Are you considering a move to New Zealand? It’s important to look at what you’re seeking in migrating to a new country, and if those factors line up with what life in New Zealand could offer you.
We’ve compiled some of the biggest draws to New Zealand. From the culture, lifestyle and opportunities it’s a great place for people looking to create a better life for themselves and their families.
New Zealand is Peaceful
New Zealand ranks number 2 on the Global Peace Index in 2021, just after Iceland. These ratings are based on the level of Societal Safety and Security, the extent of Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict, and the degree of Militarisation. Meaning that New Zealand is a place with relatively low conflict, both domestically and globally.
For those looking to move to a place with relative safety and peace, New Zealand is a great option. It ranks 8th on the Legatum Prosperity Index in 2021 which takes safety and security, personal freedom, governance, social capital, investment environment, enterprise conditions, infrastructure and market access, economic quality, living conditions, health, education and the environment into account.
A Great Place for Families
New Zealand is an ideal place for families and people wanting to start a family. With good public healthcare and education, many people look to New Zealand as an ideal place to settle for generations to come.
Among OECD countries, New Zealand spends one of the highest proportions of its gross domestic product (GDP) on primary to tertiary educational institutions. Within tertiary institutes, 6 of New Zealand’s universities are in the top 500 in the 2021 QS World University Rankings, 3 of which are in the top 300.
For those with young and starting families, the first 20 hours of early childhood education for 3 and 4-year-olds are fully funded by the government per week. After this, primary education begins which is also free.
Open Space
Another drawcard of New Zealand is the open space it offers to its residents. Even in the larger centres, you’re never too far away from a beach, camping spots, lakes, rivers, bush walks and hikes. If an outdoorsy environment is something you’re interested in, you can’t get much better than New Zealand.
There are also many options for homes that complement the lifestyle you want, with options for suburban living, city apartment living, as well as bigger plots of land in the countryside. Through this, you can find a living space that suits you and your ideals for space and lifestyle.
Subsidised Healthcare
New Zealand’s public healthcare is available to citizens, residents, and those who hold a valid visa for 2 years or longer. For those who are eligible, it means that most hospital treatments are free, and most costs are only incurred at your local General Practitioner which is also subsidised. There are additional benefits such as free dentistry for people under 18 years old, alleviating a huge cost for young families.
Accident-related medical care is also covered by the Accident Compensation scheme known as ACC. ACC covers initial and ongoing health costs associated with injuries, meaning that suing for compensation is not a thing in New Zealand.
Leaders in Renewable Energy
New Zealand ranks fourth in the OECD world for renewable energy at 84%. This percentage is expected to increase in the coming years as the government aims to have a 100% renewable energy rate by 2030.
In 2020, New Zealand was also ranked second in the world for energy security by the Global Energy Institute. This security is bolstered by future plans to increase renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions.
Open Culture
Lastly, but certainly not least, New Zealand has a reputation for its welcoming and inclusive nature. We are a multi-cultural society largely populated by Pākehā, Māori and Pasifika, and Asian people. Influences from all of these cultures can be found in New Zealand and we strive to make it a place of equal opportunity for those already here, and those wanting to begin a new life here.
Often, people moving to New Zealand can find communities of migrants from their homeland. For example, there is a large Filipino community in New Zealand that stays in touch, both through in-person events and online groups on Facebook and other media platforms.
There are also great opportunities to meet new people through work, community events, and the social nightlife in many parts of the country.
Good Employment Opportunities
New Zealand currently has some of the lowest unemployment rates in recent years and currently sits at 3.2%. This means there are a lot of opportunities to find work in New Zealand at the moment.
Additionally, New Zealand has vast and growing industries that support long-term economic stability and growth such as farming and agriculture, construction and IT. As the borders open up, these industries will be looking to boost their staff so job prospects are promising.
So, Why Move?
New Zealand is a great place for people looking to make a change for themselves and their families. It’s quieter and more spacious than many countries, and offers opportunities to those wanting to work and live here. The low unemployment rate also indicates good job opportunities, especially in the sectors that are short on workers at the moment.
As the new Accredited Employment Work Visa is being implemented, now is an ideal time to begin making a move. If you’re unfamiliar with the visa process or would like help in finding work in New Zealand, VisaMaxNZ offers complete help in these areas. By getting in touch, you can find out how we can help you settle and work in New Zealand with your best foot forward.
