Settling-in Tips from Staff at Crown Dunedin

What is special or unique about your city?

Dunedin is situated in the south of the South Island and has a population of approximately 120,000 representing a multitude of cultures and is also known for the colourful student population.

Dunedin is the Gaelic name for Edinburgh and is famous for its strong links with Scotland. The local residents keep the Scottish traditions alive with memorable Haggis ceremonies and even their own brand of whisky! It is renowned for its strong culture with many beautifully preserved Victorian and Edwardian buildings including their railway station, University of Otago and Otago Boys High School. The central business district centres on The Octagon where you will find the shopping district, cafes and restaurants.

Close to wonderful harbours, beaches and the spectacular scenery of central Otago – Dunedin is an easygoing, friendly and cosmopolitan city.

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

Newcomer’s will be impressed with the and friendly welcome they will receive. With the strong Scottish influence and heritage – Dunedin residents enjoy newcomers and are openly gracious. Dunedin is well known as a clean green city with a proud heritage.

Are these impressions likely to change?

No, the impression will remain the same. The Dunedin City Council has strict guidelines protecting our heritage along with a well disciplined plan for our future.

What is the local language?

English is the official language of New Zealand; however you will also hear Maori spoken, along with other languages from the South Pacific islands and Asia.

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 = �whinatia
yes = �e
no = k�o
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, as most New Zealanders only speak English or Maori. Fortunately, there is a wide variety of English language schools 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.
Do not use the "V for victory" sign as it is considered offensive.
Always try to be on time for appointments. Punctuality is considered good manners.
Afternoon tea is between 3:00pm to 4:00pm. Early evening tea is between 6:00pm to 8:00pm, and a larger meal is served. Supper is a snack served much later in the evening.
Tipping rarely occurs here.
Cover your mouth if you must yawn, do not chew gum or use toothpicks and please do not 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?

There is no rainy season in Dunedin and the city receives less than 800mm of rainfall each year. Dunedin experiences extended twilight in summer, beautiful colourful autumns, and spectacular springtime. The winter can bring snow to the hills surrounding Dunedin.

Temperatures in August range from a low of 4 to an average of 13 degree Celsius, while during February temperatures hover around the low to mid 20's.

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?

Dunedin has a significant university population; as a result, the city is constantly thrumming with colourful and lively social activities for everyone.

Useful Links

Crown Relocations
http://www.crownrelo.com

Dunedin City Website
http://www.cityofdunedin.com/

All about Dunedin
http://www.visit-dunedin.co.nz/

Climate in Dunedin
http://www.climate.co.nz/

New Zealand Ministry of Housing
http://www.minhousing.govt.nz/

Finding a street in Dunedin
http://www.nzmaps.co.nz/

Living in New Zealand
http://www.nukiwi.com

NZ Institute of Building Surveyors
www.buildingsurveyors.co.nz

Travel in Dunedin
www.aaguides.co.nz/

Otago Daily Times
www.odt.co.nz/

List of all newspapers
www.converge.org.nz/pap-anz.html

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. The requirements and criteria associated with each visa and permit vary. A points system is in place to determine your eligibility for permanent residency and points are awarded against criteria of qualifications, work experience, relevant offers of employment,location and family in New Zealand. Please contact Crown Dunedin for more 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 advise (unless exempt). 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
Natasha C. Ferguson nferguson@crownrelo.com IAA License Number 201000498

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 Dunedin for more information.

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

The main types of identification you should have or acquire are:

valid passport
New Zealand Driver's License
banking identification card

Do note, applications for Driver's Licenses can be obtained from an Automobile Association Office or a local car testing station. You can find either in your local telephone book's yellow pages.

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

All workers in New Zealand must hold a Tax Code, which is issued by the Inland Revenue Department. Application forms can be obtained via their website.

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 should 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, the maximum being three years. Extensions to Visas must be applied for separately, or an application for Permanent Residency made.

You must always have a valid passport with an expiration date not 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

Crown Relocations Services
www.crownrelo.com/relo/services.relocation.html

What is the local currency?

