What Are The Best Cities To Live In New Zealand part 2 – Part one is here.
Best Cities to Live in New Zealand
New Zealand has over 4.5 million people and is located in the South Pacific Ocean to the east of Australia. The landscape is mostly mountainous, with beaches along the coast. New Zealand’s climate varies from cool temperate in the south and warm subtropical in the north.
New Zealand has been ranked as one of the best countries in the world to live in. The seven best cities in New Zealand include the following.
1. Auckland
As the largest city in New Zealand, Auckland is also one of the best cities to live in. It has over 1 million people and offers easy access to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes on earth.
There are plenty of things to do in Auckland – from green spaces like parks and botanical gardens to outdoor activities like hiking and surfing. Housing is more expensive in Auckland than in most cities around the world, but it has a high per capita income and low unemployment rate.
2. Wellington
Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand and offers a beautiful and unique living experience. Wellington has over 400,000 people and is known for its strong accent and diverse culture.
The weather in Wellington is typically windy and wet, but this just adds to its charm. Education standards are high in Wellington, with some of the best universities in New Zealand. Housing is reasonable, and the climate is mild.
3. Christchurch
Christchurch has around 350,000 people and is located on the South Island of New Zealand. The most important feature of Christchurch is its access to the beautiful natural landscape.
There are numerous national parks nearby where you can go walking, hiking, mountain biking, fishing in summer, and skiing in winter. Employment opportunities are reasonable, and there is a relatively high level of disposable income.
4. Dunedin
Dunedin is located on the South Island of New Zealand and has around 150,000 people as of June 2021. Even though it is not one of the largest cities in New Zealand, Dunedin is still one of the best places to live in.
Education standards are high, and there are plenty of quality public schools in Dunedin. Housing is very affordable, even for large houses with great views. There are regular flights between Dunedin and Auckland which makes it an ideal location to commute to if you work in Auckland.
5. Nelson
Nelson is located on the North Island of New Zealand and has around 50,000 people as of June 2021. Education standards are high in Nelson, with several universities nearby. It is close to the Abel Tasman National Park, which offers beautiful beaches for swimming, surfing, or long walks.
There are plenty of outdoor activities for an active lifestyle – biking, fishing, surfing, golfing, etc. Housing is affordable, and there are no particular disadvantages to living in Nelson.
6. Masterton
Masterton is located on the North Island of New Zealand and has around 20,000 people as of June 2021. It is known for its strong accent and unique culture which you won’t find in other cities.
The climate in Masterton is warm, and it has plenty of green spaces where you can go jogging or for a picnic. Employment opportunities are reasonable, close to the Tararua Forest Park for hiking, mountain biking, or camping. Housing is reasonably priced, and Masterton has good public transport links.
7. Rotorua
Rotorua is located on the North Island of New Zealand and has around 70,000 people as of June 2021. It is well-known for its beautiful landscapes and proximity to forests and natural reserves. There are plenty of outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, fishing, or just walking through the city’s many green spaces.
Rotorua has a warm climate with reasonable humidity levels. Education standards are high, and there is a good disposable income in Rotorua. Housing is reasonable, and the city has good public transport links.
Frequently Asked Questions about New Zealand
Is New Zealand part of Australia?
No, New Zealand is an island nation located in the Pacific Ocean to Australia’s southeast. It is approximately 100 miles east of Australia across the Tasman Sea. In fact, New Zealand is closer to the United States (more specifically, Hawaii) than it is to Australia.
What is the currency of New Zealand?
The currency of New Zealand is the New Zealand dollar. It has a symbol of $ and the code NZD. Each NZD is composed of 100 cents. However, coins are used in denominations of 10, 20, and 50 cents. Paper notes represent the NZD in denominations of $1, $2, $5, $10, and $20.
What does Māori mean?
The word “Māori” means common or ordinary. It is an indigenous Polynesian name that the original inhabitants of New Zealand gave themselves. The word “Māori” has many meanings, but its most literal translation is common or ordinary.
Conclusion
Living in New Zealand is a life-changing experience for most people. A diverse range of natural landscapes and relaxed geographical location makes it an attractive place to live. Most expatriates who move to the country, especially those who are English speaking, will find themselves easily able to settle into their new homes because of how similar the cultures are. So, check out the cities above.
