Thats why I developed this $7 course to share all of the steps Ive taken when deciding to move to 20+ different countries, and how I handle homesickness when I get there. Another area on the South Island that gets a lot of sun runs from just north of Christchurch in southwestern direction toward Lake Tekapo and includes Ashburton, Geraldine, and Fairlie. Word has certainly got out that Tauranga is one of the warmest places in New Zealand and is the place to be as its now one of New Zealands fastest-growing cities. a group made up of sovereign states that remain associated with Great Britain. It is hard to imagine that. There are a few reasons why Wanganui is not a great place to live. The climate of Christchurch is very temperate and can be compared to the south of the U.K, although with significantly less rainfall. The landscape is so arid, that NASA 's astrobiologists travel to the Atacama Desert hoping it will lead them to clues about life on other planets. What is the chance of a warm summer in Invercargill? Settlement and Movement. If the dry spell continues for another month, it will be a big concern. During the hot summers, you can cool off in the refreshing water of the lake and go hiking in the wilderness, whereas snowboarding and skiing are some of the best things to do in Wanaka during its cold winter season. There are also many artists who live on the island, which gives it a creative and eclectic feel. The cost of living on Waiheke Island is similar to the cost of living in Auckland. need to carry chains and take extra care on the roads. Also opposite to much of the world, the further north you head in New Zealand, the warmer it gets albeit a few exceptions. With miles of sandy beaches and an abundance of nearby hikes, youll always be able to find your personal slice of paradise. The driest part of the North Island is the bottom half starting on a line south of Mount Taranaki and Tongariro National Park down toWellington, excluding parts where there are mountain ranges. From November through February, you can look forward to daily highs in the low to mid 20s C (low to mid-70s F), perfect for enjoying one of the many beaches in the area or wandering the esplanade lined with 1930s Art Deco architecture. While typically a town doesnt want to be known for its foul smell, theres always an exception to the rule, and in this case, its Rotorua. The entire area of _____ is the driest and windiest place on the planet. Coastal road towards the beaches of Arica, Chile. Nelson is quintessential New Zealand beauty. The annual Farmer's Santa Parade returned to central Auckland after a year off for the Pandemic and the rain wasn't enough to deter Christmas fans. But the hardest thing is deciding to move abroad at all! I actually use it as my primary bank now worldwide due to the multi-currency debit card. Mount Maunganui is a laid-back suburb of Tauranga, one of New Zealands larger cities (albeit still small), situated on the eastern coast of the North Island. Apartments are generally preferable to houses, and it is worth paying a bit extra for a newer place because many Wellington houses, particularly older ones have little/no insulation which is unpleasant in the cold winters. Best places to live in New Zealand for young adults. Wairarapa is the driest place in New Zealand, with some parts bordering on drought conditions. However, it is rare for snow to stay on the ground for more than a few hours. While many ski fields open in June, the highest snowfall is usually throughout July and August. Come winter, Alexandra switches its tune and sees lows below zero most days. Auckland 6. Christchurch is a fantastic place to live, it gives you the energy and excitement of living in a city whilst being the perfect location to explore the rest of the South Island. I dont think you can really go wrong when living in New Zealand. Theres good reason Auckland is New Zealands most populous city. The advance . One thing to keep in mind is that public transportation isnt as readily available in Devonport as it is in other parts of Auckland, so you may need to factor in the cost of a car when budgeting. For longer hikes, enter the park from the tiny town of Marahau. A small area just southeast of Blenheim at the top of the South Island. Many travelers take the Interislander Ferry from Wellington to Picton, at the top of the South Island, and drive west to the Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand's smallest national park. . Alexis_Hagedorn. These cities have low crime rates and are generally very safe places to live. Persistent hotspot regions have the potential to develop into drought, Niwa says. It is also the most multicultural city in the country, with over 200 different ethnicities represented. Wise.com offers free global accounts, and the cheapest money transfers. The city has a population of around 50,000 people, and the cost of living is relatively affordable. Warmest Places in Turkey: 7 of the Hottest Cities, The 7 Warmest Places in Mexico: Where to Go For the Summer, Wellington or Auckland: New Zealands Biggest Cities Compared, One Week in Queenstown Itinerary: Your Locals Guide, Things to Avoid in New Zealand: 9 Big Do Nots. . Find out what's best for you with our practical advice on travel and transport in New Zealand. For theSouthern Lakes Districtwhere Wanaka andQueenstownare located, spring tends to be the wettest season and in some parts also autumn, which is bad news if you want to visit this region to seeautumn colors. You can find work abroad via local job boards or temp agencies. For an individual, your costs would be about half of this. The cost of living in Devonport is