Auckland, New Zealand

Visa Requirements

• Tourist Visa
  Most visitors to New Zealand can stay for up to 3 months without a visa. This is typically granted to citizens from visa-waiver countries, including the US, UK, Australia, and EU countries.
• Visa on Arrival (VOA)
  While New Zealand does not offer a VOA, travelers from visa-waiver countries can enter under the Visitor Visa for up to 9 months. However, you must show proof of return flights and sufficient funds.
• Digital Nomad Visa
  With the onset of 2025, New Zealand Visitor Visa has started allowing employees who work remotely for a foreign company to live and work in New Zealand. It is still not a specific digital nomad visa, but is an option within the Visitor Visa category. The Visitor Visa allows tourists to stay in New Zealand up to 6 months or 9 months (single entry), out of which 90 days can be spent engaged in remote. Some long-term visas (e.g., work visas) can also apply if you intend to work remotely in New Zealand for a longer period.

For visa information, visit the New Zealand Immigration Service.

Cost of Living

Accommodation
Accommodation in Auckland is relatively expensive compared to other cities in New Zealand, with a variety of options available depending on the area and property type.

• Budget: Shared rooms or hostels can cost between $18 – $50 per night.
• Mid-range: Private apartments or rooms in shared houses cost around $61.00 – $152 per night.
• Luxury: Upscale apartments in central areas can range from $214 – $370 per night.

Food
Auckland has a fantastic food scene, with a wide range of options.

• Street food: Simple meals from food trucks or markets typically cost $6 – $12.
• Mid-range restaurants: A 3-course meal for two will cost around $30 – $61.
• Fine dining: Upscale restaurants can charge $91 – $152 per person.

Transportation
Auckland has a well-developed public transport system, including buses, ferries, and trains.

• Public transport: A single fare on a bus or train ranges from $2.00 – $4.00.
• Taxis: Starting fare for a taxi is $ 2.50 – $3.00, with a cost of $1.50 – $2.00 per kilometer.
• Car rentals: Renting a car typically costs $31.00 – $61.00 per day.

Healthcare
Healthcare in New Zealand is of a high standard, but some expats opt for private insurance for better coverage. State healthcare is available for residents, but it may come with longer waiting times.

Climate & Weather

• Summer (December to February): Temperatures range between 20°C to 30°C (68°F – 86°F), making it a popular time for outdoor activities, beaches, and festivals.
• Winter (June to August): Cool and mild, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F – 59°F). Snowfall is rare but possible in the surrounding areas.
• Spring (September to November): Temperatures range from 10°C to 18°C (50°F – 66°F). The weather is unpredictable, with occasional rain but lots of sunshine.
• Autumn (March to May): Similar to spring, with 15°C to 20°C (59°F – 68°F)temperatures. Autumn is marked by pleasant weather and beautiful fall foliage.

Landscape

Auckland is a stunning city with dramatic natural landscapes. The city sits between two harbors, the Waitematā and Manukau, offering views of lush hills, volcanoes, and scenic beaches. With more than 50 volcanic cones scattered across the area, it offers hiking trails and panoramic views. The nearby Coromandel Peninsula and Waiheke Island are perfect for weekend getaways and are known for their natural beauty.

Things to Do

• Heritage Sites
  • Auckland War Memorial Museum: A comprehensive museum showcasing New Zealand’s history, including its Maori and Pacific heritage.
  • Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium: A popular attraction featuring underwater tunnels and a variety of marine life.
  • One Tree Hill: A significant landmark, both for its natural beauty and its historical importance to the Maori.
• Adventure Activities
  • Sky Tower: For thrill-seekers, the SkyJump from Auckland’s tallest structure offers a bungee-like experience.
  • Waiheke Island: Explore vineyards, beaches, and walking tracks on this beautiful island just off Auckland’s coast.
  • Volcano hikes: Auckland is home to many dormant volcanoes that you can hike for spectacular views of the city.
• Nightlife
  Auckland has a vibrant nightlife, especially around the Viaduct Harbour and Ponsonby. There are many bars, clubs, and live music venues offering a range of entertainment.
• Wellness Retreats
  Relax and rejuvenate at local wellness centers that offer yoga, spas, and meditation sessions, with many offering views of the surrounding nature.
• Shopping
  • Queen Street: Auckland’s main shopping hub, with a mix of international stores and local boutiques.
  • Britomart: A trendy area known for its high-end fashion stores and designer shops.

