5 Top Reasons To Move To Canada

Posted on February 16, 2023 | by New Zealand Movers

Oh, Canada! Oh, Canada! Thinking of packing up your life in New Zealand and moving far away to the Great White North? Relocating to Canada is something many Kiwis dream of doing, attracted by the great quality of life, big and vibrant cities, and suitability for family life.

So, before you’re making snow angels in your backyard, let’s talk about some of the other big drawcards of moving to Canada. The experts at New Zealand Movers, who have helped hundreds of Kiwi families pack up and head to Canada, explain the 5 top reasons to jump ship!

1. Loads of job opportunities

Canada has plenty of job opportunities, across a wider range of industries than here in New Zealand. From high-paying mining jobs to manufacturing to real estate to oil and gas, Canada’s job opportunities are abundant in each state.

Alberta is Canada’s biggest province for oil, gas and mining, and many Kiwis in these industries head there for generous salaries and a perfect life for family. Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta’s two biggest cities, consistently rank in the top 8 cities for quality of life in Canada, with an affordable cost of living and a wide range of recreational activities, too.

2. Time for exploring

If there’s one thing you picture when you think of Canada, it’s probably snow and all the related activities that go with it! Every province and territory in Canada experiences snowy winters, giving you and the family a chance to live your best lives as snow bunnies. Skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and snowman building are all common weekend activities for families across Canada.

3. Top educational facilities

Canada consistently ranks within the top 10 countries for education in the world, meaning your children will have excellent learning opportunities. For example, as French is an official language of Canada, every student learns French in school. But French classes aren’t just limited to school kids; in Quebec, for example, the government actually pays work visa holders to learn French. Getting paid to learn another language is a pretty great deal, right?

4. It’s easy to do

New Zealand and Canada are both part of the Commonwealth, and this makes it easy for Kiwis to move to Canada. Obtaining a Canadian work permit is a simple process which can almost entirely be done online, and costs around $300. So, if you’re wanting a change of pace, but don’t want to go through an overly bureaucratic process, moving to Canada is an awesome choice.

5. There’s something for everyone

Canada has something, or somewhere, for everyone. The world-class ski slopes and hiking tracks of Vancouver, the bustling streets with bars and cafes in Montreal, the charming old town of Quebec City, the fast-paced economic hub of Toronto… it’s all happening in Canada.

New Zealand Movers are your first choice team for moving to Canada. Having moved countless Kiwi families to many different Canadian cities, they’re experienced in international relocations and offer stress-free moves at competitive prices. Request a free, no obligation moving quote today.

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Moving to Australia Checklist

Posted on February 6, 2023 | by New Zealand Movers

Thinking of making the move across the ditch? Moving in with our Aussie cousins is something many Kiwis choose to do, attracted by greater job prospects, lower cost of living, and a close proximity to friends and family back home. It’s a decision you certainly won’t regret!

So, what are some of the things you need to do before you make the big move to Australia from New Zealand? Here, the experts at New Zealand Movers, who have over 40 years of experience in moving Kiwis across the Tasman, outline a detailed checklist when moving to Australia from NZ.

Moving to Australia from New Zealand Checklist:

1. Secure the necessary visa

The first thing on your NZ-to-AUS checklist is securing a visa. Kiwis have it relatively easy in this department; all New Zealand citizens are eligible for the Special Category Visa which allows us to work and live in Australia as long as we like.

2. Find a job

It’s always easier to move to Australia from NZ when you’ve lined up a job on the other side first. Not only will this give you peace of mind regarding a financial safety net, but your new employer may also be able to cover part of the cost of moving, flights, etc.

3. Choosing the right city

Australia is a big place, and with remote work becoming more and more common, you may have significantly wider options for choosing where you’re going to live. More than 85% of the population lives within 50km of the coast. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are renowned for their coastlines, but smaller, arguably undervalued cities like Coffs Harbour and Townsville also have their fair share of amazing beaches.

4. Find short-term accommodation

It’s always best to lock in short-term housing in your city of choice, so that you can be present at inspections of homes for sale or rent. We never advise buying or leasing a home, sight unseen.