similar to the cost of living in Auckland. Badass female expat with a passion for making new countries my home. Napier is often referred to as the art deco capital of the world, and its easy to see why. Image 1 of 36: Lake Kiwitahi the water reservoir at Kiwitahi, that supplies water to Morrinsville is drying up with a drought about to be announced in the Waikato. Temperatures in winter average around 14C/58F and summer months average 24C/75F. Wellington is the perfect location for expats looking for the career opportunities that come with a capital city alongside the laidback Kiwi lifestyle. Coastal Wairarapa is the only place in New Zealand currently labelled extremely dry. Even though the smell doesnt offer a pleasant greeting, the chance to wander around the otherworldly landscapes dotted around the city is why many tourists find their way here. Photo / Christine Cornege, New Zealand beat England by one run in the final day of the Basin Reserve Test in Wellington. Its also one of the most expensive towns in the country to live in, due to the high rent demand is greater than supply so landlords here can charge a higher weekly rate. In New Zealand generally there are relatively small variations between summer and winter temperatures, although inland and to the east of the ranges the variation is greater (up to 14C). Queenstown and Wanaka in the South Island and the Central Plateau in the North Island are the most popular spots for skiing and snowboarding. Yet, Alexandras location in Central Otago (in the middle of the bottom half of the South Island) gives it the perfect recipe for hot summers. #Climate data were sourced from the National Climate Database, CliFlo, with all data from mainland New Zealand stations included. By Ian Randall. The sunniest places in NewZealand (recorded hours of sunshine) are the Bay of Plenty, Hawke's Bay and Nelson/Marlborough. Kaitaia and Whangarei top the list with an. Within the city, youll find plentiful shopping and hip cafes to sample New Zealands food culture. Locals like to joke that you can experience four seasons in one day! Wellington is built on a geographic faultline, so residents get used to occasional earthquakes. Photos by NZ Herald Staff photographers. Two particularly lovely spots are Whale Bay and Matapouri Bay. Yes, New Zealand is an excellent place to live. Travelling in the shoulder seasons can be a good idea as youll often find more availability and better rates on accommodation and activities. Photos / Warren Buckland. NewZealand is lush and green for a reason! Nestled in a valley between the Southern Alps, Wanaka on the South Island of New Zealand offers picturesque views and lots of outdoor activities! The best place to live in New Zealand for retirees is probably Christchurch. These cities offer a variety of schools and family-friendly activities. Instead of June through August being the summer months, New Zealand enjoys summer in December through February. In summer, temperatures climb to the mid 20s C (mid 70s F) and occasionally reach above 30 C (mid 80s F). Consider what side of the city you prefer to live on carefully. The cost of living in New Zealand can be expensive, depending on your lifestyle. Napier is located on the east coast of the North Island, just over an hours drive from the capital, Wellington. Alexandra in Central Otago is on average the driest centre, followed by South Canterbury's Timaru. New Zealand is a remote landone of the last sizable territories suitable for habitation to be populated and settledand lies more than 1,000 miles (1,600 km) southeast of Australia, its nearest neighbour. New Zealand was discovered less than 1000 years ago by the _____. South Pacific Tuna Treaty. What city in New Zealand has the best weather? Take particular care from September to April, especially between 10am and 4pm, even on cloudy days. Living in New Zealand can be expensive, especially if you live in a city like Auckland or Wellington. This is my favourite luggage set for long term travel. Average temperatures increase as you travel north. Youll also find government roles, tourism jobs, and other professional positions. Mix these pleasant temperatures with large stretches of coastline and white sand beaches, and you have the perfect location to spend your days between the beach and the water. New Zealand's Sandy Coasts Educational CD, NIWA and Kia Toipoto Closing Gender and Ethnic Pay Gaps, Annual climate summary 2021: New Zealand's warmest year on record, In numbers: New Zealands wild summer weather, Cropp at Waterfall (Hokitika Catchment)**. The nearby Doubtful Sound is also spectacular but less accessible - travelers . Getting around New Zealand Whether you want to self-drive, fly, join a tour, or hop on a bus or train, there are plenty of options for getting around New Zealand. plants or animals introduced to an area that destroy or hinder indigenous species. What are the warmest months in New Zealand? VPNs allow you to access more of the internet. Or, if you prefer to stay out of the water, Gisbornes temperate oceanic climate is ideal for chardonnay, and the region boasts a handful of charming boutique wineries. desertification. are less crowded. Auckland's population is indeed growing . However, the cost of living in the Bay of Plenty is quite high, and it can be difficult to find work. Grab your lizard goggles and climb some rocks, spy some bugs and soak up the sun at one of the driest places in New Zealand. Gisborne is a surfers paradise, with numerous spots for both beginners and advanced surfers. Bush walks and hiking are great options now as the days are not as hot. Beautiful places in New Zealand: The Land of the