Setting up your life in New Zealand

Moving to a new country is a big change. To help you settle in, there are a few things you should do first, for example, find permanent accommodation, work, schools for your children and a doctor.

When you come to New Zealand, you will need to set up your mobile phone and internet, and you may also need to arrange utilities for your home, such as water and electricity.

When choosing where to live, you need to think about what kind of accommodation you need short-term, if you want to rent or buy a home, and if you need to be close to schools, friends or family.

If you live and work in New Zealand, you will need to set up a bank account to manage your money, and an IRD number so you can pay taxes here.

If you are moving to New Zealand and bringing your family, you need to understand how early childhood education, school and tertiary study works here, what type of education is available, and how to choose a school that is right for your family.

Some visas give you access to public services like state-funded health care and education, and social support payments. The services you can access will depend on your visa.

New Zealand has a comprehensive health system that is subsidised by the government. Find out what services are available to you, and how to access them.

There are many ways to get around New Zealand, including driving, public transport, cycling and flying.

If you need to improve your English language skills in New Zealand, you have many courses to choose from.

Māori culture and language, and the Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi), are important parts of life in New Zealand.