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Nurses

Pursue your passion and continue to make a difference as a Nurse in Aotearoa. We're looking for all nursing specialties nationwide.
 

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A couple of registered nurses happily chatting away to each other while checking the syringes

Working as a Nurse in New Zealand

Nursing in Aotearoa, New Zealand provides opportunities to be in one of the most respected professions caring for patients and whānau (family) at their most vulnerable time.

You’ll be supported to thrive through our many professional development opportunities and have the chance to share your expertise.

New Zealand nurses are highly respected for the care that they deliver with a culture that supports career progression and encourages continual growth.

Explore our snow-capped mountains hiking or skiing, check out our white sandy beaches with the local wildlife or visit the local café for brunch. Whatever you’re into you can do it all while working as part of Aotearoa, New Zealand’s largest health workforce.

Critical care nurse Princess standing next to some hospital equipment in the ICU ward.

Join our teams

We at Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora are always recruiting for our largest workforce, nurses.

We welcome applications from all nurses however, if you have experience in Critical Care & Emergency, Medical & Surgical or Mental Health & Addiction, we're especially keen to hear from you.

Michael, Critical Care flight nurse - Health New Zealand

Critical Care Nurses

Critical care services are provided by 26 units across the country, offering a diverse range of intensive care settings.

Miguel, ICU Nurse - Health New Zealand

Medical & Surgical Nurses

Join our cross-disciplinary teams across the country in providing world-class care to our communities.

nurse with patient taking blood pressure - source: photoshoot

Mental Health Nurses

Bring your skills and passion for providing quality care and support our patients in need within Mental Health & Addiction.

Nurses Cecilia and Sherwin in scrubs preparing some hospital equipment for the next patient.

Critical Care Nursing in New Zealand

Larger Critical Care units provide cardiac trauma, neuro-paediatric, general, burns, spinal, cardiothoracic, and paediatric care, while smaller units support mixed ICU and HDU spaces for unwell children, long-term medical patients, and acute surgical patients.

Our ICU teams collaborate closely and know that working together as a team is really important for patients. We focus on providing care that involves both the patient and whānau (family).

Frequently Asked Questions

Nursing Registration and Work

What is the process for getting nursing registration in New Zealand?

The Nursing Council of New Zealand has a handy self assessment tool that can help you understand how to become registered to practice in Aotearoa, New Zealand 
International Nursing Registration Process

I only have a diploma - can I get registration?

There is a process through the Nursing Council of New Zealand to apply for registration. This will guide you on what will be required.

Do I need an English language test (IELTS)?

In order to register with the Nursing Council of New Zealand, they must be satisfied that you are able to communicate effectively, and that your ability to communicate in and comprehend English is sufficient to protect the health and safety of the public.

If your education led to, or you have current nursing registration in the United Kingdom, Singapore, Ireland, Canada or the United States of America that required you to pass an English language test you may be able to apply for a waiver.

To find out more visit the Nursing Council of New Zealand website

Do I have to belong to the Union?

Employees choose to join a union. Unions negotiate collective employment agreements and advocate on behalf of employees, working together in the interest of the individual, the collective and the broader community.

Their purpose is to secure jobs, improve terms and conditions of employment, and achieve a better quality of life for workers.

Salary and Benefits

What is the salary range and additional remunerations?
  • Nurses receive a base salary relative to their level of experience and role; this is agreed upon at the time of the job offer. The base salary range is NZD $74K - $174K.

  • Annual salary increments

  • Set rates for overtime, penal time, and callbacks

  • Set allowances for on-call, higher duties, shift coordination, duly authorised officers, authorised officers, telephone on-call and meals (where required)

 

What are the additional benefits?
  • Reimbursement of annual practising certificate costs, and travel expenses 

    Paid education support and leave for courses to facilitate your education and training  

  • The nursing collective agreements for NZNO and PSA include all salary and benefit information and are available on the Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora website.


What are the shift time penal rates?

