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For Brits moving abroad
Moving to New Zealand from the UK
Last checked: October 2026
Thinking about moving to New Zealand from the UK? Here's what you need to know: which jobs New Zealand is short of, the main visa routes for Brits, and what it costs to get there. Pick the path that fits you below.
Moving to New Zealand from the UK: which path is right for you?
Trades
Electricians, plumbers, builders and more. New Zealand's Green List names the trades it's short of, and some can lead to residence. See which trades are in demand and how to qualify.
Healthcare and Teaching
Nurses, doctors, midwives and teachers are in demand. New Zealand's Green List includes many healthcare and teaching roles, but you'll need to register with the right New Zealand body before you can work. See which roles qualify and how to register.
Professionals
Engineers, IT specialists and other professionals. New Zealand's Green List includes many professional roles, and some can lead to residence. See which roles are in demand and what you'll need to qualify.
Wondering what it all costs? See the full cost of moving to New Zealand from the UK.
Not sure where you fit?
Wellington
New Zealand's capital and home to Parliament, so government and public service jobs are a big part of the city. There's also steady work in law, finance, IT and the film industry, with Weta Workshop based in the suburb of Miramar. The centre is compact and easy to walk, set between the harbour and the hills. Be ready for wind: Wellington is known as one of the windiest cities in the world.
Christchurch
The largest city on the South Island and New Zealand's second-biggest overall. Much of the centre was rebuilt after the 2011 earthquakes, so it now feels newer, with modern buildings and a growing number of cafés and bars. It's flat, which makes it easy to get around by bike, and it's within reach of the Southern Alps, ski fields and beaches. Housing is usually cheaper than in Auckland or Wellington, and construction and engineering trades are still in steady demand.
Dunedin
A university city on the South Island's east coast, with Scottish roots you'll spot in its streets and buildings. The University of Otago and Dunedin Hospital are major employers, which makes it a good fit for healthcare, teaching and research jobs. Housing is usually cheaper than in the bigger cities, and you're close to beaches, wildlife and the Otago Peninsula.
Auckland
New Zealand's biggest city, home to roughly a third of the country's people, and its main hub for business, trades and healthcare. Most international companies base themselves here, and it's where you'll find the widest choice of jobs. It's spread across two harbours, with beaches and islands close by. The catch: it's the most expensive city in New Zealand for housing, and traffic can be heavy.
