Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Auckland/Branch

What is special or unique about your city?

With a population of over 1.3 million and a sprawl of more than 60 square kilometres, Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand. It is larger than greater London, and contains approximately one third of the entire country's population. It is known as the City of Sails for its beautiful harbours, as well as its distinction as the city with the greatest number of boats per capita in the world. One of its greatest man-made features is the Sky Tower, the tallest building in New Zealand, as well as the highest public viewing platform in the southern hemisphere at 300 meters above sea level.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

Auckland is renowned for its beautiful harbour and the number and variety of its beaches and lush native bush areas. In Auckland you are never far from the water. There are beaches with pounding surf and gentle safe family beaches. There is one point where only 9 kilometres of land separates the Pacific Ocean from the Tasman Sea Auckland is also well known for its many recreational parks and sporting facilities. Auckland is considered to be New Zealand's international cosmopolitan centre. It is home to many diverse cultures and it's population reflects people from across the globe. This cosmopolitan mix is wonderfully reflected in the city's array of cafes and restaurants, festivals and markets.

Are these impressions likely to change?

Auckland is the fastest growing city in New Zealand and yet great care is taken to protect the city's green belt and natural beauty. Much effort and support is given to maintaining and creating communities with all the amenities to make Auckland one of the best places to live work and play.

What is the local language?

English is the official language of New Zealand. You will hear Maori spoken along with other languages from the South Pacific islands. The diversity of the country allows you to hear languages spoken from all parts of the globe. Here are a few Maori words that may be fun to learn as well as help you while you are here: English = Maori hello = kia ora good bye = haere ra please = koa thank you = kia ora rawa atu good = ka pai bad = ka kino help = äwhinatia yes = äe no = käo food = kai water = wai

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

It would be difficult to live in New Zealand without speaking English. Therefore to assist there is a wide variety of language schools available throughout New Zealand.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

The main thing to remember is to respect the many diverse cultures in New Zealand. To avoid offending, please take note of the following: Casual dress is acceptable and usually preferred in most situations. Always try to be on time for appointments. Punctuality is considered good manners. Afternoon tea is between 3:00 - 4:00 pm at which sweet items such as cakes and biscuits are served. The evening meal (dinner) is between 6:00 - 8:00 pm and a larger meal is served. Supper is an optional snack served much later in the evening. If you are invited over to friends for a meal and have been requested to "bring a plate", this means that you are expected to bring a small plate of food appropriate for the meal you have been invited to. Cover your mouth if you must yawn, do not use toothpicks or spit in public. Ask permission before you attempt to photograph someone. When meeting someone or departing use a firm handshake with good eye contact. Avoid confusing or comparing New Zealand to Australia, as they are two distinct countries. Remember that New Zealand has strict smoking rules, and smoking is not allowed in any public building or public transport. As of December 2004 - There is no smoking in any bars, cafes or restaurants, but smoking areas are now provided outside.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

Auckland has mild climate, with temperatures ranging from 14 to 24 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The climate is also highly variable; on any given day, you can expect to see examples of at least three of the year's seasons. As it is located in the Southern Hemisphere, New Zealand's seasons are reverse to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Here, the warmest months are December, January and February and the coldest are June, July and August.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

The Auckland Council has 2 complementary and non-hierarchical decision-making parts - the governing body (a major elected by all Aucklanders and 20 councillors) and 21 local body boards. Auckland is also very pro-recycling, and everyone has the option of utilising the recycling bins provided by their local council. New Zealand has a high regard for its natural beauty, and New Zealanders are extremely protective of the flora and fauna.