Lifestyle

Auckland is a laid-back city where outdoor activities are integrated into daily life. Whether it’s enjoying a morning coffee in one of the city’s many cafés, taking a weekend trip to the nearby beaches, or joining a community fitness class, the city promotes an active lifestyle. The local population is highly diverse, contributing to a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Auckland is a melting pot of cultures, and expats can easily integrate into the community through language exchange programs, sports clubs, and social gatherings. The city has a lively expat community and offers plenty of activities to meet people from all over the world.

Other Important Locations in New Zealand

• Wellington: The capital city, known for its arts and culture scene.
• Queenstown: Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, perfect for skiing, bungee jumping, and hiking.
• Rotorua: Famous for its geothermal activity and Maori culture.

Rental Accommodations

• Budget: Hostels or shared apartments cost between $6.00 – $15 per night.
• Mid-range: Private rooms or 1-bedroom apartments range from $22 – $32 per night.
• Luxury: Upscale hotels or serviced apartments in central areas such as Republic Square or Dostyk Avenue range from $53 – $85 per night.

Co-Working Facilities and Costs

Auckland is home to numerous co-working spaces, such as The Collective and GridAKL, that cater to digital nomads, freelancers, and entrepreneurs. Memberships range from $105 – $220 per month, depending on the location and services provided.

Connectivity

• WiFi: Auckland has reliable WiFi in cafes, hotels, and coworking spaces, with free public access available in libraries and some public areas. Speeds are fast and suitable for remote work.
• SIM: Vodafone, Spark, and 2degrees are the main providers, offering prepaid SIM cards with generous data packages. SIM cards are available at airports and convenience stores.

Volunteering Opportunities

Auckland offers various volunteering opportunities through local organizations focused on community welfare, the environment, and social justice. Popular volunteering platforms include Volunteer Auckland and The Kiwi Volunteer Network.

Local Employment Options

• IT and tech roles in startups or established firms.
• Opportunities in agriculture or forestry.
• Tourism and hospitality jobs in hotels or tour companies.

Real Estate Investment Options

While the Auckland real estate market is competitive, there are still opportunities in commercial properties, luxury homes, and newly developed areas. The market is buoyant, but foreign investors must meet certain criteria and may be subject to restrictions on property purchases.

Start-Up Ecosystem

Auckland has a thriving start-up scene with numerous incubators and accelerators supporting innovative ideas, especially in the tech and green energy sectors. The city’s strategic location and supportive ecosystem make it an ideal base for new businesses.

Business Setup Process for Expats

1. Choose a Business Structure: Popular options are Sole Trader, Partnership, or Limited Liability Company (LLC).
2. Register Your Business: Register with New Zealand Companies Office.
3. Obtain a New Zealand Business Number (NZBN): Required for all business activities.
4. Open a Bank Account: A New Zealand business bank account is necessary for transactions.
5. Register for Taxes: Register with Inland Revenue for GST (if turnover exceeds NZD 60,000 (~$34k) and income tax.
6. Get Licenses and Permits: Depending on the industry, you may need specific licenses or permits to operate legally.

Business Opportunities in Auckland

• Tech and IT: The demand for software development, IT services, and digital marketing is booming.
• Tourism: Auckland is a major gateway for tourists to New Zealand, offering opportunities in tour companies, accommodation, and adventure activities.
• Retail: Retail businesses, especially those in fashion, home décor, and food, are thriving due to the city’s multicultural population.
• Health and Wellness: Opportunities in wellness centers, yoga, and mental health services are expanding.
• Green Energy: With New Zealand’s focus on sustainability, businesses related to renewable energy and eco-friendly products are on the rise.