Moving to NZ from Australia?
There are many reasons why someone might choose to move to New Zealand from Australia. While both countries share many similarities, they also have unique qualities that may make one more appealing to someone than the other.
One reason why someone might consider moving to New Zealand from Australia is for a change of scenery. Another possible reason a person would think of moving from Australia to New Zealand is because of work or the quality of life the latter country offers.
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New Zealand has a strong focus on work-life balance and its smaller population means that it is less crowded and not as hectic as some major Australian cities. The cost of living in some parts of New Zealand may also be more affordable than in some major Australian cities, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money.
New Zealand is also known for its welcoming and friendly culture, making it an easy place to settle into and call home. It’s no wonder some Australians move to NZ even when things already seem great in the Land Down Under.
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How to Move to New Zealand From Australia?
If you’re an Aussie planning on moving to New Zealand, one of your foremost concerns would be how to move to New Zealand from Australia.
When it comes to moving from Australia to New Zealand, there are a few different modes of transportation that are commonly used.
By Air
Air travel is by far the most common mode of transportation between the two countries. There are a number of airlines that operate regular flights between Australia and New Zealand, with most flights departing from major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.
Flights between the two countries typically take around 3-4 hours, making plane trips a quick and convenient way to travel.
By Ship
By Car & Ferry
While air travel is the most common mode of transportation when moving from Australia to New Zealand, and there are a few different options like moving by sea and car and ferry, the most convenient option would be to make use of removals to New Zealand.
At Relocations WA, we offer moving services to Aussies moving temporarily or permanently to New Zealand. We can be your dedicated NZ furniture movers or your total relocation partner offering a range of services including packing and unpacking, car and pet transport, cleaning and more.
We’ve been in business for over 55 years, so we know the ins and outs of the local, interstate and international removals industry. You can count on us if you want a smooth and stress-free move.
Cost of Moving From Australia to New Zealand
The cost of moving from Australia to New Zealand can vary widely depending on a number of factors.
If you’re only bringing a few belongings with you, such as clothes and personal items, you may be able to use a courier service to ship your belongings. This can be a more cost-effective option, with prices typically starting at a few hundred dollars depending on the weight and size of your items.
In addition to the cost of transportation, you will also need to consider other expenses such as visas and permits, insurance, and taxes and duties on any items you are importing into New Zealand.
If you’re bringing a large number of belongings with you, such as furniture or household appliances, you will likely need to use a professional moving company like Relocations WA.
To give you a better idea of the how much moving from Australia to New Zealand will cost, here’s a table you can use as a basis:
(All Prices Quoted Do Not Include Goods & Services Tax or GST)
| Number of Bedrooms |
Estimated Cost of Move |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $3,200 - $4,400 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,400 - $6,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,300 - $10,300 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,000 - $11,000 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $11,500 - $15,000 |
Depending on your specific circumstances, these costs can add up to several thousand dollars to the total cost of your move, so it’s important to plan ahead and budget accordingly to ensure that you are prepared for all expenses.
Disclaimer: The costs stated in this guide are in Australian dollars (unless otherwise indicated) and are indicative only, reflecting industry pricing. Please keep in mind that moving rates are highly variable, and the prices quoted here should serve as a guide only or as a general basis for your research.
Checklist for Moving to New Zealand
Just like for a local or interstate relocation, you’ll need moving-to-New Zealand-from-Australia checklist.
Your checklist for moving to New Zealand encompasses an itemised list of the items you’ll be taking with you as well as possessions you’ll be leaving behind after decluttering or going through your stuff.
Also, every little task you need to do for your move and all details of your New Zealand relocation should be included in this checklist.
Plan Your Move
Make your checklist months before your move as you’ll find out soon enough the millions of things you’ll need to cover for a smooth and organised overseas relocation.
Some critical tasks you need on your checklist include:
- Decluttering
- Creating a moving schedule (packing, cleaning, etc.)
- Getting quotes from reputable removalists
- Coordinating with utility service providers
- Finalising all paperwork (e.g., insurance, financial matters, medical certificates, travel, etc.)
Documents & Visas
When moving from Australia to New Zealand, there are several important documents that you will need to prepare in order to ensure a smooth transition. These documents include:
- Passports: You will need a valid passport to enter New Zealand.