Useful Links

Crown Relocations www.crownrelo.co.nz Climate in Auckland www.climate.co.nz/ www.metservice.com Finding a street in Auckland www.wises.co.nz/ Living in New Zealand www.newzealandnow.govt.nz Travel in Auckland www.aatravel.co.nz/ New Zealand Tourism www.tourism.net.nz www.tourismnewzealand.com Newspapers Auckland New Zealand Herald www.nzherald.co.nz/ Wellington and other cities www.stuff.co.nz List of all newspapers www.onlinenewspapers.com/nz.htm

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

Your status in New Zealand depends on your country of citizenship, the length of your stay within New Zealand, and the type of Visa or Permit you have been issued. Australian citizens are able to live, work and visit New Zealand by showing a valid Australian passport. Residents and people holding work permits for a stay of two years or more (and their dependant children) are eligible for publicly funded health care and disability services. Other work permit holders, students, and visitor permit holders generally are not eligible. People covered by New Zealand’s Reciprocal Health Agreements with Australia and the UK are entitled to publicly funded health care for immediately necessary medical treatment only. It is strongly recommended that you have comprehensive health insurance for the duration of your visit.

What kinds of visas are available?

There are several types of visas and permits available allowing people to live, work, study or visit New Zealand. There are documents required and a variety of criteria associated with each visa. The type of visa you apply for is dependent upon your intended length of stay, your personal circumstance and what you plan to do while you are here. A points system is in place to determine your eligibility for permanent residency. Points can be awarded for qualifications, work experience and relevant offers of employment. Please contact Crown Auckland for further information.

What is required to obtain these visas?

On May 4th 2009, legislation came into effect in New Zealand requiring any person onshore who provides New Zealand immigration advise to be licensed. On May 4th 2010 legislation came into effect requiring any person offshore who provides New Zealand immigration advice to be licensed. It is now a crime to provide New Zealand immigration advice (unless exempt or licensed). All New Zealand immigration advise must be provided by advisers licensed by the Immigration Advisers Authority. The licensed advisers are listed on the Immigration Advisers Authority register.The register can be viewed at www.iaa.govt.nz This new legislation has created a need for many of Crown’s client organisations to seek external support.Crown anticipated the need and is the only New Zealand full service relocation company with in house Licensed Immigration Advisers. Our experienced and licensed team is here to deliver a total immigration support programme in a practical and cost effective fashion. Crown understands that moving to a new country is a special event. It can be a stressful time for employers, individuals and families. The new service is designed to take away these pressures and ensure a stress free and seamless relocation experience for all concerned. Tracy C. Hockings thockings@crownrelo.com IAA License Number 200902205 www.crownrelo.co.nz/licensed-immigration-team.html

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

In most cases spouses and partners are permitted to work. Their visas and permits will be directly linked to their spouse or partner who is the principle applicant. There are a variety of options available subject to requirements. Please contact Crown Auckland for more information.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

The main types of identification in New Zealand are: Valid passport New Zealand Driver's License Please note, an application for a driver license can be obtained from an Automobile Association office or a local car testing station.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

All workers in New Zealand must hold an Inland Revenue Number (IRD number) which is issued by the Inland Revenue Department. Application forms can be obtained via their website. www.ird.govt.nz Personal Income tax is paid to the New Zealand Government on all earnings.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

The following items must not be brought into the country: Food of any kind Plants or parts of plants (alive or dead) Animals or animal products (alive or dead) Equipment used with animals Biological specimens Trophies of: sea turtles, all big cats, rare reptiles, cranes, pheasants, bears, antelope, and deer Firearms & Weapons Illegal Drugs

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

Visas and permits are issued for a specific period of time. Extensions to visas or permits and or changes to your visa or permit must be applied for as a separate or new immigration application. You must always have a valid passport with an expiration date no less than three months after you intend to leave the country. The New Zealand Immigration Service reserves the right to deport anyone convicted of a criminal act.

Useful Links

NZ Immigration Service www.immigration.govt.nz The Inland Revenue www.ird.govt.nz NZ Qualifications Authority www.nzqa.govt.nz The Immigration Advisers Authority www.iaa.govt.nz Crown Relocations Services www.crownrelo.co.nz/licensed-immigration-services.asp

 

What is the local currency?

