Welcome to the ultimate guide on why you should consider moving to New Zealand. As immigration advisers, we help thousands of people each year who have decided to make the move to our country. Countless reasons make New Zealand the perfect destination for those seeking a fresh start and a better quality of life. In this article, we combine why we love this country with feedback from our clients on what attracted them to give you a great understanding of the benefits of living in NZ.
New Zealand is renowned for its quality of life, offering residents a range of essential factors that contribute to their overall well-being and happiness. Many of our clients and their extended families make the move here to ensure their children can flourish in a safe, friendly environment.
New Zealand takes pride in its world-class healthcare system, ensuring that its residents have access to high-quality medical care. With a strong emphasis on preventive care, New Zealand promotes a proactive approach to health, helping individuals maintain their well-being and address any medical concerns effectively.
In addition to its healthcare system, New Zealand places great importance on education. The country’s education system spans from early childhood education to tertiary institutions. There is a strong emphasis on sport, cultural awareness, health and environment throughout all levels of education. Whether you are considering enrolling your children in a primary or secondary school or pursuing higher education yourself, New Zealand provides a range of educational opportunities that cater to diverse needs and interests.
When it comes to safety and security, New Zealand consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world. With its low crime rate and peaceful society, residents can enjoy a sense of security and peace of mind. Whether you're walking through the busy city streets or exploring the countryside, there is a strong feeling of safety and communities looking after each other throughout the country.
New Zealand's commitment to maintaining a safe environment extends beyond its low crime rate. The country places significant emphasis on disaster preparedness and response, ensuring that its residents are well-equipped to face any natural calamities that may arise. With robust emergency management systems in place, New Zealand stands as a strong example of a country that prioritises the well-being and safety of its inhabitants.
One of the most remarkable aspects of New Zealand is its pristine and unspoiled natural environment. From rugged mountains to lush native bush and crystal-clear lakes, the country's landscapes are a testament to its commitment to preserving its natural heritage. The government and the people of New Zealand recognise the importance of sustainable living, and steps are taken to protect and conserve the environment.
New Zealand is at the forefront of environmental conservation, implementing policies and initiatives that promote sustainable practices. The country aims to reduce its carbon footprint, increase even further our use of renewable energy sources, and protect its unique biodiversity. With an abundance of national parks, protected areas, and marine reserves, New Zealand offers countless opportunities to connect with nature and appreciate its awe-inspiring beauty.
The emphasis on sustainable living extends to the daily lives of New Zealanders. The country encourages eco-friendly practices, such as recycling, reducing waste, and minimising the use of single-use plastics. The collective commitment to sustainability creates an environment where residents can enjoy clean air, drinkable water, and a healthy ecosystem, contributing to an overall high quality of life.
New Zealand prides itself on its diverse and inclusive society, where people from different cultural backgrounds coexist harmoniously. The country's multiculturalism is celebrated, fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding.
New Zealanders, often referred to as Kiwis, have gained a reputation for their warm and friendly nature. They are known for their hospitality and willingness to welcome newcomers with open arms, making it easy to make friends and feel a sense of belonging. There are also many established expat communities over here that welcome you like neighbours, giving you a rich sense of home.
The New Zealand government actively promotes multiculturalism and integration. Initiatives and programs are in place to encourage cultural exchange, celebrate diversity, and support newcomers in their journey of settling into the Kiwi way of life.
New Zealand has a stable and resilient economy that offers good job opportunities for both residents and newcomers. With its stable economy and low unemployment rate, the country provides a promising environment for individuals seeking career growth and prosperity. Due to its low population rates and emphasis on entrepreneurship, New Zealand offers a lot of freedom and opportunities to build new lives and careers.
New Zealand's economy has shown remarkable stability over the years, even during times of global economic uncertainty. This stability creates a favourable environment for businesses to thrive and for individuals to secure reliable employment. The country's sound economic policies and careful financial management contribute to its strong economic foundation, instilling confidence in investors and entrepreneurs alike.
New Zealand also maintains a low unemployment rate, meaning that there are ample opportunities for job seekers. The government's commitment to creating a vibrant and inclusive job market, combined with the country's expanding industries, results in a favourable employment landscape. Whether you're a recent graduate, a skilled professional, or someone seeking a career change, New Zealand offers a range of options to suit various qualifications and interests.
New Zealand's job market is diversified, with several industries showing significant growth and offering promising job prospects. The information technology (IT) sector, in particular, is thriving, with a strong demand for skilled professionals in areas such as software development, cybersecurity, and data analytics. As technology continues to advance, the IT industry presents exciting opportunities for those with a passion for innovation and digital solutions.
The healthcare industry is another sector experiencing steady growth. With an ageing population and a focus on improving healthcare services, there is a demand for qualified healthcare professionals across various fields, including nursing, medicine, and allied health services. The emphasis on delivering high-quality healthcare ensures a stable and rewarding career path for individuals in the healthcare sector.
New Zealand's agricultural industry is renowned worldwide for its high-quality produce. The country's fertile lands and temperate climate support a thriving agricultural sector, offering employment opportunities in areas such as farming, horticulture, and viticulture. Additionally, the tourism industry plays a significant role in New Zealand's economy, providing a wide range of jobs in hospitality, travel services, and adventure tourism.
New Zealand has established itself as an entrepreneurship-friendly nation, encouraging innovation and business startups. The country offers a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs, providing access to resources, funding opportunities, and mentorship programs. The government's commitment to fostering entrepreneurship is reflected in initiatives such as the Entrepreneur Work Visa, which allows aspiring entrepreneurs to establish and grow their businesses in New Zealand.
