Choosing where to live in New Zealand
Where in New Zealand you choose to live might depend on your job or where you want to study. But other considerations may affect your decision.
Climate and heating
The climate in New Zealand can vary depending on where in the country you live. Generally, winter is warmer in northern areas than in the south.
Houses here do not normally have central heating. In winter, people may choose to heat only the room in the house that they are using, for example, the living room.
When you are choosing a house, check that it is insulated, how it is heated, and the amount of sun that it gets. You may spend more on heating than you are used to, as many New Zealand houses retain very little heat compared to other countries.
Remember, in the southern hemisphere, it is the north-facing properties that get the most sun.
Note
New Zealand’s healthy homes standards require all rental properties to meet minimum standards when it comes to heating, insulation and ventilation.
The Government’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) has advice on finding out if the home you are considering is energy efficient, and what sort of heating you will need.
Renting a place to live in New Zealand
Cost of accommodation
The cost of accommodation will vary from region to region. As with most countries, to rent or buy a property will cost more in the cities than in the towns or rural areas. A similar property will cost more in the inner city than in the suburbs.
Note
Generally, only residents and citizens can buy homes in New Zealand.
Renting a place to live in New Zealand
Buying property in New Zealand
School zones
If you want your child to attend a particular school, check if it has an 'enrolment zone'.
If you live in a school zone, your child will be guaranteed a place in the school. If you are not 'in zone', you can still apply but there is no guarantee your child will be accepted.
There is more about school zones and transport for your children on our 'Childcare, schools and higher education' page.
Childcare, schools and higher education
Health care
The larger centres will have better access to the full range of medical services than the smaller towns and rural communities.
If you live in the country, you may have to travel further to the nearest hospital.
Getting health care and finding a doctor
Transport options
New Zealand’s larger cities have well-developed public transport systems, but services can be limited in smaller centres, and in rural areas you may have to rely on your car, which could end up being more costly.
Most cities in New Zealand have an airport but if you live in a more remote area, you may have further to go to catch a flight.
You can find more information on the 'Getting around in New Zealand' page.
Community
You may want to live somewhere with ties to your community, or near family and friends.
If you know people who already live in New Zealand, ask them what they like about where they live, or where they would recommend, and why.
You can also join social media groups for specific parts of New Zealand and ask local people questions about the area.