Under the Nursing Collective Agreements, there are:

  • Weekend rate of time one-half (0.5) in addition to the ordinary hourly rate

  • Public Holiday rate of time one (T1) in addition to the ordinary hourly rate

  • Night rate at quarter time (T0.25) in addition to the ordinary hourly rate

 

What are the leave entitlements?
  • 4 weeks of paid annual leave (increases to 5 after 5 years of service) 

    • shift employees are entitled to up to an additional 5 days’ annual leave on completion of 12 months of employment on shift work

  • A minimum of 10 days of sick leave per year

  • 12 paid public holidays + time in lieu/alternative holiday if rostered on 

 

What is the minimum contract period?

This will be determined by the organisation that employs you. 
To maintain your nursing registration in Aotearoa, New Zealand you are required to have 450 hours of practice over three (3) years.

 

Will I be bonded?

This will depend on the organisation that you are employed in.  If there is sponsored assistance there may be a two-year bond agreement as part of your letter of offer.

Settings and Specialties

What’s the difference between private and public hospitals?

Public hospitals are run and and funded by the government (funded by taxes) providing free or subsidised access to healthcare to the New Zealand public. 
Private hospitals are more costly but provide people with more control over their healthcare along with where and when treatments may be scheduled.

I like working in rest homes, are there roles available?

We are looking for nurses across all settings. To apply for a position in one of our aged care facilities, apply now.

How do I get a job in a Hospice?

We would recommend you check out the vacancies that are advertised with Hospice New Zealand.

I like working in outpatients - are there jobs?

There are opportunities for roles across all settings including outpatients. In the larger hospitals there may be opportunities to work in different outpatient specialities. 

I’m interested in changing my specialty. What would you advise?

The culture and relocation are a lot to get used to, we recommend moving to a service you are comfortable working in and progressing into other opportunities from there.
Continual growth and education are encouraged, and assistance is provided to nurses wishing to study and gain further experience. 

I am an Anaesthetic Nurse - can I get a job?

Aotearoa New Zealand is looking for nurses across all settings. If you are able to gain Nursing Council registration you will be able to apply for Registered Nurse roles in Anaesthetics.

I am a Health Care Assistant, am I eligible for a visa?

We are looking for people across all settings of our Health Sector. 
You can explore your visa options and access information and tools that will help you assess your visa criteria on the Immigration New Zealand website.

Relocating and Life in Aotearoa, New Zealand

What can I expect the lifestyle to be like when I get there?

You can expect a balanced lifestyle with great career opportunities and plenty of time for recreational activities.
New Zealanders enjoy plenty of outdoor activities such as skiing and hiking on our beautiful mountains and water sports on our many picturesque lakes and beaches. Arts and culture also provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy a musical or theater performance.  Summer is a time to attend a festival or visit some of the world's best food and wine venues. 

What’s the cost of living?

This handy Cost of Living Calculator can help you compare the cost of living in Aotearoa, New Zealand depending on where you are coming from and what part of Aotearoa you plan to settle in. 

Is there relocation support?

At this point in time, Health New Zealand are reviewing the relocation package for international applicants and further details will be shared at the time of a job offer.

Do I have to be able to drive?

No, however in some rural areas access to public transport may be limited and in some community-based roles you may require a driver's license.

How long will it take before I can move to Aotearoa, New Zealand?

This depends on your individual circumstances, you need to get your Nursing registration, secure a job, and make your visa application. The best thing to do to speed things along is to understand what you need to do.

Making a move abroad is a big decision, and you may not be ready to make the move – just yet! We can work with you without pressure or obligation to proceed until you are ready to take the next step.

What if I'm not ready yet?

Making a move abroad is a big decision, and you may not be ready to make the move – just yet! 
We can work with you without pressure or obligation to proceed until you are ready to take the next step.

Let us know by asking a question above.

New Brighton Beach Canterbury min

Working at Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora

Who we are at Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora: 

'Te Whatu Ora' translates from our indigenous Māori language to 'the weaving of wellness'; which is what we are all about in our holistic delivery of world-class care for the health and wellbeing of the 5 million Kiwis in our communities.   

Health New Zealand has an open and non-hierarchical approach to improving outcomes for our patients. Our cross-disciplinary collaborative way of working fosters a positive work environment where all members of our team feel supported and empowered. 

