Housing in New Zealand

More than three-quarters of New Zealand’s total population live in the major cities of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Manukau, North Shore, Waitakere and Dunedin. However, there are many people scattered throughout the beautiful countryside as well. No matter whether you are looking to settle in the city or the country, housing prices are extremely affordable and are yet another reason why New Zealand consistently rates amongst the best places to live in the world.

New Zealand’s housing styles are many and varied. In urban areas, you will find homes ranging from old villas (many dating from the early 20th century) to new suburban homes and inner city apartments. In rural areas, you will find many old and new family homes, usually cottages, large modern houses and large old villas, many of which are made out of wood.

Do not expect to see concentrations of high-rise apartment blocks (although inner city living has become far more prevalent in recent years). Houses with spacious backyards with parks and shopping centres close by are far more common, and represent the kind of lifestyle most people can only dream about.

Comfortable and roomy housing within about one hour or less of central city business districts allows most New Zealanders to enjoy the convenience of travelling to and from work easily, plus easy (and mostly free) admission to national parks and regional leisure centres located in outer city regions on weekends. Similarly, visitors and immigrants to New Zealand should have no trouble renting or buying a home that is relatively close to their place of work or the tourist spots they wish to visit.

Want to live and work in Australia? Want to live and work in Australia? Australia needs skilled workers! 200,000 jobs are advertised weekly, and the unemployment rate is the lowest in years. 102,500 Skilled Visas are to be granted by June 2008.

Want to travel to Australia? The Australian Visitor visa allows people to travel to Australia for tourism or business. Applicants from certain countries can conveniently and securely apply online for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA).

Want to work and holiday in Australia? This Australian visa provides an opportunity for young people from selected countries to holiday and work in Australia for a period of 12 months, allowing them to explore the country.

Want to study in Australia? Each year over 150,000 international students arrive in Australia. The Overseas Student Program (OSP) allows people who are not Australian citizens or permanent residents to study in Australia.

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Want to join your partner/spouse in Australia? The Australian Partner visa is for people who have an eligible Australian spouse/partner or interdependent partner, or who wish to come to Australia to marry their Australian fiancé.

Want to join your children in Australia? Parents may be able to migrate to Australia if they have a child in Australia who is an eligible Australian citizen or permanent resident. Visas are available for parents of working age and those of pension age.

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