Moving to Tauranga: A Guide to the City
If you are considering moving to New Zealand for work or study, Tauranga is one of the most enjoyable cities you can choose to make your home. Located 3 hours outside of the main hub of Auckland, this city is filled with opportunity and has a great pace of life.
As a local Tauranga immigration adviser, here’s why we think Tauranga is a great place to settle.
5 Top Reasons to Move to Tauranga:
- Great work/life balance
- Close to some of the best beaches in New Zealand
- Lots of sunshine: one of NZ’s sunniest
- Diversity of Industry
- Cheaper cost of living compared to Auckland.
Are You Looking for a Better Work/Life Balance?
Tauranga is located in an area that people love as a holiday destination. It has clean air and a sunny climate. All along the expanse of its coastline are some incredible beaches. The atmosphere around this beachside city reflects this with its laid-back feeling.
Within minutes of finishing work, you could be on the beach with the family or enjoying beautiful nature walks. At the same time, it has all the benefits of living in a city. Tauranga city and its suburbs are vibrant hubs of cafes, restaurants and bars.
For young professionals who are looking for a central location, walking and cycling are popular modes of transportation to work, whereas families often prefer the outer suburbs such as Papamoa Beach, which are still just a short 15-20 minute drive away from the city centre.
Are You Looking for Great Job Opportunities?
Tauranga has both a desirable lifestyle near the beach and ample job opportunities. The city's fast growth has led to high demand for workers. It has a large port which has transformed the region into an important hub of business for New Zealand.
Tauranga has a fast commute to Auckland along with an airport making international travel easy.
The Bay of Plenty region, where Tauranga is situated, is largely driven by tourism and has several other important economic factors. Tauranga places emphasis on industries such as horticulture, shipping, and retirement living, whilst close by is Rotorua where there are job opportunities in agribusiness, forestry, wood processing, and geothermal energy.
The local governing body is planning to prioritise growth in areas such as aquaculture, wood, energy, freight logistics, and information and communication technology.
As New Zealand is currently suffering from a labour shortage, it's a great time to apply for job opportunities in Tauranga. Kiwi employers are struggling to find highly skilled workers, and you could be just who they are looking for.
By getting in touch with our Tauranga immigration advisers, you can get local advice on where to apply for work and how our visa process works.
Looking for a Licensed Immigration Adviser in Tauranga?
If you need an immigration adviser in Tauranga, make an informed decision. Malcolm Pacific Immigration has been in the business for over 35 years and are licenced Immigration advisers here to make your transition easier.
Contact our Tauranga office here.
Are You Looking for a More Affordable Lifestyle?
New Zealand, like many other countries, is experiencing a rise in the cost of living. However, if you are looking for central hubs that give you more value for money, Tauranga is one.
Compared to Auckland, Tauranga is around 20% cheaper. The biggest savings you can make are on accommodation & utility bills, petrol and public transport.
One thing to note is wages in Auckland are on the whole higher than in Tauranga; however, the cumulative savings, especially in accommodation costs you can make living in Tauranga as a highly skilled worker, can out-weight this increase.
The average rent in Tauranga for a 3-bedroom apartment outside of the city is $2,280 per month compared to Auckland, where you are looking at $3,100+
What is Tauranga like for Families?
Combining a better work/life balance with a great safe environment for kids to grow up in, Tauranga is an enjoyable place to live.
Schooling in Tauranga, New Zealand, is considered to be of high quality due to a number of factors. The city has a strong education system with a wide range of well-equipped schools, both public and private, offering a comprehensive curriculum.
Teachers in Tauranga are highly trained and dedicated to providing a positive learning experience for students. The city also boasts excellent facilities, including modern classrooms, technology resources, and sports facilities, allowing students to receive a well-rounded education.
Furthermore, Tauranga's location near the ocean and lush green landscapes provide students with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and hands-on learning experiences.
Tauranga's combination of excellent resources and dedicated professionals makes it an ideal place for students to receive a high-quality education and enjoy a safe environment growing up.
The Top Neighbourhoods in Tauranga for Living and Going Out
If you've made up your mind to move to Tauranga, it's important to pick a location that fits your preferences and budget. Here's a rundown of the top areas to live and have fun in Tauranga:
Tauranga City: Also known as the city centre, Tauranga City offers some of the best suburbs, such as Bethlehem, Greerton, and Mount Maunganui. The city centre also has a vibrant selection of beach-style cafes, bars, restaurants, and clubs.