Our commitment to you 

We are dedicated to building a team that is representative of the communities that we are serving. We are committed to supporting health equity in our communities. Our kaimahi (staff) thrives on the diversity and inclusion of all perspectives and cultures, and we welcome individuals from all backgrounds and lived experiences. 

Health New Zealand has programmes and facilities available to both protect and improve our teams’ physical, mental and emotional health and wellbeing. We know that you do your best work when you’re feeling your best, so it’s important to us that this is a priority.  

Photo location: New Brighton Beach, Christchurch

Information for International Candidates

Registering to work as a Nurse in New Zealand

To work as a nurse in Aotearoa, New Zealand you must become registered to practice and hold an Annual Practicing Certificate. 

Internationally qualified nurses who meet the Nursing Council of New Zealand standards may apply to become registered to practice in New Zealand. 

To find out more information including the details you’ll need before you apply, please read the information outlined by the Nursing Council.

Acquiring a New Zealand Work Visa

Nurses are on Tier 1 of New Zealand's Green List. Which means you are eligible for the Straight to Residence Visa and can apply for New Zealand residency before you arrive, provided you have a job offer from an accredited employer, like us!

Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora is an Accredited Employer, we are able to employ migrants via the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). Once you become part of the Health New Zealand whānau (family) we’ll support you with settling into New Zealand and your new role.

Find resources, tools, and guidance and explore visa options for you and your family on the Immigration New Zealand website.

How we can support your move to Aotearoa

At this point in time, Health New Zealand is reviewing the relocation package for international applicants and further details will be shared at the time of a job offer.

Making Aotearoa New Zealand your home

Browse the links below and discover information about settling into the Kiwi workplace and making your move a success. 

Our regions and cities • The school system • Housing in New Zealand • Settlement Services • Guide to New Zealand Workplaces • Cost of Living Calculator • Personalised Checklist for your Journey

Free Webinar: Emigrating to New Zealand for Overseas Qualified Nurses

Hear from Ann - an Auckland-based nurse - who has worked all over the world and talks about why she chose New Zealand as her current home.

Māori culture is part of life in Aotearoa New Zealand, you will feel the manaakitanga of our people. Manaakitanga describes the way we welcome our guests and provide hospitality to them; this is something you will experience from all New Zealanders.

Here are some important aspects of biculturalism in Aotearoa, New Zealand:

  • The importance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) in our laws.
  • Te Reo Māori – Māori language as one of the official languages of Aotearoa, New Zealand.
  • Tikanga Māori (the right practice) we work towards preservation and celebration of Māori having equal status.
  • Land ownership – we acknowledge our history and present populations and residency.
  • Equal opportunities for Māori to succeed.

Our Application Process

Submit Icon
Step 1: Submit

Complete the registration form as your expression of interest in a Nursing role

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Step 2: Review

Our Candidate Management Team will review your application and check your suitability

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Step 3: Contact

You will be contacted by our Candidate Management Team to discuss career and location options

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Step 4: Referral

We will refer you to a Recruitment Team in your preferred location(s) for further assessment

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Step 5: Progress

Your chosen Recruitment Team(s) will be in touch with you to continue the recruitment process

Health Settings in New Zealand

Nurses across the country have an important part to play in providing great health outcomes for New Zealanders.

Consistently ranked towards the top globally, Aotearoa New Zealand’s health system is high quality health care with a mixed model of free services and subsidised - where you pay a fee to cover some of the cost. We’re looking for nurses to fill positions across all of these settings of our health system.

A patient being lifted by two registered nurses on either side

Hospital

You will enjoy working in a supportive, close-knit team focused on improving and optimising health and independence outcomes for patients. 

Rosie - Intensive Care Services Nurse, Wellington Hospital

Hospital

You will enjoy working in a supportive, close-knit team focused on improving and optimising health and independence outcomes for patients. 

Our Hospitals are diverse teams, we recognise that a diverse and inclusive workforce achieves the best outcomes for our patients and communities. 

Staff have the ability to function well in a multi-disciplinary team while having the confidence to be a strong advocate for either stable or acutely unwell patients under their care.

Aged care Nurse Pearl supportively checking up on an elderly patient sitting comfortably

Aged Residential Care

Working in Aged Residential Care allows nurses to care and support to impact the lives of older New Zealanders and provide a positive aging experience.

