How To Move To Australia From New Zealand – Frequently Asked Questions

July 31, 2024

So you’ve made the decision to pack up the house and move to Australia. It’s both exciting and daunting at the same time. A move to Australia can be life changing for many but there are things you need to know about moving to Australia from NZ. In this article we cover the frequently asked questions about moving to Australia to help you prepare.

Things to consider before you go

Before moving to Australia, New Zealanders should consider several key factors: visa requirements under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, sufficient funds for initial set-up and monthly living expenses, healthcare options including Medicare and private insurance, and compliance with Australian laws regarding employment, taxation, and driving. Planning ahead and understanding these aspects can ensure a smoother transition. For detailed assistance, Ausmove provides expert relocation services from New Zealand to Australia.

For more information read our article Moving to Australia? Things to consider before you go

Where are the most popular places in Australia?

New Zealanders moving to Australia are favoring several destinations. These cities are favorites among New Zealanders for their economic opportunities, lifestyle advantages, and the presence of established Kiwi communities, which will help you settle in more easily. These are some of the most popular destinations for New Zealanders moving to Australia.

  • Sydney is popular for its iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and beautiful beaches.
  • Melbourne most famous for its cultural diversity, vibrant arts scene, and excellent dining options.
  • Brisbane with its warm climate, offers a relaxed lifestyle, and proximity to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.
  • Perth is known for its sunny weather, beaches, and a growing job market.
  • Adelaide is praised for its affordability, wine regions, and festivals.

Australia’s favorable climate, lifestyle, and proximity to New Zealand make it an attractive destination for many New Zealanders seeking a change. Each city offers unique opportunities and lifestyles catering to different preferences and needs.

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What insurance do I need?

While it is not a legal requirement to have insurance to ship your household items to Australia via container, it is highly recommended. Some shipping companies may require you to have insurance as part of their service agreement. This is to protect both parties in case of any unforeseen issues during transit.

Insurance offers you peace of mind knowing that your valuable household items are insured, taking away the stress of moving your possessions to Australia. It also ensures that you won’t suffer a significant financial loss if something goes wrong.
Insurance policies for shipping household items typically cover a range of scenarios, including damage due to loading and unloading, water damage, fire, and other risks specific to sea transport. Comprehensive coverage can protect you from a variety of potential problems.

When considering insurance for shipping your household items, it’s important to assess the value of your belongings, determine the total value of the items you are shipping to ensure you get adequate coverage.

When you choose Ausmove for your relocation to Australia, we want you to sleep well at night whilst your shipment is in transit. That’s why we arrange marine insurance cover for your household goods and personal effects.

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What can’t I take to Australia?

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) is responsible for protecting Australia from unwanted pests and diseases. The importation of some products is subject to specific conditions, while some products and items are not permitted entry into Australia.

Ausmove recommends you do everything possible to follow the regulations and be aware of anything that may be denied entry or incur additional costs; for example, fresh fruit and vegetables, live plants, cane and wicker furniture, soiled goods untreated wood items and many others. Ausmove staff are experts in their field so please ask us for advice and ensure you do your homework and get across the regulations. This website is recommended reading on the regulations and process for importing goods: Importing goods – DAFF (agriculture.gov.au)

What are the shipping times to Australia?

There are lots of factors influencing door to door transit times, these can include changes to shipping schedules, port delays, backlogs during holiday periods and industrial action in Australia. Here are some guidelines that allow for delays in Australian customs and quarantine clearances. They include the full transit time from the arrival of our packers in NZ to delivery day across the Tasman.

Sole use container shipment
Generally 4-6 weeks but longer for Perth bound shipments.

Groupage or shared container shipment
Depending on freight availability allow 6-12 weeks. In most instances Ausmove can give you a sailing date, as we have a lot of volume.

Airfreight shipment
This is the fastest option and usually takes up to 2 weeks.

Moving you to Australia from New Zealand FAQs

Ausmove’s FAQ page provides key information for Kiwis moving to Australia, covering common questions about shipping household goods, vehicles and pets, customs clearance, and the benefits of using professional packing services to avoid delays and additional costs. You can view our FAQs here.

For detailed information on Ausmove’s services and expertise visit www.ausmove.co.nzor call (09) 360-4777.

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Contact us today and find out why we are Auckland’s best moving solution for moving to Australia!

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