Immigrating to a new country can be exciting and bring about new opportunities, but it can also be very challenging and stressful.
Culture shock: Moving to a new country means adapting to a new culture, which can be overwhelming for many people. The differences in language, customs, and social norms can make it difficult to adjust.
Homesickness: Leaving behind family and friends can be emotionally taxing, and it may take time to establish new relationships in a new country.
Financial strain: Starting over in a new country often means starting from scratch financially. Immigrants may face challenges finding work, securing housing, and affording basic necessities.
Legal hurdles: The immigration process can be lengthy and complicated, with various legal requirements to meet. This can cause a lot of stress and uncertainty for immigrants.
Overall, while there may be some exciting aspects to immigrating to a new country it is important to recognize that it is a complex and often difficult process that can involve a wide range of emotions and challenges. Some people may feel a sense of adventure and excitement as they embark on a new chapter in their lives, while others may feel homesick, overwhelmed, and uncertain about their future. Additionally, the experience of immigrating can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the reason for immigration, the destination country, and the individual circumstances of the immigrant. It is important to approach immigration with a realistic understanding of the challenges involved, while also maintaining a positive attitude and seeking out support when needed.
I came across this amazing analogy from reading a lot about people’s experiences around immigrating to a new country and like to share this with you.
The Protea plant is known to have a unique relationship with fire. When fires occur in Protea habitats, they can stimulate the release of the seeds, which have woody fruits that are able to survive the heat of a fire. The fire dries out the fruit, causing it to split open and release the seeds onto the nutrient-rich newly cleared ground, providing an opportunity for the plant to grow and thrive in the new soil.
Immigration is in many ways the same. It is difficult and a very challenging experience that requires overcoming many obstacles and enduring some pain, like leaving family behind, our people and our culture.
But when you ask the question is it worth it? 90% of ex-pats will tell you yes and they regretted not doing it sooner.
Banking in New Zealand is well-regulated and offers a range of services to individuals, businesses, and organizations. Here are some key aspects of banking in New Zealand.
New Zealand has a number of major banks that operate in the country, including ANZ Bank New Zealand, ASB Bank, BNZ, Westpac New Zealand, and Kiwibank. These banks provide a wide range of financial services, including savings accounts, checking accounts, loans, mortgages, credit cards, investment products, and insurance.
New Zealand minor banks are: TSB Bank, Co-operative Bank, SBS Bank, Heartland Bank, Rabobank, The Warehouse Money and First Credit Union. First Credit Union have a awesome savings program in schools for kids to start saving from the age of 5. See School banking below for more info.
EFTPOS and Card Payments: Electronic funds transfer at point of sale (EFTPOS) is widely used in New Zealand for card-based payments. EFTPOS cards are linked to bank accounts and allow individuals to make purchases or withdraw cash at various retail outlets, restaurants, and ATMs.
New Zealand is moving towards becoming increasingly cashless and bank hours is limited and mostly by appointment. Most banking requirements can be made online or by phone.
Online and Mobile Payments: Online payment systems and mobile payment apps, such as Paymark, POLi, PayPal, and mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, are widely accepted in New Zealand and can be used for online shopping and contactless payments at various merchants.
Regulatory Framework: The banking industry in New Zealand is regulated by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, which sets policies and oversees the stability and integrity of the financial system. The Financial Markets Authority (FMA) is responsible for promoting fair and transparent financial markets and protecting consumers.
It’s important to research and compare the offerings, fees, and services of different banks in New Zealand to find the ones that best suit your financial needs and preferences.
Q. Can I open a bank account in New Zealand from South Africa?
A. Yes, you can set up a New Zealand bank account from your own country before you move.
Q. What is best? To open an account whilst in SA or when I arrive in NZ?
A.
1. If you open a bank account while you are still in SA, you only need to come to a branch once you arrive in NZ and show ID.