- Visas: Depending on the length and purpose of your stay in New Zealand, you may need a visa. Australian citizens do not usually require a visa to enter New Zealand, but it’s always best to check with the New Zealand immigration authorities to ensure that you have the correct documentation.
- Personal identification: You will need to provide proof of your identity when entering New Zealand, such as a driver’s licence or some other government-issued ID.
- Proof of residence: If you plan to live in New Zealand permanently, you will need to provide proof of your intended residence, such as a rental agreement or proof of property ownership.
- Tax information: You will need to register with the New Zealand tax authorities and provide information about your income and assets.
- Medical information: You may need to provide medical information, such as vaccination records or a doctor’s certificate, when entering New Zealand.
- Customs declaration: If you’re bringing any items with you, such as household goods or a vehicle, you will need to complete a customs declaration and pay any relevant taxes and duties.
It’s important to research the specific documentation requirements for your move and ensure that you have all of the necessary documents in order to avoid any delays or complications.
Book Your Move
After getting quotes from prospective international movers, contact the ones that seem to have the most reasonable quotes and ask questions you may have, such as:
- What’s included in the quote?
- Will other services like packing and unpacking be charged separately?
- Do you need to get extra insurance for added protection?
- How will the documentation for your possessions be handled?
- Can they help with car or pet transport?
- What documents do you need to provide?
Once you’re satisfied with the responses of one of your prospects, it’s time to book their service and lock in your moving dates. Also, if you have other concerns or specific requests, inform your chosen removalist.
Organise Storage
Along with your decluttering and packing schedule, set aside time to arrange for storage if you’ll be leaving some of your possessions behind.
At Relocations WA, we can arrange for the safe and secure storage of your items when you finalise your move to New Zealand.
Book Flights
Once all the paperwork is sorted out, book your New Zealand flight as early as possible. You can use apps like Skyscanner, Booking.com and Expedia to find the best deals on your preferred flight dates.
Remember, time is of the essence when it comes to arranging flights, so do this early and be patient while searching for the best prices.
Other Vital Things to Consider
Aside from the above, don’t forget to exchange money, so you’ll have ready New Zealand dollars to spend when you get there.
Also, don’t forget to arrange for vacate cleaning if you’re renting, or getting your old house cleaned if you’ll be renting it out while you’re away.
To make things easy for you, download our comprehensive checklist for overseas moves. This way, you won’t miss a single task or detail.
Shipping Furniture, Car & Pets from Australia to NZ: Rules & Regulations
Navigating the rules and regulations for shipping furniture, vehicles, and pets from Australia to New Zealand can be a complex process; this section aims to simplify and clarify the essential steps and guidelines to ensure a seamless relocation experience.
Moving Furniture from AUS to NZ
When shipping furniture from Australia to New Zealand, there are a few different options to choose from depending on your specific needs and budget.
The most common way to move furniture between the two countries is by using a professional moving company. There are several international moving companies that specialise in moving goods between Australia and New Zealand, and they can handle everything – from packing and loading your furniture to arranging transportation and delivery.
While this can seem like an expensive option, it greatly eases you from the stress of handling the task of packing, loading, transporting, unloading and shipping household goods to New Zealand yourself. Planning for your move early can help you budget for the cost of shipping and any customs fees or taxes.
If you want a more budget-friendly option, you may be able to use a courier service to ship your furniture. This can be a good option for smaller items, such as chairs or side tables, but may not be practical for larger pieces of furniture like sofas or beds.
However, if you have a lot of furniture to move, consider renting a shipping container and arranging your own transportation. While this can be a cost-effective option, it will require more effort on your part in terms of packing and loading your furniture, as well as arranging transportation and delivery in New Zealand.
Regardless of the option you choose, do some research and inquire from different providers to ensure you’re getting the best price and service.
Moving Car from AUS to NZ
When shipping a car or private vehicle from Australia to New Zealand, there are several rules and regulations you need to be aware of for a smooth and hassle-free process.
- Ensure your vehicle meets New Zealand’s safety and emissions standards. This may require modifications to your vehicle or the installation of additional safety equipment, such as seat belts or child-restraint systems.
