Work in New Zealand

Survey after survey proves New Zealand’s enviable work-life balance. According to the 2025 “Global Life-Work Balance Index” by Remote, New Zealand ranked first with a score of 86.87 / 100, putting it at the top globally for work-life balance. Meanwhile, influential city-livability rankings continue to highlight New Zealand’s appeal. The 2024 Mercer “Quality of Living” study placed Auckland in 5th place globally, the highest in the Pacific region.

These data reflect not only strong work-life balance but also outstanding living conditions, making New Zealand an attractive destination to live and work.

New Zealand offers an excellent environment for families, with a wide choice of housing, quality education and accessible healthcare. The education system is internationally recognised, and healthcare is affordable and easy to access. Settling in is straightforward, and shorter commutes combined with a strong work-life balance mean more time with family.

Recent research highlights New Zealand as one of the best places in the world to raise children. The 2024 Ipsos Health Services Report found that 86 percent of New Zealanders consider themselves in good health—well above the OECD average. International studies also rank New Zealand seventh globally for public family policies, reflecting its supportive, family-friendly environment and high quality of life.

New Zealand is known for its peaceful, welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community. While serious crime does exist, it occurs at lower rates than in many other countries, and most people feel safe going about their daily lives. The country’s open, easy-going culture helps create a sense of trust and connection among communities, contributing to a stable and harmonious society.

Many New Zealanders who have lived overseas choose to return home when it’s time to raise a family, drawn by the country’s safety, stability and relaxed pace of life. It’s a place where people can enjoy freedom and security, surrounded by friendly neighbours and a supportive community.

New Zealanders have a deep sense of guardianship (kaitiakitanga) over their environment. The country enforces strict controls over land development, fishing, water quality and conservation, and more than 30 % of its land is set aside as national parks or protected areas. Conservation efforts focus on preserving native wildlife, including endangered species such as the kiwi, and on restoring natural habitats.

Visitors and new residents quickly notice the care taken to protect the environment, from the clean waterways and well-maintained landscapes to strict biosecurity rules at airports that prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. Living in New Zealand offers the chance to experience a clean, beautiful, and largely unspoiled natural environment, where outdoor activities and connection with nature are an everyday part of life.