5. Book your moving company

Once all your ducks are in a row, it’s time to book a slot with New Zealand Movers. They move you anywhere in Australia and guarantee a stress-free moving experience.

6. Convert some NZD to AUD

There are some great money conversion providers out there these days, like XE. Make sure you research this aspect on your own and choose a provider you’re happy with.

What to do once you’ve arrived

Once you’ve arrived in Australia from New Zealand, you have to:

1. Sign up to Medicare

Medicare is Australia’s government healthcare program. Kiwis can access the program once they’ve moved to Australia. You’ll have to head to a Medicare office in person, and bring your passport along.

2. Apply for a TFN

Once you’ve landed in Australia and you’ve sorted yourself out, you can apply for an Aussie Tax File Number here.

New Zealand Movers are the team to call when you’re planning to move to Australia. They’re a highly-rated team of professionals in overseas relocations, and have over 40 years’ experience in moving Kiwis to Australia. Get in touch with New Zealand Movers and start the road to Australia today, request a quote online.

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5 Must-Know Tips for a Stress-Free Move

Posted on January 27, 2023 | by New Zealand Movers

When moving houses, it’s only natural to get caught up in the excitement of making new memories in your dream home. You’re thinking of popping champagne to celebrate your housewarming with friends, watching your children play in their new bedrooms, and all the houseplants you’re going to splurge on!

But before all those magical memories are made, you have to take care of the nitty gritty first – and that’s usually where the stress of moving comes into play.

There’s a big misconception around moving houses and being stressed – the two don’t have to go hand-in-hand!

Let’s consult the pros at New Zealand Movers, your first choice for stress-free moves, and outline 5 must-know tips for moving without the stress.

1. Book as early as you can

Time and stress have a close relationship; the later you leave something, the more stressful it becomes. Booking early with your preferred mover is one of the key ways to minimise stress when moving homes. Like leaving exam study to the last minute, or putting off registering your car, there’s no benefit that comes from procrastination!

Aim to book in at least 6-8 weeks early with your preferred moving company. This way, they’ll have a higher chance of availability, and you won’t have to go around calling a bazillion different companies.

2. Make a list of services to inform

It may not be the most fun task on your stress-free moving list, but it’s better to get it done sooner rather than later. Make a list of services you need to inform about the move – your work, government services, insurance provider, private health provider, gyms and social clubs, and anyone else who may want to know.

3. Lighten the load

Feel like there’s a weight on your shoulders? It’s probably all the items in your home that you no longer want or need. Lighten that load by donating your unwanted goods to charity or advertising them on buyers and sellers websites. If you don’t have space for some items in your new home, then make sure to choose a moving service that offers storage facilities, like New Zealand Movers.

4. Take advantage of a comprehensive moving service

Your schedule is busy enough without having to move the entire contents of your home from one place to another. That’s why great moving teams offer full-service moves which include packing, transportation and unpacking, so you can sit back, relax and watch your new home come to life without lifting a finger!

5. Consult an expert

Still feeling stressed about the move? Talking to an expert like the ones at New Zealand Movers will quell any concerns you have. They work with you to plan your move, step by step, taking all the stress out of moving. Grab a quote online from New Zealand Movers today!

The Advantages of Moving During the Off-Season

Posted on January 20, 2023 | by New Zealand Movers

There’s a reason they call summer ‘the silly season’. Our schedules are so packed out that it’s silly! We’ve got Christmases to host, New Year’s Eve parties to attend, kids on summer holidays to manage, and weekend getaways to book.

Now, try fitting the feat of moving houses in there somewhere… it’s near impossible!

But there’s good news if you’re a busy bee this summer. Waiting it out and choosing the off-season to move homes actually has several advantages. In this post, the professionals at New Zealand Movers tell us the range of benefits of moving during the off-season.

Higher availability

Waiting until after the summer has passed can mean higher availability for your preferred moving company. Loads of families want to move during the summer due to their kids being on holiday, and generally having more free time, which causes top-class movers like New Zealand Movers to book out quickly.

