’ll enjoy a great quality of life. The suburbs are in close proximation to popular facilities and attractions.

Cost of Living in Gisborne

Housing in Gisborne is affordable compared to other New Zealand cities. The average house price in Gisborne is less than 270,000, compared to over $1 million in Auckland. These low house prices have made Gisborne a popular place for families to settle down. Grocery prices and restaurant prices are also much cheaper. You don’t always have to spend money to have fun in Gisborne – some of the best things to do in Gisborne can be done for free (beaches, walks).

Getting Around in Gisborne

Gisborne is a small city, so it’s fairly easy to get around. Many facilities and attractions are within walking or biking range from the suburbs.

Public transport in Gisborne is less developed compared to other New Zealand cities. The local bus service, Gizzy Bus, is the city’s main mode of public transport and is only available from Mondays – Fridays. The service doesn’t operate on weekends or public holidays.

If you need transport to a specific location, taxis are a viable option. While more expensive than taking the bus, taxis in Gisborne are quick and reliable.

Gisborne Weather and Climate

Gisborne has a temperate oceanic climate. The city sees a large number of sunshine hours throughout the year. During the summer, it’s the first city in the world to see the sun. The city also has a lower wind speed than other coastal areas of New Zealand. Gisborne rainfall varies throughout the year. On average, rainfall is highest in June, while November is the driest month.

Major Industries in Gisborne

Gisborne is a great place to work and do business. The city presents many exciting employment opportunities, especially in its major industries.  The key industries in Gisborne include horticulture, forestry, agriculture and tourism. These industries are currently experiencing huge growth. Over the next five years, more than 2,000 jobs will be generated in Gisborne’s key industries. The engineering sector is also expected to experience large growth.

Payment for jobs in Gisborne depends on the role and your level of experience. The current minimum wage in New Zealand is 16.50 NZD (13.20 NZD after tax). All foreigners hoping to find work in Gisborne must have a relevant visa. Information about the visa process is available on the Immigration New Zealand website.

Education in Gisborne

If you’re migrating to Gisborne with kids, you’ll have plenty of choice in terms of education. Gisborne’s education sector is award-winning and is considered as one of the best in New Zealand. The city is home to 40 primary schools, four secondary schools and two intermediate-only schools.

Children going to school in Gisborne can choose from a range of after-school activities. This includes surf-lifesaving clubs, netball, football, drama, gymnastics, rowing, rugby and more. Most after-school facilities are located only a few minutes’ drive from each other.

Gisborne also has a great selection of tertiary providers. The Eastern Institute of Technology is the city’s main tertiary institute. Based in the city centre, the campus offers an abundance of study programs and options. Students have the option to study full-time, part-time or online. Getting a tertiary education in Gisborne can lead to fantastic career opportunities.

Gisborne Entertainment and Things to Do

Gisborne is best known for its stunning surf beaches, which have some of the country’s best surf breaks. These beaches are suitable for all ages and surf abilities.

However, Gisborne is much more than just a beach haven. There is a huge selection of things to do in Gisborne. The city is home to an array of sports facilities, museums and art galleries.  The Tairawhiti Museum is a standout attraction for history enthusiasts. This museum features interesting exhibitions on indigenous and colonial history.

Gisborne has also built a reputation for its world-class food and wine. One of the most popular things to do in Gisborne is going on a wine trail. There are several operators in Gisborne that offer custom wine tours. This will save you the hassle of driving yourself.

You’ll find great shopping in Gisborne, including local boutiques selling arts & crafts. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the city’s hiking, cycling and horse-riding trails. With natural beauty everywhere you go, it’s the perfect place for an outdoor adventure.

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Discover the vibrant city of Hamilton and its thriving workforce. Experience top-notch dining, a buzzing nightlife and an active outdoor lifestyle. Find where to live and work in Hamilton and enjoy the perfect work-life balance. With a range of job opportunities to choose from, there is something for everyone.