Tauranga South: This well-connected area is close to the city centre and offers easy access to shops, supermarkets, and restaurants. However, the housing prices in Tauranga South can be quite high.
Welcome Bay: Located 7 km from the city centre, Welcome Bay is another top neighbourhood in Tauranga. It has several shops and schools and is ideal for hiking, biking, hot springs, and more.
Otumoetai: Otumoetai is another great area in Tauranga, offering a wide range of housing options and several nearby schools.
Papamoa: 11 km from the downtown area, Papamoa is a popular and well-loved neighbourhood due to its proximity to the beach. It's one of the largest suburbs in Tauranga and has shops, restaurants, and a stunning coastal landscape.
Immigration Advisers Located in Tauranga, New Zealand
Working with a local immigration adviser can be very beneficial – they know the area, the job market & relevant requirements for immigration to Tauranga. They will also be accessible if you need to stop by and chat.
At Malcolm Pacific Immigration, you can drop into our Tauranga office and meet us face-to-face. Our friendly advisers can answer any questions and provide information to help you settle in New Zealand, whether it be about international education, accredited employer work visas, or general migration queries.
Conveniently located on Cameron Road in Tauranga's CBD with plenty of off-street parking, our team of Immigration Advisers Tauranga are here for all your immigration needs.
Contact Malcolm Pacific Immigration For a Free Consultation.
Our expert advisors in Tauranga, New Zealand, can provide you with the support you need to save time, reduce stress, and save money.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Keep informed with the latest immigration news and get personalised advice from a licensed immigration professional.
Get started with a FREE consultation today
Our highly experienced licensed Immigration team will take away the stress and worry of navigating the complicated world of New Zealand Immigration. All you need to do is get in touch. Our team is on standby, ready to help.
Get started with a FREE consultation today
Our highly experienced licensed Immigration team will take away the stress and worry of navigating the complicated world of New Zealand Immigration. All you need to do is get in touch. Our employer team is on standby, ready to help.
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Latest Updates
Our team keep ahead of all the latest immigration developments and post updates regularly. Stay up to date by signing up to our newsletter and get these updates directly to your inbox.
Migrant Worker Residence
Today the government announced a pathway to residence for migrant workers who are living and working in New Zealand. Applications open on 1 December 2021 for the first wave who are eligible to apply. The second wave can apply from 1 March 2022. The deadline to lodge an application is 31 July 2022 or else they will miss out on this one off opportunity.
Skilled Migrants Opportunity
Today the government announced a pathway to residence for people living and working in New Zealand. Applications open on 1 December 2021 for the first wave eligible to apply. The second wave can apply from 1 March 2022. The deadline to lodge an application is 31 July 2022 or else you miss the boat.
New Employer Accreditation Process
The government has moved the introduction of the new employer accreditation process across to mid-2022. At the same time, the Minister of Immigration announced new work visa rules for migrant workers who are already in New Zealand and working full time.
Skilled Migrant Changes
The government has increased the median wage to $27 per hour from 19 July. Any Skilled Migrant residence application lodged after this date will need to include a skilled job offer that pays at least $27 per hour. For some lower-skilled occupations, the minimum pay rate increases to $40.50 per hour.
Work Visa Rules
From 19 July 2021
- The median wage used to assess Essential Skills Work Visa applications increases from $25.50 per hour to $27 per hour.
- Applicants paid below the median wage may be granted a work visa for up to 24 months. The usual 6-month visa validity restriction is suspended until mid-2022.
- In certain cases, the labour market test is waived and in some cases, it will still apply.
Work Visa Rules
From 30 June 2021
- Employer Accreditation and Approval in Principle applications are now closed.
- No new Employer Accreditation applications (including renewals) will be accepted until the new process goes live in mid-2022.
Employer Accreditation Becomes Mandatory
Employers of migrant workers must become accredited from 1 November 2021 before work visa applications can be processed. Most employers are not accredited. Those that are accredited will have to roll into the new system when it goes live in late September.
Work Visa Rules
From mid-2020 (delayed)
- Government to negotiate and introduce Industry Sector agreements setting minimum conditions for industries that heavily rely on overseas workers. Sectors include; residential care, meat processing, dairy, forestry, road freight transport, tourism, and hospitality. Construction, horticulture, and viticulture may also be included.