If you’re able to hold out a few months, then choosing the autumn or winter period will give you a much higher chance of securing a date with your preferred moving team.

Potential savings

The prices can often increase during the peak season – not just for moving teams, but for other factors, too. Let’s say you need some temporary accommodation while your family moves from one home to the other; the prices of Airbnbs or hotels during the peak season are generally a lot higher than during the off-season. Here, you get the advantage of potential savings when choosing to move in the off-season.

Less traffic on the roads

The roads can get crazy busy in summer. People are rushing around doing their Christmas shopping, heading away on vacation and have more free time on their hands. In the off-season however, traffic can be far less congested – especially if you choose a weekday for moving homes.

Interstate moves are a breeze

During the peak season, it’s inter-province and cross-island moves that can sometimes suffer the most. When you order a Christmas gift online in mid-December, you’ll often find it takes three times as long to be delivered when compared with the off-season.

The same goes for inter-provincial moves during the summer; the traffic can get congested. An advantage of cross-province moving during the off-season is that delays are less common, ensuring you get your belongings delivered to your new home right on time.

Your own schedule is also less busy

And finally, by choosing the off-season to move houses, you’ve got more time to enjoy the summer and focus on family, friends and festivities.

No matter whether you’re moving during peak season or off-season, New Zealand Movers are your team of choice for moving homes. Offering the best professional moving service in the country, New Zealand Movers are proud to deliver a great moving experience to take the stress out of relocation. Get in touch with the friendly team at New Zealand Movers and ask for a quote today.

The Benefits of Working with an Experienced Moving Company

Posted on January 16, 2023 | by New Zealand Movers

Learning how to move a home is a skill. It’s just like becoming a hairdresser or a mechanic; the more experience you have, the more time you’ve had to hone those skills and become the best professional you can be!

Just like getting a haircut or taking your car in for a service, you’d be a tad nervous if your moving company had little experience. Peace of mind is just one of the benefits of working with an experienced moving company, so let’s talk to the professionals at New Zealand Movers to explain the others!

The art of moving and packing

Anyone who’s worked in logistics, or has even packed for a long holiday, will tell you that there’s an art to moving and packing furniture. While the average person may take three trips to move your belongings from one home to the other, an experienced moving company may do it in a single haul.

Experienced movers learn tricks of the trade which allow them to professionally pack and stow your belongings and maximise space in the truck or container, save time and therefore save you money. Sure, a team of newbies may be offering cheaper rates to undercut the market, but if they take three times as long to do the job, then you’re not saving a whole lot!

Across the street, or across the globe?

Experienced moving companies have the benefit of a further reach. They’ve had years and years to slowly grow and expand their services and, for New Zealand Movers, this has meant offering international relocations. Whether you’re moving to Parnell or Paraguay, New Zealand Movers are experienced in moving Kiwi families overseas through their global network of trusted partners.

Book confidently thanks to comprehensive insurance policies

It’s a fact of life: sometimes, things don’t go as planned. While it’s rare for an experienced moving service to break or damage one of your belongings, you have the benefit of comprehensive insurance policies. This way, you can book your moving date with complete confidence and have peace of mind.

Need space? No worries

A professional, experienced moving service understands that sometimes, we need space – physical space to store stuff, that is. Secure, convenient storage facilities is just another benefit that comes with choosing an experienced moving team like New Zealand Movers. Send your belongings straight to the storage facility from your current house, and have them delivered when you’ve reconfigured your new home or are ready to take delivery in your new location.

New Zealand Movers aren’t just a moving service. They’re your moving service. They’re here for Kiwis far and wide, across the island or across the globe. Wherever you are, you can count on New Zealand Movers for those bigger-and-better moments, the time-to-downsize moments, the ‘I-got-the-job!’ moments and the time-for-a-change moments. Offering the best professional moving service in the country, New Zealand Movers are proud to deliver an exceptional moving experience to take the stress out of relocation. Get in touch with the friendly team at New Zealand Movers and ask for a quote today.

