New Zealand is a land of contrasts. With its dramatic landscapes, friendly people and relaxed lifestyle, it’s no wonder that more and more people are choosing to relocate here. So let’s get started and enjoy the top 12 best places to live in New Zealand!

Best Places to Live in New Zealand
Best Places to Live in New Zealand

But with so many different places to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. To help you make the decision, we’ve put together a list of some of the most livable places in New Zealand.

A good living environment is important for many reasons. It can impact economic growth, personal freedom, health, education, wealth, quality of life, personal welfare, climate, lifestyle, and population. A country with a good living environment is often a desirable place to live. 

New Zealand is widely considered to be one of the best places to live in the world, due in part to its high standard of living. The country ranks highly in measures of economic freedom, personal freedom, health, education, and quality of life. It also has a relatively low crime rate and a pleasant climate. If you’re looking for a good place to live, New Zealand is definitely worth considering.

Climate in New Zealand

MonthMin (°C)Max (°C)Mean (°C)Min (°F)Max (°F)Mean (°F)
Jan16.623.520627468
Feb172420.5637569
Mar15.422.519607266
Apr132016.4556861.6
May11.317.414.4526357.8
Jun91512485953.8
Jul8.214.411.3475852.3
Aug8.81512485953.3
Sep10.216.413.3506256
Oct11.617.614.6536458.3
Nov13.219.416.3566761.3
Dec15.421.818.6607165.5
Yr12.51915.654.46660
Auckland – Average temperatures (1991-2020) (Source: Climatestotravel)

New Zealand has a temperate climate, with mild temperatures year-round. The country experiences a wide range of weather conditions, from subtropical in the north to subpolar in the south. New Zealand is located in the Southern Hemisphere, so the seasons are reversed from those in the Northern Hemisphere. December to February is summer, March to May is autumn, June to August is winter, and September to November is spring.

The weather in New Zealand can be unpredictable, and there are often large variations between regions. The North Island is generally warmer and wetter than the South Island. The east coast of the North Island experiences more rainfall than the west coast, while the west coast of the South Island is drier than the east.

Despite the country’s small size, there is a great deal of variation in the climate across New Zealand. The warmest temperatures are typically found in the north of the country, while the coldest temperatures are found in the south. The mountains and high country experience cooler temperatures and more rainfall than the lowlands.

MonthAverageTotal
January7.5230
February7195
March6190
April5155
May4.5140
June3.5110
July4130
August4.5145
September5150
October5.5180
November6.5190
December6.5195
Year5.52005
Auckland – Sunshine hours (Source: Climatestotravel)


New Zealand is a great place to live because of the many different climate zones that the country experiences. There is something for everyone, whether you prefer the warm weather of the north or the cooler temperatures of the south. Regardless of where you live in New Zealand, you can be sure to experience all four seasons in a year.

Geographical Position

New Zealand is a country located in the southern hemisphere, specifically in the southwest Pacific Ocean. It is made up of two main islands, the North Island and the South Island, as well as many smaller islands.

New Zealand’s geography is varied, with a diverse range of landscapes. The North Island is home to volcanic activity, while the South Island is known for its rugged mountains. Between the two islands, there are also coastal areas, forests, and plains.

12 Best Places to Live in New Zealand

1. Wellington

Wellington
Wellington

With a population of just over 200,000, Wellington is New Zealand’s third most populous city. It is also the capital of New Zealand, and as such is the political and cultural center of the country. Wellington is located at the southern tip of the North Island, and is known for its picturesque setting, with a harbor surrounded by hills. The city is also home to a number of museums and galleries, as well as the National Library of New Zealand. Wellington is a great place to live for its arts and culture, as well as its political importance. It’s also home to some of the best coffee in the country!

2. Auckland

Auckland
Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, with a population of over 1.4 million and is often referred to as the “City of Sails”. It is located on the North Island, and is the country’s commercial and financial center. Auckland is known for its diverse population, with people from all over the world making up its population. The city is also home to a number of parks and recreational areas, as well as the Sky Tower, which offers views of the city and surrounding area. Auckland is a great place to live for its diversity and its many recreational opportunities. With its stunning harbor and abundance of activities, it’s no wonder that Auckland is one of the most popular places to live in New Zealand.

