Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Hawkes Bay

What is special or unique about your city?

Hawke's Bay produces some of New Zealand's finest wines and once a year Harvest Hawke's Baycelebrates the fact by offering a three day wine and food festival. This event attracts many thousands. Napier is home to the annual Mission Concert held early each year. The event held at the Mission Estate Winery in Taradale has attracted big names over the year's including Kenny Rogers, Shirley Bassey, Rod Stewart, The B-52's, Belinda Carlisle, Ray Charles, and Eric Clapton. Each concert is attended by around 25,000 people. The Hawkes Bay region is located on the East Coast of the North Island with a population of roughly 150,000. The region consists of Wairoa District, Hastings district, Napier City and Central Hawkes Bay District, as well as the town of Taharua in Taupo District and the town of Ngamatea in Rangitikei District

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

Hawke's Bay Wine Country is beautiful scenery, award-winning wines, gourmet experiences, family fun, a thriving arts community, unique wildlife, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. A wonderful Mediterranean climate and an enviable setting on New Zealand's East Coast have created a region rich in delicious produce and beautiful things Enjoy… Breathe… Relax… Taste… Escape… Refresh…

Are these impressions likely to change?

Not likely

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 = 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, 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?

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 3:00 - 4:00pm. Early evening tea is between 6:00 - 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?

Hawke's Bay's Mediterranean-style climate provides long, warm, dry summers and temperatures in the mid 20's. Winters are typically short and mild, making it a perfect climate for outdoor activities. The region's high number of sunshine hours and favourable winter and summer temperatures help make it the largest producer of pip and stone fruit and the second largest producer of wine grapes. Hawke's Bay owes its favourable climate to the Kaweka and Ruahine ranges located on the Western border. These 200 million year old mountains provide protection from the rain bands and storms that move across the country in a west-east direction from the Tasman Sea. Average annual rainfall is between 600-800mm and plays a vital role in supporting Hawke's Bay's reputation as a leading producer of agricultural and horticultural produce.

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

The region is served by a variety of radio stations with Classic Hits 89.5 Bay City Radio, and Newstalk ZB being the most popular local stations. Hawke's Bay also has its own TV station, TVHB, which provides a mix of news and information programmes hosted by local personalities.

Useful Links

Hawkes Bay Regional Council http://www.hbrc.govt.nz/ Hawke's Bay Today http://www.hawkesbaytoday.co.nz/ Hawke's Bay Guide http://www.hawkesbaynz.com

 

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 many variables associated with each visa, including your family status, the type of work you do and whether you have a job offer in New Zealand, to name just a few. The type of visa you apply for is dependent upon your intended length of stay and what you plan to do while you're there. A points system is in place to determine your eligibility for permanent residency and points are awarded for qualifications, work experience and relevant offers of employment. Please contact Crown Hawkes Bay 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?

A spouse must apply for a permit or Visa in his own right, however this is usually issued when the principal applicant's visa is granted. Some professions require a New Zealand Qualification to be given before the applicant can begin work. Please contact our Immigration Advisers on the details above for further details and requirements.

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

http://www.crownrelo.co.nz/licensed-immigration-team.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?

Mostly, 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.

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?

Yes

Is there any other money information that might help me?

Be mindful of 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 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?

Make sure you are well informed about schools and public transport (should this be a determining factor).

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

The Hawke's Bay consists of two main cities located only 20 minutes apart. Napier is New Zealand's Art Deco City, a legacy of the devastating 1931 Hawke's Bay earthquake which flattened many buildings throughout the region. Hastings is the other main city and its surrounding countryside is home to fertile vineyards and orchards, beautiful parks and some fine examples of Spanish Mission architecture. Other smaller regions in the area include Havelock North and Taradale, both of which are located inland to the west of Napier and offer great cafes, boutique shops, art galleries and a thriving night-life. The town of Waipukurau in the Central Hawke's Bay is a thriving rural community and the southern gateway to Hawke's Bay Wine Country. With over 40 wineries in the greater Napier/Hastings area, the Hawke's Bay is renowned for being New Zealand's leading (and oldest) wine and food region and in particular is a foremost producer of award winning red wines. From the peace and serenity offered in rural areas to the hustle and bustle of an urban setting, choices are plentiful for those who choose to live and work in this wonderful part of New Zealand.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Hastings and Napier offer a good range of affordable residential housing in a wide variety of suburbs and subdivisions. Home buyers in the Hawke's Bay have the enviable choice of being able to live either close to the sea, in a picturesque rural setting, in a friendly suburb or in the middle of a small city. Most rural homes within Hawke's Bay are located either on or near to a school bus service to the nearest primary and secondary schools. Housing options within the main urban areas consist of a mix of inner-city apartments and suburban family homes. Most residential dwellings in the region are located on good sized sections of land complete with areas for outdoor living. Furthermore green areas are held in very high regard by Hawke's Bay residents and there are many community parks and gardens situated close to residential areas. 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) of 12.5%. 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?

Typically, utilities are 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 with most cities, some areas are more desirable than others. This is usually evident in the cost of the accommodation. Before deciding where to live, make sure that the house or apartment has door and window protection and a reliable alarm system. Change all locks on doors and replace with brand new ones. It is also prudent to always lock your house and car when you are not there. Also, it is recommended that you check out local police reports before deciding on an area to live. These reports provide factual information on types of crimes and how often they occur. This will most likely be a determining factor on whether you choose to live in a certain neighbourhood or not.

