Buying guide
The 15 best places to live in New Zealand
From cities, to ski towns and rural villages — there are plenty of great places to live in Aotearoa New Zealand
AI summary
This guide explores New Zealand's best places to live, comparing locations on lifestyle, jobs, and cost. Auckland offers strong job opportunities but is expensive, while Wellington is a cultural hub and Christchurch provides a balanced lifestyle.
For premium outdoor living, consider adventure hubs Queenstown and Wānaka. Other top spots include sunny Tauranga for its beaches and Napier for its wineries. More affordable, family-friendly options include the growing city of Hamilton and historic Dunedin.
The best cities (and towns) to live in New Zealand
1. Auckland
2. Christchurch
View of Christchurch and the Canterbury plains.
3. Tauranga
4. Wanaka
5. Dunedin
Dunedin is home to the world's steepest street.
6. Wellington
7. Hamilton
8. Nelson
9. Queenstown
Queenstown is one of NZ's most beautiful towns.
10. Napier
11. New Plymouth
12. Rotorua
13. Blenheim
Blenheim is one of New Zealand's biggest wine producing regions.
14. Havelock North
15. Whangarei
Ready to find a home in your chosen region?
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