Karrie Stuart, Oceania Nurse practitioner

Aged Residential Care

Working in Aged Residential Care allows nurses to impact the lives of older New Zealanders and provide a positive aging experience.

You will be working in a nurse led service where you will have the opportunity to practice at full scope, using your clinical knowledge and judgment you’ll provide care and support for residents having a meaningful impact on their lives and their families.

Nurses in aged residential care provide care that reflects a resident’s individuality and their right to choice, respect and dignity.

As a registered nurse you will be responsible to oversee the care provided by the caregiver workforce, coordinate and plan daily interventions for individuals and provide expert assessment to inform their ongoing care. 

Three nurses in uniform standing outside the NZ Blood Service building

NZ Blood and Organ Service (NZBS)

Revitalise your nursing passion and feel a sense of pride being an essential aspect of providing a life-saving service to New Zealanders by collecting, processing and distributing blood and blood products.

NZBlood NGO nurses

NZ Blood and Organ Service (NZBS)

Revitalise your nursing passion and feel a sense of pride being an essential aspect of providing a life-saving service to New Zealanders by collecting, processing and distributing blood and blood products.

Working for the New Zealand Blood and Organ Service (NZBS), our Registered Nurses undertake donor health assessments and perform whole blood, plasma and platelet collection procedures. If leadership is your forte, some of our Registered Nurses proceed to coordinate, manage, and conduct collection sessions. Keep your patient skills honed with the Therapeutic Apheresis and Therapeutic Venesection teams, autonomously caring for patients in our hemochromatosis clinic or completing hospital-based stem cell harvests and plasma exchanges. As a nurse at NZBS you will enjoy a better work-life balance (no nights!) while working with healthy donors. Besides being able to participate in professional development and advancement, the position also entails the opportunity to travel through the country (on mobile blood drives).

Three paediatric nurses congregating over patients records on the table at the nurses' station

Primary / Community

Working alongside a dedicated team of Registered Nurses and doctors to ensure patients gain the best possible health outcomes and providing first contact focused care to families or individuals. 

Izzy, Marlee & Emily, Nurses - Health New Zealand

Primary / Community

Working alongside a dedicated team of Registered Nurses and Doctors to ensure patients gain the best possible health outcomes and providing first contact focused care to whānau (families) or individuals. 

As the name suggests, Primary Health care is often the first stop for people requiring health care in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Rewarding and challenging, with something new and interesting happening every day. Primary Health Care is care in the community setting such as General Practices, Māori Health Services, Pacific Health Services and other community-based health services.

In most cases, patients will book an appointment to see Primary Health Care providers. In this setting, you might be required to provide in-depth triage assessments of patients coming into the clinic, deliver patient education, vaccinations and plastering wound care.

 

Let us help you get here...

Your skills are in demand right now working as part of Aotearoa, New Zealand’s largest health workforce. Whether you’re bringing your whānau (family) or making the journey alone we’re here to help you!

nurse with a patient assessing blood pressure

Returning to Practise as a Nurse

If you have been out of practice for 5+ years, the New Zealand Nursing Council (NZNC) can help you return to work.

nurse with a patient assessing blood pressure

Returning to Practise as a Nurse

If you are planning to return to Aotearoa, New Zealand from overseas, to support your application you will need a Letter of Good Standing or Verification of Good Standing from the overseas regulatory authority with which you have been registered, that states the period during which you were registered and affirm that no disciplinary action has or is to be taken against you. Let NZNC know what you have been doing since you last practiced and provide a current CV. If you have practised in a country without regulatory authority, the NZNC can help you through this process.

A couple of registered nurses happily chatting away to each other while checking the syringes

Education & Opportunities

Continual growth and education are encouraged, and assistance for taking up education opportunities.

Janita and Alyshia, nurses - Health New Zealand (high res)

Education & Opportunities

Aotearoa, New Zealand has a flexible working environment with plenty of roles available. This may include paid study days for the purposes of professional development and there may also be movement as well as progression. 

 

Explore Aotearoa

Across our incredible country, you can find everything from city living to cheeky wildlife, unique landmarks, and rich culture. From the winterless north to the stunning scenery of the south, there is a safe, friendly neighbourhood for everyone. 

