Auckland

New Zealand

About Auckland we have

Our guide was written by Lisa Canfield and Amanda Jackson and last published on Monday 1st April 2013.

Read this guide »

Living in Auckland, New Zealand, can be an amazing experience. Boasting a sophisticated urban environment, a mild climate and absolutely breathtaking scenery, Auckland, New Zealand consistently ranks as one of the world’s best places to live in the world. New Zealand’s largest and most populated city is a magnet for expatriates from around the world, many of whom move here for the family-friendly environment, endless leisure opportunities, an exciting urban lifestyle or for various professional opportunities.

Whether you're already planning to relocate to New Zealand or are just researching whether living in Auckland is right for you, this comprehensive relocation guide will take you step by step through the entire relocation process, giving you the practical information you need to make moving overseas as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

The expat guide to living in Auckland

The expat relocation guide contains the following information-

1) Living legally in Auckland

A detailed view of the visas available in Auckland together with details of how expats can ensure that they obtain and maintain a visa that’s right for their needs. Everything you need to know about securing the right visa including full contact details of people who can help, hints and tips on minimizing the paperwork and compulsory information that you need to know to ensure you stay within the realms of the law.

2) Setting up home in Auckland

  • A comprehensive view of the popular residential areas in Auckland, with detailed information about local facilities, amenities and living conditions.
  • Useful hints and tips concerning how to find suitable accommodation and conduct the negotiation process.
  • Advice on the rules and regulations governing bringing your pet to New Zealand.

3) Navigating the infrastructure in Auckland

  • Practical information pertaining to shopping, communication systems, driving, banking, taxes and insurance.
  • A detailed guide to education, including preschool, public schools, private schools, international schools and higher education.
  • Methods of commuting and getting around in Auckland, including bus routes, roads, rails and the ferry system.

4) Having fun in Auckland

  • A detailed guide about how to meet people, make new friends and network, including comprehensive resource lists and forum links.
  • Insider information about the best entertainment venues, sports clubs and restaurants and bars.

5) Staying safe and healthy in Auckland

  • An overview of medical care available when living in Auckland with useful information about hospitals, doctors, health insurance and other healthcare services.
  • Safety tips and key emergency service contact details.

6) Blending in

Details of the local culture, including language, holidays, religions, traditions and beliefs.

7) Reality bites

Written by an expat who lives in Auckland, this guide to living in Auckland offers something that other guides cannot; a genuine insider view. The writer presents bare facts and tells you how it really is, information that you will need if you are serious about living overseas.

Your only expat guide to living in Auckland; Feel at home abroad – Fast!

About Auckland we have

Our guide was written by Lisa Canfield and Amanda Jackson and last published on Monday 1st April 2013.

Read this guide »

Three top tips

01Winter in Auckland is very cold. Be aware of this when house hunting. Most houses don't have central heating and some have no heating system at all
02The weather in Auckland can change quickly and without warning. Always be prepared for sudden changes in temperature or a sudden downfall.
03Consider joining www.cherrytree.co.nz. An online store that offers reduced price appliances and electronics. There is a membership fee.

Interesting fact

The Maori name for Auckland is ‘Tamaki Makau Rau,’ meaning a maiden with 100 lovers.