Thinking about moving to New Zealand? If so, who could blame you? With its mix of natural beauty, open culture, and a reputation for balanced living, New Zealand draws people looking for more than just a change—they’re drawn to somewhere that subtly redefines what “a good life” looks like.
But like any major move, relocating comes with both opportunities and trade-offs.
Whether you're moving for work, family, or a fresh start, this guide covers what you’ll need to know, from navigating expenses and New Zealand’s visa options to understanding the local job market.
How much does it cost to move to New Zealand?
Relocating to New Zealand involves several upfront costs, especially if you’re moving household goods or applying for a long-term visa. Below are typical estimates to help you budget for the transition.
Shipping costs
An international move to New Zealand from the Northern Hemisphere typically costs between USD 15,000 and USD 22,000, depending on how much you’re bringing with you, how far it’s traveling, and how you ship it. Freight costs vary, and unless you opt for air freight, it’ll likely take several weeks for your belongings to arrive.
Sea freight estimates
- One bedroom: USD 3,100–4,700 (7–11 weeks)
- Two bedrooms: USD 4,100–6,200 (5–8 weeks)
- Three bedrooms: USD 7,200–10,900 (6–8 weeks)
Air freight estimates
For essentials (260 kg or 550 lbs), expect to pay USD 1,450–1,800 per shipment. Delivery usually takes two to six days.
Temporary accommodation
Many people opt for short-term rentals or serviced apartments for one to two months while searching for longer-term housing. In cities like Auckland, most one-bedroom short-term rentals run USD 1,000–2,000 monthly.
Do you need a visa to move to New Zealand?
Yes, like most countries, New Zealand requires a valid visa for anyone planning to live, work, or study there. Here’s what to know based on the length and purpose of your stay:
Short-term stays (Visitor Visa/NZeTA)
For tourism, family visits, or short business trips, many travelers need the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) or New Zealand’s official Visitor Visa. The NZeTA allows eligible passport holders to stay up to three months per visit (or six months for United Kingdom citizens). Visitor Visas may allow longer stays—typically up to nine months in an 18-month period. However, these visas do not permit work of any kind.
Long-term moves (work, study, and residence visas)
If you're planning to live in New Zealand for more than a few months, you’ll need a visa that supports your purpose—whether that’s employment, education, or family relocation.
For work, options include the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), the Working Holiday Visa (for applicants aged 18–30 or 18–35, depending on your country), and the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, which is a points-based pathway toward residency. Most work visas require a valid job offer, recognized qualifications, and meeting specific health and character standards.
If you’re headed to study, pursuing a full-time education requires a student visa. You'll need proof of enrollment at a recognized institution and enough funds to support yourself while studying.
Those moving to join a resident partner or bringing dependent children may qualify for the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa. After two years on a qualifying Resident Visa, you can apply for the Permanent Resident Visa, assuming you meet time and commitment requirements.
New Zealand also offers investor and retirement visas, such as the Active Investor Plus Visa or Parent Retirement Visa, for individuals with significant financial resources or retirement income.
Key differences to consider
Not all New Zealand visas function the same way. Visitor Visas and the NZeTA are designed for short stays and don’t allow you to work while in the country. Conversely, Work, Study, and Resident Visas generally permit employment or full-time education and may allow eligible family members to accompany the primary visa holder.
Some visas, particularly those under the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa or partnership-based pathways, may also open the door to permanent residency or make the transition to citizenship easier over time. The requirements and timelines vary depending on the visa type, your background, and how long you’ve lived in New Zealand.
Before applying, check your eligibility, gather any required documents, such as your passport, medical and police certificates, and proof of a job offer, and choose the New Zealand visa that best matches your goals and intended length of stay.
What visa should you apply for?
If you plan a long-term move to New Zealand, several visa categories provide strong pathways—especially if you want to work, join family, or become a permanent resident. Many of these options connect to the Green List, a government list of in-demand occupations that support streamlined immigration.
Work to Residence Visa
The Work to Residence Visa option applies if you take a Tier 2 role listed on the Green List. After 24 months in the position, you can apply for the Resident Visa—as long as you meet all criteria, including holding a valid work visa and working for an accredited employer.