4 Reasons To Move To Tauranga

Posted on January 11, 2023 | by New Zealand Movers

Sunshine and sea mixed with an excellent quality of life and plenty of job opportunities. While that description fits a few places in New Zealand, the first place you’re thinking of is probably Tauranga. A large city with a small-town vibe on the North Island, Tauranga is the ideal place to raise a family and cement yourself in the workforce with a stable career. In this article the team at New Zealand Movers outline 4 top reasons to move to Tauranga, and why so many Kiwi and expat families are choosing to move there.

1) Job opportunities

Job opportunities are one of the things that makes Tauranga not only beautiful, but a practical place to live. The unemployment rate in Tauranga is around 3.9%, a tell-tale sign that there’s plenty of work to be found in this beautiful seaside city. Tauranga is one of New Zealand’s largest port cities, there is opportunity in everything from business to commercial fishing to hospitality and more.

2) Quality of life

Tauranga, like every city in New Zealand, has an excellent quality of life. But what makes Tauranga special is the mix of warmer weather, clean air, and a close-knit suburban lifestyle. If you’re a young professional wanting to be in a central location, cycling and walking are common ways of commuting to work, while families gravitate to outer suburbs like Papamoa Beach… which are still only a 15-20 minute drive from the city.

3) Schools

Tauranga spoils you for choice when you’re looking for great schools for the kids. Offering great options for both public and private schooling, you’ll find fantastic schools all over the region. From central public schools like Tauranga Primary School, to top-rated suburban high schools like Otumoetai College in Bellevue, your children will receive an excellent education in this city.

4) Lifestyle

Whether you’re an indoors type or an outdoor enthusiast, Tauranga isn’t just a place to live: it’s a place to feel alive! Tauranga is a popular tourist destination for Kiwis who want their nature fix. Immaculate beaches, hiking trails, waterfalls, and water sports – that’s what summer looks like in Tauranga. It’s also a city that’s sprawling with trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars, giving you the perfect mix between outdoor and indoor lifestyle.

At New Zealand Movers, the team believes there are infinite reasons to move to Tauranga – but now you know the top four. If you’re thinking of relocating you and your family to Tauranga, New Zealand Movers are the team you need to call. Offering the best professional moving service in the country, New Zealand Movers are proud to deliver a professional moving experience to take the stress out of relocation. Get in touch with the friendly team at New Zealand Movers and ask for a quote today.

Expat’s Guide To Living In Los Angeles

Posted on January 3, 2023 | by New Zealand Movers

There’s no other place in the world like Los Angeles. There are cities that are bigger, but none of them match the energy that this sprawling, unique, beautiful city has to offer. Whether you’re moving to LA for business ventures, to get a head start on your acting career, or for something completely different, the City of Angels has something for everybody.

New Zealand Movers have helped many Kiwis trade in their quiet home towns for the sleepless metropolis of Los Angeles. Here, the team at New Zealand Movers compile what they’ve learned over 40 years of moving Kiwis to Los Angeles. This is your expat’s guide to living in LA!

Choose your neighbourhood wisely

LA is a huge place, with a population of over 13 million people. And unlike other metropolises like New York or Hong Kong, Los Angeles is spread out; people generally live in homes rather than dense apartment blocks. This means there are hundreds of neighbourhoods to choose from, each with their own characteristics that make them beautiful. Families are attracted to the safe, convenient locations of Culver City and Diamond Bar. For young professionals, it’s all about hip neighbourhoods like West Hollywood (WeHo, for short), Venice Beach and Santa Monica. There are so many great suburbs in Los Angeles, so it’s up to you to do your research and pick the perfect spot.

Climate in Los Angeles

For those who love the sunshine, LA has got you covered in it. Year-round sunshine and warm weather is what you can expect as an expat living in Los Angeles, thanks to the city’s distinctly Mediterranean climate. If you were thinking about a white Christmas, you’ll have to head further north; it’s not uncommon for Christmas Day to be 27-28 degrees Celsius in Los Angeles.

