After years of helping people settle in Auckland, I've seen what really matters when making the big move. Auckland is an amazing city with unique characteristics, and there are a few things you should be aware of before calling this place home. Here are 14 key insights to guide you through your relocation to Auckland.
1. Quality of Life in Auckland
Auckland offers a fantastic blend of urban living and natural beauty, making it a highly desirable city. However, while the city provides a high standard of living, this often comes with a higher price tag, especially when it comes to housing and daily expenses. People are willing to pay a premium to enjoy what this city offers—clean air, safety, great outdoor spaces, and a healthy work-life balance.
2. Getting the Hang of the Kiwi Accent
You might need a little time to adjust to the Kiwi accent, especially if you're coming from overseas. It’s always fun to watch new arrivals trying to decipher phrases or catch on to local nuances. I remember a client once thought we were saying “pin” when we meant “pen.” Little moments like these are common, and you’ll get a laugh out of them as you settle in. The locals are patient, and you'll soon find yourself catching on to the quirky vowel shifts.
3. Tackling Auckland’s Housing Market
The housing market in Auckland can be tough to navigate, particularly if you're new to the city. When we moved homes ourselves, it took months of searching to find a place that fit our needs and budget. I always tell people to start looking early and be realistic about their price range. Locations near the city center are pricier, but if you’re willing to live a bit further out, you can find some great suburban spots that offer better value for money.
4. Public Holidays and Time Off
New Zealand is quite generous when it comes to holidays and time off. With four weeks of annual leave for full-time workers, plus public holidays, there’s a strong emphasis on taking breaks and enjoying life outside of work. As a mover, I’ve seen how people make the most of this time by scheduling their relocations around public holidays—smart planning can make a big difference in reducing the stress of a move.
5. Coffee Culture is Alive and Well
Aucklanders love their coffee, and they take it very seriously. From flat whites to long blacks, you’ll quickly become familiar with the local coffee terms. I can’t count the number of times I’ve stopped for a quick pick-me-up in one of Auckland’s many fantastic cafés while working on a move. It’s a small pleasure that can make your day much smoother, especially when things get hectic.
6. Auckland’s Sprawling Layout
Auckland is much more spread out than many people expect, and commuting can be a bit of a challenge. Public transport is improving, but owning a car gives you much more flexibility, especially if you're moving to one of the outer suburbs. The traffic, however, is something you’ll need to get used to. I’ve spent plenty of time sitting in Auckland’s traffic during peak hours—if you plan your routes well, you can save time and stress.
7. Driving on the Left
If you’re coming from a country where driving is on the right side, Auckland’s left-hand driving system will take some getting used to. I had a client who took a few wrong turns when they first arrived, but within a few days, they got the hang of it. You can drive on your foreign license for up to 12 months, which gives you plenty of time to get accustomed to the roads before needing to switch to a New Zealand license.
8. Auckland’s Weather
One thing to keep in mind when living in Auckland is that the weather can change in a flash. It’s quite common to experience rain, sunshine, and wind all within a few hours. I always joke that you have to pack your entire wardrobe for any given day, just to be prepared. In the moving business, we’ve learned to expect the unexpected with the weather, which is why having a flexible plan always helps.
9. Cost of Living
Auckland is an expensive city, particularly when it comes to housing. Beyond rent or mortgage payments, you’ll need to budget for food, utilities, and transportation. That said, many people I’ve helped move to Auckland find that while the cost of living is higher, the lifestyle and opportunities make it worthwhile.
10. Public Healthcare System
New Zealand has a public healthcare system that is accessible to residents and long-term visa holders. As soon as you settle in, make sure to register with a local GP (general practitioner) to access public health services. When my family first moved, we made sure to get this sorted out quickly, and it’s given us peace of mind knowing we’re covered in case of emergencies.
11. The Humility of Kiwis
Kiwis are known for their modest and laid-back nature. They’re not the type to brag, and you’ll notice their self-deprecating humor pretty quickly. This attitude is refreshing, especially when you’re working with them in the moving business. You won’t hear much boasting, but you’ll definitely notice their strong sense of community and support.
12. Work-Life Balance
One of the things I love about Auckland is the work-life balance. People here make time for the things that matter—whether it’s heading to the beach on the weekend or exploring the nearby mountains. In the moving industry, we often see people prioritize their downtime, scheduling their moves during periods when they can fully enjoy the experience of settling into a new home.
13. Schools and Education
If you're moving to Auckland with children, you’ll be pleased to know that the city has excellent schooling options. From public schools to private and international ones, there’s something to suit every family. Many families I’ve worked with plan their move around school zones, ensuring their children have access to the best educational opportunities in the area.
14. Auckland’s Distance from Other Places
One thing to keep in mind is Auckland’s geographic isolation. While it’s a peaceful and beautiful place to live, traveling to other parts of the world can be expensive and time-consuming. On the flip side, it’s also a gateway to exploring nearby destinations like Australia and Southeast Asia, which is a bonus for anyone who loves to travel.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Auckland is an exciting adventure, and with the right preparation, it can be a smooth transition. The city offers a fantastic quality of life, but it’s important to be aware of the unique challenges that come with living here. From its sprawling suburbs to its changeable weather, Auckland is full of surprises. But once you settle in, you’ll quickly understand why so many people are proud to call this city home.
About the Author
Louie Gibson Scarlett
Louie Gibson Scarlett is a dedicated moving specialist based in Wellington. With over four years of hands-on experience under his belt, he has seen it all when it comes to Wellington Furniture Moving. He has held positions at a couple of Wellington’s top moving companies, and founded Big Camel in 2020.
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