The New Zealand currency is dollars (NZD). The dollar can be broken down into 100 cents. The only accepted currency is the New Zealand Dollar.

What denominations does it come in?

New Zealand dollars are divided into 100 cents. There are $100, $50, $20, $10 and $5 notes made of a sturdy plastic material and coins in denominations of two dollars and one dollar, as well as 50, 20 and 10 cents. Grocery items are given to the nearest cent, but the final bill is rounded up or down to the nearest ten cents. Generally, Goods and Service Tax (GST) of currently 15% is included in the listed price, except for some business hotels, where rates will be clearly marked GST-exclusive.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

Banks provide the best method for foreign exchange and will have the latest foreign exchange rates. Hotels will exchange foreign money, but they are likely to offer the service at a higher rate than the banks.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

Cash, EFTPOS (personal banking card), major credit cards (i.e., MasterCard, Visa, Diners Club and American Express). Personal Cheques will not be accepted without proof of identity.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

While most shops and restaurants will accept cheques or credit cards, some smaller institutions may not. As such, it is always a good idea to have a little cash on hand. Cash will be required in smaller stores, street vendors, and some public transport

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Normally, people opt to pay by direct debit from a bank account or credit card.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

A bank account can be opened at any time with correct identification. Banks will require two forms of identification. One should be your passport or driver's license. The second can be your credit card, debit card or birth certificate. Non-New Zealand residents and new residents must provide a valid passport as one form of identification. You do not need a permanent address to open an account. If applying for credit card, you must provide an evidence of income. This can be as a payslip, letter from your employer on their business letterhead, or if you are self employed - financial statements for the past year. You can also transfer your accounts from another bank, please contact the banks directly for further details.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

Banking services are mainly in English, though several of the major banks in the Central Business District also have staff who can speak a variety of foreign languages.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

No restrictions - as long as personal identification is available and minimal cash for an opening deposit.

What are typical banking hours?

Typically banking hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 4:30pm. However, some banks stay open late on Thursday evening and some open for business on Saturday morning. For weekend hours, please consult your local bank.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

ATMs are available around the clock and they are easily accessible.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

Watch out for high service charges incurred for using an ATM machines not affiliated with your bank. Check to see if your bank charges a service fee for every transaction.

Useful Links

Australian & New Zealand Bank www.anz.co.nz Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) www.bnz.co.nz National Bank of New Zealand www.nationalbank.co.nz Kiwibank www.kiwibank.co.nz Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) www.hsbc.co.nz ASB Bank www.asbbank.co.nz Taranaki Savings Bank www.tsb.co.nz Westpac Bank of New Zealand www.westpac.co.nz

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

Real Estate in Auckland is consistently buoyant. School zoning is very strict, so it is very important to check which school you would like your children to attend and its zoning restrictions before choosing a home to purchase or rent. Additionally, Auckland has a reputation for having major traffic problems - choosing an area with good commuting times and good access to the motorway systems is very important. When searching for a place to live, some important factors to consider are location preference and individual needs. Depending on your preferences, you may want to find a place close to a school, church, transportation, shops, medical facilities, work and most importantly an area that is secure and safe. As with other cities in New Zealand, choosing the right place to live is essential to having a pleasant and successful relocation to Auckland.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