Skilled Migrant Changes
Skilled occupation "Dairy Cattle Farmer" spilt into three occupations. New occupations are: "Dairy Farm Manager", "Assistant Dairy Farm Manager" and "Dairy Herd Manager". Each sit at different skill levels, therefore, the award of points will depend on pay rates, job tasks and other requirements.
Work Visa Rules
From 15 February 2021
- Dairy Cattle Farmer job offers are now assessed by three new occupation descriptions: Dairy Farm Manager, Assistant Dairy Farm Manager and Dairy Herd Manager. Pay rates and job tasks will determine how long a work visa is valid. Take advice.
Skilled Migrant Changes
The government has deferred the fortnightly selection of Expressions of Interest from the Skilled Migrant pool for six months (to be reviewed in April 2021). Invitations to Apply for Residence remain suspended. The last selection from the Skilled Migrant pool took place on 18/03/2020.
Work Visa Rules
From 7 October 2020
- Introduction of "Oversupply" and "Undersupply" occupation lists used to assess Essential Skills Work Visa applications when a job offer pays less than the median wage.
- Employers offering jobs to migrant workers where an occupation is on the "Oversupply" list will not get Skill Match reports issued by Work & Income. Solid evidence of genuine attempts to find a local to fill the job will be critical for approval.
Skilled Migrant Changes
The government added four new occupations that are now regarded as skilled employment and may qualify for job offer points under the Skilled Migrant Category. These are:
Aged or disabled carer, Bicycle mechanic, Driller and Nursing Support worker.
Work Visa Rules
From 27 July 2020
- Essential Skills work visa applications are now assessed based on the current median wage (NZD $25.50 or more per hour.).
- Job offers paying below the median wage require employers to pass the labour market test* and secure a Skills Match Reports from WINZ (work visas granted for a maximum of 6 months).
Skilled Migrant Changes
Anyone invited by Immigration NZ to apply for residence under the Skilled Migrant Category where their invitation is dated between 1 November 2019 and 15 April 2020 (inclusive) has now been granted an additional six months to lodge their residence application.
Work Visa Rules
From 27 May 2020
- Regional Skill Shortage List goes live. 15 regions around New Zealand list occupations reflecting local skill shortages in each region. The labour market test is not mandatory provided the job offer matches the occupation and region plus the visa applicant has qualifications and/or work experience set out on the list.
Skilled Migrant Changes
The government has deferred the fortnightly selection of Expressions of Interest from the Skilled Migrant pool. This means Invitations to Apply for Residence are also suspended. Malcolm Pacific Immigration does not anticipate selections to resume until after the general election held on 17 October 2020.
Skilled Migrant Changes
Immigration NZ is now prioritising Skilled Migrant Residence applications where the main (principal) applicant meets the criteria:
- Has employment paying double the median wage which is currently NZD $51 per hour OR NZD $106,800 per annum; OR Has New Zealand occupational registration and is required to hold valid registration to lawfully carry out their job.
Work Visa Rules
From 24 February 2020
- Wage or salary thresholds increase for Essential Skills Work Visas applications lodged on or after 24/02/2020 (labour market tested; read more here).
- Higher Skilled employment increases to $38.25 or more per hour ($79,560 per annum*)
- Mid Skilled Employment increases to $21.68 or more per hour ($45,094 per annum*)
Work Visa Rules
From 7 October 2019
- Base salary to qualify for a Work to Residence Visa (WTR) supported by an accredited employer increases from $55,000 per annum to $79,560 per annum (or $38.25 per hour).
- Pay rates for WTR visas are now reviewed annually.
- Work visa applicants paid less than $79,560 per annum by accredited employers need to apply under other work visa categories.
Skilled Migrant Changes
The government recently added more occupations that are now to be regarded as skilled employment and may qualify for job offer points under the Skilled Migrant Category. In order to qualify for points, the job must be paying at least the current median wage (or higher for certain occupations) at the time the residence application is lodged.
Work Visa Rules
From 1 November 2021
- Work to Residence Visa (Accredited Employer and Long Term Skill Shortage) applications close.
- Applications lodged on or before 31 October 2021 will be processed under current visa settings.