2. If you open it while you are in NZ, you require proof of address and that you have been at this address for a month.
Q. Which bank to choose?
A. They are all similar. Review are mixed and most members either used, ASB, BNZ or ANZ
If you’re immigrating to New Zealand, or coming home to Aotearoa, you can apply online to open a New Zealand bank account while you’re still overseas and then activate it when you arrive.
Steps Are:
1. Apply to open an account online
2. Move Money across
3. Activate your account, when you arrive
The rental market in New Zealand varies depending on the location. In major cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, rental prices tend to be higher than in smaller towns and rural areas. You can find a variety of rental properties, including apartments, houses, townhouses, and units. Each type of property has its own set of pros and cons, so consider your preferences and needs before making a decision.
When you rent a property, you’ll typically sign a tenancy agreement, which is a legally binding contract between you and the landlord. It outlines the terms and conditions of the rental, such as the rent amount, lease duration, and responsibilities of both parties.
Are you renting for the first time, click on the LINK to find everything you need to know.
In addition to the rent, you may also need to pay a rental bond, which is usually equivalent to 3-4 weeks’ worth of rent. This bond is held as security against any damage to the property during your tenancy. This bond should be submitted to Tenancy Services. You can also request to pay it directly to them and not your landlord.
You can find rental properties through various channels, including real estate websites, property management companies, and newspaper listings. Online platforms like Trade Me and Realestate.co.nz are popular choices for finding rental listings.
Conduct thorough research on the property market in the area you are interested in. Consider factors like property prices, trends, and growth potential. Keep in mind that the New Zealand property market can vary significantly between regions.
Engage a Real Estate Agent: Consider working with a licensed real estate agent who can help you find properties that meet your criteria and negotiate on your behalf. Real estate agents are typically paid by the seller, so their services are generally free for buyers.
New Zealand’s mortgage market is generally characterized by a high level of competition among lenders. Borrowers often have a choice between different types of mortgages, including fixed-rate and floating-rate options. Lenders typically assess a borrower’s creditworthiness based on factors such as income, credit history, and employment stability.
Interest rates in New Zealand can fluctuate based on market conditions and the official cash rate set by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. Borrowers can choose between fixed and floating (variable) interest rates.
New Zealand offers various forms of government support for homebuyers, such as the HomeStart Grant and Welcome Home Loan, especially for first-time buyers.
Fixed-Rate
Floating (Variable) Rate
Interest-Only Mortgage
Getting a mortgage can be daunting. Considering the wide range of lending options is the key to finding your best fit!
New Zealand has a variety of shopping options to suit different needs and budgets. Here are some popular shopping destinations in New Zealand:
Shopping Malls: New Zealand has many shopping malls, which are a convenient one-stop-shop for all your needs. Some popular shopping malls include Sylvia Park in Auckland, Westfield Riccarton in Christchurch, and Queensgate in Wellington.
Markets: New Zealand has a thriving market culture, with many cities hosting regular farmers’ markets, craft markets, and night markets. These are great places to find locally made products, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs.
Department Stores: New Zealand has a number of department stores, including Farmers, David Jones, and Smith & Caughey’s, which offer a wide range of products, from clothing and cosmetics to homewares and electronics.
High Street Shopping: Many cities in New Zealand have popular shopping strips that feature a mix of boutique stores, cafes, and restaurants. For example, Ponsonby Road in Auckland, Cuba Street in Wellington, and High Street in Christchurch are all known for their unique and eclectic shops.
Online Shopping: Online shopping is also a popular option in New Zealand, with many local retailers offering online shopping and delivery services.
When shopping in New Zealand, it’s important to keep in mind that prices can be higher than in other countries due to the country’s isolation and smaller market size.
Our members recommend supporting secondhand shops when you arrive. To cut cost and get yourself set-up. Visit your local Salvation Army, Red Cross and Hospice shops for good and affordable items.
“DIY” or “do it yourself” is a popular approach in New Zealand, particularly when it comes to home renovation and maintenance. Many New Zealanders take pride in their ability to tackle home improvement projects on their own, and there are a variety of resources available to support DIY enthusiasts.
