immigration New Zeeland

  • Travel disrupted by
    the Middle East
    situation
  • Issued: Monday 02 Mar 2026, 07:10 pm NZDT

We have established a priority phone line from Monday to Friday for people to contact us about this specific situation. Call 0508 558 855 (toll free from NZ landlines) or +64 9 914 4100 and press option 7. For information about what options are available to you, check:

Middle East: advice for temporary visa holders in New Zealand affected by travel disruptions

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  • Setting up your life in New Zealand

Setting up your life in New Zealand

When you arrive in New Zealand you will need to do several things, including finding somewhere to live, getting a doctor, setting up your phone and utilities, and finding schools if you have children.

  • When you arrive in New Zealand

Moving to a new country is a big change. To help you settle in, there are a few things you should do first, for example, find permanent accommodation, work, schools for your children and a doctor.

  • Getting services in New Zealand

When you come to New Zealand, you will need to set up your mobile phone and internet, and you may also need to arrange utilities for your home, such as water and electricity.

  • Finding somewhere to live

When choosing where to live, you need to think about what kind of accommodation you need short-term, if you want to rent or buy a home, and if you need to be close to schools, friends or family.

  • Managing your money, banking and taxes in New Zealand

If you live and work in New Zealand, you will need to set up a bank account to manage your money, and an IRD number so you can pay taxes here.

  • Childcare, schools and higher education

If you are moving to New Zealand and bringing your family, you need to understand how early childhood education, school and tertiary study works here, what type of education is available, and how to choose a school that is right for your family.

  • Access to public services while in New Zealand

Some visas give you access to public services like state-funded health care and education, and social support payments. The services you can access will depend on your visa.

  • Getting health care and finding a doctor

New Zealand has a comprehensive health system that is subsidised by the government. Find out what services are available to you, and how to access them.

  • Getting around in New Zealand

There are many ways to get around New Zealand, including driving, public transport, cycling and flying.

  • Learning English in New Zealand

If you need to improve your English language skills in New Zealand, you have many courses to choose from.

  • Māori culture and the Treaty of Waitangi

Māori culture and language, and the Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi), are important parts of life in New Zealand.

  • Register interest in living in New Zealand

Sign up to discover the unique and balanced lifestyle awaiting skilled workers in New Zealand.