- Provide proof of ownership and registration for your vehicle, as well as documentation showing that any outstanding debts or fines have been paid.
- Before shipping your vehicle, you will need to obtain import approval from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA). Doing this ensures you know the specific requirements for importing your vehicle, including any modifications that you need to make.
Once your vehicle has arrived in New Zealand, it will undergo an entry compliance inspection. You will also pay for any relevant taxes and duties on your vehicle before it can be registered and driven on New Zealand roads.
If you intend to ship your car from Australia to New Zealand, you can always coordinate with us at Relocations WA so we can take care of your vehicle transport needs.
Relocating Pets from AUS to NZ
Are you planning to take your fur babies with you during your move? If so, you might want to know your options and the cost of moving pets to New Zealand from Australia. Also, there are several important things you have to be aware of to avoid any inconvenience and unpleasant surprises.
- Pets should meet all relevant health requirements for entry into New Zealand. This may include vaccinations, blood tests, and/or quarantine periods depending on the type of animal you’re bringing into the country.
- You’ll need to obtain an import permit from the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries. This permit outlines the specific requirements for importing your pet, including any necessary health checks or treatments.
- Certain breeds of dogs, including American Pit Bull Terriers, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, and Perro de Presa Canario, are not permitted to be imported into New Zealand under any circumstances.
- Your pet will also need to travel in an approved pet carrier that meets the necessary size and ventilation requirements.
When travelling with pets choose a reputable and experienced pet transport company to ensure that your pet is safe and comfortable during the journey.
Living and Working in New Zealand
New Zealand is a beautiful and diverse country with a high quality of life and a strong focus on work-life balance. Its natural beauty, friendly people, and relaxed pace of life make it a popular destination for expats from around the world.
New Zealanders are known for their welcoming and inclusive culture, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home. The country’s robust economy and diverse range of industries also make it an attractive place to work, with a wide range of job opportunities available.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, New Zealand offers an abundance of natural beauty, including mountains, beaches, and forests, making it a haven for hikers, skiers, surfers, and nature lovers.
Quick Facts About NZ
Aside from knowing that New Zealand is a great place to live and work, it might help to know the following quick essential facts about the country so you know what to expect.
- Population: About 5.2 million
- Weather: Varies depending on your location, ranging from warm subtropical weather in the summer north of the North Island; heavy snow and extremely low temperatures in inland alpine areas of the South Island in winter. The hottest months are January and February, and the coldest month is July.
- Politics: New Zealand has a unitary parliamentary representative democracy type of government, with a democratically elected unicameral legislature known as the House of Representatives.
New Zealand has a mixed-market economy, with a strong welfare state. The country is known for its progressive policies and its leaders are often seen as champions of social justice and environmental sustainability on the international stage.
Best Places to Live
New Zealand is a diverse and beautiful country with many great places to live, each with their own unique qualities and attractions. Here are a few of the best places to live in New Zealand and why:
- Auckland: New Zealand’s largest city and the economic hub of the country. It offers a diverse range of cultural activities, great shopping and dining options, and stunning natural beauty, including beaches, islands, and parks.
- Wellington: The capital city and a cultural centre, with a vibrant arts scene, great restaurants, and a strong coffee culture. It is also known for its natural beauty, including a picturesque harbour and a number of parks and gardens.
- Christchurch: The largest city on New Zealand’s South Island known for its stunning natural surroundings, including the Southern Alps and the Canterbury Plains. It is also home to a vibrant arts scene and a number of great restaurants and cafes.
- Queenstown: A resort town located in the Southern Alps and is known for its stunning natural beauty, world-class skiing and snowboarding, and other activities like bungee jumping and white-water rafting.
- Dunedin: A university town located on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island. It is known for its beautiful architecture, including a number of Victorian-era buildings, as well as its strong arts and culture scene and great food and drink options.
Cost of Living vs Australia
Is New Zealand or Australia more expensive?
Overall, when it comes to comparisons on NZ cost of living vs Australia, New Zealand wins for being slightly more affordable. However, the exact cost of living can vary depending on the specific city or region you’re living in, as well as your lifestyle and spending habits.