Long White Cloud is spoiled for beauty.We have put together an insider's guide to New Zealand's must-see attractions including Marlborough Sounds . New Zealand Average Temperatures in January. Reapply every two hours and after swimming. The cheapest place to live in New Zealand is probably Invercargill. (Read more). This also means New Zealand celebrates Christmas in the middle of summer and has unique culture and traditions compared to much of the rest of the world. The best Mount Maunganui accommodation is found near Mauao and the main street. If youre looking to teach English abroad, Premier TEFL has the best online course to get you great work! Snow typically falls during the months of June through to October, though cold snaps can occur outside of this. One thing to keep in mind is that there are limited public transportation options on the island, so you may need to factor in the cost of a car when budgeting. The city also has a thriving food and wine scene, with many boutique wineries and restaurants to enjoy. In summer, the average high is between 77.9 F (25.5 C) and 73.2 F (22.9 C), and in winter, temperatures rarely drop below freezing. Flatters could manage to keep costs under $2,000 per month whilst still achieving all the lifestyle perks of living in Mount Maunganui. It really depends where youre located and your type of lifestyle. Devastation from the February 2011 earthquake is a stark reminder of the citys past, whereas creative new builds showcase an enthusiastic and bright future. A two-bedroom apartment in a good location will set you back anywhere from $450 $600 per week. Actual data recorded at Reefton can be accessed for use in statistical analyses (see CliFlo). It depends the best country to live in as an expat will depend on your unique needs. Even in the middle of winter, its not uncommon for Auckland to be one of the warmest places in New Zealand and enjoy temperatures above 15 C (60 F). Water from thin air. The biggest impact were noticing right now is the ability to shift store lambs. driving in areas of NewZealand that are prone to snow. However, the summer months are when Whangarei really puts on a show. Auckland is the best place to live in New Zealand for business positions. Expect long, bright, sunny days and temperatures between 61F and 75F. Where is the coldest place in New Zealand? In winter, it never snows! #Climate data were sourced from the National Climate Database, CliFlo, with all data from mainland New Zealand stations included. Video / Luke Nola, Monster Truck & FMX Spectacular event at Aucklands Waikaraka Park Speedway. Yes! With an annual rainfall of just 673mm at Castlepoint Station this year, compared with 1370mm in 2018, reserves arent in the soil water-wise, Reinhardt said. If you are looking for the best places to live in New Zealand, here are 13 of the top contenders: Book cheap airline tickets and accommodations withBooking.com to save money when youre moving abroad! Its handy location makes it a great spot for expats looking for a place within a few hours drive of Auckland, but away from the hustle and with more central access to the rest of the North Island. Luckily, if the weather isnt fit for the beach, opt for a hike on a nearby extinct volcano instead. ForChristchurch, winter is the wettest season, and spring or summer is the best time to visit Christchurch to avoid a lot of rain. Queenstown 9. You can read more about my review of types of suitcases for travel here. So cold, in fact, the town even has an outdoor ice rink. In 2015, the New Zealand Antarctic Research Institute granted funding to AUT to develop methods for operating unmanned aerial vehicles. Its my favourite place to live in the world and Ive lived in many countries! The locals are friendly and welcoming, and there is a strong sense of community here. The sunniest areas in New Zealand can be found in Nelson and Marlborough so at the top of the South Island. What are four sources of income that are provided by New Zealand's geography? Overall, Rotorua is a great place to live if you want to experience the true Kiwi lifestyle. Spring in NewZealand is when the weather starts to warm up, although there is a high chance of rainfall around this time of year. Everything Ive written here is based on a combination of experience living and traveling in New Zealand, and research using scientific and non-scientific data and charts. Arriving here from the Polynesian homeland of Hawaiki over 1,000 years ago, the great explorer Kupe, was the first Mori to reach these lands. You dont need to know it before you leave home. As NewZealand observes Daylight Saving, daylight can last up until 9.30pm during summer months. I lived in New Zealand for a year, living in Auckland. Alexis_Hagedorn. So catch aferry from Wellington to Pictonand then drive or fly to, for example, Nelson and then drive. Mean annual temperatures range from 10C in the south to 16C in the north of New Zealand. This is made up of very reasonable housing costs (NZ$500), utilities (NZ$150), internet & mobile (NZ$160), transport (NZ$200), groceries (NZ$600), and eating out / entertainment (NZ$400). There are also plenty of things to do in Auckland, from exploring the many museums and art galleries, to hiking in the nearby Waitakere Ranges. The 2001 census figures from Statistics NZ show there are two regions New Zealanders have been the most popular to move too. Rainfall tends to be relatively low in February,March, July, andAugust, so during some parts of summer, autumn, and winter. To find cheap hotels, I recommendBooking.com. It pays to be prepared for what you might encounter on your travels. You will need to have a job offer