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Moving to New Zealand From Canada

A Complete Guide for Visa, Costs, and Tips

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Moving from Canada to New Zealand is a significant step in your life. Known for its beautiful and rich culture, as well as its incredible landscapes, moving to New Zealand is super exciting. However, we know how difficult this process is, and that is why we created a complete guide including visa requirements, cost of living, and tips and tricks to help you have a smooth transition.

Cost of Moving to New Zealand

The average moving costs from Canada to New Zealand are between CAD $10,500 and CAD $37,000.

Below you will find a table with estimated expenses for your possible move:

Property Size Cost from Toronto (CAD) Cost from Vancouver (CAD)
1-Bedroom House $11,000 – $12,200 $10,500 – $11,800
2-Bedroom House $17,000 – $18,800 $16,500 – $18,000
3-Bedroom House $23,000 – $26,000 $22,500 – $25,500
4-Bedroom House $27,000 – $31,000 $26,000 – $30,000
5-Bedroom House $32,000 – $37,000 $30,500 – $35,500

Disclaimer: Beware that these are mere estimates. The actual costs depend on the size of your move.

If you want a better estimation of your moving costs, we recommend you use our volume calculator, and request quotes from real moving companies.

 

Moving Companies to New Zealand

Are you planning to move to New Zealand? Then make sure to check out the top international movers! They can estimate costs, and help you go through a smooth relocation:

  1. DTDC Express Canada
  1. Armstrong Moving Ltd.
  1. AMJ Campbell International

Get Moving Quotes
Find out the exact cost of moving from Canada to New Zealand based on your household size.
 

Cost of Living in New Zealand Vs Canada

The cost of living in New Zealand is around 3% cheaper than in Canada.

The average cost of living in Canada:

  • For a single person in Canada, the cost of living is around $3300 CAD
  • For a family of 4 in Canada, the cost of living is around $8000 CAD

The average cost of living in New Zealand:

  • For a single person in New Zealand, the cost of living is around $3000 CAD
  • For a family of 4 in New Zealand, the cost of living is around $7000 CAD

Take a look at the table to see an estimated comparison of the prices between the two countries:

Item Canada (CAD) New Zealand (CAD)
White Bread (500g) $3.12 $2.18
Milk (1 liter) $2.61 $2.26
Eggs (dozen) $4.25 $5.10
Local Cheese (1kg) $12.35 $8.50
Chicken Fillets (1kg) $14.00 $10.20
Apples (1kg) $4.00 $2.80
Bananas (1kg) $1.80 $2.38

Disclaimer: These prices are mere estimates.

Source: Numbeo

New Zealand Visa Requirements

There are different types of visas in New Zealand. We’ll explain the details of the work visa, student visa requirements, and how to obtain a resident visa.

Work Visa – This visa is suited for all ages up until 55 years old. With this visa, you can work, study, and live in New Zealand for an indefinite time. The work visa requirements in New Zealand:

  • You must receive a job offer from a company in New Zealand.
  • Your employment contract must be full-time and for at least 12 months.
  • It costs around CAD $5,500

Student Visa – This visa allows you to stay in New Zealand for up to 4 years, precisely the duration of your paid studies. The requirements for a student visa in New Zealand:

  • You must be enrolled in a school in New Zealand.
  • You must be 18 years old or older.
  • It costs around CAD $620

Residency Visa – This visa allows you to stay indefinitely in New Zealand. However, there are some things you should keep in mind:

  • You must have a Tier 1 role on the Green List.
  • You must provide all the evidence necessary such as police and medical certificates, and proof that you meet the English language requirements.
  • It costs around CAD $5,500

Are You Moving to New Zealand With Family?

If your partner is a New Zealand citizen, you can apply for a Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa.

Requirements for Resident Visa in New Zealand:

  • You and your partner must have been living together for at least 12 months when you applied for the visa.
  • If your New Zealander partner has been living with you for at least 5 years outside New Zealand, you may be granted a permanent resident visa.

Are You Moving to New Zealand With Pets?

Moving pets to New Zealand can be tricky, especially if you are not sure about the requirements. Do not worry, we’ve got you covered!

  • You will need an international certificate from a qualified vet.
  • Proof of vaccination against rabies, which must be done at least 15 days before moving.
  • Implanting a microchip can be useful for faster identification, however it is not mandatory.
  • The cost of moving pets to New Zealand varies but is around CAD $3700.

Living in New Zealand

New Zealand is famous for its rich Māori heritage and beautiful landscapes. Many associate the country with The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies, as they were filmed there.

If you are a Canadian moving to New Zealand, there are some things you need to know about New Zealand before moving so get yourself ready for an adventure!

Pros And Cons of Moving to New Zealand

Pros

 Beautiful nature
 Balanced work life
 Welcoming culture
 Mild climate
 Good job market
 Low crime rates
 No language barrier

Cons

 High cost of living
 Lower salaries
 Limited public transport
 Remote location
 Housing issues
 Unpredictable weather
 Strict immigration rules

Taxes in New Zealand

As a Canadian living in New Zealand, you are required to pay taxes if you stay longer than 183 days in a period of 12 months, and/or if you have a permanent home in New Zealand.

In the table below, you will find details about the tax rates:

Income Range (CAD) Tax Rate (%)
$0 – $13,260 10.5%
$13,261 – $45,475 17.5%
$45,476 – $66,385 30%
$66,386 – $153,000 33%
$153,001 and over 39%

Source: Tax rates for individuals

How is Healthcare in New Zealand?

Healthcare in New Zealand is mostly free or at a very low cost for residents and citizens.

You are eligible for free medical care if you are in the possession of the following:

  • Permanent Resident Visa
  • Work Visa (of at least 2 years)

The private healthcare system provides faster access to medical care. Many expats opt for private health insurance that covers the rest of the expenses.

Jobs in New Zealand for Canadians

Moving to New Zealand for work can be challenging. That is why we’ve gathered some of the most popular platforms so that you can have an easier process of finding job vacancies in New Zealand for foreigners:

Moving to New Zealand Checklist

  1. Read more about moving abroad on our website.
  2. Use our volume calculator to estimate the size of your move.
  3. Check out the top international movers and choose the one that suits your needs.
  4. Prepare your documents as early as possible and keep them safe for your move.
  5. Start packing ASAP! This can help you save more time.

If you are interested in shipping containers to New Zealand, we recommend checking out our article about container shipping prices.

Frequently asked questions

Is moving to New Zealand a good idea?

Is it safe in New Zealand?

Can a foreigner buy a house in New Zealand?

What language do people in New Zealand speak?

How expensive is living in New Zealand?