Below is a comparison of a few key examples that may be of interest to you:
| Item Name |
Avg. Cost in Australia (AUD) |
Avg. Cost in New Zealand (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (3 bedrooms) | $2,594-3,681 | $2,258-2,811 |
| Buy (apartment, per sq.m.) | $7,824-10,708 | $7,005-8,820 |
| Meal for 2 people (mid-range, three courses) | $110 | $111 |
| Water (330 mL bottle) | $3.20 | $3.05 |
| Loaf of white bread (500 grams) | $3.26 | $2.84 |
| Milk (1L) | $2.18 | $2.78 |
| Monthly pass (transportation) | $162 | $152.71 |
| Taxi start (normal tariff) | $4.60 | $3.72 |
| Basic utilities for 1 month (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85 sq.m. apartment | $289.10 | $201.20 |
| Fitness club, monthly fee for 1 adult | $74.31 | $60.98 |
| Preschool (or kindergarten), full day, private, monthly for 1 child | $2,234.99 | $1,133.69 |
It’s important to note that these are averages and general comparisons.
Ultimately, the cost of living in both New Zealand and Australia can be relatively high compared to other countries, but both offer a good quality of life and a range of opportunities and attractions.
Visas & Immigration
Australian citizens and permanent residents do not usually require a visa to live and work in New Zealand, as both countries have a special arrangement known as the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement (TTTA).
Under this arrangement, Australian citizens and permanent residents can live and work in New Zealand indefinitely, without the need for a visa or work permit. However, it is important to note that some restrictions may apply, particularly for certain professions or industries.
To be eligible to live and work in New Zealand under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, Australian citizens and permanent residents will need to meet certain health and character requirements. This may include undergoing a medical examination and providing a police clearance certificate.
If you’re planning to move to New Zealand with family members who are not Australian citizens or permanent residents, they may need to apply for a visa in order to join you in New Zealand. There are a range of visas available for family members, including partner visas, parent visas, and dependent child visas.
Working in New Zealand
Working in New Zealand can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, with a strong focus on work-life balance and a welcoming and inclusive workplace culture.
- The country offers a range of career opportunities across a variety of industries, including technology, agriculture, tourism, and healthcare.
- Wages and salaries in New Zealand are generally competitive with other developed countries, although the exact salary you can expect will depend on your industry and level of experience.
- New Zealand has strong employment laws in place to protect workers' rights and ensure fair treatment in the workplace.
Superannuation
The superannuation systems in New Zealand and Australia are different.
Superannuation in Australia is a compulsory system whereby employers are required to contribute a percentage of their employees’ salaries to a superannuation fund. The fund is designed to provide retirement savings for Australian workers, and employees can choose which fund their contributions are paid into.
In New Zealand, the superannuation system is a universal pension scheme known as New Zealand Superannuation. Under this system, all eligible New Zealand citizens and permanent residents aged 65 or over are entitled to a regular payment from the government to help support them in retirement. The payment amount is based on a number of factors, including the individual’s income, living arrangements, and marital status.
Many New Zealanders also choose to save for retirement through KiwiSaver, a voluntary savings scheme that allows individuals to contribute a percentage of their income to a savings account. Employers are also required to contribute to their employees’ KiwiSaver accounts.
Taxation
Taxation in New Zealand is administered by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) and is based on a progressive income tax system.
The tax rates in New Zealand vary depending on an individual’s income, with higher earners generally paying a higher percentage of their income in tax.
Other taxes in New Zealand include goods and services tax (GST), which is a value-added tax, and taxes on capital gains and investments. The New Zealand tax system is generally considered to be simple and efficient, with taxpayers able to file their taxes online or through their employer. The government also offers a range of tax credits and incentives to help support businesses and individuals.
Healthcare
Healthcare in New Zealand is provided by a public healthcare system known as the New Zealand Health System. This system provides free or low-cost medical treatment to all eligible New Zealand citizens and permanent residents, as well as some visitors to the country.
The New Zealand Health System is funded by the government through taxes, and is based on a model of universal coverage, with a strong focus on preventative care and early intervention. The system is overseen by the Ministry of Health, which works to ensure that all New Zealanders have access to high-quality healthcare services.
In addition to the public healthcare system, there are also private healthcare providers in New Zealand offering a range of medical services.
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