The startup culture in New Zealand is vibrant, with success stories emerging from various sectors, including technology, creative industries, and sustainable enterprises. The availability of skilled talent, supportive networks, and a robust infrastructure contribute to the favourable business environment. Whether you have a groundbreaking tech idea, a passion for the arts, or a commitment to sustainable practices, New Zealand offers a platform for your entrepreneurial aspirations to thrive.
New Zealand's work-life balance culture is highly valued and prioritised. The country recognises the importance of maintaining a healthy equilibrium between work and personal life, ensuring individuals have time for leisure, family, and self-care.
Leisure time and family life hold significant importance in New Zealand. The country's laid-back lifestyle encourages people to enjoy leisure activities, explore the outdoors, and spend quality time with their loved ones.
Many employers support a shorter four day work week and hybrid mix of working from home as well as the office. With fewer working hours, individuals have more time to pursue their passions, engage in recreational activities, and create a healthy work-life balance. Additionally, aAnnual leave policies enable individuals to take four weeks off a year allowing for meaningful breaks and recharge especially over summer period.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Adventures in Your Backyard
When it comes to natural beauty and outdoor adventures, few places can rival the beauty and diversity of New Zealand's landscape. From snow-covered mountains to pristine beaches and awe-inspiring fjords, this country offers so many choices of where to live and what to enjoy. You can have that holiday feeling every day.
New Zealand's landscapes are nothing short of breathtaking. The country's snow-capped mountains, such as the iconic Southern Alps, provide a dramatic backdrop that beckons you to explore.
New Zealand also boasts a 15,000-kilometre coastline dotted with beautiful beaches. From the golden sands of the North Island to the rugged shores of the South Island, beach lovers can relax with a walk or simply soak on a sunny beach. Auckland, the main capital for example, is surrounded by two harbours meaning you will never be far from a beach and a great environment to spend time in.
And let's not forget the breathtaking South Island with its fjords. Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, among others, showcase nature's artistry at its finest, with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene waters. For many some, exploring these fjords is just a couple of hours away and will leave you speechless as you soak in beauty.
New Zealand is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a myriad of activities to satisfy any adventure craving. Hiking and trekking are popular pursuits, with a vast network of trails catering to all skill levels. From the world-renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing to the world-famous tracks in Fiordland National Park, there is always a new trail waiting to be discovered. You will find incredible walks all over the country and plenty of beautiful bush walks within suburban areas meaning you will not have to travel far to get a breath of fresh air.
For adrenaline junkies, New Zealand's ski fields provide thrilling experiences during the winter months. From the North Island's Mount Ruapehu to the South Island's Remarkables and Treble Cone, ski and snowboard enthusiasts can carve through fresh powder while immersing themselves in stunning alpine landscapes.
Water sports enthusiasts will also find their paradise in New Zealand. Whether it's surfing the renowned breaks in Raglan, kayaking along tranquil rivers, or diving into vibrant marine reserves, the country offers endless opportunities to make a splash and explore its aquatic wonders.
Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy New Zealand's unique flora and fauna. The country is home to a variety of endemic species, including the iconic kiwi bird, playful dolphins, whales and majestic albatross. Exploring national parks, protected marine reserves, and offshore islands provide a chance for some incredible encounters with these remarkable creatures.
New Zealand offers several immigration pathways for individuals and families looking to migrate and seek residency. The country's immigration system is designed to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs and their family members to New Zealand.
Visa options in New Zealand cater to different circumstances and qualifications.
Skilled migrant visas are available for people with in-demand skills and qualifications, providing a pathway to work and live in the country.The Green List occupations cater to roles that are crucial for the future success of the country and are offered residency on arrival or work-to-residency options depending on the role and your experience. Entrepreneur visas are designed for aspiring business owners, offering opportunities to establish and develop their ventures. Family categories allow family members to be reunited with citizens or residents who already live in New Zealand.
If you are wanting to immigrate to New Zealand, it is essential to understand which visa is appropriate for you and its specific requirements. The Immigration New Zealand website provides visa information, eligibility criteria, and application procedures. Additionally, seeking guidance from immigration advisers or consultants can offer personal assistance and support throughout the immigration process.
New Zealand offers so many advantages when starting a new life that makes it a prime destination for migrants. From its high quality of life and stunning natural beauty to a strong economy and diverse job opportunities.
Whether you're comparing your options, applying for a Green List role, or seeing what opportunities New Zealand has for you, Malcolm Pacific Immigration can help you.
Malcolm Pacific Immigration is New Zealand’s largest and most experienced team of licensed immigration advisers. Our licensed advisers assist you in understanding the visa process, and our experts take away the stress and worry of navigating the complicated world of immigration.
All you need to do is get in touch for a free consultation. Our team is on standby, ready to help.
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.
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.
We stay on top of the most important updates to immigration law. Browse below or subscribe and get updates straight to your inbox.
We stay on top of the most important updates to employment and immigration law. Browse below or subscribe and get updates straight to your inbox.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
From 19 July 2021
From 30 June 2021
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.
From mid-2020 (delayed)
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.
From 15 February 2021
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.
From 7 October 2020
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.
From 27 July 2020
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.
From 27 May 2020
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.
Immigration NZ is now prioritising Skilled Migrant Residence applications where the main (principal) applicant meets the criteria:
From 24 February 2020
From 7 October 2019
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.
From 1 November 2021
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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:
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:
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.
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.
*Excludes high-risk countries.
*Excludes high-risk countries.
The work visa categories set to close are:
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:
The recent additions in May 2023 across many sectors can be found here