Hamilton Population and Demographics

Situated on the banks of the Waikato River, Hamilton is New Zealand’s largest inland city. It’s currently one of the fastest growing urban areas in the country. The population of Hamilton is youthful and innovative – around half of its residents are under the age of 30. It’s also a very culturally diverse city, home to more than 80 ethnic groups.

Hamilton Weather and Climate

Hamilton’s climate is generally mild, warm and temperate. The average temperature in summer is 21C and 14C in winter. On average, the warmest month is February and the coolest month is July. There is a significant amount annual rainfall in Hamilton, which helps keep the city green.

Places to Live in Hamilton

Hamilton’s relaxed lifestyle has made it an attractive place to live in New Zealand. If you are planning to move to Hamilton, you will have many options regarding accommodation. A record number of building consents were granted in 2018. As a result, home construction is expected to surge significantly. Diverse house types are popping up all over the region. Choose from townhouses, duplexes, apartments and traditional homes.

Do you enjoy city life? There are residential suburbs all around the inner CBD offering modern housing.  There are also semi-rural properties located about 20 minutes from the city centre. These properties are popular amongst residents seeking a quieter way of life, and are also ideal for families who want home that is close to the city but still contains more open space.

Hamilton Entertainment & Things to Do

There is a wide array of things to do in Hamilton and the Waikato region. The city centre is packed with restaurants, cafes, bars and casinos where you can have a fun night out. The vibrant nightlife scene is a draw for many travellers and migrants – and on the weekends, you’ll find various markets selling gourmet food and locally-crafted artwork and goods. The city also hosts events like sports matches, concerts, festivals and comedy shows that attract hundreds of locals and visitors every year.

Hamilton is also well known for its stunning parks and gardens. The Hamilton Gardens is the most popular attraction in the Waikato region. This award-winning attraction is well-loved by tourists and locals alike. The Garden takes you on a journey through a gallery of local and international species, with beautifully-manicured examples of traditional gardens from Japan, Italy, China, and much more that each tell their own unique story. Other fun places to spend time include the Hamilton Zoo, the Waikato Museum and Water World.

Hamilton also has close proximity to other regional destinations. Tourist hotspots like Auckland and Rotorua are within a couple hours’ drive from the city – so on your weekend breaks, you can venture out of Hamilton and explore more of the central North Island.

Cost of Living in Hamilton

Hamilton is an affordable place to live in comparison to Auckland or Wellington. The average monthly cost of rent for a two-bedroom house is $1750. The average cost of living in Hamilton per month is estimated to be $2,650. If you want to enjoy comfortable living in a beautiful city, then Hamilton is the place to be.

Major Industries in Hamilton

Hamilton is located in the centre of New Zealand’s largest dairying area. Agriculture is the main contributor to the city’s economy. This field has an abundance of job opportunities available, with a demand for skilled workers that is only expected to increase with the growth of the area.

Hamilton is also home to some of New Zealand’s top science research industries. Education and research are amongst the region’s leading job providers. Other key industries in Hamilton include manufacturing, wholesale and retail. The current minimum wage in New Zealand is $16.60 and $13.20 before tax. These hourly wages are reviewed by the Government each year.

Getting Around in Hamilton

Getting around Hamilton is easy, which is part of its appeal. Many places can be reached within walking or cycling distance. But the city also has a comprehensive public transport system. The local bus network has over 28 routes, and 10 others throughout the wider region.

The Hamilton Transport Centre is the main hub for public passenger services, with national coach buses available here. A free shuttle bus also operates in the central business district from Monday to Saturday. If you’re working in the CBD, shuttle buses are the quickest and most convenient way to get around. Taxi and Uber services are also available throughout the city.

Education in Hamilton

Hamilton offers wonderful opportunities for education, proven by its youthful population of over 40,000 tertiary students. The University of Waikato is the most well-known in the region. In 2017, it was rated in the top 1.1% of universities in the world (according to the QS World University Rankings). The University has received numerous awards in the business, management and engineering disciplines. Other major tertiary institutes in Hamilton include the Waikato Institute of Technology and Te Wananga o Aotearoa. Hamilton is also home to many excellent primary and secondary schools.

