10 Best Places to Live in New Zealand

If you could live anywhere in the world, why not choose somewhere with volcanoes, vineyards, beaches – and barely any traffic jams? New Zealand is one of those rare places that lives up to the hype. It’s clean, safe, stunningly beautiful, and offers a lifestyle that many can only dream of.

Buzzing cities, relaxed beach towns and scenic hideaways. New Zealand offers a lifestyle for every kind of expat. Some places stand out for job opportunities and education, others for sunshine, space, or access to the great outdoors. The challenge is figuring out which location fits you best!

This guide highlights ten of the best places to live in New Zealand – along with a few hidden gems to consider. Whatever your dream lifestyle looks like, there’s a town or city here ready to make it a reality.

So, here is the list of the top 10 best places to live in New Zealand:

• Wellington
• Tauranga
• Christchurch
• Queenstown
• Auckland
• Dunedin
• Nelson
• Napier–Hastings
• Hamilton
• Rotorua

Wellington: A Compact Capital with a Big Personality

New Zealand’s capital city might be small in size, but it’s bursting with creativity, culture, and community spirit. Set around a picturesque harbour and framed by green hills, Wellington is known for its lively arts scene, independent cafés, and a famously windy climate. Its walkability and charm make it a favourite among expats looking for a mix of city living and coastal calm.

Creative Careers and Community Vibes

Wellington is a magnet for public sector professionals, tech workers, and creatives. It’s also home to a film and digital media industry that punches well above its weight. Weta Workshop is based here, and the city has a growing start-up scene alongside government offices and embassies. Coworking spaces, local markets, bookshops, and live music are all part of daily life. Perfect for those who want to live and work somewhere that feels human-sized but culturally rich.

Is Wellington Right for You?

If you’re after a big city vibe without the sprawl, Wellington fits the bill. While property prices can be high, many residents love the trade-off: short commutes, ocean views, and a vibrant cultural calendar. For expats who value community, walkability, and a creative atmosphere, Wellington offers an ideal balance.

🔎 At a Glance

• Population: ~215,000 (city), ~540,000 (metro area)
• Best for: Creatives, public sector professionals, students, and culture lovers
• Recommended neighbourhoods: Mount Victoria (central, character homes), Island Bay (family-friendly), Thorndon (historic, close to CBD)
• Must-see attractions: Te Papa Museum, Wellington Cable Car, Cuba Street (for food and arts)
• Top university: Victoria University of Wellington
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$2,500 – NZ$3,500

Tauranga: Sunshine, Surf and Suburban Comfort

Located in the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing cities, and it’s easy to see why. It blends a relaxed coastal lifestyle with family-friendly suburbs, good schools, and year-round sunshine. Just across the harbour lies Mount Maunganui, a surfy beach town that adds to the area’s appeal.

A Coastal City with Broad Appeal

Tauranga offers a great quality of life for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Its economy is powered by shipping, horticulture, tourism, and a growing number of remote workers and small businesses. The harbour, beaches, and nearby walking trails make it easy to stay active, while the city’s steady growth ensures a wide range of amenities and services.

Is Tauranga Right for You?

If you’re looking for laid-back living in a warm climate, Tauranga ticks a lot of boxes. Housing has become expensive due to high demand, but many see it as a worthwhile trade-off for the lifestyle on offer. You might start your day with a paddleboard session and end it with a sunset dinner by the sea – Tauranga makes it all feel effortless.

🔎 At a Glance

• Population: ~160,000
• Best for: Families, retirees, and beach lovers seeking sun and space
• Recommended neighbourhoods: Bethlehem (suburban and upmarket), Mount Maunganui (beachside and energetic), Papamoa (laid-back and growing)
• Must-see attractions: Mount Maunganui summit walk, Pilot Bay, Tauranga Waterfront
• Top local university or institute: Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$2,800 – NZ$3,800

Christchurch: A City Reimagined

Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island, is one of New Zealand’s most resilient and forward-thinking urban centres. Since the 2011 earthquakes, it has undergone a remarkable transformation – blending innovative design with its English heritage charm. Tree-lined streets, a strong sense of community, and a blossoming arts scene make Christchurch feel both grounded and full of promise.