Job-seeking in Los Angeles

It’s easier to move to Los Angeles, and America in general, when you’ve already got a job lined up. As soon as you have employment arranged, it takes the pressure out of obtaining visas and navigating the US’s rules around staying in the country on a tourist visa. If you’re planning to find work when you arrive, this is possible too, but you’re only given a period of three months on your tourist visa before you have to gain employment or exit the country.

Getting comfortable in LA

The way to make yourself comfortable when moving to a new place is to research and prepare accordingly. You want to start off on the right foot, so that everything falls in its right place immediately. The way most Kiwis do this is by calling New Zealand Movers on: 0800 000 022

NZ Movers are the nation’s finest team for international relocations. Transporting your belongings across the Pacific with absolutely zero fuss, the team at New Zealand Movers want to make your move to Los Angeles as easy as possible. For over 40 years, their team has helped countless others to relocate to North America, as well as every other continent on the globe… apart from Antarctica, of course. Get in touch and start your new life in LA today!

Moving House? We’ve Got Some Handy Hints

Posted on December 14, 2022 | by New Zealand Movers

Moving house is quite a subjective experience. Some may look at it as a super easy task, and others can view as one of the most difficult. But the truth? Both of these ways of thinking can lead to pitfalls when moving house!

That’s why it’s best to take an informed, measured approach to moving house – rather than viewing it as either easy or hard.

However, New Zealand Movers are here to make it easy for you when moving house. Here, their team outline some handy hints when moving house.

Choose a team with experience

A moving team is the first thing to look for when you’re moving house. Professional movers are essential for any type of home-dweller: whether you’re a student, a large family or a couple of retirees. Professional movers with years of proper experience are what you’re looking for. New Zealand Movers have been conducting local, inter-city and international moves for over 40 years, making them one of New Zealand’s most experienced companies across all three types of moving house.

Consider storage facilities if you need them

When moving house, one of the handiest hints we can give you is to make the most of storage facilities. Many people find that not quite all of their belongings fit or are suited to their new home. In these circumstances, you’re just going to give you belongings away or leave them behind; storage facilities help you with a temporary solution to holding your possessions while you think about the reconfiguration of the new home.

Insurance policies

It may not be the most exciting part of moving homes, but it’s certainly one of the most important: insurance. A good professional mover will have a clear, straightforward insurance options for keeping your belongings covered should something unlikely or unexpected occur. Choose a reputable moving service with a comprehensive insurance policy so that, no matter where you’re going, you can arrive there, stress-free.

Don’t fret over packing

Are you the type of person who gets stressed over packing for a weekend trip, let alone packing the whole house up? You’re not alone in that feeling. That’s why so many Kiwis choose professional packers when moving houses. Professional packers are expertly trained in the art of packing up a home. They use specific techniques and methods to pack your house systematically and unpack it in the new home.

For more handy hints when moving homes, just call New Zealand Movers. They’re one of New Zealand’s best moving companies, offering full-service moves with insurance, packing, storage and more. Priding themselves on a professional service at affordable prices, New Zealand Movers have experience in inter-city and international moves too. Get in touch for a quote today.

Moving To Christchurch – What You Need To Know

Posted on November 23, 2022 | by New Zealand Movers

Thinking about moving to a place that’s perfectly situated between the mountains and the sea? One of the most naturally beautiful places in New Zealand, Christchurch is our country’s second biggest city – and our biggest in the South Island.

If, like many other Kiwis and expats, you’re thinking or relocating to Christchurch, the team at New Zealand Movers offer you some extra information before packing up your current home. Here’s what you need to know about moving to Christchurch… and why it’s such a great idea!

It has some of New Zealand’s best educational institutions

First up, the schooling facilities. Christchurch is home to some of the best educational institutions in New Zealand. From kindergarten all the way up to university, you’ll find that Christchurch offers an elite level of education across both the public and private sector. From top-rated government schools like Hillmorton High School, to distinguished private schools like Rangi Ruru Girls’ School, moving to Christchurch basically guarantees an excellent education for your children. The University of Canterbury is New Zealand’s second-oldest university and frequently ranks as one of the best in the country.

