If you’re thinking about moving to New Zealand from Australia, we’ve put together a guide to help you understand the differences in daily life between the two countries. While we often regard each other as trans-Tasman cousins, there are many differences you should be aware of before you plan your move.
1. Visas
Australian citizens or permanent residents don’t need to apply for a visa to move to New Zealand. If your partner is an Australian citizen or permanent resident, they can apply for a partner visa. If you’re not an Australian citizen, you will need a visa, or an employer to sponsor a work visa, to live and work in New Zealand.
2. Life in New Zealand
Obviously, one of the biggest differences between Australia and New Zealand is size and climate. New Zealand is a green country with a temperate climate, where the outdoors are never far away, even if you live in one of the larger cities. As showcased in many films, New Zealand is blessed with beautiful scenery and is considered to offer a clean, healthy lifestyle.
3. Education
In New Zealand, the majority of primary and secondary schools are free, although parents do need to cover some costs. Tertiary education is charged at a local fee for New Zealand and Australian citizens and permanent residents. You will need to have lived in New Zealand for three or more years to access the Student Loan scheme.
4. Healthcare
New Zealand has a public and private healthcare system, but New Zealand doesn’t have Medicare like Australia. You’ll need to enrol with a doctor to access public health services, which are immediately available if you can show you plan to stay in New Zealand for at least two years.
5. Culture and cost of living
While both countries speak the same official language, culturally Australia and New Zealand are quite different. You’ll find the cost of living to be similar, unless you’re moving to New Zealand from Sydney, where you’ll find it cheaper. There are no restrictions for Australians on buying or renting property in New Zealand if you plan to live permanently in the country.
6. Retirement, accidents and benefits
Australian citizens and permanent residents are entitled to enrol in New Zealand’s subsidised retirement savings scheme called Kiwisaver. Some Australian retirement savings plans can be transferred to Kiwisaver. New Zealand has no-fault insurance cover for everyone, covering part or all of the cost of medical care from accidents. You may also be eligible for other government support and benefits, such as family assistance, known as Working For Families.
7. Citizenship and voting
You will have to live in New Zealand for a full year before you can earn the right to vote. You can apply to become a New Zealand citizen after living in the country for five or more years.
8. The essential trans-Tasman moving checklist
- Apply for a visa if you’re not an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
- Get a tax number with New Zealand’s IRD.
- Enrol with a doctor to access public healthcare.
- Open a New Zealand bank account.
- Transfer your money to your New Zealand bank account.
- Find temporary or permanent accommodation.
- Start looking for work.
- Find a school for your kids.
And most importantly, contact a moving company with a reputation for making trans-Tasman moves go smoothly. We have offices and depots all over Australia and New Zealand, so make sure you get a quote from us too.