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The winterless North’ – a place where the sun rarely hops out of vision. That’s what the Kiwis call Northland, and it’s easy to see why. Just one glance at the weather forecast on any given day will show you just how warm Northland can get, making the region one of the most popular places in New Zealand for skilled migrants, but the big orange ball in the sky isn’t the only thing that Northland has going for it.

We’re not even talking about the sumptuous scenery, endless unspoiled beaches and rich culture on offer (though of course, you’ll get all that too!) – the job opportunities on offer for skilled, experienced people are ample and varied, meaning that you should definitely consider Northland when planning your move to New Zealand.

What do you need to know about Northland?

Steeped in Maori culture and tradition, Northland was first landed upon by the explorer Kupe some 800 years ago. Today, around 30 per cent of the Northland population identify as Maori, and Whangarei, the biggest city, has a sizeable Maori contingent. It was also in Northland that the Treaty of Waitangi (New Zealand’s founding document) was signed back in 1840.

If you live for the great outdoors, you can’t go far wrong with Northland. Fishing, boating, cycling and hiking are all hugely popular pastimes here, and with a population of just 150,000, you can often drive or amble for hours without seeing another human being – we’ll leave it up to you to decide whether that’s a good thing or not!

Additionally, you’re never more than 50 kilometres from the coast in narrow Northland, so beach bunnies are catered for wherever you decide to settle, whether that’s Whangerei, the bright lights of Paihia or scenic Kerikeri. Now that you’ve learnt a little of the lifestyle Northland has to offer, let’s take a look at what it’s like to live and work here.

Living in Northland

Northland is a region based on community – it’s likely that you’ll soon be on first-name terms with the local shopkeeper, taxi driver and police officer alike. There’s always something going on no matter where you live, be it a local food festival or music event. Speaking of food, Northland is gaining a burgeoning reputation as a gastro hotspot, with a myriad of locally grown and produced delicacies to be had.

It’s this lifestyle that attracts so many skilled migrants to Northland. Some 10,000 people from the UK and Ireland call Northland home, with Europeans and Asians making up the rest of what is already a hugely diverse population. In fact, some 125 people a month are reported to move to Northland each month – can so many folk be wrong?

Here’s what you need to know about working in the region, from top-performing sectors, to opportunities for qualified migrants.

Working in Northland

Let’s get one little thing out the way first – the job market in Northland isn’t quite as large as it in some places, such as the Auckland region or those with big cities. Even so, there are still plenty of pickings for those who know what they’re looking for, so perseverance is the name of the game when job hunting in Northland.

As with many of New Zealand’s more rural areas, Northland’s biggest sectors include tourism and farming. Behind those two powerhouses are wood processing and marine engineering – indeed, some of the world’s biggest, most expensive superyachts were built in Whangarei, according to New Zealand Now. Cement manufacture is also big business, as is dairy processing.

Be sure to take a look at our jobs board to keep up to date on the latest job offerings in Northland – it’s constantly updated, so you’ll always have a good idea of what’s up for grabs.

What to do in Northland

Putting down your tools for the day means it’s time to head home for the day for a well-earned rest – or does it? In Northland, you’ll find a raft of things to see and do when your working day is done – here are five of our favourites.

It’s known as Ninety Mile Beach, but that’s a bit misleading as its length is actually 90 kilometres. Stretching between Ahipara and Scott Point, the undulating sand dunes found along the northern half of the beach roll almost as much as the sea waves themselves – after you’ve finished bodyboarding in the sea, why not take a wild ride on the sand on a dune board?

If you can manage it, dig for the endemic tuatua at low tide – but you’ll have to be quick, as these little guys burrow fast, but try and snaffle a few. The clam is a fine delicacy, especially when boiled and eaten on the shell. If you’re a keen fisherman, bring your rod along – snapper is abundant in these waters, so you could be having a main to go with your tuatua starter before the day is out.

