Saying good bye to Germany and relocating to New Zealand can be an exciting adventure, providing a new start on this group of islands full of natural beauty and diverse scenery. As mentioned, New Zealand is spread over a small group of islands, with the majority of the cities located on the North Island and the South Island packed with nature reserves, hiking trails, country parks and beaches. Expats from Germany and other countries enjoy living in New Zealand as it’s a safe, clean country with low cost of living and favourable tax systems. The countries history of attracting expats means the community is highly welcoming to different cultures and nationalities from around the world. Here is some smart guidance on moving to New Zealand: Cost of living in New Zealand Living costs vary according to the city, with the bigger cities such as Auckland and Wellington being more expensive than some of the more rural areas. There are affordable apartments and riverside condominiums to buy or rent in the city and spacious houses with land in the suburbs and villages. People who live and work in New Zealand may generally have to expect that their salaries are lower than in their home country, however, the cost of living may also be considerably lower. Language English and Maori are the official languages of New Zealand. But Maori is very rarely spoken. Career prospects for expatriates A good knowledge and understanding of English language is essential for living and working in New Zealand as are having good qualifications and training. Finding a job in New Zealand, like anywhere else, can take a while so if you are considering moving it’s a good idea to spend some time applying beforehand to give yourself a head start. Weather The climate in New Zealand is generally warm and sunny during most of the year. Outdoor bbq’s and cocktail gardens are popular events across the region and it’s not uncommon for people to wear shorts all year round. Rainfall in the mountains of the northern island and the lower half of the southern island can be common. Educational system The school system in New Zealand ranks as one of the best in the world. You have the right to enroll your children at the state school that is nearest to your home. Some schools have a "home-zone" so spaces are allocated first to those who live the closest. The four-term New Zealand school year begins in late January after a six-week school holiday period and ends in December. New Zealand government meets the cost of state schooling, but parents are expected to contribute towards text books and materials. Schools follow the New Zealand curriculum and the studying the Maori language can be included.