Auckland is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in New Zealand. With mild summers and comfortable winters, Auckland is home to millions. As of 2024, the population here is 1,692,770.

However, suppose you're planning to move to Auckland, either from a different city in New Zealand or a different country altogether. In that case, there are many things to know and prepare accordingly.

Some important parts are accommodation, transport, medical care, and many others. So, here is a guide that will give you useful insights!

1. Accommodation

This will be your biggest decision when you move to a new place. Choosing where to live will be very important, especially if you plan to move in with your family.

Check out the best property management in Auckland from reliable property management companies.

If you're a student or a professional, prioritize properties close to your university or office.

Your accommodation will also depend on the kind of lifestyle that you want to live. For example, if you like a fast-paced and vibrant lifestyle, then go for a place in the inner city. Houses here will cost more, but traveling to work will be easier.

On the other hand, the suburbs are quieter and more peaceful. However, reaching your school or work will take longer, especially during peak traffic hours.

2. Important documents

Of course, carrying your documents is a must when you move to Auckland. You must bring original and photocopies of your identity proof and work or student permit papers.

Some of the essential documents that you'll need are your:

  • Medical and dental records, along with your health insurance records, vaccination papers
  • Certificates of educational degree, work permit, and related documents, references from previous employers
  • Papers related to any extracurricular activities that you might participate in, such as community services or church and
  • Contact details of people whom you'd like to be in touch with.

You may also visit the Immigration website of New Zealand to learn more about which documents to carry.

3. Cost of living

Since Auckland is one of the best cities, living costs are slightly higher. Things like petrol and food can seem more expensive than what you'd generally expect.

But if you compare the costs with the overall standard of living, then almost everyone staying in Auckland will tell you that the money's worth it!

For example, Auckland's living cost will be much lower than in cities like London, Singapore, or Melbourne. But if you're moving from a city where you feel that the cost of living is significantly lower, you can always use online calculators to find out about exact prices and cost of living.

However, remember that most people believe Auckland provides you with facilities that money can't offer. So, keep these in mind and don't completely compare based on money.

For instance, some great perks are better work-life balance, a relaxed lifestyle, easy access to parks, beaches, forests, and islands, and the best public schools or colleges.

4. Job and Finances

Seek job vacancies online and find out whether the kind of role you're preparing for exists in Auckland. If yes, check the average salary paid to employees for that role and what competition exists in the market.

If you haven't yet landed a job in Auckland but are moving in any way, carry some money for emergency purposes.

It can take some time to find a good job in Auckland, and you may not be able to do the same job here that you did back home.

Initially, you might have to settle for unexpected job roles, although you can always switch later. Some of the highly demanded jobs at the moment are in the hospitality industry, labor jobs, working as a house painter, IT jobs, and anything related to tourism.

If you're a student moving to Auckland for further studies, see if you can get student scholarships.

5. Community and lifestyle

When you move into a new city, one major thing that you'll always want to see is the lifestyle. New Zealanders are generally warm, friendly, and accepting of other people.

If you're moving to Auckland from a different country, expect people to treat you respectfully.

Moreover, New Zealand has a stable political and democratic, nuclear-free state. Regarding safety, you can be sure that the judicial system will inherently take care of you and your loved ones.

The nightlife is one of the best things about Auckland. So, from bar hopping to all-night karaoke, you can expect almost anything to happen here!

While you can celebrate the customs and traditions of Kiwis, they'll also celebrate your traditions too.

Conclusion

These are some of the many things that you must know before shifting to Auckland. Remember to budget and consider factors like refurnishing the house, food and grocery, transport, and income tax.