Cape Reinga is the northernmost point of New Zealand. Perhaps the most incredible natural feature of this place is that it’s where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean and you can actually see the fury and foaming of the waters as the two bodies of water clash

Another thing to so at Cape Reinga is to seek out the ancient pohutukawa tree next to the lighthouse. This is said to be where Maori spirits travel to after they have passed, before descending into the sea and the underworld.

How about visiting New Zealand’s biggest kauri tree? The ‘Lord of the Forest’ dwarfs even some of the large mature trees growing nearby, and at a height of well over 50 metres and girth of nearly 14 metres, that’s hardly surprising.

Tane Mahuta is reached by following a short walk from the signposted car park. There are two viewing platforms and seating to help you get the finest angle of the giant tree. Be sure to stick to the paths as, despite their massive size, kauri roots are highly sensitive to foot traffic.

After viewing the ancient kauri, head to the Kauri Museum in nearby Matakohe. You’ll discover more about these fascinating giants, their uses when felled, and efforts to promote the recovery from deforestation.

Mangawhai is the place you’ll want to be if stargazing is your thing. Though it’s only a small township, this actually counts in the favour of the astronomer as there is very little light pollution at night – meaning a glowing galaxy of stars come out to play.

Talking of galaxies, you can see a real, living one in the Waipu Caves – made up of glowworms. That’s right – by entering the caves (be sure to bring a torch!) you can find countless glowworms illuminating the world around you. It really is a sight to behold – you’ll almost believe your back in Mangawhai!

Northland is the place to be for the outdoor adventurer and culture vulture. You should give moving to Northland serious consideration when making your move to New Zealand – we look forward to seeing you on the beach!

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As its name suggests, Southland is found in the deep south of New Zealand. Though it might lack the big-city thrills that come with Auckland or Christchurch, Southland more than holds its own when it comes to quality of life, career opportunities and a genuine slice of Kiwiana.

It’s in Southland that you’ll find New Zealand’s lowest average house prices, but this doesn’t mean that the salaries are down, too – rather, they’re up there with some of the most competitive in New Zealand.

Agriculture remains the biggest industry in Southland, but there are other sectors to choose from if you want to make the region your home – and with a lifestyle like this, why wouldn’t you?

What to expect from the Southland scenery

Southland is a largely rural area, with just one city, Invercargill. With a population just shy of 60,000, Invercargill has more of a small town feel than that of a large city, but it still offers the best of worlds. Outside of Invercargill, Southland is made up of extensive, rolling farmland, complete with rivers replete with trout. Soaring mountains and deep, blue lakes cover the rest of the region, framed by one of the wildest coastlines in the entire country.

Working in Southland

Though perhaps not a traditional hotspot for migrants, Southland is gradually becoming more popular for skilled workers. Professionals from the United Kingdom, Asia and Europe all call Southland home, and these grow by the day, so you’ll be in good company.

It’ll perhaps come as little surprise that the majority of Southland’s industry is agricultural in nature, and it’s dairy farming that leads the way. Southland is also home to the biggest raw milk processing plant on the planet, and there are well over 5 million sheep in the region – it’s no myth that New Zealand is awash with the furry farm animals, and you’ll spot them at every turn here.

Bluff, a small town famous for its oysters, also plays host to New Zealand’s only aluminium smelter, which is a big attraction for workers skilled in this profession. Additionally, Southland is big on tourism – according to New Zealand Now, the region’s Fiordland National Park accounts for a quarter of the dollars spent by tourists in New Zealand each year, with forestry and fishing rounding off Southland’s many booming sectors.

What to do in Southland

When you’ve finished a day’s work, Southland offers you a whole host of things to see and do. You simply can’t set foot in the area without paying a visit to Milford Sound. Regularly voted one of the world’s top travel destinations, let alone New Zealand, Milford Sound simply has to be seen to be believed. It’s something of a cliche to say it, but visiting Milford Sound is like stepping back to the time of the dinosaurs – an area so endowed with natural beauty no camera could ever do it justice.

To get there, though, you’ll have to travel through the Homer Tunnel. It slices its way through the mountainside, diving 1,270 metres through the granite, before emerging back onto the jaw-dropping Milford Track. Before you enter the tunnel (which is controlled by traffic lights on either side as it isn’t particularly wide) there’s an opportunity to get out the car and grab a beautiful picture.