The New Zealand monetary system is dollars and cents.

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 12.5%.is included in the listed price, except for some business hotels, where rates will be clearly marked GST-exclusive.

Please note: New Zealand Government has made an announcement that by October 2010, GST will be 15%.

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, EFT Pos (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 (such as a passport, drivers license). You do not need a permanent address to open an account.

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. Do note: the majority of banks are closed Saturdays and all banks are closed on Sundays and public holidays.

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

Absolutely

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 services fee for every transaction.

Useful Links

Australian & New Zealand Bank
www.anz.co.nz

Bank of New Zealand
www.bnz.co.nz

National Bank of New Zealand
www.nationalbank.co.nz

Taranaki Savings Bank
www.tsb.co.nz

Westpac Bank of New Zealand
www.westpac.co.nz

Kiwibank
www.kiwibank.co.nz

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

School zoning is very strict, so it is very important to check which school you would like your children to attend and the correct zoning for the school before choosing a suburb in which to purchase or rent. However, travelling time from Dunedin bays and outlying communities is relatively short.

When searching for a place to live, some important factors to consider are safety, 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 safe stay in Dunedin.

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

Maori Hilland Roslywere once the most desired areas to live as these were the first settled areas in the city. Both these suburbs are located centrally to the city, within comfortable walking distances. Roslyn is close to town with schools, bus routes, hospitals, rest homes sun and views. On the other side of Dunedin lies St. Clair, close to the beach with spectacular coastline views, restaurants, golf courses and beach activities all easily accessed. Public transport and excellent roading have made Dunedin's surrounding suburbs and outlying communities another attractive option.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Initially, expats tend to rent their homes. If they are staying for longer than one year, they will then typically purchase a home.

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' 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 is also a fee to be paid of one weeks rent plus GST (Government Service Tax) currently at 12.5%, which will be changing to 15% by the end of the year. 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.

Please note: New Zealand Government has made an announcement that by October 2010, GST will be 15%.

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?

As in any built up area, personal safety is something you should be aware of. But beyond the typical considerations of city life, Dunedin is a very safe place 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?

Dunedin has a variety of temporary accommodation, from youth hostels to four star quality hotels.

Useful Links

Information on Dunedin
www.cityofdunedin.co.nz

Real Estate Institute of NZ
www.reinz.co.nz

New Zealand Ministry of Housing
www.minhousing.govt.nz/

Finding a street in Dunedin
www.nzmaps.co.nz/

NZ Institute of Building Surveyors
www.buildingsurveyors.co.nz

Living in New Zealand
www.nukiwi.com

Accommodation and Restaurants
www.atoz-nz.com/

Crown Relocations Services
www.crownrelo.com/relo/services.relocation.html

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

Dunedin has a range of semi private education facilities available to children of all ages. Though the city no longer has an International School, it does have a variety of smaller schools both parochial (such as St. Joseph's Primary or Kavaganah College) or without religious affiliations.

What are some examples of these schools?

Columba College (semi private girls school with mixed classes for primary school), which is Dunedin's most highly rated educational college, is popular with the expatriate population. John McGlashan College (boys only) provides boarding facilities, as do Saint Hilda's Collegiate (girls only), Kings High School and Queens High School. Logan Park is particularly known for sporting successes.

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

Yes, Dunedin 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 Global Mobility Services department who provides a School Search programme.

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

There are a vast range of pre-schools including Montessori. Public Kindergartens have waiting lists but there is a wide range of child care facilities in most suburbs and are 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). Most Intermediate and High schools provide transport in the form of buses.

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 September to December.

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.

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).

For any other questions, please contact Crown Dunedin.

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

Catholic Education
www.catholic.org/newzealand

Montessori
www.montessori.org.nz

Childcare
www.childcare.ac.nz/

Dunedin Kindergarten Association
www.dka.school.nz/

Massey University
www.massey.ac.nz/

University of Otago
www.otago.ac.nz/

Crown Relocations Services
www.crownrelo.com/relo/services.relocation.html

Dunedin Schools
www.piperpat.co.nz