Living in Aotearoa
Living in New Zealand
Trusted starting points for everyday life in Aotearoa. Always check linked official sources for current advice.
For every stage
From planning to belonging
Choose the stage that fits you. Each note is a starting point; follow the link for current requirements.
01Before you arrivePlan well from the beginning
Visa and pathway
Choose a visa that matches your purpose. Check work rights, duration and every condition attached to it; do not build a long-term plan on assumptions.
Official information ↗Cost of living
Budget for housing, utilities, internet, food, transport, insurance and establishment costs. Costs vary substantially between regions.
Official information ↗Customs and biosecurity
Declare food, animal or plant products and outdoor equipment honestly. If you are unsure, declare it.
Official information ↗Records to bring
Prepare copies of passports, visas, birth certificates, qualifications, medical records, prescriptions and family documents; keep secure digital copies.
Official information ↗02Your first 90 daysSet up everyday life
IRD number and tax
Obtain an IRD number, give it to your employer and understand which income must be declared. Retain payslips and tax records.
Official information ↗Rent safely
Check the property, agreement, bond, extra costs and transport connections before committing. Never transfer money before verifying the arrangement.
Official information ↗Driving and transport
Check how long you may use an overseas licence, translation requirements and the conversion process. New Zealand drives on the left.
Official information ↗Find a general practice
Check health-service eligibility, find a local practice and enrol early. Keep a record of medicines, allergies and important medical history.
Official information ↗03Long-term lifeBuild stability and participate
Career and skills
Adapt your CV, check whether your occupation requires registration, build professional networks and continue developing skills.
Official information ↗Family and school
Understand school zones, term dates, costs, language support and how families communicate with schools.
Official information ↗Money and the future
Build an emergency fund, understand KiwiSaver eligibility, review insurance and be cautious with credit and investments.
Official information ↗Residence and citizenship
Track travel dates, visa conditions and records. If citizenship is your goal, rely only on the current official criteria.
Official information ↗Essential guide
What you need to know
Start with the relevant topic and go directly to the official source for current requirements.
Starting life in New Zealand
Check your visa conditions, retain copies of important records, arrange banking, and obtain an IRD number if you work or have New Zealand tax obligations.
Employment and your rights
Understand your agreement, pay, working hours, leave and the process for resolving a problem. Minimum employment rights apply to all eligible employees.
Housing and renting
Read the tenancy agreement, record the property condition, and understand bonds, repairs, notices and the responsibilities of both landlord and tenant.
Health and care
Check your eligibility for publicly funded care, enrol with a general practice and know where to seek help. Call 111 in an emergency.
Study and development
Compare programmes, check providers and qualifications, plan costs and understand learner protections before enrolling.
Everyday support
Citizens Advice Bureau offers independent information on many everyday issues. VKNZ connects Vietnamese knowledge, professional experience and community support across New Zealand.
Travel and explore
Places worth experiencing
Auckland & Northland
The largest city, harbours, islands, beaches and significant Māori heritage across the north.
Rotorua & Taupō
Geothermal landscapes, lakes, forests and cultural experiences; observe all natural-hazard warnings.
Wellington
A compact capital with museums, arts, food and accessible coastal walks.
Nelson & Abel Tasman
Beaches, kayaking, coastal tracks and sunshine; book early and prepare for seasonal conditions.
Christchurch & Canterbury
A South Island gateway to plains, Banks Peninsula and alpine road trips.
Queenstown & Wānaka
Lakes, mountains, skiing and adventure activities; costs and advance-booking demand can be high.
Fiordland & Southland
Milford Sound, Great Walks and remote nature; rapidly changing weather requires preparation.
Your own region
Explore local parks, libraries, markets, events and walking routes to understand the place you call home.
Travel responsibly
Check weather, road and track conditions; carry suitable water and clothing; respect rāhui, private land and leave-no-trace principles.
Be prepared
Safety and emergencies
Call 111 when life or property is in immediate danger. Use 105 for non-emergency Police matters. Make a household plan and prepare supplies for at least three days.
A useful habit
Before you act
- Check the update date and publishing authority.
- Confirm that the rule applies to your circumstances.
- Keep confirmations, receipts and document copies.
Please note
This is general information, not legal, immigration, tax or medical advice. Requirements can change.