New Zealand is one of the best countries for families seeking quality of life, safety, and education. With its stunning landscapes, thriving economy and welcoming communities, it’s the perfect place to raise children and build a future. For families looking to move there, this guide will help them understand the immigration process, staying visa options, cost of living, job opportunities and useful tips for a seamless transition.
Reasons for Moving to New Zealand with Family
1. Quality of Life – one of the best countries in the world for work-life balance, safety, and happiness.
2. A Nice Family Environment – Good air to breath, Less crime & good health.
3. Excellent Education System – Free Primary and Secondary schooling in public schools.
4. Work – Expansion of the job market including health, IT, engineering, trades, and agriculture.
5. Simple Immigration Process – Multiple visa options Available for skilled labor, investors, and families.
Moving to New Zealand with Family – Visa Options
You will need to decide on the appropriate visa category to file for before relocating based on your skills, finances, and long-term objectives.
a) Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Visa – Most Suitable for Skilled Workers
For skilled professionals with work experience and credentials in high-demand sectors.
Need to have a job offer or work experience in a skilled occupation.
Pathway to PR for you and your family.
b) AEWV(Accredited Employer Work Visa) – Job-Sponsored Visa
You can apply for this visa if you have a job with an accredited employer.
Allows your family to come with you, school for children.
Once worked there for a couple of years requirement for settlement.
c) Investor & Entrepreneur Visas — For Business Owners
Investment visa: must invest a substantial amount of money in New Zealand.
If you want to establish or purchase a business: Entrepreneur Visa
d) Family Sponsorship Visa – For Related to People living in New Zealand
If you have a spouse, partner, parent, or child who is a citizen or resident of New Zealand, they can sponsor you.
Job Advertisements in New Zealand – Looking for a New Zealand Job Before Moving
It is easier to move to another country if you have a job offer in hand. A few popular industries seeking skilled workers are:
Healthcare – eg. doctors, nurses, aged care workers
Construction & Engineering – Civil engineers, electricians, plumbers
IT & Technology – Software engineers, cybersecurity professionals
Education– Teachers, childcare professionals
Agriculture & Farming – Workers in dairy, vineyards
Tips for Job Hunting:
Seek, Trade Me Jobs, and Indeed NZ are employment websites where you can apply.
Approach employers directly in high-demand sectors.
Network through LinkedIn with professionals and recruiters.
Cost of Living in New Zealand
Depending on where you decide to settle, the cost of living can vary quite a bit. Auckland and Wellington are the respective expensive major cities, while smaller towns are affordable as far as housing costs go.
Monthly Family of Four Expense Estimates:
Resident: NZD 2,500 – 3,500 (Auckland), NZD 1,800 – 2,800 (Lesser Towns)
Groceries: NZD 800 – 1,200
Transport: NZD 200 – 500
Childcare & School Fees: Free in public schools; NZD 10,000+ per year for private schools
Utilities & Internet: NZD 200 – 400
New Zealand’s Family-Friendly Cities
Auckland – Biggest city, jobs and big schools.
Wellington – Capital city, good food, great public transport.
Christchurch — Affordable housing, laid-back lifestyle.
Hamilton – Near Auckland but cheaper, better for families.
Dunedin – Tranquil, picturesque, and a hub for great universities.
Family Education & Healthcare
Education:
Public education free for residents and holder of work visa
Many schools, both private and international, for a fee.
Post study work visa is available for international students.
Healthcare:
Free or low-cost healthcare for residents and work visa holders.
It is advisable to go for private health insurance for quicker services.
Settling in and Moving to New Zealand
a) Finding Accommodation
It always recommends renting first before buying a home. Websites such as Trade Me and Real Estate. co.nz to find homes.
b) Transport Options
In case you are wondering: Yes, people buy cars, but there is public transport in big cities.
c) Banking & Finances
Be in touch with your New Zealand bank before you leave
d) Cultural Adjustment
New Zealanders (also known as Kiwis) are very friendly and welcoming. Locals will appreciate the effort, make an effort to learn about the Māori culture.
If a better lifestyle, excellent job options, and a secure atmosphere are what you seek, relocating to New Zealand with your family is a good idea. Planning your move can be overwhelming, but with the right type of visa, a job, and finances planned out, you can live in Australia without worry.