from a New Zealand employer, and you will need to meet the immigration requirements. Summer seems to stretch for a good portion of the year, with temperatures in the high teens to mid 20s (high 60s low 70s) from October through May. This is the most popular time to visit NewZealand for sunny beach days, adventures on the water, beautiful bush walks and mountain hiking. The North Island has had one of its driest summers in years, with farmers now feeling the brunt of the lack of water. Pronounced fang-a-ray, Whangarei is New Zealands northernmost city and is both pleasantly warm and lush. Dont let Napiers picture-perfect weather fool you, though. Devonport is a beautiful, historic seaside town located on Aucklands North Shore. The West Coast on the South Island of New Zealand receives the most rain in the entire country. Its free to join, but some activities may cost money, like if you go to a cafe and get a coffee. Farmers are really watching that long-term outlook closely., Wairarapa Times-Age 2023 | Website by Web Publisher PRO. Autumn and spring UVI values can be high in most areas. Cost of living in Mount Maunganui is fairly similar to other urban areas of New Zealand. For example, the 566 mm recorded at Cropp at Waterfall (Hokitika catchment) occurred between 2311 NZST on 11 May 1978 and 1111 NZST on 12 May 1978. There are three main areas on the South Island that do not get a lot of rain: But just knowing what these locations are is not enough. Dunedin is known for its vibrant, friendly community and its status as a student city thanks to a bustling university campus. Type of Work: Engineering and manufacturing. The region has a population of around 150,000 people, and the cost of living is relatively affordable. Some of the best places to live in New Zealand for families include Tauranga, Hamilton, and Palmerston North. Affectionately called the pav and variously described as a festive chess board, Santas kaleidoscope and a rainbow Parthenon, the Christmas pavilion now in place at the lower end of Queen Street in Te Komititanga square - is turning heads and captivating hearts. Top that with 2400 hours of sunshine a year, warm summers, and mild winters, and its no wonder many visitors arrive in Nelson and decide to stay forever. Ive already talked about thetemperatures in New Zealand, and because wind is usually not interesting for someone who wants to visit New Zealand, Ill primarily focus on rainfall and sunshine in this article. Its at a point where we are trying to get down to the bottom wintering stock numbers and trying to get through the summer.. Overall, Waiheke Island is a great place to live if you want to be close to Auckland but escape the hustle and bustle of the city. You can expect to spend around $1,500 NZD on rent and $1,000 NZD on general expenses. December - February Average daytime temperature: 20 - 25C (68 - 77F), March - May Average daytime temperature: 17 - 21C (62 - 70F), June - August Average daytime temperature: 12 - 16C (53 - 61F), September - November Average daytime temperature: 16 - 19C (61 - 66F). Tauranga 9. He said westerly wind flow predicted for December and January would result in further dry conditions, but that there would be a northeasterly turn from the middle of January which would likely mean some good news in terms of getting rainfall. A single room can easily cost $300 NZD a week or more. Hamilton is also close to many popular destinations such as the Coromandel and Mount Maunganui for beautiful beaches, Rotorua, New Zealands cultural capital, and Taupo, a popular lakeside holiday spot. The city is also home to some other famous residents royal albatross birds, endangered yellow-eyed penguins, little blue penguins, sea lions, seals, and many native other birds also reside here. Outside the city, endless stretches of beautiful landscapes beg to be explored. Whakatane in the North Island's Bay of Plenty district, is the sunniest place in New . As well as this, there is a strong manufacturing and engineering industry in Christchurch. Wiki User. Note that the same area southeast of Blenheim that receives the least amount of rain, is also one of the areas that has the most hours of sunshine during the year. Rainfall data used were 9am-9am 24-hour totals. Whangarei 5. Schultz/Brown University What are the safest places to live in New Zealand? Note:This article was accurate when it was published. Cool sea breezes can blow in and drop temperatures, and storms arrive with little warning. Antarctica. Individuals (or couples) can save costs by house-sharing, which is very popular with the student population. This datum was archived into the National Climate Database, CliFlo,on 26 February 2009. Property in Wellington can be very expensive, both to rent and to own, in part due to the high cost of insurance. Cost of living for a family in Hamilton is $4,000 per month, roughly based on the cost of the average family home ($500-700 per week) or an executive home ($700-800 per week), groceries ($250-350), and eating out once in a while (meals costing $25-35 per meal). Consider your reasons for wanting to move to New Zealand, and make sure that its the right decision for you. 2009-07-06 23:54:37. Summer is boiling hot, which drives most people to Mission Beach to try and cool off. The University of Otago and Dunedin Hospital are two of the biggest employers; however, the agriculture, general business, tourism, and food production sectors are also very strong in the city. Located far from both the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean with low lying and sheltered bare ground, the town heats up quickly and continues to warm throughout the day.