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
New Zealand offers diverse living options, from bustling cities to scenic towns. Auckland provides top job opportunities but has high costs, while Wellington is the cultural capital. Christchurch offers a great balance of urban life and outdoor adventure at a lower price point.
For a premium lifestyle, adventure hubs like Queenstown and Wanaka are unmatched, though expensive. Growing cities such as Tauranga and Hamilton are popular, family-friendly alternatives to Auckland with more affordable housing.
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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