Why are people making to move from Australia to New Zealand?
New Zealand is a mecca of stunning landscapes and impressive wildlife, and it is no wonder that thousands of Australians jump across the ditch every year to call the land of the white cloud home. With its lush green hills, active volcanoes, glaciers and white sand beaches, the spectacular landscapes that make up New Zealand have been featured in many blockbuster films including The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia.Australians moving to New Zealand will be pleased to find that the transition into Kiwi culture should be a smooth one. Kiwis enjoy the same laid-back attitude that we do in Australia, and there are many similarities between the way that the two countries operate on a day-to-day basis. Whilst Maori is listed as one of the official languages of New Zealand, English is still the most widely spoken and, accordingly, you will have no trouble conversing with and getting to know your new neighbours. Other cultural similarities include driving on the same side of the road, enjoying a relaxed barbeque in the summer and a good pavlova at Christmas.
For those rugby fans thinking of moving to New Zealand, you will be right at home. Kiwis are obsessed with the sport and their national team, the all blacks, repeatedly triumphs on the world stage. Sport plays a large part in the lives of New Zealanders and they are fiercely proud of their sporting teams.
If you ever begin to feel homesick for Australia, New Zealand has the added advantage of being Australia’s closest neighbour, so you are never more than a short plane ride away from a weekend with your friends and family in Australia.
Choosing where to live
Once you have decided that you would like to move to New Zealand, the next step is choosing where you would like to live. You won’t just be choosing between cities but also between the North and the South islands. The North Island is more recognised for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters that are perfect for spending the summer swimming under the sun, whilst the South Island is better known for its looming mountain ranges and icy glaciers.Think about whether you want to live in a larger city like Auckland to have all your amenities at your doorstep and leave your weekends to explore the outdoors, or whether you prefer to live in a smaller town with almost immediate access to some of the most breathtaking views in the world in towns like Queenstown and Wanaka. Knowing which region you want to live in before you move will make finding a home so much easier.
Before you leave Australia
Moving internationally is no simple task. It pays to be prepared for your arrival in New Zealand in advance, and that means getting a head start on things. You’ll want to have as much free time as possible once you arrive in your new home so that you can get to know your surroundings without having to worry about things like finding a job or a new school for your children. Here is our list of what you should do to prepare yourself for your move:- Find a job: If you want to continue working when you arrive it is best to find yourself employment prior to leaving Australia. This will help you avoid any long periods of unemployment when you arrive in your new home.
- Begin thinking about a bank account: You won’t be able to open a bank account until you have a postal address in New Zealand, however, getting a head start by researching the different options that are available will mean that you can find the right bank to service your needs.
- Organise an Inland Revenue Department (IRD) number: This is the same as a tax file number and you will need if you are to live and work in New Zealand.
- Register with a foreign currency provider: Using a foreign currency provider to transfer your money will save you money in the long run. TorFx are our recommended currency exchange provider and they will be able to provide you with competitive rates on your currency exchange.
- Begin a school search: If you are moving with children, you will need to find them a new school or schools. Begin searching for one prior to your departure from Australia, as you won’t want your child to miss any time.
- Book your moving company: International moves take longer to plan than local moves, so it helps to get organised and book your moving company well in advance. . You won’t want to fall victim to unnecessary delays because you waited until the last minute to book your removalist.
Arriving in New Zealand
Now that you have arrived in New Zealand it is time to get settled in. Sometimes getting this is the most exciting part of a move, as it is when you get the chance to really explore your new surroundings. Before you know it, you will have a regular coffee spot and a favourite walking trail. New Zealand is a country which is full to the brim with natural beauty and there is no doubt that soon you will be spending every weekend visiting a new, breathtaking location.New Zealanders are famously friendly people and you should have no trouble meeting new people in your new home. Joining a local sports team or craft group is a great way to expand your social circle. With a culture that is quite similar to our own in Australia, you should have no trouble fitting in with your new friends. Get a quote for your move to New Zealand from Allied today by filling out an online quote form or giving us a call on 13 25 54.