Rebuilding into a New Kind of City

Christchurch is growing into a modern, well-planned city that appeals to professionals, families, and lifestyle seekers alike. It’s home to key sectors like engineering, agriculture, and healthcare, and its lower cost of living (compared to Auckland or Wellington) makes it a smart choice for those wanting space, opportunity, and a slower pace. With the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean both within reach, the city is also a gateway to incredible natural experiences.

Is Christchurch Right for You?

If you’re looking for balance between affordability and opportunity, city life and outdoor access, Christchurch delivers. Its rebuild has sparked a creative wave of new cafes, green spaces, and sustainable architecture. For expats who value community, innovation, and access to nature, Christchurch offers a fresh start in every sense of the word.

🔎 At a Glance

• Population: ~390,000 (city), ~550,000 (metro area) 
• Best for: Families, professionals, and nature lovers looking for a well-balanced lifestyle 
• Recommended neighbourhoods: Merivale (upmarket and close to the city), Sumner (coastal and laid-back), Riccarton (popular with students and families) 
• Must-see attractions: Christchurch Botanic Gardens, New Regent Street, Port Hills 
• Top local universities or institutes: University of Canterbury, Ara Institute of Canterbury  
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$2,500 – NZ$3,500

Queenstown: Living Where Others Holiday

Queenstown isn’t just a place to visit. For many, it’s the dream destination to call home. Set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, this resort town offers one of the most stunning natural backdrops in New Zealand. Known as the country’s adventure capital, Queenstown is perfect for those who love an active lifestyle, or simply want to wake up to postcard views.

A Lifestyle of Adventure (or Relaxation)

This is a place where weekends mean skiing, hiking, mountain biking, or sipping wine at a lakeside vineyard. Queenstown’s tourism roots have created a lively town centre with restaurants, nightlife, and international energy year-round. While the local job market is heavily tourism-focused, remote work has become increasingly common for expats who want the lifestyle without relying on seasonal industries.

Is Queenstown Right for You?

Living in Queenstown comes at a premium. Housing is among the most expensive in the country, and rental competition can be fierce. But for those who can afford it or work remotely, the lifestyle is unmatched. If you’re seeking adventure, world-class scenery, and a small-town feel with big energy, Queenstown may be your perfect base.

🔎 At a Glance

• Population: ~50,000 (Queenstown-Lakes District)
• Best for: Adventure seekers, remote workers, lifestyle-focused expats
• Recommended neighbourhoods: Fernhill (great views and access to nature), Kelvin Heights (exclusive and peaceful), Frankton (more practical, close to the airport and shops)
• Must-see attractions: Skyline Gondola, The Remarkables ski area, Lake Wakatipu cruises
• Top local university or institute: Southern Institute of Technology (Queenstown campus)
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$3,500 – NZ$5,000

Auckland: Where Big City Buzz Meets Coastal Calm

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest and most multicultural city, home to around 1.5 million people and a rich mix of Māori, Pasifika, Asian, and European cultures. Set between two sparkling harbours, it’s easy to see why Auckland is nicknamed the “City of Sails.” Whether you’re enjoying fish and chips on Mission Bay, taking a ferry to Waiheke Island, or hiking through the Waitākere Ranges, nature is always close by.

Work, Study and Play

With the most job opportunities in the country, Auckland is a hub for industries like tech, healthcare, construction, and education. It’s also home to New Zealand’s top-ranked university, making it popular with students and young professionals. The city’s lively arts scene, cultural festivals, and international cuisine give it an urban energy that’s hard to match elsewhere in the country.

Is Auckland Right for You?

