Tips on Moving to New Zealand
Congratulations, you've made the big decision to move to New Zealand. You’ll be pleased to know it’s easy to move here, but there are a number of things you will need to think about and arrange before you leave.
Banking
It is easy to set up a New Zealand bank account. You can do this before you leave or visit a bank on arrival. Some of the main banks in New Zealand are ANZ, BNZ, The National Bank and Westpac. For a list of banking services and advice for new residents on opening an account visit the bank websites.
Documents
To make your first few weeks in your new country easier, it would be wise to bring important documents with you. You should consider bringing the following:
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Academic transcripts / qualification
- Curriculum vitae
- References from past employers
- International drivers licence
Customs declarations
To ensure New Zealand remains free of harmful pests and diseases we have very strict laws around travellers and belongings entering the country. This is to protect the large proportion of the economy which relies on the quality of the New Zealand environment.
Basically, all food, plant and animal materials must be declared. For more information, visit the Government’s biosecurity website 'Entering New Zealand'.
Moving your belongings
A list of moving companies can be found on the New Zealand Overseas Movers Association website.
More information
For a list on what you need to think about before you leave /when you arrive as well as other helpful information and practical tips (from moving pets to legal matters) that will help you with your move to New Zealand visit the Immigration New Zealand website.
