The Top 9 Benefits for Americans Retiring in New Zealand

1: New Zealand Retirement Visa

The easiest way to move to New Zealand is to obtain a work visa. But if you plan to retire in the country, there are a couple of ways to do so. 

• New Zealand Temporary Retirement Visitor Visa. This is a two-year visa for people over the age of 66 who can invest NZD 750,000 in the country.
• New Zealand Parent Resident Retirement Visa. This is for parents with a child who is a citizen or resident of New Zealand.

2: High-Quality Healthcare

One of the requirements for obtaining a retirement visa in New Zealand is proof of good health. New Zealand does not want immigrants to become a burden on their universal public healthcare system. The healthcare system is one of the top 20 in the world, and all citizens have equal access to treatment.

3: Pleasant Climate

New Zealand’s climate varies based on region. Though the inland alpine regions can get frigid during winter, most of the country is along the coast. The coastal regions are warm, sunny, and temperate. The northern region is warmer because it’s in the Southern Hemisphere, and temperatures grow colder as you head south.

4: Safety

The crime rate in New Zealand is low, and residents are typically welcoming and trusting of visitors. In 2023, New Zealand ranked fourth in the world on the Global Peace Index. The country has a zero-tolerance policy for guns. Additionally, the dangerous wildlife that can be deadly in Australia isn’t found in New Zealand.

5: Amazing Dining Options

New Zealand’s seafood scene is world-famous. Some highlights include green-lipped mussels, Pacific oysters, rock lobster, and farmed salmon. The country also has a huge coffee culture and is a good place to be for those who love a fabulous cup of espresso. Further, thanks to New Zealand’s isolated location, eating fresh, local foods here is typical.

6: Friendly People and Laid-Back Atmosphere

New Zealanders, also known as Kiwis, are typically friendly and welcoming to foreigners. Known to embrace a work-life balance that involves plenty of time for relaxation, New Zealanders enjoy the time they spend outdoors amid their country’s beautiful landscape. Also, people tend to dress casually, and you don’t need to get dressed up to go out to a nice dinner.

7: Stunning Scenery

New Zealand has a unique and diverse landscape. Within the country, you can see snow-capped mountains, sparkling beaches, volcanic peaks and craters, lush greenery, and crystal-clear lakes. There is a reason why the “Lord of the Rings” movies were filmed in New Zealand. Some of the most beautiful areas are the country’s National Parks, such as Tongariro National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and the Fiordland National Park.

8: Travel

When you’re already in the southern hemisphere, locations that are difficult to reach from America become convenient vacation destinations. For example, though Fiji, Tahiti, and Australia sound exotic and far away when you’re in America, they aren’t that hard to reach from New Zealand. 

9: Reap the Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors

It’s more than just getting exercise. Studies have shown spending time outside can help our mental health as well as physical. New Zealand is perfect for outdoor recreation, including amazing hikes, scenic walks, temperate weather, and plenty of other outdoor sports such as golf, fishing, and swimming.