Choosing a region
If you are not directed by your work, choosing which part of New Zealand you will settle in may require some thought.
This is a long narrow country, with large geographical features that generate quite different climates and lifestyles. One early consideration if possible might be to put off a long term commitment until you have seen the rest of the country.
The north of the North Island can be almost tropical, and rarely sees a frost, and has great beaches and fishing.
Moving down the North Island there are city lifestyles, dairy and horticulture farming, forestry, tourist, trout fishing, and many different kinds of coastal lifestyles available.
There are adventure lifestyles, technical, IT and teaching opportunities, arts and café cultures, green and other rural opportunities.
To the south of the South Island you can have a true ‘European’ climate with 30 degree + Celsius temperatures in Summer, snow in the winter, and distinctive autumns and springs - while up north it’s green all the time.
There are wineries in almost every part of the country now, and surprises around every corner.
It might help to make some objective comparisons for a start. Have a look at the statistics and introductions on our regional pages, and if you see some places you like try comparing them using the regional calculator.