It’s a big city with a relaxed feeling

With a population of almost 400,000, Christchurch is a big city – and yet it feels a lot more relaxed. There’s a bustling cosmopolitan hub in the centre of the city, with many village-feel suburbs surrounding it. Some of the best suburbs to live in are Riccarton, Ferrymead and Sumner Beach.

Christchurch has excellent job prospects

Christchurch is a rapidly-growing city, meaning there’s plenty of work to be found across a multitude of different industries. Some of the most in-demand jobs include construction workers, IT specialists, teachers and lecturers, hospitality workers, healthcare workers and tourism professionals.

Homes are more affordable here

Homes on the North Island can certainly be on the pricier side. Christchurch, on the other hand, is a breath of fresh air in this department. While the average residential home in Auckland is over $1mil, and around $857,000 in the Bay of Plenty region, the average home price in the Canterbury region is significantly less, coming in at $668,000. Perfect for long-term movers, investors or both, your dollar goes further in Christchurch.

It’s a beautiful place to call home

People aren’t just attracted to Christchurch because of its affordable housing, great schools, and excellent job prospects – it’s also due to the pristine beaches, gorgeous mountains and stunning rivers and lakes.

If you’re thinking of relocating you and your family to Christchurch, New Zealand Movers are just a phone call away. Offering the best professional moving service in the country, New Zealand Movers are proud to deliver a premium moving experience to take the stress out of relocation. Get in touch with the friendly team at New Zealand Movers and ask for a quote today.

5 Reasons to Move to Nelson

Posted on October 16, 2022 | by New Zealand Movers

Nelson is New Zealand’s sunshine capital, with delightfully warm summers, crisp white wines and picturesque landscapes. It’s easy to see why Nelson is one of New Zealand’s most visited areas, and there’s no wonder you’re considering making it your home. In this article New Zealand Movers share the top 5 reasons to move to Nelson.

Great housing value

House prices have sky-rocketed on the North Island, meaning you really don’t get much bang for your buck. The housing median in Nelson is about 40% lower than Auckland. So, whether you’re looking to rent or buy, your dollar will go a lot further. A nicer house, bigger backyard and in your ideal location – sounds great, doesn’t it? That’s what you’ll get when you buy in Nelson.

Easy commute

Well, we can barely call it a ‘commute’. Say goodbye to the horrendous peak hours that occur in other major cities. If driving isn’t your thing, Nelson is home to many renowned cycle trails which bring people from all over the world to enjoy. So, whether you’re a bike enthusiast or looking to get active, Nelson is the perfect place to cycle and keep fit.

Thriving economy

Nelson’s economy is booming and it’s easy to see why; there’s a happening art scene, large farming sector and it’s home to New Zealand’s largest fishing port. Unemployment rates are much lower than most parts of the country, plus there are great employment opportunities – particularly in industries such as health, transport and retail.

Nature

Craving nature? Wanting a place to reconnect, recharge and completely unwind? Nelson is the place to be. You’re so close to rivers, lakes, forests mountains and beaches. Whether you’re mountain biking at Kaiteriteri or sunbathing on the secluded Awaroa Beach, you’re never short of options. With sunshine almost year-round, you’ll have ample opportunities to explore all of the golden sand beaches, kayak and even partake in some white-water rafting to appeal to the thrill-seeker in you.

Food and drinks

With rich soil, sunny days and gorgeous landscapes, Nelson produces top quality food and drinks. Head inland to Moutere and you’ll be treated with award winning gourmet cheeses, dry white wines and traditional apple cider; if you prefer, stick to the coast and make your way to Motueka and choose between home-made gelato containing local fruit or for something a little more decadent a hand-crafted buttercream donut.

With a strong economy, a great sense of community and a lower cost of living you can see why the Nelson region is a fantastic place to reside. With an abundance of nature and great food, you’ll never run out of things to do.

If you’re ready to make the move to Nelson, get in touch with New Zealand Movers. They’re the experts in intercity moves and pride themselves on a professional, affordable service, even offering packing and storage to take all the hard work out of moving. Get a quote from New Zealand Movers today.