Hardware stores such as Bunnings Warehouse, Mitre 10, and Placemakers are popular destinations for DIYers, offering a wide range of tools, materials, and supplies. These stores often provide workshops and demonstrations to help customers develop their DIY skills.
This approach is also in everyday life, such as cutting your own Lawns and doing your own Domestic Chores like cleaning and everything that goes with this. Also simple things like refuelling your own vehicle at the pump station and packing your own groceries at Pak n Save.
Q. Cleaning takes long, how do you get the time to fit it in your week?
A. Work smart and get yourself a Robot Vacuum Cleaner. You will never have to vacuum your floors again.
Q. What do i do with all my grass cuttings?
A. You can contact your local counsel and get a garden bin that gets taken away fortnightly from with your curb collection
Pepeha is a traditional Māori introduction or greeting that establishes a connection to one’s ancestral roots and tribal affiliations. It is a form of self-identification and a way to express one’s relationship to the land, ancestors, and community. Pepeha is commonly used in Māori culture and is considered a respectful and significant way to introduce oneself.
It refers to your place of birth including your Mountain and River
Here are some examples of Kiwi slang:
New Zealand have heaps of roundabouts 🙂
Contact Jan Viljoen for any queries related to these insurances listed below.
Television in New Zealand is similar to television in other developed countries, with a variety of free-to-air and pay television options available to viewers. Here are some key features of television in New Zealand:
Here are some key points:
Drive on the left: In New Zealand, as in the UK and Australia, traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road. This means that the driver’s seat is on the right-hand side of the car.
Speed limits: Speed limits in New Zealand are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on rural roads and motorways. New Zealand now have about 3 express ways that is 110km/h and if you are driving a truck or tow anything the limit is 90km/h.
Roads: New Zealand roads can vary in quality, from well-maintained highways to narrow, winding rural roads. Take care when driving on narrow roads, and be aware of changing road conditions.
Seat belts: Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in New Zealand, and fines may be imposed for not wearing them.
Drink driving: New Zealand has strict laws against drink driving, with a maximum blood alcohol limit of 50 mg per 100 ml of blood. This is equivalent to one standard drink for women and two for men.
Road rules: New Zealand road rules are similar to South Africa, but there are a few differences. For example, at a roundabout, traffic already on the roundabout has right of way.
Find out more by following this LINK
Having a New Zealand Drivers License is key as this is also the main identification method in New Zealand. You can however drive with your South African license in new Zealand for the first year you are in the country, but I would advised to apply for your NZ Drivers License as soon as you get here. Follow the links below for all information required to change over.
Visit your local AA, to convert your drivers license. You will receive a temporary license instantly and your permanent license will arrive within two weeks to your local address. You can also do this whilst you are in South Africa.
Child restraints are an important aspect of child safety in vehicles and are mandatory in New Zealand
Click Below to view detailed Information.
Thousands of second hand cars are available for purchase. You have to renew your vehicle license annually. All vehicles require a Warrant of Fitness (WoF). This is an annual check to make sure your vehicle meets the safety standards of NZ.
NZ Transport Agency is where you get all NZ transport related in for NZ
Please note that when you in the market for a vehicle, there is a difference between imported cars and NZ New cars. It does effect the resale value.
The difference between import cars and New Zealand new cars lies in their origins and availability in the local market. Here’s an explanation of each:
Import Cars: Import cars, are vehicles that are sourced from overseas markets and imported into New Zealand. These cars may be new or used and are typically brought in from countries where they were originally manufactured, such as Japan, the United Kingdom, Australia, or the United States. Import cars often offer a wider range of makes, models, and specifications compared to the selection available as New Zealand new cars. They may also come with unique features, configurations, or options that are not commonly found in locally available vehicles. Import cars are subject to compliance with New Zealand’s safety and emissions standards and require the necessary importation paperwork and checks. Click HERE if you like to know all the regulations.
