If you are looking for a change and like the idea of living in a place where the people are laid back and friendly, and the scenery will take your breath away, then perhaps New Zealand could be the place for you.
New Zealand is a beautiful country with so much going for it. If you are considering emigrating to this wonderful land, there are a few things you need to know first.
So, sit back and read on to find out everything you need to know about New Zealand.
1. Their accent can be confusing
Although we share English as our first language, you may find it a bit tricky, to begin with, to understand the local’s accent. The New Zealand accent can sound strange, but you will get what they are saying if you break it down.
For example, an ‘i’ sounds like a ‘u’ sound, so when ordering fish and chips, it sounds like they are saying “fush and chips!” They also tend to say an ‘i’ sound instead of an ‘e,’ making ten “tin” and bed “bid.”
If you can get your head around the little nuances like these, the accent will become much clearer, and you will soon find yourself paying “tin dollars” for your “fush and chips!”
2. Learn some Kiwi slang
Slang is everywhere; we all use it in our daily lives but getting to know new slang can be difficult, especially in a new culture. For example, if a kiwi asked you if you had any “glad wrap,” would you know they were talking about food wrap?!
You need to wear your “jandles” to the beach; they mean your flip-flops! A “bach” is a holiday home, and the middle of nowhere is called “wop wops!” It may take a while, but the relaxed attitude of the New Zealanders means they will help you but may also enjoy confusing you from time to time!
3. Meet the Maori
The native people of New Zealand are also known as Maori. Once the country was invaded by the Europeans, the people of New Zealand wanted a way to identify themselves and disassociate from the white invaders.
They call themselves Maori because the word means ‘ordinary.’ The Maori are a very proud people and today make up around 14% of New Zealand’s total population. They have many customs and traditions and are the indigenous people of this land.
4. There aren’t a lot of people but many sheep
48 million people live in New Zealand; when compared to the size of the country, it is quite a small population. Most Kiwis live in urban areas meaning there are huge areas of countryside.
However, these areas are not empty; they are full of sheep! There is the equivalent of 6 sheep for every one human, so expect to see these fluffy white beauties everywhere you go!
5. The cost of living in New Zealand
The cost of living in New Zealand is fairly comparable to most Western countries. You may find that the cost of living is even cheaper than you are used to, depending on your current circumstances.
6. Expect unpredictable weather
The two islands of New Zealand are surrounded by the wild Pacific Ocean, meaning the weather here can be interchangeable and unpredictable.
Many people think that New Zealand has a hot climate like Australia; however, due to its geography, it can be sunny one minute and rainy the next. There is a saying with the locals that you can witness “four seasons in one day!”
7. The country is known as the Shaky Isles
Most of the earth’s volcanos and earthquakes happen in what is known as “the Pacific ring of fire,” and the country of New Zealand sits right on top of this. New Zealanders feel about 150 earthquakes a year; however, the real number of quakes is more around the 14,000 mark, giving the island the apt nickname of the “Shaky Isles.”
Volcano eruptions are less of an issue these days; the last big eruption was over 5000 years ago. This one was the biggest in the world and left an enormous crater. After filling with water, this crater has become a landmark and is called Lake Taupó.
8. Barefoot brings you closer to nature
Over in New Zealand, some people step straight out of the house with nothing on their feet, and it’s perfectly normal. You’ll see folk wandering the streets, supermarkets, and cafes just totally barefoot and without a care in the world. This has got something to do with Kiwis being very laid back and also the Maori belief that being barefoot brings you closer to nature.
9. Breathtaking landscapes everywhere
New Zealand is known for its incredible landscape. From ice-capped mountains to white sandy beaches, lush subtropical forests, and picturesque fiords, this country has it all. Everywhere you turn, you are met with breathtaking landscapes.
Roughly one-third of New Zealand is made up of National Parks. The North Island is home to stunning white sandy beaches, geothermal springs, and mud pools and tends to have a warmer climate. The South Island is slightly cooler, and here you will find farmland, green fields, and spectacular mountains.
The landscape is so varied here, which is part of the draw for many people. It has an almost magical quality; you will see things here that you won’t see anywhere else in the world!
10. The ozone layer is much thinner over there
We all know about the importance of the ozone layer in protecting us from the sun’s harmful rays. The ozone layer is much thinner over New Zealand and Australia, meaning that when the sun is out, you are at an increased risk of burning. High-factor sun cream and headwear are a must even on the days when the sun doesn’t look too hot.
11. They have the clearest lake in the world
The South Island is home to Nelson Lakes National Park. New Zealand’s National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research believes that it is here where you will find the clearest lake in the world.