Mandatory Vaccination Required for Travel
From 1 November 2021 anyone who is not a NZ citizen must be fully vaccinated (unless exempt) before travelling to New Zealand. Fully vaccinated means your last dose of vaccine was given at least 14 days before travelling and it was an approved vaccine.
Employer Accreditation
Applications for employer accreditation closed at the end of June 2021. Applications lodged before the closure date are still being processed. New applications for accreditation open on 9 May 2022. The process will be quite different to what employers have experienced in the past. Businesses will need to meet minimum standards.
2021 Resident Visa
Wednesday, 1 December is fast approaching and it is estimated that around 16,000 individuals and families can apply in the first wave for the 2021 Resident Visa opening next month. It is exciting for the thousands of people who have been waiting patiently to become residents that finally the finish line is in sight.
2021 Resident Visa
The first wave of applicants can apply from 1 December 2021. Around 16,000 applications are expected in this first wave. The second wave opens on 1 March 2022. In total, the government expects approximately 110,000 applications that will include about 165,000 people.
2021 Resident Visa
The second group of workers who can apply online for the 2021 Resident Visa that opens on 1 March 2022 are those who hold an eligible work visa and either meet "Settled", "Skilled" or "Scarce" as set out above. In total Immigration NZ estimate around 110,000 people will qualify to apply for this visa.
2021 Resident Visa
The first group of workers who can apply online for the 2021 Resident Visa that opens on 1 December 2021 are those that on 29/09/2021:
- Had lodged a residence application under the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) or Residence from Work category; OR Had lodged an SMC Expression of Interest (EOI) in the SMC pool that included at least one dependent child aged 17 or above.
2021 Resident Visa
Is this the only requirement to qualify for residence? No. In addition to the eligible work visa criteria workers also need to be regarded as one of the following:
- Settled.
- Skilled.
- Scarce.
2021 Resident Visa
People who were lawfully in NZ (or in Australia when the travel bubble closed between April and July 2021) on 29/09/2021 need to meet the visa eligibility criteria:
- Workers in NZ who held an eligible work visa on or before 29/9/2021 and on the day they apply for residence; OR Applied for an eligible work visa on or before 29/9/2021 and the work visa application is subsequently approved and still hold an eligible work visa on the day they apply for residence.
2021 Resident Visa
The government has introduced a limited pathway to residence for people who are already living and working in New Zealand. Applications open on 1 December 2021 for the first wave of people eligible to apply. The second wave opens on 1 March 2022. The deadline to apply for the 2021 Resident Visa is 31 July 2022.
Critical Purpose Visitor Visas
A small number of critical health workers (taking up jobs for six months or longer) or specialist workers (taking up jobs that are for longer than six months) who were granted border exemptions may also have eligibility for the 2021 Resident Visa. They will need to have arrived in NZ and lodge a 2021 Resident Visa application.
Policy Decision Key Dates in 2022
- July 4. Applications open for the new Accredited Employer Work Visa.
- July 31. Applications for the 2021 Resident Visa close.
- August. Skilled Migrant Residence category scheduled to reopen.
- August. A new pathway to residence for people earning 200% or more of the median wage.
*Excludes high-risk countries.
Policy Decision Key Dates in 2022
- February 13. Fully vaccinated Kiwis plus certain other travellers entering NZ from the rest of the world* can skip MIQ.
- April 30. The border starts a phased reopen to fully vaccinated foreign nationals.
- April 30. The Productivity Commission reports back to the government on immigration settings.
- May 9. Applications open for mandatory Employer Accreditation.
*Excludes high-risk countries.
Work Visa Categories Closing
The work visa categories set to close are:
- Essential Skills Work Visa
- Essential Skills Work Visa – approval in principle
- Work to Residence (Talent – Accredited Employer)
- Work to Residence (Long Term Skills Shortage)
- Silver Fern Job Search Work Visa (closed October 2019)
- Silver Fern Practical Experience Work Visa.
The Green List
In order to address labour shortages in New Zealand's crucial industries the NZ government has implemented a "Green List" of sought-after high-skill occupations. This list offers a prioritised pathway to residency.
There are qualification and/or occupational registration requirements to meet. Occupations are broken down into two tiers:
- Tier 1 - direct pathway to residence
- Tier 2 - requires a period of two years or longer before applying
The recent additions in May 2023 across many sectors can be found here