One of the first steps in settling down in New Zealand is finding accommodation that suits your needs and budget. The housing market in New Zealand offers a range of options, and with careful research and planning, you can find a home that meets your expectations.
Research and Planning Your Move to New Zealand
Before you dive into the New Zealand housing market, it’s important to plan ahead. Moving to a new country can be hugely overwhelming, but getting a clear picture of what to expect will help make the process a lot simpler, smoother and less stressful.
Understand the Housing Market
One of the first things you should look at is how the housing market in New Zealand works. New Zealand’s housing market can be competitive, especially in larger cities like Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. It’s important to research the housing market in your desired location to understand rental prices, availability and general trends.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in New Zealand varies a lot depending on location, and it’s important to have a rough idea of how much you can expect to spend, regardless of whether you’re renting or buying. Much like in the UK, cities in New Zealand tend to be more expensive, particularly in terms of rent. You’ll need to factor in accommodation costs as part of your overall budget and plan accordingly.
Location
New Zealand is a diverse country, meaning that there’s a whole host of regions and areas to choose from. Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of the city, the serenity of coastal towns, or the tranquility of rural areas, you’ll find a place that suits your lifestyle.
Types of Accommodation in New Zealand
New Zealand offers a variety of accommodation options to cater to different preferences and budgets, so you won’t struggle to find accommodation that ticks all of your boxes. When you first move to New Zealand, you’ll have the following types of accommodation to choose from:
Rental Properties
Renting a property is extremely common amongst expats, even on a long-term basis. These range from small apartments to large houses, and you can find both furnished and unfurnished properties.
Short-Term Accommodation
When you first arrive in New Zealand, you might prefer to opt for short-term accommodation while you look for a more permanent place. Options include Airbnb, serviced apartments or hostels. Short-term accommodation is ideal for giving you time to explore the area and settle in, before committing to any permanent living arrangements.
Holiday Parks and Campgrounds
New Zealand has an abundance of holiday parks and campgrounds that offer affordable and temporary living options, whilst also giving you the chance to explore the beauty of New Zealand’s nature. These are particularly popular for those who plan to travel around the country before committing to a permanent home.
Buying a Property
Though buying a property may not be on your agenda immediately, it’s likely to be on your ‘to do’ list eventually. In New Zealand, expats can purchase property, providing that certain conditions are met. It’s worth researching the buying process and taking a closer look at what you need to know about buying a property in New Zealand.
Where to Search for Accommodation
There are several resources you can use to find accommodation in New Zealand, both online and offline. The following platforms and tools are particularly helpful:
TradeMe
TradeMe is New Zealand’s largest online marketplace, and it’s widely used to list rental properties. You can filter results by location, price and other preferences to find your ideal property.
Estate Agents
Many rental properties in New Zealand are managed by estate agencies. They can provide listings of available properties, give you insights into the local market, and they can even help with securing your rental.
Facebook Groups
Many expats and locals use Facebook groups to connect with others and find rental properties. There’s a lot of groups to choose from, all of which are designed to help you find rental listings or even share rooms and flatmates.
Flatmates Wanted Websites
If you’re looking for shared accommodation, browse websites dedicated to helping people find flatmate.These sites allow you to find shared living arrangements, which can be more affordable than renting an entire property on your own.
The Rental Process in New Zealand
Once you’ve found a property that you’re interested in, the next step is to go through the rental process and secure somewhere to live.
Application Process
You will need to fill out an application form, which tends to include personal information, rental history and references. Some landlords may ask for a credit check or require a guarantor, especially if you’re a new arrival with no previous rental history in New Zealand.
Viewings
It’s a good idea to go to property viewings, as this will enable you to inspect the property and make sure it meets your expectations. In some cases, virtual viewings may also be available, especially as you’re relocating from overseas.
Tenancy Agreement
If your application is successful, you’ll sign a tenancy agreement. This document outlines the rent, payment terms, lease duration and the responsibilities of both you and the landlord.
Bond
New Zealand law requires tenants to pay a bond, which is a type of deposit and is typically equal to four weeks’ rent. This bond is held in trust and will be returned to you at the end of your tenancy, provided there’s no damage to the property or unpaid rent.
Practical Considerations
When you’re looking for accommodation in New Zealand, there are several practical factors to consider. It’s not all about finding the first property that you come to, you also need to think about the condition of the property, whether it’s furnished or unfurnished, and the neighbourhood it’s located in.
Inspection
It’s vital that you inspect the property in person, if you can, to check its condition and ensure everything works as expected. This includes plumbing and heating.
Condition of Property
Look out for any damage or necessary repairs, and make sure these are documented in the tenancy agreement. This will protect you from any liability when you move out. It’s also the perfect opportunity for you to confirm that the landlord will make the repairs necessary.
Furnishing
Some rental properties come furnished, while others are unfurnished. If you choose an unfurnished place, you will need to budget for purchasing furniture and appliances. If you’re moving to New Zealand with only a suitcase or two, a furnished property might be the more affordable route.
Neighbourhood
Before committing to a property, it’s important to consider the neighborhood and surrounding areas. While you may love the property itself, the surrounding area will have a significant impact on your quality of life. This means researching the distance and commute times to your workplace, and checking if there are local amenities like supermarkets, cafes, parks and medical facilities close by. It’s also a good idea to look at the availability of public transport within walking distance, especially if you don’t plan to drive.
Community
Building a sense of belonging is a significant part of settling in a new place and the community you live in will play a role in how connected and comfortable you feel. Though it’s known for its friendly and inclusive communities, there are some key cultural differences between New Zealand and the UK. Whether you’re moving to a rural town or a busy city, try to find a place that aligns with your personality and lifestyle.
Start Your Journey to New Zealand Today
When the time comes to relocate, you’ll need to organise removals to New Zealand. There’s a lot that goes into the removals process, but knowing that your prized possessions will arrive safely, securely and efficiently is key. This is why it’s best to enlist the help of international removal experts, like United International Removals. Contact us today to learn how we can help make your move seamless.