3. Christchurch

Christchurch
Christchurch

Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island of New Zealand, with a population of over 350,000. The city is located on the east coast of the island, and is known for its English heritage. Christchurch is home to a number of parks and gardens, as well as the Christchurch Cathedral. The city is also a great place to live for its proximity to the Southern Alps, which offer a number of outdoor activities. With its proximity to the mountains and the sea, Christchurch is perfect for those who love to get out and explore.

4. Hamilton

Hamilton
Hamilton

Hamilton is the fourth largest city in New Zealand, with a population of over 150,000. It is located on the North Island, and is known for its agriculture and horticulture. Hamilton is home to a number of parks and gardens, as well as the Hamilton Zoo. The city is also a great place to live for its proximity to Auckland, Wellington and other major cities.

5. Tauranga

Tauranga
Tauranga

Tauranga is a city located on the Bay of Plenty in the North Island of New Zealand. It has a population of over 120,000. The city is known for its beautiful setting, with a number of beaches and parks. Tauranga is also home to the Tauranga Art Gallery. The city is a great place to live for its setting and its cultural amenities.

6. Napier

Napier - Best Places to Live in New Zealand
Napier

Napier is a city located on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand. It has a population of over 60,000. The city is known for its Art Deco architecture, which was largely rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1931. Napier is also home to a number of parks and gardens, as well as the National Aquarium of New Zealand. The city is a great place to live for its architecture and its recreational opportunities.

7. New Plymouth

New Plymouth - Best Places to Live in New Zealand
New Plymouth

New Plymouth is a city located on the west coast of the North Island of New Zealand. It has a population of over 70,000. The city is known for its beautiful setting, with a number of beaches and parks. New Plymouth is also home to the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery. The city is a great place to live for its setting and its cultural amenities.

8. Palmerston North

Palmerston North - Best Places to Live in New Zealand
Palmerston North

Palmerston North is a city located in the Manawatu region of the North Island of New Zealand. It has a population of over 80,000. The city is known for its education and research facilities, as well as its parks and gardens. Palmerston North is also home to Massey University. The city is a great place to live for its educational and research opportunities, as well as its recreational opportunities.

9. Nelson

Nelson - Best Places to Live in New Zealand
Nelson

Nelson is a city located in the Tasman region of the South Island of New Zealand. It has a population of over 40,000. The city is known for its arts and culture, as well as its beautiful setting. Nelson is home to a number of parks and gardens, as well as the Nelson Provincial Museum. The city is a great place to live for its arts and culture, as well as its setting.

10. Invercargill

Invercargill - Best Places to Live in New Zealand
Invercargill

Invercargill is the southernmost city in New Zealand, with a population of over 40,000. It is located on the South Island, and is known for its Scottish heritage. Invercargill is home to a number of parks and gardens, as well as the Southland Museum and Art Gallery. The city is a great place to live for its Scottish heritage and its recreational opportunities.

11. Dunedin

Dunedin - Best Places to Live in New Zealand
Dunedin

Dunedin is a city located in the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand. It has a population of over 120,000. The city is known for its Scottish heritage, as well as its university. Dunedin is home to a number of parks and gardens, as well as the University of Otago. The city is a great place to live for its Scottish heritage and its educational opportunities. It’s also known for its Victorian and Edwardian architecture, as well as its lively student population.

12. Queenstown

Queenstown
Queenstown

Queenstown is a city located in the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand. It has a population of over 30,000. The city is known for its Adventure Capital reputation, as it is a great place for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and bungee jumping. Queenstown is also home to a number of parks and gardens. The city is a great place to live for its outdoor activities and its recreational opportunities.

Summary

New Zealand is a beautiful country with plenty of livable places to choose from. In terms of life expectancy, education, gender equality, and financial stability, New Zealand ranks highly in all categories.

One of the best places to live in New Zealand is Auckland. This city has a world-class education system, with plenty of opportunities for students to succeed. Auckland also has a strong economy, and is a great place to start or grow a business.

Wellington is another excellent choice for those looking for a livable place in New Zealand. Wellington has a high quality of life, and is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities. This capital city has plenty to offer in terms of culture, nightlife, and dining.

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Top 10 Best Places To Live In New Zealand


Christchurch is another great option for those looking to live in New Zealand. This city has a strong sense of community, and is a great place to raise a family. Christchurch also has a thriving arts and culture scene, and is home to some of the best restaurants in the country.

If you’re looking for a livable place in New Zealand, you can’t go wrong with any of these three cities. Each one has something unique to offer, and all three are excellent places to call home.

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Marcel Kuhn