Straight to Residence Visa
If you receive a job offer for a Tier 1 Green List role, you may qualify for a Straight to Residence Visa immediately rather than completing a two-year work period. New Zealand considers these roles critical to the country’s workforce, which is why this pathway offers a faster path to residency for highly skilled professionals.
Partner and family visas
If you're the spouse, partner, or dependent child of a New Zealand citizen or resident, you may be eligible to move under a family-based visa, such as the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa, Dependent Child Resident Visa, and Parent Retirement Visa. Some pathways lead to the Resident Visa, while others are temporary. Relationship-based visas typically require proof of partnership and shared living arrangements.
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
New Zealand's Skilled Migrant Category is a points-based system designed to attract individuals who bring valuable skills and experience to the country. Points are awarded based on several factors, including age (you must be under 56) and recognized qualifications. It also depends on relevant work experience, especially if gained in New Zealand, and whether you hold a job offer for a skilled role. To begin the application process, you'll need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).
Finding a job in New Zealand
New Zealand has a consistent need for skilled professionals across key sectors, including healthcare, construction, and technology. Roles such as nursing, software development, engineering, and trades like plumbing and electrical work regularly appear on the Green List
While salaries in New Zealand are competitive by local standards, they may be lower than what some international workers from countries like the United States are used to. According to Statistics New Zealand’s March 2025 Labour Market release, the average weekly earnings for full-time private-sector workers were approximately NZD 1,576 (approximately USD 945), and for public-sector workers, around NZD 2,010 (approximately USD 1,260). Using the private-sector average as a benchmark, that equals roughly NZD 6,806 (USD 5,225) per month.
That said, New Zealand’s work culture offers benefits that go beyond pay. The country is known for its emphasis on work-life balance, low-stress environments, and inclusive, team-oriented workplaces. Many employers offer flexible hours and encourage collaboration, making it easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle while advancing your career.
Pros and cons of living in New Zealand
Relocating to another country is a big decision. While New Zealand is widely regarded as a good place to live, it’s important to weigh the advantages and trade-offs before beginning the visa or immigration process.
Pros
- Renowned work-life balance: New Zealand is widely recognized for its balanced approach to work. With a relatively informal business culture and clear boundaries between work and personal time, many professionals find it easier to maintain a healthy routine outside the office.
- Access to nature and outdoor recreation: Both the North Island and South Island offer easy access to national parks, coastlines, and alpine regions. Activities like hiking, skiing, and kayaking are common weekend choices—especially for people who value time outdoors.
- Inclusive and socially progressive culture: New Zealand has a strong track record on human rights and equality. Policies supporting gender equity, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and Māori representation are well established, and many newcomers describe the social environment as welcoming and respectful.
- Well-regarded public healthcare: Permanent residents and long-term visa holders can access New Zealand’s public healthcare system, which provides subsidized care for most basic medical needs. While private coverage is available, many people find the public system straightforward and affordable compared to more complex systems elsewhere.
Cons
- Geographical isolation from many regions: Even in a digitally connected world, New Zealand’s physical distance from much of the world often makes travel long and expensive. This can feel isolating for those with family abroad or roles that involve frequent international travel.
- High housing costs: The cost of living—particularly rent and home prices—has risen steadily in major cities like Auckland and Wellington. Despite strong wage protections, many new arrivals find that housing affordability remains a challenge, especially in high-demand neighborhoods.
- Limited career growth opportunities in certain sectors: While industries like technology, healthcare, and construction offer strong opportunities, New Zealand’s smaller job market can pose challenges for professionals in highly specialized or niche fields. Career progression may take longer, and options can be more limited outside of major hubs.
How Oyster supports employees moving to New Zealand
Got a valued remote worker who's relocating to New Zealand? You don’t have to lose them. If they’re moving on a spousal visa, a nomad visa, or any other arrangement that gives them the right to work, Oyster’s Employer of Record (EOR) solution can help you retain them—without opening a local entity or wading through red tape.
Oyster handles legal employment, payroll, and compliance, so they can continue working, and you hold on to the people who make your business what it is.
Book a demo to learn more.
About Oyster
Oyster is a global employment platform designed to enable visionary HR leaders to find, engage, pay, manage, develop, and take care of a thriving distributed workforce. Oyster lets growing companies give valued international team members the experience they deserve, without the usual headaches and expense.
Oyster enables hiring anywhere in the world—with reliable, compliant payroll, and great local benefits and perks.