Just outside the town of Te Anau is the Milford Road, a route which will take you all the way to Milford Sound. Along the way, there are a great many places to stop and check out the next scenic attraction, and one of the best of these are the Mirror Lakes.

They aren’t so-called for no reason. On a calm, clear day, the soaring Earl Mountains are perfectly reflected in the pancake-flat surface. Almost as if they are showing off, the Mirror Lakes are introduced by a sign written backwards and upside-down, which only reveals its message when reflected in the water.

We’ve already talked about Bluff and its famous oysters. In the cold stretch of water between Bluff (which is actually the southernmost tip of the South Island) and Stewart Island grow said beautiful oysters that are renowned across the nation. They grow slowly in the clean Foveaux Strait and, during the season, are harvested by Bluff’s dedicated oyster fleet. You could, of course, enjoy a bluff oyster anywhere in New Zealand, but nothing beats paying a visit to their point of origin itself – and they’ll never be fresher!

For something a little out of the ordinary, why not head to Teapot Land? That’s right – doen in Owaka in the Catlins area, you might just happen across 1,200 teapots sitting in the front garden on a house down Main Road. Who knows why? We don’t know – but it’ll make a fascinating change to the usual run-of-the-mill drive!

Southland is a region that has everything going for it – affordable housing, a wealth of jobs and an enviable lifestyle. If you find that your skills and qualifications match those required in the region, Southland is definitely one to consider when planning your move to New Zealand.

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The city of Tauranga is an excellent choice for those seeking to balance work in New Zealand with a fantastic lifestyle. If you are considering moving to Tauranga, read on to discover what you can expect from this naturally beautiful and friendly city on New Zealand’s east coast: weather, work opportunities, things to do, and everything else that you’d need to know to prepare to successfully settle in Tauranga.

Tauranga Population and Demographics

With an estimated population of more than 130,000 people in 2017 according to the Tauranga Statistical Information Report put out in May 2018, Tauranga is a small city – but New Zealand’s sixth-largest by population.

Seventeen percent of the population of Tauranga are of native Maori heritage. Demographics also include a higher-than-average number of people over the age of 65, as Tauranga is considered an excellent place for retirement due to lifestyle and climate considerations.

Tauranga Weather and Climate

Tauranga’s average temperatures reach 20-25 degrees Celsius in summer and drop to around 10-15 degrees Celsius in winter. It doesn’t snow in the city, and the annual rainfall in Tauranga is 1426 mm. Humidity is high in summer.

Tauranga’s climate makes it a pleasant place to be year-round: great weather for the beach in summer, and cool but not freezing cold in winter.

Major Industries in Tauranga

Looking for the best place to find jobs in your field in New Zealand? Key industries in Tauranga include healthcare, retail, construction and education. There is plenty of hospitality work available in Tauranga, particularly in Mount Maunganui during the summer season.

Tauranga is also a centre for agriculture and farming, which are significant industries for the area. Orchards in and around Tauranga and nearby Te Puke produce a considerable amount of fruit for export.

Places to Live in Tauranga

There is no best or cheapest place to live in Tauranga—there are safe suburbs and great neighbourhoods throughout the city, each with their own features and highlights. There has been a lot of development in the town, and anyone looking to live and work in Tauranga will find plenty of different housing options, from standalone houses on large sections in the outskirts to more high-density options and some apartments in the inner suburbs.

House prices in Tauranga reached a median of $660,000 in 2018. Renters can expect to pay $400-$500 per week for a small house, with prices rising in popular beachside suburbs like Papamoa and Mount Maunganui which are considered among the best areas to live in Tauranga due to the coastal lifestyle.

Cost of Living in Tauranga

While housing is relatively expensive, other living expenses in Tauranga do not differ much from those in other New Zealand cities. High-speed internet will cost around $80-$100 per month, two litres of milk will set you back around $4, and a Big Mac combo, the popular cost-of-living benchmark, costs around $11 in Tauranga and around the nation.