Find out more information about what part of our beautiful country is the best fit for you.

Te Tai Tokerau

Te Tai Tokerau Northland

Population: 194,600
Northland is a beautiful and diverse region of Aotearoa, New Zealand with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you're interested in water sports, historic sites, natural beauty or ancient Kauri trees—Northland has it all!

Waitemata

Waitematā

Population: 650,000
Waitematā is the largest and one of the most rapidly growing Districts serving the largest population of all Health New Zealand. Waitematā offers a balanced lifestyle that combines the convenience of city living with the natural beauty and community spirit of suburban life.

Te Toka Tumai Auckland

Te Toka Tumai Auckland

Population: 500,000
Auckland the "City of Sails" is Aotearoa, New Zealand’s largest city and commercial hub. It’s where metropolitan sophistication meets breathtaking natural beauty. Auckland is filled with a variety of warm and welcoming communities, packed with new places to explore.

Counties Manukau

Counties Manukau

Population: 500,000
Counties Manukau is a vibrant place where there's never a dull moment! Living and working here ensures you're always close to amenities, events and nature. You'll never run out of places to visit or things to do.

Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty

Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty

Population: 255,110
The Bay of Plenty is a place of beautiful harbours, long surf beaches and an easygoing lifestyle. We showcase the perfect place to explore a wide range of nature-based pursuits – this gives the people of the Bay of Plenty the chance for a better work-life balance. 

Waikato

Waikato

Population: 425,000
The Waikato region is known for its natural beauty, rich Māori culture, and agricultural heritage with something to offer visitors of all interests.

Tairawhiti

Tairāwhiti Gisborne

Population: 48,000
In family-friendly Tairāwhiti you will experience an easier pace to life that allows you to pause, reflect, and enjoy a true work-life balance. Gisborne’s relative isolation is its charm, surrounded by beaches & nature - don't worry though! Larger cities are only a quick flight away.

Lakes

Lakes

Population: 110,000
The Lakes District is well known for its geothermal activity and natural hot springs. The area is located in the central North Island and is home to many geothermal attractions, such as geysers, hot mud pools, and steam vents. Visitors can also relax in the region's natural hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties. 

Taranaki

Taranaki

Population: 130,000
Taranaki is a magical place with a majestic mountain at its heart, including the rugged coastline that's world-renowned for its surf. Its residents' love of art and culture, cafes and outdoor living mean it's also fantastic to work—and play!

Te Mataua Maui HawkesBay

Te Matau a Māui Hawke's Bay

Population: 180,000
Known for its world-class wineries, stunning beaches and temperate climate, Hawke’s Bay boasts a lifestyle that is unmatched. The region is a popular destination for food and wine tourism, hiking, cycling and cultural events such as the annual Art Deco festival.

Explore Hawke's Bay

Whanganui

Whanganui

Population: 65,000
Whanganui has something for everyone. Our centrally located region offers access to outdoor activities such as kayaking, skiing, surfing, tramping, cycling, fishing and hunting. Nestled between two snow-capped mountains, on the banks of Whanganui River there is always plenty to do and explore.

Capital Coast and Hutt Valley

Capital, Coast and Hutt Valley

Population: 445,000
Wellington, the capital city of Aotearoa New Zealand, is a bustling and diverse hub of culture and cosmopolitanism, renowned for its lively cafés, restaurants, and internationally acclaimed sporting and cultural events, all set against the stunning backdrop of a natural harbour. To the north of Wellington lie the regions of Porirua, Kapiti, and Hutt Valley.

Te Pae Hauora o Ruahine o Tararua Mid Central

Te Pae Hauora o Ruahine o Tararua MidCentral

Population: 190,000
Get the best of both worlds - the perfect blend of rural and city living with the mountains, city and sea at your fingertips. 

Wairarapa

Wairarapa

Population: 48,000
From rugged coastlines, boutique vineyards to lush forests, Wairarapa is a slice of paradise for those who love the outdoors and seek a peaceful environment to recharge after a rewarding day's work. 