The Remuera/Epsom area is popular because it is in the zone for two of Auckland's top schools. Consequently, prices in the area are high. Housing consists primarily of individual single-storey homes called bungalows or villas. Recently, more townhouses (several individual homes on a shared property) have been built. Howick, Pakuranga and Botany Downs are also popular areas. In these suburbs, the majority of the homes are brand new, of modern design and largely maintenance free. This area is to the east of the Central Business District (CBD) and there is considerable traffic congestion for travel into the CBD during peak traffic times. Browns Bay and other northern bays are particularly popular with English and South African expats. These suburbs are all on the coast with excellent safe beaches. Housing is mixed with a variety of individual bungalows, townhouse complexes and detached houses. This area was initially a summer beach retreat and beach homes can still be found.These summer homes are called "baches". 'Bach' is our term for a simple beach cottage. This area called the North Shore requires commuting across the Auckland Harbour bridge to get to the CBD. The bridge is heavily congested during peak hour traffic. Milford, Takapuna and Devonport are suburbs on the North Shore - Milford & Takapuna are very sought after areas with beach front homes and apartments, vibrant cafes and shopping malls. The mix of housing is varied and expensive. The Devonport area is renowned for beautifully restored old villas. Devonport is like a holiday village with many tourists visiting via the ferry - a 15 minute journey from downtown. Many residents from the North Shore travel to the CBD via the ferry. The area is coastal with beautiful safe beaches and many recreational parks and facilities.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Expats initially rent and then the majority tend to purchase if they are staying longer than one year. This gives them time to understand the housing market. Whilst looking for permanent accommodation to rent or buy in Auckland you can opt to stay at motels, serviced apartments or even holiday houses as well as hotels. Please refer to websites below for further information.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

When renting you are required to pay a bond equivalent to two or three weeks of rent. This is held in a Trust Account by a third party and returned at the end of the tenancy providing there is no rent owed or damages to the property. Rent is always paid in advance, usually weekly or fortnightly, and if the property is obtained through a letting agent, there will also be a fee to be paid of one weeks rent plus GST (Government Service Tax) currently at 15% . In summary, you could be required to have 5 weeks rent prior to moving into a rental property: two weeks rent in advance, two to three weeks bond and one week to cover the letting fee.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Utilities are usually additional to rental prices. Very seldom are they included in the rent.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

Generally Auckland is considered a safe city in which to live.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

The electric current for New Zealand is 230-240 volts. The electrical Hertz (Hz) is 50 hertz of power. Plugs have two or three prongs in a triangular shape. Although adaptors are available, it is considered better to purchase small appliances on arrival. Type I plug - Oblique flat blades with ground (inverted V)

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

Good rental properties are hard to find and it is advisable that transferees have a personal reference or testimonial from a previous landlord to assist in securing highly sought after rental properties. Some useful terms to be acquainted with are: Flats - a dwelling normally shared by a group of people. Townhouses - several properties on shared land sometimes with shared walls Units - dwellings joined to each other - normally single storied Baches - small holiday homes Bungalows/villas - older, wooden property - single storey on own piece of land Cottages - small, older wooden property Single family home - detached property

Useful Links

Department of Building and Housing www.dbh.govt.nz/ Auckland City Council www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/ Finding a street in Auckland www.wises.co.nz/ NZ Institute of Building Surveyors www.buildingsurveyors.co.nz Living in New Zealand www.newzealandnow.govt.nz Accommodation and Restaurants www.aaguides.co.nz www.menues.co.nz/restaurants/auckland Real Estate Institute www.reinz.co.nz Holiday Houses www.holidayhouse.co.nz www.bookabach.co.nz Properties for Lease www.forlease.co.nz Property Star www.propertystar.co.nz Trade Me Property www.trademe.co.nz Crown Relocations Services www.crownrelo.co.nz

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

Education is free when children utilize state schools, but there are many private (fee paying) schools as well. Schooling is available to children from age 5 and is compulsory from ages 6 to 16. Average teacher:student classroom ratios range from 1:19 to 1:24 across the various year levels and school types. Both single-sex and coeducational schooling options are available and state (public) schools are secular. Primary education starts at Year 1 and continues until Year 8, with Years 7 and 8 mostly offered at either a primary or separate intermediate school. Secondary education (high school/college) covers Years 9 to 13 (during which students are generally ages 13 to 17).

What are some examples of these schools?

