The Digital Nomads Guide to Living and Working in New Zealand

For those who revel in the great outdoors, New Zealand is nothing short of a dream come true. Outdoor enthusiasts will find an abundance of options, thanks to the country's stunning landscapes. From the majestic snow-capped Southern Alps and the volcanic plateau on the North Island to the tranquil beaches of the Bay of Islands and Coromandel, the opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water sports are endless. Moreover, the unique native flora and fauna, including the iconic kiwi bird and ancient kauri trees, add an extra layer of richness to the experience.

New Zealand stands out as a prime destination for digital nomads, offering a compelling mix of advanced infrastructure, vibrant urban centers, and exceptional natural beauty. For those in search of a place that balances productivity with adventure and cultural exploration, this island nation is an unparalleled choice.

Digital Nomad Guide in New Zealand

New Zealand Digital Nomad Visa

Your visa requirements for visiting New Zealand depend on the duration and purpose of your stay. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide which visa is right for you:

Short Stays (less than 6 months):

• Visitor Visa: This visa is suitable for most short-term visitors.
• NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority): If you're from a visa-waiver country, this may be all you need.

Longer Stays (up to 1 year):

• Working Holiday Visa: Ideal for those looking to stay in New Zealand for up to a year. Note that this visa is only available to citizens of countries that have a working holiday agreement with New Zealand.

NZeTA and Visitor Visa:

• These options are available to almost anyone from any country, making it easy to visit New Zealand.
• Australian Passport Holders: You don’t need a visa or NZeTA; simply show up in New Zealand.

Working Holiday Visa:

• Eligible Countries: Only citizens from specific countries can apply. Eligible nations include Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, Germany, Italy, and the USA. For a complete list, visit the Immigration NZ website.
• Age Requirement: Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old (or up to 35, depending on the country).
• Financial Proof: You must provide evidence of sufficient funds in your bank account.

By understanding these visa options and requirements, you can better plan your stay in New Zealand and ensure you have the appropriate documentation for your trip.

The Best Cities For Digital Nomads

Firstly, it's essential to understand that a large city in New Zealand differs significantly from major urban areas worldwide. For example, Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, boasts a population of 1.7 million, while Christchurch, the second-largest city, has around 381,000 residents. Depending on where you come from, you might find these cities relatively small!

If you're contemplating relocating to New Zealand, here are some prominent cities to consider:

• Auckland
• Hamilton
• Wellington
• Christchurch

Freedom of Internet Movement

If you plan to work remotely in New Zealand, don't forget about security and a tool to bypass geo-blocking. Usually, newbies suddenly find that they cannot open their usual website. This is what VeePN and its VPN apps are for. You can install VPN Apple, for your TV, in your browser, etc. The provider offers 2500+ VPN servers and all advanced data protection technologies.

Cost of Living

New Zealand’s cost of living is relatively high when compared to many other countries. This is particularly noticeable in major cities like Auckland and Wellington, as well as in popular tourist destinations such as Queenstown. Essential expenses like accommodation, food, and transportation can consume a substantial part of your budget, reflecting the country’s elevated standard of living.

Accommodation:

• Hostels: NZD 20-40 per night for a dormitory bed.
• Airbnb: NZD 80-250 per night for a private room or small apartment.
• Long-term rentals: NZD 1,400-2,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, with lower prices outside of city centers.

Food and Groceries:

• Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: NZD 20-40 per person.
• Fast food meal: NZD 10-15.
• Groceries: NZD 600-800 per month for one person, depending on dietary preferences.

Transportation:

• Public transport monthly pass: NZD 120-250, depending on the city.
• Renting a car: From NZD 20-30 per day, excluding insurance and fuel.
• Fuel: NZD 2.80-3.00 per liter.

Internet and Mobile:

• Mobile data plan: NZD 20-50 per month.
• Portable Wi-Fi: NZD 100-150 for the device plus monthly data packages.

Co-working Spaces:

• Daily pass: NZD 20-30.
• Monthly membership: NZD 200-500, depending on facilities and location.

Health Insurance:

• Travel insurance that covers medical: NZD 100-200 per month, depending on coverage and provider.

Conclusion

Are you a digital nomad aspiring to live in New Zealand? With either a Visitor Visa (also known as NZeTA) or a Working Holiday Visa, you can call Aotearoa your new home. These visas open a world of opportunities where you can enjoy savory meat pies, trek through stunning landscapes, and get acquainted with Kiwi slang effortlessly. It’s time to pack your bags, power up your laptop, and prepare for an extraordinary journey through one of the world’s most beautiful locales. Your adventure as a digital nomad is just beginning!