Life in Auckland does come with a higher price tag – average rents and house prices are among the steepest in New Zealand. But many expats find the trade-off worth it for strong career prospects, excellent public transport, and a vibrant, welcoming lifestyle in a city that rarely sleeps. From vibrant nightlife to coastal escapes, Auckland delivers a lifestyle that suits a wide variety of tastes.

🔎 At a Glance

• Population: ~1,531,400 million (metro area)
• Best for: Career-driven professionals, students, and expats seeking a big-city lifestyle with natural beauty
• Recommended neighbourhoods: Ponsonby (trendy and central), Mission Bay (beachside and relaxed), Mount Eden (leafy and family-friendly)
• Must-see attractions: Sky Tower (panoramic views), Waiheke Island (wine and beaches), Auckland Museum (culture and history)
• Top universities: University of Auckland, Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$3,000 – NZ$4,500

Dunedin: Student Energy Meets Southern Charm

Set on the rugged Otago coast, Dunedin offers a unique blend of youthful energy, heritage charm, and dramatic natural surroundings. With strong Scottish roots, this southern city boasts grand architecture, steep streets, and a tight-knit community feel. It’s home to New Zealand’s oldest university, which gives the city its distinctive buzz, especially during the academic year.

A City That Thinks, Studies, and Surprises

Dunedin is known for its vibrant student population, thanks to the University of Otago and Otago Polytechnic. But beyond academia, the city punches above its weight with creative arts, indie cafes, wildlife experiences, and a growing start-up culture. Surrounded by beaches and close to the Otago Peninsula, it’s also a great base for nature lovers as penguins, seals, and sea lions are regular locals too.

Is Dunedin Right for You?

Dunedin offers one of the more affordable lifestyles in New Zealand, particularly for renters and first-time buyers. The cooler climate won’t suit everyone, but if you value character, creativity, and a strong sense of place, Dunedin is well worth considering. It’s especially popular with students, educators, and expats looking for something a little different from the typical North Island hotspots.

🔎 At a Glance

• Population: ~134,000
• Best for: Students, academics, creatives, and those seeking a cooler climate and affordable lifestyle
• Recommended neighbourhoods: North East Valley (student-friendly and green), St. Clair (coastal and relaxed), Maori Hill (leafy and upmarket)
• Must-see attractions: Baldwin Street (world’s steepest street), Otago Peninsula, Dunedin Railway Station
• Top universities: University of Otago, Otago Polytechnic
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$2,200 – NZ$3,200

Nelson: Sunshine, Sea and a Slower Pace

Tucked at the top of the South Island, Nelson is known for its sunny weather, artistic community, and easy access to nature. With three national parks nearby and a relaxed coastal vibe, Nelson attracts creatives, remote workers, retirees, and anyone seeking a slower, more intentional way of life. It’s a small city with a big lifestyle.

Creative Living in a Coastal Setting

Nelson has long been a haven for artists and artisans, and its weekend markets and galleries reflect that spirit. It’s also a gateway to some of New Zealand’s best outdoor experiences, including the Abel Tasman Coast Track and golden beaches that feel like tropical escapes. With a thriving local food and wine scene, Nelson offers a high quality of life in a peaceful, scenic setting.

Is Nelson Right for You?

If you’re after sunshine, nature, and community but without the hustle of big-city living, Nelson is a strong contender. While job opportunities can be more limited than in larger centres, remote work and small business ventures thrive here. It’s ideal for expats who value lifestyle over ladder-climbing and want to trade commutes for coastal walks and farmers’ markets.

