After spending your working life in Australia, you may be considering retiring in New Zealand. There are a lot of reasons you may want to take your retirement across the Tasman Sea. New Zealand is world renowned for its gorgeous natural scenery, friendly locals, and high livability score.
Overseas Packers & Shippers are expert international removalists in Australia that help those who are thinking of retiring in New Zealand. This guide will answer all of your important questions about choosing to retire in Aotearoa, so you can start planning the next chapter of your life in this beautiful part of the world.
Does My Superannuation Transfer Over to New Zealand?
The Australian and New Zealand governments introduced the Trans-Tasman retirement savings portability scheme in 2013, effectively allowing Australians to seamlessly transfer their super funds over to the New Zealand KiwiSaver scheme.
It is important to note that not all superannuation organisations in Australia have signed up for this scheme. If you are thinking about transferring your super fund to KiwiSaver, then check with your provider to see if they are eligible.
If your super fund is able to transfer over, then you will be able to apply for the New Zealand pension to fund you during retirement.
What is the Health Care System Like in New Zealand?
New Zealand’s public health care system is funded by taxpayers, government agencies, and the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC). Much like Medicare in Australia, New Zealand’s public health system provides free essential health care services for all citizens and residents in the country.
New Zealand also has a range of private health care providers that provide access to private hospitals. These private health organisations offer complimentary services to the public system, and may be worth investing in if you are ever in need of urgent health care.
The country’s public health system becomes available to Australian retirees who have lived in New Zealand for at least two years or who can prove that they will be residents for at least two years.
The Best Places to Retire in New Zealand
New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most liveable cities, meaning there is no shortage of great places to retire. Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand and has the best amenities, hospitals, and retirement villages out of anywhere in the country. However, all of these great features do come at a price as Auckland has a fairly high cost of living compared to the rest of the country.
If you drive two-hours north of Auckland, you will come to the Northlands city of Whangarei. This city has many of the same desirable features of Auckland – a pleasant coastal climate and great amenities for retirees – but without the higher-end costs.
New Plymouth is located in the Taranaki region and is world renowned for its coastal walkways, bustling cultural scene, and jaw-dropping natural scenery. Retirees love living in New Plymouth for its relaxing lifestyle and beautiful sights sitting between the Tasman Sea and Mount Taranaki.
Finally, Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island and has become a popular destination for retirees from Australia. While the city was devastated by earthquakes roughly a decade ago, Christchurch has since rebuilt and now houses some of the most well-developed amenities for elderly people in the country.
Contact Overseas Packers & Shippers
If you are thinking about retiring in New Zealand, then you will need a professional international moving company to help with your relocation. Overseas Packers & Shippers are an expert moving company from Australia to NZ that you can rely on to help with your transition into retirement.
To find out more, contact our friendly team today!
