Immigration & Legal
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Visa Conditions – Make sure you understand what your visa allows (work, study, residency length and renewals). Immigration NZ is strict, and overstaying can cause issues. Visas :: Immigration New Zealand
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IRD Number – Needed for work and paying taxes. You can apply online. New arrival to New Zealand - IRD number application
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Driving Licence – You can drive on your overseas licence (with English translation if needed) for up to 12 months, but then you’ll need to convert it to an NZ licence.
Money & Living Costs
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Bank Account – Easy to open, but you’ll need ID, proof of address and your visa.
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Cost of Living – Housing, food, and fuel can be expensive compared to incomes. Regional differences are big: Auckland and Wellington cost more, smaller towns are cheaper.
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GST (Goods and Services Tax) – 15% is included in most prices.
Housing
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Rentals – Most houses are rented unfurnished. Check tenancy agreements carefully. There are options available to rent furniture. Rent Furniture and Appliances for Home or Office - Mr. Rental NZ
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Bond – You usually pay up to 4 weeks’ rent as a bond (held by Tenancy Services, not the landlord directly).
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Insulation & Heating – Houses can be cold. Ask about heating and insulation before signing.
Transport
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Public Transport – Good in larger cities (Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch). May be limited elsewhere.
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Cars – Many people rely on cars. Fuel is expensive but driving is straightforward (left-hand side of the road).
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Distances – NZ looks small on a map, but travel between towns can be slow (narrow roads and mountains).
Health
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Healthcare System – Public health is subsidized, but you may still pay fees at GP clinics. Health New Zealand – Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
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ACC – Accident Compensation Corporation covers treatment costs for accidents, even for visitors.
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Pharmacies – You’ll need a doctor’s prescription for many medicines. Important to note that NZ has different rules around medicines vs. your country. Refer Medicines control | Ministry of Health NZ
- Dental care - Your local District Health Board (DHB) pays for basic dental services until you turn 18. Dental is not free for adults unless you have private medical insurance or you meet conditions to qualify for government assistance. Refer Government help with dental costs | New Zealand Government
Refer: Getting health care and finding a doctor :: Immigration New Zealand
Practical Tips and Advice
- Driving is generally safe in New Zealand. You do however need to be careful. People being people, may not be fully focused on the road or may be distracted whilst driving. ''Defensive'' driving is still necessary. Don't become too complacent whilst driving. Stay awake and alert.
- We recommend having your dental procedures done in your home country before you get here. Dental care in New Zealand is expensive.
- Furniture and household items may be more expensive in New Zealand. Do research on these before you arrive and weigh up the costs of bringing stuff across vs. buying it here.
- Shoes are relatively expensive in New Zealand. Consider spending some money on shoes before you get here and try and make some space in your suitcase for a new pair of sneakers.