Moving to New Zealand from India: Pros and Cons
A growing number of Indians are opting to move to New Zealand due to its strong economy, high quality of life, and comparison to other countries in the region. However, it is important to consider the pros and cons of relocating to New Zealand before making such a huge decision. This article will explore the benefits and drawbacks of moving to New Zealand from India.
Pros of Moving to New Zealand from India
The most obvious benefit of moving to New Zealand from India is that it is a developed country with a strong economy and a high quality of life. According to the World Bank, New Zealand’s GDP per capita was estimated at $45,744 in 2019, roughly four times that of India in the same year. This means that the average person in New Zealand is likely to have greater access to goods, services, and opportunity than they would in India. Additionally, the overall safety and security in New Zealand is quite high: it is ranked 6th in the Global Peace Index, making it one of the safest countries in the world.
In terms of living standards, New Zealand scores highly and is seen as a desirable destination to migrate to. It ranked first in the 2020 Human Development Index, which looks at three indicators to examine overall progress of a country: life expectancy at birth, education, and per capita income. The Human Development Index measures all three factors together, giving an overall indication of the quality of life in a destination country.
One of the main attractions of New Zealand is its natural environment. The country is known for its lush green landscape, made up of mountains, valleys, lakes, and forests, and is a favored destination for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. New Zealand also boasts a wealth of cultural attractions, with traditional Maori culture being particularly strong in the region.
Cons of Moving to New Zealand from India
One of the main drawbacks of moving to New Zealand from India is the cost of living. With an average house price of nearly $NZ 1million, the country can be difficult to afford for many migrants. New Zealand is a small country geographically, and so housing and real estate costs tend to be higher than in larger countries like India. Additionally, New Zealand’s cost of living index is higher than in India, which means that basic goods and services are more expensive in New Zealand.
Another disadvantage of moving to New Zealand is the language barrier. Although English is an official language, Kiwi English (the local dialect) can be difficult to understand for English speakers from other countries. This can make it difficult to settle in and to find work, as job advertisements often require applicants to have a good understanding of the local dialect. Additionally, because the country has such a small population, there are fewer job opportunities than in India.
The final point to consider before moving to New Zealand is the climate. New Zealand has a subtropical climate, with warm summers and cooler winters. This climate is significantly different to India, which only has two distinct seasons. New Zealand’s climate can be hard to adjust to, and newcomers often struggle to cope with the cooler winters and lack of sunshine during certain periods of the year.
Travel Requirements
Indians wishing to move to New Zealand must have a valid passport and obtain a visa allowing them to reside and work in the country. The visa requirements vary depending on the purpose of the move, and individuals are advised to research these requirements carefully before making a decision to move.
It is also important to be aware of the New Zealand immigration rules, which are subject to change. These rules vary depending on factors such as age, profession, and current immigration status. The New Zealand government also outlines an expectation that all migrants should have a basic understanding of the local language, so it is useful to undertake some form of language training before relocating.
Accommodation
The accommodation options vary widely in New Zealand, from high-end rentals to budget hostels. Accommodation prices are higher than in India, but there are still relatively affordable housing options available, particularly if multiple people are sharing. Long-term accommodation will usually require a lease agreement, and all agreements should be thoroughly reviewed to ensure they are fair and legally binding.
It is also important to be aware of the property laws in New Zealand, especially if you are looking to buy property in the country. There are many different rules and regulations to be aware of, so it is advisable to seek professional advice before committing to any property purchase.
Cost of Living
As mentioned previously, the cost of living in New Zealand is higher than in India. However, there are certain areas in which living costs are lower. Food, drink, and groceries are all often cheaper in New Zealand than in India, due to different taxation laws and the country’s proximity to large markets. Additionally, healthcare is also usually less expensive in New Zealand than in India as the country has universal healthcare.
The cost of transportation in New Zealand is relatively low compared to India, with public transport being both reliable and affordable. It is also relatively safe to drive in New Zealand, although driving as a new resident can take some getting used to.
Education
Education in New Zealand is of a high standard, with the country boasting both world-class universities as well as a thriving vocational education sector. New Zealand universities are well-regarded internationally, with the University of Auckland and University of Otago both scoring highly in international rankings. Tuition fees for international students are lower than in many countries, making studying in New Zealand a viable option for those who are considering relocating.
New Zealand also has a number of world-class schools for primary and secondary education, which offer a rounded education to students of all ages. Many of these schools offer bilingual education, making it easier for children to adjust and make friends in their new home country.
Culture & Social Life
The culture of New Zealand is unique and has been shaped by the experiences and influences of its many different peoples. The Maori were the first settlers in the country, and their traditions are still a strong part of the culture today. English is the main language in New Zealand, but there are also a number of languages spoken in the country, including Maori, Samoan, Fijian, and Tongan.
New Zealand is an outward-looking and tolerant society, and newcomers are often warmly welcomed. There is a vibrant cultural scene in the country, with art galleries, theaters, and music events taking place on a regular basis. Additionally, the nightlife in New Zealand is varied and can cater to a range of tastes.
Conclusion
Moving to New Zealand from India can be a rewarding experience and a great opportunity for those looking to further their life and career opportunities. However, it is important to consider the cost of living, the language barrier, and the climate before making such a big life decision. Therefore, interested individuals should thoroughly research the relevant information before they commit to the move.