Getting Around in Tauranga

Tauranga’s public transport consists primarily of the Bayhopper bus system, which covers the city, Mount Maunganui and Papamoa with regular bus service. Regular commuters can buy a SmartRide card which offers a discount on single-ride fares. Taxis are another option for public transport in Tauranga, and Uber has recently launched there, too. Tauranga has an airport with regular domestic service to and from Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington and several small regional destinations.

Education in Tauranga

There are many primary and secondary schools in Tauranga, each offering a quality learning experience under the New Zealand schooling system. The Education Index published by the UN consistently ranks New Zealand in the top ten nations – so those seeking job opportunities in New Zealand can rest assured that their children will receive a great education. There are both public and private schools in the city.

There is no university in Tauranga as such, but there is the Bay of Plenty Tertiary Education Partnership which has three campuses throughout the city. Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, an arm of the University of Waikato, and Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi (a Maori education provider) share the campuses and provide tertiary courses in Tauranga.

Tauranga Entertainment and Things to Do

There is no shortage of things to do in Tauranga, particularly for those who like to get outdoors. This lovely laid-back city is naturally blessed with a harbour, beaches and the distinctive Mount Maunganui which offers a great, short hike to the top with fantastic views once you get there. Favourite outdoor activities in Tauranga and the surrounding region include boat trips to White Island, an active volcano, surfing at Papamoa, kayaking and fishing in the harbour, walking in McLaren Falls Park and more.

Urbanites will love Tauranga too – you can find many shopping opportunities and restaurants in Tauranga central. The buzzing suburb of Mount Maunganui, which is New Zealand’s own small but charming “Riviera”, is very popular with holidaymakers particularly in the summer. Brunch and coffee by the beach in Papamoa is a very popular weekend activity in Tauranga, and the city hosts an array of musical, cultural and sporting events throughout the year.

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Drenched in Maori heritage, Rotorua is a literal hotbed of life. Found in an area of restless geothermal movement, Rotorua has attracted visitors to its smoking cracks and craters for time immemorial. The famous bubbling mud pools and thermal springs scattered across the city and its outskirts provide much of the appeal, but Rotorua offers more than just the natural wonders of its restless exterior.

It’s also an excellent shopping centre, and has an entire street dedicated to restaurants serving up tasty treats from around the world. Not too far from Taupo, Rotorua also offers its own take on extreme sports via the popular Skyline attraction – bungee jumps and a giant swing are optional!

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Taupo could be considered Queenstown’s northern brother. Full of natural wonders (including New Zealand’s largest lake) in which you can partake in a myriad of heart-racing extreme activities, Taupo attracts visitors both permanent and temporary alike. Whether you’re taking a jetboat to the mighty Huka Falls or skydiving over the enormous lake, Taupo is sure to leave you begging for more.

The Tongariro Crossing is also nearby, so you can take in a view of Lord Of the Rings’ Mordor on a first-hand basis – and even take a trek up Mount Doom itself. This is a place you won’t want to miss when you first land in NZ.

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Queenstown is famous for its natural beauty. Iconic scenic views and the opportunity of a uniquely outdoor lifestyle makes Queenstown one of the most appealing places to live and work in New Zealand. This vibrant town offers exciting career opportunities, excellent living conditions, and world-class entertainment. Find where to live and work in Queenstown with Working In today. Plus, discover all the best things to do and see in the region.

Queenstown Population and Demographics

Queenstown is a resort town in the South Island of New Zealand. The town is known for its welcoming community, and is home to a wide mix of cultures and ethnicities. People of over 40 different nationalities currently reside permanently in the town. Queenstown’s population is small compared to other urban areas of New Zealand. However, the region has some of the country’s the highest population growth figures.

Queenstown Weather and Climate

In terms of weather, Queenstown is a pleasant place to live all year round. The region enjoys long summers, with an average temperature of 17C. The summer is a great time of year to enjoy the region’s many water-based activities, including jet-boating and white-water rafting. Autumn and spring offer milder weather and a more relaxed pace of life.