Explore the Wairarapa

Nelson Marlborough

Nelson Marlborough

Population: 150,000
Nelson Marlborough has been dubbed the artistic capital with a thriving urban centre and one of New Zealand's sunniest regions.

Te Tai o Poutini West Coast

Te Tai o Poutini West Coast

Population: 32,000
Te Tai o Poutini/West Coast has views of both the mountain ranges and the ocean! It is an untamed natural wilderness of beautiful rivers and rainforests, glaciers and geological treasures.  

Waitaha Canterbury

Waitaha Canterbury

Population: 600,000
The Canterbury region is a great place to live and work due to its natural beauty, vibrant economy, cultural diversity, strong community, and high quality of life.

South Canterbury

South Canterbury

Population: 62,000
The South Canterbury District is an area of stunning beauty with great lifestyle opportunities, a safe and welcoming family-friendly environment, affordable living, excellent educational opportunities and a wide range of cultural and sporting facilities.

Southern

Southern

Population: 350,000
Well known for its beautiful natural scenery, which includes towering mountains, stunning fjords, majestic glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes. The region is also famous for its friendly communities, charming towns, and vibrant cities such as Dunedin and Invercargill. 

Testimonials

Our Nurses make a difference to the communities, whānau (family) and individuals they support. Here’s what some of them have to say about working as a Nurse in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

A staff nurse standing in a hospital room in front of a vacant hospital bed smiling

Kristy - Health New Zealand

"Nursing in NZ is quite progressive in terms of focusing on patient care because we consider our patient’s spiritual and physical health, their wellbeing and whānau (family)"

Kristy, Staff Nurse - Health New Zealand

Kristy - Health New Zealand

Nursing in NZ is quite progressive in terms of focusing on patient care because we consider our patient’s spiritual and physical health, their wellbeing and whānau (family).

Everyone here is just amazing to work with and people are very inviting. Our teams are always willing to help out, especially when it comes to education.

Outside of work, me and my family find it easy to do activities, like going on hikes or visiting one of the many Lakes around New Zealand. During summer, there are lots of festivals.

If you are thinking about coming to NZ, why not?! Just do it, you only have one life and you’ll regret it if you don’t.

Critical Care Nurse Alicia standing in scrubs in front of a vacant ICU bed.

Alicia - Health New Zealand

"I think Aotearoa is an amazing place with great people and I wouldn't live anywhere else. It's beautiful, it's safe and I can send my children to school without any fear."

Alicia, Critical Care Nurse - Health New Zealand (high res)

Alicia - Health New Zealand

I think Aotearoa is an amazing place with great people and I wouldn't live anywhere else. It's beautiful, it's safe and I can send my children to school without any fear. The outdoors are just so beautiful, with blue skies – it is called the land of the long white cloud.

I love Nursing in New Zealand, it’s a real privilege to work here with a great team. I find that the collaboration with the multi-disciplinary team is quite unique – it’s a real team approach. It’s not doctors ordering nurses around, we just all get together to give the patients the best care.

New Zealand is a magical amazing place. The beaches are pristine and there is so much wildlife. We love seeing the little blue penguins!

 

Registered nurse Sherwin in blue scrubs standing in a hospital room

Sherwin - Health New Zealand

"What I like about nursing in NZ is the challenge that it brings and the culture. I’m part of a learning group that provides hands-on teaching to new and current staff to refresh their clinical skills."

Sherwin, CVICU Nurse - Health New Zealand (closeup)

Sherwin - Health New Zealand

What I like about nursing in NZ is the challenge that it brings and the culture. I’m part of a learning group that provides hands-on teaching to new and current staff to refresh their clinical skills. It is less hierarchical here compared to where I have come from. Everyone listens and provides their input for interventions or procedures for the patient.

When I’m not at work you would see me with my child at the park. Living in New Zealand, you can have the city life and then within half an hour’s drive, you can easily access nature!

People in New Zealand are one of the best in the world, they are kind and very generous here. You can walk on the sidewalk and just say hi and even talk to strangers. It’s a good place for a kid to grow or to pursue a family.

We'd love to help, reach out to us!

Moving to Aotearoa New Zealand is a fantastic opportunity and a big step, we're here for you! Our dedicated team is here to provide guidance and support throughout your journey, so don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

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