🔎 At a Glance

• Population: ~54,000
• Best for: Retirees, creatives, remote workers, and lifestyle seekers
• Recommended neighbourhoods: Stoke (quiet and residential), The Wood (walkable and close to town), Atawhai (coastal and relaxed)
• Must-see attractions: Abel Tasman National Park, Tahunanui Beach, Nelson Saturday Market
• Top local university or institute: Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT)
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$2,400 – NZ$3,500

Napier–Hastings: Wine Country Living with Coastal Views

Located in the Hawke’s Bay region on the North Island’s east coast, the twin cities of Napier and Hastings offer an appealing mix of sunshine, seaside living, and some of New Zealand’s best wine country. With a warm, dry climate and a slower pace of life, this region is ideal for those seeking space, community, and a touch of elegance in their everyday.

A Blend of Heritage and Lifestyle

Napier is famed for its striking Art Deco architecture, a legacy of the city’s rebuild after the devastating 1931 earthquake. Just down the road, neighbouring Hastings is surrounded by orchards, vineyards, and rolling farmland. Together, the region delivers a strong sense of identity, a growing food and wine scene, and easy access to beaches, bike trails, and community events. It’s a popular choice for retirees, young families, and anyone chasing a laid-back, sun-soaked lifestyle.

Is Napier–Hastings Right for You?

If you’re looking for a gentler pace of life with a high quality of living, Napier–Hastings is a great choice. While job opportunities may be more limited compared to larger cities, remote workers, entrepreneurs, and those in agriculture or hospitality will find plenty of potential. Plus, with more affordable housing and some of the country’s best weather, it’s a hidden gem that’s becoming less hidden every year.

🔎 At a Glance

• Population: ~140,000 (combined urban area)
• Best for: Retirees, families, and wine and sunshine lovers
• Recommended neighbourhoods: Havelock North (charming and upmarket), Taradale (leafy and quiet), Ahuriri (seaside with a creative vibe)
• Must-see attractions: Art Deco buildings in Napier, Hawke’s Bay wineries, Te Mata Peak
• Top local university or institute: EIT (Eastern Institute of Technology)
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$2,400 – NZ$3,300

Hamilton: Growing Comfort in the Heart of the North Island

Situated along the banks of the Waikato River, Hamilton is New Zealand’s largest inland city and one of its fastest-growing urban centres. Often overlooked in favour of flashier coastal destinations, Hamilton is quietly building a reputation as a practical and welcoming base — especially for families, students, and those priced out of Auckland.

Affordable, Central, and On the Rise

Hamilton is a hub for agriculture, education, and research — home to Waikato University and several major research institutions. Its central North Island location means easy access to Auckland, Tauranga, Rotorua, and even the Waitomo Caves. While it may not offer beaches or mountains at your doorstep, it makes up for it with green spaces, growing infrastructure, and a strong sense of community.

Is Hamilton Right for You?

If you’re looking for affordability, convenience, and a down-to-earth lifestyle, Hamilton is a smart choice. It’s popular with young families and professionals looking for more space without sacrificing job prospects or access to major cities. While it may lack the wow-factor of Queenstown or Wellington, its practicality and steady growth make it an increasingly popular home base for expats and Kiwis alike.

🔎 At a Glance

• Population: ~180,000
• Best for: Families, students, and professionals looking for space, value, and strong connectivity
• Recommended neighbourhoods: Rototuna (modern and family-friendly), Hamilton East (leafy and close to the university), Flagstaff (quiet and residential)
• Must-see attractions: Hamilton Gardens, Waikato River walks, Hobbiton (nearby day trip)
• Top university: University of Waikato
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$2,400–NZ$3,300

Rotorua: A Cultural Heartland Surrounded by Nature

Famed for its geothermal wonders and deep Māori heritage, Rotorua offers a living experience unlike anywhere else in New Zealand. Geysers, mud pools, and natural hot springs are part of daily life – as is a strong connection to culture, language, and community.

Nature, Culture and Affordability Combined

Rotorua is one of the most affordable places to live on this list yet offers incredible lifestyle perks. It’s surrounded by lakes, forests, and mountain biking trails, and is home to a wide variety of Māori cultural centres and experiences. It also has a growing economy focused on tourism, forestry, health, and education making it a practical option as well as a beautiful one.