With visibility of up to 80 meters, Blue Lake has the same transparency as distilled water. However, don’t try and go for a dip. As inviting as it may look, it is considered sacred, so all bathing is banned.
12. Keep an eye out for sandflies
Sandflies are, unfortunately, a real problem in New Zealand. There are 19 different species of this flying pest, and even though only three of them bite, it is these three that tend to populate this country.
They are found mostly along the West Coast and South Island. When they bite, you will know about it because it hurts and then itches like crazy! You need to be careful too as these clever little things hunt in groups!
This means when you swat one away, its friends are waiting around the corner to attack. Thankfully they can’t pass on any diseases, however, they can be a real pain, literally.
13. There’s always a beach close by
In New Zealand, you are quite literally surrounded by beautiful coastline and sandy beaches. Even when inland, you are only ever an hour or so drive from a beach. It is thought you are never more than 120km from the coast.
14. The Kiwis hate possums
There are around 30 million of these rat-like animals running wild in New Zealand. Although they may look quite cute, they are a constant nuisance. They eat kiwi and kea birds’ eggs, and pass on bovine TB to cows. They were imported for the fur trade, and with no natural predators, they have multiplied.
15. Kiwi fruit did not originate in New Zealand
We all know the affectionate nickname ‘kiwi’ that we use to describe a person from New Zealand originates from the beautiful kiwi bird. This flightless bird is native to this country and is the only country in which it is found. However, the fruit kiwi does not originate from here.
It is actually a Chinese gooseberry. It was imported into New Zealand in the early 1900s. In the 1950s, the US began to buy fruit from New Zealand but thought it might be tricky to convince people to try this “Chinese gooseberry” and so renamed the fruit after the beautiful kiwi bird.
16. Rugby is huge
No other country celebrates the game of rugby quite like New Zealanders. It is a huge part of their life and was first introduced to the country towards the end of the 1800s. Their national team, the All Blacks, has been dominant in the sport for generations and always begins their game with the incredible ceremonial war dance, the Haka.
17. There is a strong emphasis on gender equality
New Zealand was the first country to give women the right to vote in 1893. It was also the only country to have women in power in the top three positions in 2006. Gender equality is fiercely important in this country.
18. Taxes in New Zealand
Tax rates in new Zealand depend on your income. The highest personal tax rate is 33% for a wage over $70,000, and the lowest is 10.5% for those with an income of $14,000. Living expenses are generally a little lower than countries with a similar GDP.
19. Work-life balance in New Zealand
The size of the country and the small overall population means that there is so much natural unspoiled land to enjoy. This means New Zealand is known for its great work-life balance. Kiwis work hard but make the most of the stunning country they live in by playing hard too. It is one of the main reasons for moving to New Zealand.
20. Kiwis love to drink
L&P or Lemon and Paeroa. It is essentially lemonade and is the most popular soft drink in the country. You can’t find this drink anywhere else in the world.
21. A popular destination for filmmakers
The stunning expansive landscape makes New Zealand a popular destination for filmmakers. Lord of the Rings, the Hobbit franchise, and The Chronicles of Narnia have all been filmed here, and this has now become part of the tourist appeal with people visiting the filming locations.
FAQs
How much does a work visa cost in New Zealand?
A work visa will cost $245, but it’s free if you’re a US citizen.
How do I get a temporary visa for New Zealand?
There are several temporary visas you can get for New Zealand. These include a Visitor visa which is available to anyone with a valid passport, and an Essential Skills work visa.
You can apply via the New Zealand Immigration website.
Why do most people live on the North Island of New Zealand?
Many Kiwis live permanently on the North Island of New Zealand because the wages are higher and there are more job opportunities. It is the most popular place for many expats moving to New Zealand.
What is the essential skills visa in New Zealand?
These work visas enable you to take employment in New Zealand, in particular, if the job you do is on the skills shortage list.
What are the New Zealand immigration requirements?
You cannot begin a new life in New Zealand without having a visa. There are different visas, including a Visitor visa for short visits, an Essential Skills visa if you are qualified to do a job on the skills shortage list, or a Permanent Resident visa if you are moving to New Zealand.
You can apply for a visa if you have family members already living in the country. You must hold a valid passport, and you can apply for the relevant visa vis the New Zealand Immigration Government website.
How does the New Zealand government work?
New Zealand’s system of government is made up of Democratically elected representatives or MPs and is known as a Constitutional Monarchy. The Head of State is Queen Elizabeth II, and she is represented by the Governor-General.
Final Thoughts
New Zealand is known for its laid-back lifestyle and incredible scenery so if you are looking for that work-life balance, check out New Zealand and all it has to offer!
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