Winters in Queenstown are cool and crisp, with an average temperature of 6°C. The cold season opens up the opportunity for you to enjoy a wide array of snow sports. Queenstown features four ski fields, open from June to early October.

Major Industries in Queenstown

Queenstown is an international tourist hub that, year after year, attracts excited visitors from all over the world. Tourism plays a major role in its economy, with many employment opportunities related to tourism, food services and accommodation.

The winter months offer plenty of seasonal work – for work during these seasons, applicants are advised to apply early, due to high competition. Other key industries in Queenstown include construction, retail trade and professional, scientific and technical services.

Foreigners hoping to work in Queenstown must have a relevant visa. Information about the visa process is on the Immigration New Zealand website.

Places to Live in Queenstown

Queenstown offers various residential housing areas. Accommodation options include serviced apartments, hostels, hotels, lodges, resorts and more. Visitors and residents can choose between budget accommodation and more luxurious options. No matter where you stay, you’ll enjoy quality living in Queenstown.

The cheapest place to live in Queenstown is outside the town centre. Most of the outer suburbs are a short drive from the town centre. Suburbs such as Fernhill, Sunshine Bay and Kelvin Height are great, peaceful places to live, away from most of the tourist bustle but still a convenient distance away from major amenities.

Cost of Living in Queenstown

Since Queenstown is a tourist resort town, it’s more expensive than most other areas of New Zealand. Many of the shops feature tourist prices, as in some cases, you may have to pay more than what you’re used to.

Rental costs in the town centre are particularly high. Queenstown is a tourist hotspot, so finding affordable accommodation can be competitive. The average price for a room in the city is NZD 300 per week. However, prices can change depending on the season. Competition is generally highest during the winter peak tourist season.

The rent is generally much cheaper across the outer suburbs. In the suburbs, the cost of rent ranges from about NZD 170-250 per week.

Getting Around in Queenstown

Getting around Queenstown is easy. The town centre is packed with restaurants and activities, all within walking distance – one of the greatest perks of living in Queenstown. But if you’d like to travel further, Queenstown also has an excellent public transport system.

There are taxi services available throughout the region, as well as a bus and ferry network. If you don’t have your own car, rental car services are readily available.

Education in Queenstown

Getting an education in Queenstown can lead to many great career opportunities. The region is home to excellent primary and secondary schools, language schools and tertiary institutions. You can choose from a huge range of study options and training opportunities. These include hospitality, adventure tourism, the English language, business administration, computing and more. International students living in Queenstown will enjoy a welcoming and vibrant study environment.

Queenstown’s outdoor lifestyle offers a student experience like no other – with the town being one of the exciting places to study in New Zealand. Students can spend days off sightseeing, doing adventure sports, and enjoying the nightlife.

Queenstown Entertainment and Things to Do

Queenstown is famously known as “the Adventure Capital of New Zealand.” In every season, there is no shortage of activities in Queenstown. From jet-boating and bungee jumping to skiing and snowboarding, there’s a perfect activity for everyone. People from all over the world visit Queenstown to experience its adventure sports.

Queenstown is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and is an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts or nature lovers. Popular outdoor activities include hiking, mountain biking, hunting and fishing. There are also scenic flights and cruises you can take to discover the region’s full beauty. Most of the activities in Queenstown be enjoyed all year round.

As well as thrill and adventure, Queenstown also caters well to people who are looking for a more relaxed way of life. Queenstown is home to world-class restaurants, wineries, movie theatres and great shopping. If you’re interested in history, you will enjoy the cultural shows, art galleries and museums. The town is also a popular hub for hosting large sporting events, such as the New Zealand Winter Games.

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Kerikeri is found in the warm heart of Northland. A small town alive with character, Kerikeri is surrounded by lush natural countryside, but in its centre, you’ll find galleries, museums and restaurants throughout.

In fact, Kerikeri is awash with history – some of the oldest buildings in the country can be found here. The Kemp House (sometimes called the Kerikeri Mission Station) was built in 1821, and the Stone Store – a short walk away – was constructed just over a decade later.

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