Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Tauranga

What is special or unique about your city?

Tauranga is the business centre of the Bay of Plenty, an area recognized as one of the holiday centres of New Zealand. The region’s temperate climate, high sunshine hours and safe, white beaches are a draw for holidaymakers year-round. Tauranga and the beachside town of Mt. Maunganui are dominated by the harbour and "the Mount", a 232 meter high extinct volcano. The city’s population is 115,000 and is growing rapidly because of its broad appeal as a beautiful, exciting place to live. The Port of Tauranga is one of the busiest in the country with the largest volume of cargo. The country’s kiwifruit growing and export industry is based in the region.

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

Because of its attractive beaches, safe harbour and natural hot-water pools, Tauranga is a water lovers delight. Boating, fishing, swimming and other outdoor recreational activities dominate. The residential area is surrounded by horticultural and farming land yet 44 percent of New Zealand’s population lies within just 200 kilometers of Tauranga. A strong café culture exists in the area, but outdoor recreational activities such as tramping, hunting, fly fishing, jet boating and yachting feature strongly.

Are these impressions likely to change?

While the region will continue to grow in population and popularity, the general impression of the place is unlikely to change. Only limited areas of high rise development are allowed and access to beaches and green belt areas will remain.

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?

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 3:00 - 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?

Tauranga has a temperate/sub-tropical climate with mild temperatures and an average rainfall of about 1,350 millimeters a year. Most of this rain falls in periodic heavy downfalls and thunder is quite common. Although, the region consistently has one of the highest sunshine hours in the country. New Zealand seasons are reverse to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Our warmest months are December, January and February, while the coldest are June, July and August.

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

Tauranga District Council covers the main business and residential center of Tauranga and the beachside townships of Mt. Maunganui and Papapmoa. A second council, the Western Bay District Council, governs the rural areas outside the suburbs. A casual, low stress lifestyle is the key to the area’s popularity although increased population and business means traffic congestion and has become an issue that is now being addressed.

Useful Links

Crown Relocations http://www.crownrelo.com Tauranga District Council www.tauranga.govt.nz On-line guide to the Bay of Plenty www.bayofplenty.co.nz Guide to Tauranga www.tauranga.co.nz On-line local news and information www.citynews.co.nz Climate in Tauranga www.climate.co.nz/ Finding a street in Tauranga www.nzmaps.co.nz/ Living in New Zealand www.nukiwi.com New Zealand Herald www.nzherald.co.nz/

 

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?

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.

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 Crown Tauranga for more information.

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

The main types of identification are a valid passport, New Zealand Drivers License and a banking identification card. (e.g. Mastercard, Visa etc). Applications for Drivers Licenses can be obtained from an Automobile 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 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

New Zealand Immigration Service www.immigration.govt.nz The Inland Revenue www.ird.govt.nz New Zealand Qualifications Authority www.nzqa.govt.nz

 

What is the local currency?

The New Zealand currency is dollars (NZ$). The dollar can be broken down into 100 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 checks 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 at some public transports.

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, etc.) 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 you have some minimal cash amount 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 machine not affiliated with your bank. Check to see if your bank charges a services fee for every transaction.

Useful Links

Auckland Savings Bank www.asb.co.nz 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?

Real estate in Tauranga, in particular the beachside suburbs, is very buoyant with property values rising continuously. The summer holiday months are the most popular buying times, especially for out-of-town owners who want to secure an investment or holiday home in the region. Apartment living is becoming more popular and available. Good quality rentals can be very difficult to find during the summer months and many beachside properties are available only short-term. It is a good idea to have a personal reference or testimonial from a previous landlord or real estate agent to assist in securing highly sought after rental properties. 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 Tauranga.

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

There are a number of popular suburbs that appeal to professionals and families. These areas are usually suburbs that have either high capital gain value, are close to the city or beaches, or are peacefully located near quality schools. In Tauranga, the most sought after suburbs are the Avenues (inner city) which is zoned for the city’s two single-sex high schools; Matua, which is an established peninsula suburb of good quality with substantial, residential dwellings; and Bethlehem, a new suburb of high quality family homes. Mount Maunganui, and in particular the downtown area, has some of the highest capital gains in the region and is highly sought after. Papamoa is another beachside suburb that attracts a lot of interest from families seeking a new home close to the beach.

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) 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?

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 Tauranga is considered a safe city to live in. There are some areas that are considered less desirable due to their lower standard of housing and schooling.

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 Finding a street in Tauranga 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 Real Estate Institute www.reinz.co.nz

 

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

There are no international colleges in Tauranga. The area has four public secondary schools and two semi-private Christian secondary schools.

What are some examples of these schools?

Private Schools: Wickam Primary School (co-ed school for pre-schoolers through to year 8) Bethlehem College (co-ed Christian school for pre-schoolers through to year 13) Aquinus College (co-ed Catholic school for years 7–13)

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

Yes, Tauranga has strict zoning rules for many of its 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.

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

There is a big range of pre-schools, including private and public, Montessori and Rudof Steiner. Many public kindergartens have waiting lists.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

Tauranga is not renowned for public transport so there are a lot of parents who 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 four 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). School hours are generally between 9:00am to 3:00pm Monday to Friday. School hours may vary for Primary, Intermediate and High Schools. For any other questions, please contact Crown Tauranga.

Useful Links

Educational Review Office www.ero.govt.nz New Zealand Ministry of Education www.minedu.govt.nz/ Database of New Zealand Schools www.tki.org.nz Montessori www.montessori.org.nz New Zealand Private Schools www.independent.school.nz Childcare www.nzchildcare.co.nz/bayofplenty.htm

 

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

Most people drive their own vehicles in order to reach their destination. However, a local bus service runs hourly throughout most of the suburbs, including Mt. Maunganui and Papamoa. Cycling lanes are available on busy roads.

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?

Motorists drive on the left hand side of the road.

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

While the majority of people use their own motor vehicles to get around the city, the downtown centre is quite small and easily navigated by foot. The local bus service is gradually changing its timetable to appeal to commuters. The buses in Tauranga are called the Bay Hoppers. The local bus service is provided for by Bayline Buses and managed by Environment Bay of Plenty.

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

The best option is private car, but there is a network of buses that depart throughout the day to other North Island centres. There is no passenger train, but a ferry operates during summer months to link Tauranga city with Mt. Maunganui.

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

There are no additional safety issues - apart from remembering that we drive on the left side of the road - but pedestrians who are not used to this system should be cautious when crossing the road. Wearing of seatbelts 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).

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

Tickets for most forms of public transport can be purchased at the Visitor Information Centre on the Strand. Commuter bus fares can be paid when boarding the bus. Timetables for all forms of transport can be obtained from the information centre.

Useful Links

Public Transport www.tauranga.govt.nz/transport/public-transport.aspx Traffic Authority www.police.govt.nz/service/traffic Budget Rent a Car www.budget.co.nz/ Thrifty Car Rentals www.thrifty.co.nz/ NZ Automobile Association www.nzaa.co.nz Avis Car Rental www.avis.co.nz Air New Zealand www.airnewzealand.com Kiwi Rail www.kiwirail.co.nz Land Transport Safety Authority www.ltsa.govt.nz.co.nz/licensing

 

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.