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 Units - dwellings joined to each other - normally single storied Baches - small holiday homes Bungalows/villas - older wooden home - single storey on own piece of land Cottages - small older wooden home

Useful Links

New Zealand Ministry of Housing www.minhousing.govt.nz/ NZ Institute of Building Surveyors www.buildingsurveyors.co.nz Rental Property New Zealand http://rental-property.co.nz/taranaki/new-plymouth/ Accommodation and Restaurants www.atoz-nz.com/ Real Estate Institute www.reinz.co.nz Holiday Houses www.holidayhouse.co.nz Trade Me Property www.trademe.co.nz

 

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

Schooling is available to children from age 5 and is compulsory from ages 6 to 16. Average teacher:student classroom ratios ranges from 1:19 to 1:24 across the various year levels and school types. Both single-sex and coeducation's 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?

Frasertown School St Joseph's School Wairoa College Wairoa Primary Putere School Please follow the website : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_schools_in_Hawke's_Bay,_New_Zealand , for more information and Decile Rating.

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

Yes, New Zealand 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 Hawkes Bay who now provide a School Search programme as part of our growing Global Mobility services division. Selecting the correct school for your child as 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 including Montessori. Public Kindergartens also 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?

Most parents drive their children back and forth to primary schools; as such, car-pooling is a very popular option. Most Intermediate and High school students walk, bike or take the bus where required.

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. 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 Scholarship 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). School hours are generally between 09 h 00 a.m to 03h00 p.m Mondays to Fridays. School hours may vary for Primary, Intermediate and High Schools. For any other questions, please contact Crown Hawkes Bay.

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 New Zealand Private Schools www.isnz.org.nz

 

Will I need to drive my own vehicle to conduct my everyday life (work/school/shopping) at my destination?

Your own vehicle does make life very easy to get round and parking is not normally too much of an issue around the suburbs. Napier operates as the gateway to the Hawke's Bay region, serving the greater area with airport, port and rail access. The region's road network remains largely uncluttered and even during peak times there is no traffic congestion. A local bus service provides regular public transport, plus there is a series of inter-city buses to and from Napier. There are also four taxi providers in the region which can be ordered via the telephone or picked up from one of the taxi stands located throughout Napier and Hastings.

How can I legally drive a vehicle in this city?

If you have a current and valid overseas driver license you can drive using that for maximum of 12 months from the date you arrive in New Zealand. If your overseas licence or permit is not in English then you must carry an acceptable translation. If you wish to drive after one year you must obtain a new Zealand drivers licence.Depending on the country you have come from, you may have to pass a theory and or practical test. Please visit your local Automobile Association office to obtain an application for a New Zealand driver's license.

What side of the road do people drive on?

Like the UK, drivers travel on the left side of the road.

Describe typical public transportation an expat might use to get around the city.

Your own vehicle does make life very easy to get round and parking is not normally too much of an issue around the suburbs. However the city has a bus service connecting central city and the suburbs.

Could an expat also use public transportation to get out of the city—to surrounding towns, recreation areas or suburbs? If so, list options.

Napier operates as the gateway to the Hawke's Bay region, serving the greater area with airport, port and rail access. The region's road network remains largely uncluttered and even during peak times there is no traffic congestion. A local bus service provides regular public transport, plus there is a series of inter-city buses to and from Napier. There are also four taxi providers in the region which can be ordered via the telephone or picked up from one of the taxi stands located throughout Napier and Hastings.

In regards to transportation, are there any safety issues I should be aware of?

There are no additional safety issues -- apart from remembering that New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road. In addition, pedestrians who are not used to this system should be cautious when crossing the road. Wearing seat belts is compulsory for all passengers. Motorcyclists must wear crash helmets. Maximum legal speed on highways and motorways is normally 100 kph (61 mph). In cities and towns, the limit is 50 kph (30 mph). Speed limit signs show the maximum speed at which you can travel. Exceeding the speed limits is considered a serious offence and carries heavy penalties. At a 'Give Way' sign, be ready to stop and give way to all traffic. At a 'Stop' sign, stop completely and then give way to all traffic. At intersections that do not have 'Give Way' or 'Stop' signs or traffic lights, the following rules apply: if you are turning, give way to all vehicles not turning in all other situations give way to vehicles crossing or approaching from your right. If you are turning left, this includes any vehicles coming towards you that is turning right. For a more detailed explanation of New Zealand's driving rules, copies of the 'New Zealand Road Code' can be purchased from most bookshops and stationery outlets. New Zealand laws requires that all children under the age of five are property restrained in an approved child restraint appropriate for their age and weight. Approved child restraints include: infant restraints for young babies (often called baby capsules) restraints for older babies and toddlers (often called car seats) harnesses and booster seats for preschool and school-aged children Child restraints are sold by retailers such as department stores, larger toy shops and shops that sell baby supplies. You can rent child restraints from the Plunket, other community groups and some companies. Plunket Car Seat Rental Schemes have booster seats, infant and child restraints available for short and long term hire suitable for newborns and children up to seven years. They are available for a minimal cost to ensure all families can afford to keep their children safe while travelling. You can visit Plunket's website for further details: www.plunket.org.nz

Where do I buy tickets/tokens/etc. for the major public transportation?

Due to regulations on the sales of tickets, it is best advisable to contact your local Public Transport office. Although it is common to purchase tickets upon boarding.

Useful Links

Nova Car Hire www.novacarhire.com D & M Autos and Rentals www.tourism.net.nz NZ Rent a Car www.nzrentacar.co.nz Hawkes Bay Rental Cars www.hawkesbayrentalcars.co.nz BayXPress www.bayxpress.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.