Is Rotorua Right for You?

If you’re looking for a smaller, close-knit city with a unique identity and rich cultural connection, Rotorua could be the perfect fit. The geothermal activity brings a bit of a sulphur smell in some areas, which not everyone loves, but the stunning environment, low cost of living, and welcoming atmosphere more than make up for it.

🔎 At a Glance

• Population: ~80,000
• Best for: Cultural immersion, nature lovers, and expats seeking affordability
• Recommended neighbourhoods: Lynmore (leafy and family-friendly), Fenton Park (central and convenient), Springfield (quiet and established)
• Must-see attractions: Whakarewarewa Forest, Polynesian Spa, Te Puia (geysers and cultural centre)
• Top local university or institute: Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$2,200 – NZ$3,000

Honourable Mentions: Hidden Gems Worth Considering

Not every great place to live in New Zealand makes the top 10. These smaller towns and regions may fly under the radar, but each one offers something special — whether it’s stunning scenery, affordability, or a strong sense of community. If you’re open to exploring beyond the obvious, these spots deserve a closer look.

New Plymouth – Coastal Cool with a Creative Edge

Set between the Tasman Sea and Mount Taranaki, New Plymouth offers surf, snow, and striking views all in one place. It’s a magnet for outdoorsy types and has a growing arts scene, supported by the popular Govett-Brewster Art Gallery. Housing is still relatively affordable, and the town’s compact layout makes it easy to get around.

• Best for: Nature lovers, creatives, and families wanting a balanced lifestyle
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$2,300 – NZ$3,300

Whangārei – Laid-Back Living in the Winterless North

Northland’s largest city, Whangārei enjoys a warm climate and access to some of New Zealand’s most beautiful beaches. It’s a great option for retirees or those seeking a slower pace. While job opportunities are more limited, the lifestyle perks — like boating, walking tracks, and community feel — are hard to beat.

• Best for: Retirees, remote workers, and sun seekers
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$2,100 – NZ$3,000

Wanaka – Queenstown’s Quieter Cousin

Wanaka delivers all the alpine charm of Queenstown but with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. With Lake Wanaka at its heart and snow-covered peaks all around, it’s a dream for anyone into skiing, hiking, or just soaking up the view. Be warned — the scenery comes at a cost, with house prices among the highest in the country.

• Best for: Outdoor adventurers, digital nomads, and lifestyle-focused expats
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$3,200 – NZ$4,800

Invercargill – Southern Affordability and Space

Often overlooked, Invercargill offers some of the most affordable housing in New Zealand. It’s ideal for families or remote workers who want space, fresh air, and a strong community feel. The city is also a gateway to the wild beauty of the Catlins and Stewart Island.

• Best for: Budget-conscious expats, families, and those seeking quiet, small-town life
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$2,000 – NZ$2,800

Selwyn District – Fast-Growing and Family-Focused

Just outside Christchurch, Selwyn is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing areas. With new housing developments, good schools, and short commutes into the city, it’s especially attractive to young families. It combines modern suburban comfort with access to the great outdoors.

• Best for: Families, commuters, and those seeking newer housing options
• Average monthly living costs: NZ$2,500 – NZ$3,300

Choosing the Right Place for You

There’s no single “best” place to live in New Zealand. The right location depends on your lifestyle, career, budget, and the type of environment you want to call home. Some are drawn to the buzz of Auckland, others to the creative pulse of Wellington, the affordability of Dunedin, or the coastal calm of Tauranga. New Zealand offers something for everyone.

When deciding, consider what matters most: job opportunities, weather, cost of living, access to nature, or community feel. Don’t be afraid to look beyond the obvious. Smaller towns like Nelson or Wanaka might offer the perfect balance of lifestyle and pace.

Wherever you end up, one thing’s certain: life in New Zealand promises natural beauty, friendly locals, and a refreshing quality of life.

Ready to Make the Move?

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