New Zealand New Cars: New Zealand new cars refer to vehicles that are brand new and have been specifically imported and sold by authorized dealerships in New Zealand. These cars are sourced directly from manufacturers or their authorized distributors and meet New Zealand’s safety and emissions standards. New Zealand new cars often come with warranties and after-sales support from the authorized dealerships. They are commonly available in the local market and can be purchased from authorized dealers across the country. New Zealand new cars offer the assurance of being compliant with local regulations and are typically easier to service, maintain, and obtain spare parts for within the country.
When you are new to New Zealand, it is highly recommended to rent first before you consider buyer. This will give you time to get to know all the pro’s and con’s of vehicles sold in NZ and also the cost for things like maintenance , warrant of fitness, yearly license fees, road user charges and insurance.
Renting a vehicle have all these costs included in the rental price.
Cost: The initial cost of buying a car can be higher than the upfront costs associated with renting.
Maintenance: Car ownership typically means you’re responsible for the vehicle’s maintenance and repair costs. When you rent a car, these costs are covered by the rental company.
Insurance: Whether you rent or buy, you’ll need insurance coverage for the car. The cost of insurance can be really high. Insurance is included in the rental cost
Car Payments: If you choose to buy a car, you may have monthly car loan payments.
Road User Charges (RUC): Anyone using New Zealand’s roads contributes towards their upkeep. Most road users pay levies when they buy fuel. Others, such as drivers of light diesel vehicles and heavy vehicles like trucks, pay through road user charges
This is a family business that was started way back in 1972 by the late HENNIE ROUX. The business is now owned by Trevor Roux. We are committed to selling accident free, quality used vehicles to our customers like we have done for the past 50 years!!
There are several ISPs operating in New Zealand, including Spark, OneNZ (vodafone), 2degrees, Trustpower, Orcon, Slingshot, Starlink and many others. Each ISP offers different plans, speeds, and pricing options, so it’s important to compare their offerings to find the most suitable option for your needs. Many of these providers can also offer more than just internet.
Data Caps and Unlimited Plans: Internet plans in New Zealand may have data caps, limiting the amount of data that can be used each month. However, many ISPs also offer unlimited plans that provide unlimited data usage, allowing customers to browse, stream, and download without worrying about exceeding data limits
In New Zealand, there are several mobile network providers that offer a range of mobile services, including voice, text messaging, data plans, and mobile devices. Here are some of the major mobile providers in New Zealand:
Spark: Spark is one of the largest mobile network providers in New Zealand. They offer a range of mobile plans, including prepaid and postpaid options, as well as mobile devices and accessories.
Vodafone: Vodafone is another prominent mobile network provider in New Zealand. They provide a variety of mobile plans, prepaid and postpaid options, mobile devices, and value-added services.
2degrees: 2degrees is a mobile network provider known for its competitive pricing and flexible plans. They offer prepaid and postpaid options, data plans, and mobile devices.
Skinny: Skinny is a subsidiary of Spark and focuses on providing affordable mobile services. They offer prepaid and postpaid plans, data packs, and budget-friendly mobile devices.
Warehouse Mobile: Warehouse Mobile is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that operates using the 2degrees network. They provide prepaid and postpaid plans with flexible pricing and bundles.
Trustpower: Trustpower is an energy and telecommunications company that also offers mobile services. They provide mobile plans, bundled with other utility services, for residential and business customers.
Slingshot: Slingshot is an ISP that offers mobile services alongside its broadband offerings. They provide prepaid and postpaid mobile plans, including data-only options.
Each mobile provider has its own range of plans, pricing, coverage, and additional services. It’s important to compare the offerings, network coverage, customer service, and user reviews to find the provider that best meets your needs in terms of coverage, pricing, data allowances, and any additional features or benefits you may require.
In New Zealand, there are several electricity companies that provide electricity supply to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Here are some of the major electricity companies in New Zealand:
In my opinion all the small companies are offering fantastic deals and I would recommend going on the comparison website below, this is a government funded website. Take the company that can supply you with the cheapest power for your requirements. All companies are falling under similar terms and conditions and therefor price, your locations and what service bundles they offer should be your focus when choosing your power company.