The ACG New Zealand International College in Auckland offers high school programs, pre-university courses, university preparation and the prestigious and world renowned University of Cambridge International Examinations. Auckland also has a range of excellent private single sex schools: for boys, Kings College and St. Kentigerns College are two of the most popular.Single sex girl schools available are Diocesan and St Cuthbert's. Auckland has only one International College (school for children ages 13 - 17, or Years Nine - 13) located in the Central Business District.On the North Shore, Kristin School is an excellent coed private school offering the International Baceaulauriate (IB) programme. Pinehurst is also a coed private school offering Cambridge International Examinations.

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

Yes, Auckland has very strict zoning rules for public schools. Zoning is an area surrounding a school where pupils have to reside to be eligible to attend. Zoning areas should be checked with each individual school. Although zoning rules do not apply to private schools, these schools have only limited spaces and you may be placed on a waiting list. It is important that you begin the application process as soon as possible. Should you require assistance with school search, please contact Crown Auckland, who provide School Search programmes as part of our growing Global Mobility Services. Selecting the correct school for your child is a vital part of a successful relocation and can play a significant role in influencing where you choose to live.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

There are a vast range of pre-schools available including Montessori. Public Kindergartens may have waiting lists. There is a wide range of child care facilities in most suburbs and they can be found listed in the local telephone book or the telephone directory - Yellow pages under child Care facilities.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

Many parents drive their children to school, especially at the primary level (Years 1-6). Bus services offer regular transport to and from most intermediate and high schools. Train services are also available for those travelling throughout Central Auckland, with southern, western and eastern train lines to and from the CBD. Park and Ride is a new bus service with five Northern bus stations transporting commuters to Aucklands' CBD. Each station provides free car parking, bike racks, lockers and toilets.

When does the typical school year start and end?

The scholastic year is divided into 4 terms. Term one runs from January through April; term two from April to July; term three from July to September and term four from October to December. The school year reflects the reversal of seasons found in the Southern Hemisphere. The year is divided into four terms with holiday breaks in between. Children arriving from the Northern Hemisphere will either lose or gain six months in their grade placement. Schools try to place a child in their closest age group. Most schools favour the wearing of school uniforms. Students are required to purchase their own textbooks and school supplies.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

Information about any school in New Zealand can be obtained from the Educational Review Office at the website listed below. School hours are generally between 09:00am to 15:00pm Monday to Friday. School hours may vary for Primary, Intermediate and High Schools. The Ministry of Education uses a decile rating system for school funding purposes. Schools in decile one have the highest proportion of students from low social-economic backgrounds. Schools in decile ten have the lowest proportions of these students. In New Zealand, schools are given a rating depending on the income of the people in the surrounding areas. The decile rating ranges from 1 (lowest income districts) to 10 (highest income district). The National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) was progressively implemented between 2002 and 2004, as the national senior secondary school qualification. The NCEA correspond to the final three years of secondary schooling (Years 11-13). Information about the NCEA and New Zealand Scholarships can be found on www.ncea.govt.nz. Ministry of Education provides assistance for international students where English is not their first language. This programme is called ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). It is designed to assist students to participate successfully in the New Zealand school curriculum and interact socially with New Zealand students and within the wider New Zealand community. For further information, please visit www.minedu.govt.nz (type ESOL under search). For any other questions, please contact Crown Auckland.

Useful Links

Educational Review Office www.ero.govt.nz NZ Ministry of Education www.minedu.govt.nz/ Database of New Zealand Schools www.tki.org.nz www.cepnz.co.nz/schooldatabase Education in Auckland www.studyauckland.com Catholic Education www.catholic.org/newzealand www.nzceo.catholic.org.nz/pages/schools Montessori www.montessori.org.nz New Zealand Private Schools www.isnz.org.nz University of Auckland www.auckland.ac.nz/ Auckland University of Technology www.aut.ac.nz/ Massey University www.massey.ac.nz/ ACG NZ International School www.acg.ac.nz/ Childcare www.childcareonline.co.nz Crown Relocations Services www.crownrelo.co.nz

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.