Experiencing Life as a Digital Nomad in New Zealand: A Personal Journey
New Zealand has always been a dream destination for me. Coming from the UK, it’s about as far as one can go before beginning the journey back home. However, the charm of its pristine landscapes, welcoming locals, and relaxed way of life made it the ideal location for remote work. Recently, I made that dream a reality and spent a month traversing the country as a digital nomad. Here’s all I discovered—from the best cities for work to living expenses, and tips on how to maximize your experience in this breathtaking part of the world.
Why New Zealand is Perfect for Digital Nomads
New Zealand is a haven for remote workers. With a population slightly above 5 million, it provides a tranquil and spacious atmosphere without losing modern comforts. The country boasts excellent connectivity with dependable WiFi, superb coffee shops, and a rising number of coworking spaces. Whether you’re trekking in the Southern Alps, relaxing in geothermal hot springs, or working at a beachfront café, New Zealand perfectly balances productivity with adventure.
My Digital Nomad Adventure in New Zealand
I dedicated an entire month to living and working remotely in New Zealand, dividing my time between a house sit in Auckland, a road trip around the North Island, and a week discovering the South Island. Each destination had its unique offerings, yet all were surprisingly well-suited for remote work. Even in smaller towns, I discovered dependable internet and friendly communities.
Top Cities for Digital Nomads in New Zealand
1. Auckland
As the largest city in New Zealand, Auckland serves as a center for business, culture, and connectivity. I found accommodation in Devonport, a delightful suburb just a ferry ride away from the CBD. The city is filled with numerous coworking spaces, lively neighborhoods like Ponsonby, and a plethora of activities to indulge in during your downtime—from whale watching to visiting the iconic Sky Tower.
2. Christchurch
Christchurch merges urban convenience with serene natural beauty. I resided in Riccarton, near Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens. The city’s laid-back vibe, coupled with an impressive café culture and budding tech scene, makes it an excellent home base for digital nomads. The Riverside Market is a must-see for culinary enthusiasts.
3. Queenstown
Renowned as the adventure hub of New Zealand, Queenstown is perfect for nomads who adore the outdoors. I stayed in Frankton, which provided a quieter atmosphere with easy access to the town center. Whether you’re jet boating, hiking, or wine tasting, Queenstown offers limitless avenues for exploration.
4. Wellington
As the capital city, Wellington is a vibrant hub of creativity and culture. Te Aro and Mount Victoria are favored neighborhoods for digital nomads, featuring a blend of cafés, coworking spaces, and scenic vistas. Wellington’s compact nature makes navigation convenient, and its central setting is ideal for discovering both islands.
5. Dunedin
A hidden treasure on the South Island, Dunedin brings together historical allure and natural beauty. I adored the Scottish-style architecture and the nearby Otago Peninsula, home to distinctive wildlife. Central Dunedin and North Dunedin are fantastic areas for nomads, with a mix of cafés, coworking spaces, and a youthful energy thanks to the local university.
Locating Accommodation in New Zealand
During my visit, I utilized various platforms for finding accommodation:
– Booking.com: Great for brief stays with flexible cancellation options.
– Airbnb: Perfect for extended stays with listings across both islands.
– Trusted Housesitters: I arranged a two-week house sit in Auckland, significantly reducing my accommodation expenses.
– Vrbo: A strong alternative to Airbnb with competitive rates.
Living Expenses in New Zealand
I discovered New Zealand to be quite reasonably priced, particularly when stacked against other favorite digital nomad locations.
– Meals: Casual dining averages around $15, while a decent dinner for two may cost between $80–$100.
– Coffee: A good cup of coffee goes for about $3.
– Groceries: Locally sourced meat is reasonably priced, with lamb and chicken below $5/lb.
– Rent: In Auckland, anticipate paying about $1,200/month for a city apartment, plus $200 for utilities.
– Transport: Public transport is efficient and budget-friendly, with fares kicking off at $2.50. Uber is widely accessible, and domestic flights are often cheaper than lengthy road trips.
– SIM Cards: I opted for One NZ, which provided unlimited calls and 10GB of data for $30/month.
Cost-Saving Strategies
– House Sitting: A fantastic method to cut accommodation costs and experience life like a local.
– Domestic Flights: Often more economical and swifter than driving between islands.
– Smart Shopping: Pak’nSave is one of the most economical supermarkets available.
– Thrift Stores: Perfect for finding essentials and souvenirs.
– Embrace Nature: Hiking, beach outings, and discovering national parks are all free and unforgettable.