Timing your move to Australia from NZ can make all the difference, not just in how smoothly the relocation goes, but in how quickly you settle in and start enjoying life across the Tasman. With Australia’s vast geography and varied climates, the best time to move depends on where you’re heading, your lifestyle, and even your budget.

Whether you’re chasing sunshine in Queensland, job opportunities in Sydney, or a quieter pace in regional Victoria, this month-by-month guide will help you weigh the pros and cons of moving at different times of the year. From school term dates and rental market shifts to seasonal weather patterns and public holiday disruptions, we’ll cover it all.

Weather and Climate: How Seasons Differ Across Australia

Australia’s climate varies dramatically depending on where you’re moving and understanding this can make your relocation experience much smoother. Unlike New Zealand’s more temperate weather, Australia spans multiple climate zones, from tropical in the north to cool temperate in the south.

If you’re heading to Queensland or the Northern Territory, expect hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The wet season in these areas typically runs from November to April, bringing heavy rainfall and potential flooding not ideal for moving house or navigating new surroundings.

In contrast, southern cities like Melbourne, Adelaide, and Hobart experience four distinct seasons. Summer (December to February) can be hot and dry, while winter (June to August) is cool and often rainy. Spring and autumn offer milder weather, making them great times to move, especially if you’re settling in or setting up a new home.

Sydney and Perth offer more moderate year-round climates, though summer heatwaves can be intense.

Ultimately, the best time to move depends on your destination and knowing what to expect seasonally can help you avoid weather-related challenges, reduce stress, and plan a more comfortable transition.

Rental Market Trends: When It’s Easier to Find a Home

Timing your move to Australia around the rental market can significantly impact how easily and affordably you find a place to live. Australia’s rental market experiences seasonal peaks and troughs, with certain times of year being more competitive than others.

January to March is typically the busiest rental period. Many leases end around the New Year, and a surge of students, new residents, and job movers flood the market. While there are more properties available during this time, competition is fierce and prices are often higher, especially in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

April to August is generally quieter, with fewer people relocating. This can be a great time to find a rental with less urgency and potentially negotiate better terms. Landlords may be more open to flexible arrangements during this off-peak period.

Spring (September to November) can see another increase in demand as families aim to settle before the end-of-year holidays or prepare for the new school year.

It’s also worth noting that regional areas and lifestyle towns (such as those in coastal Queensland or inland Victoria) may not follow big-city trends. Availability and pricing in those areas can vary more with local employment and tourism cycles.

If you’re moving from New Zealand, aligning your arrival with the quieter months or planning ahead during peak periods will help reduce stress and give you more housing options. Ausmove can assist with timing and relocation support to ensure a smooth landing.

School Terms and Family Timing

If you’re moving to Australia with children, aligning your relocation with the school calendar can make a big difference in helping them settle in smoothly. Australia’s school year typically runs from late January to mid-December, split into four terms with two-week breaks between each, and a longer summer holiday over Christmas.

The best time to move for families is usually before Term 1 starts, in late January or early February. This allows children to begin the school year with their peers, making it easier to make friends and adjust socially and academically from day one.

If a Term 1 move isn’t possible, the next most natural entry points are Term 3 (July) or Term 4 (October) depending on the child’s age and curriculum flexibility. Mid-year moves can work, but starting in the final term may limit integration and continuity.

With careful planning, families can ease the transition and ensure their children feel settled and supported from the start.

Job Opportunities and Hiring Seasons

If employment is a key part of your move to Australia, understanding the hiring cycles can help you time your relocation for maximum opportunity. While Australia has a fairly consistent job market year-round, there are certain periods when hiring activity is notably higher, especially for full-time, permanent roles.

The most active hiring seasons are typically February to April and July to September. These windows align with the start of new financial or planning quarters for many businesses. In particular, February and March are strong hiring months, as companies resume operations after the summer holidays and look to fill new roles approved in their annual budgets.

December and January, on the other hand, tend to be slower. Many businesses wind down over the holiday period, and fewer roles are advertised making it a less ideal time to land a job immediately upon arrival. That said, this can be a good time for planning, networking, and applying for roles that will commence in the new year.

Certain industries, such as construction, healthcare, education, and IT, often hire year-round but demand and availability may vary by location and sector.

If you’re moving without a job secured, arriving during a peak hiring season increases your chances of landing interviews quickly. Ausmove can help you connect with relocation resources and provide guidance on timing your move in line with Australia’s job market trends, ensuring you’re positioned for a faster start in your new career.

Moving you to Australia from New Zealand

Timing your move around the seasons, school terms, rental market, and job opportunities can make a big difference. Careful planning helps reduce stress and ensures a smoother transition for individuals and families alike. 

Need support? Ausmove are New Zealand’s experts in trans-Tasman relocations. From logistics to timing advice, they’ve helped thousands make the move successfully.

Visit www.ausmove.co.nz or call (09) 360-4777 to get started today.

Sydney is a vibrant city with a lively cultural scene, iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, plus it has more than 100 beaches!. Sydney, is also Australia’s largest city with over 5.3 million people, it is known for its diversity, with 40% of residents born overseas. If you plan on moving from New Zealand to Sydney, New South Wales this is what you should know.

What is the Cost of Living Like in Sydney (NSW)?

Sydney has a high cost of living, particularly in terms of housing. Renting in central areas like the CBD, Bondi, or Manly is expensive. There are cheaper options in suburbs like Marrickville or Newtown. Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from $650 to $850 NZD per week, while further out, it may drop to around $400 to $600 NZD.

Transportation costs are manageable with the Opal card, which covers trains, buses, and ferries. Public transport is generally cheaper than driving, as parking fees and tolls add up quickly. Groceries and dining out are also higher than the national average. Utilities, such as electricity and internet, are moderately priced but can vary depending on usage and the size of your home.

What are the Education Options in Sydney?

Sydney offers a wide range of education options, from public to private institutions. The public school system is free for Australian citizens and permanent residents, though international students may need to pay fees. Like New Zealand, public schools are generally zoned, meaning your address determines your school. Private schools, including independent and Catholic schools, come with tuition fees however have better academic reputations.

For higher education, Sydney is home to prestigious universities such as the University of Sydney, UNSW (University of New South Wales), and UTS (University of Technology Sydney), all renowned globally. These universities offer a wide variety of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs.

The Sydney Job Market for Kiwis

The Sydney job market offers strong opportunities for New Zealanders, particularly due to the close economic ties between Australia and New Zealand. Under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, New Zealanders can live and work in Australia without a visa, making job access seamless. Sydney, as Australia’s economic hub, has thriving industries in finance, technology, healthcare, construction, and education, with many multinational companies headquartered in the city.

For New Zealanders, popular job search platforms like Seek and LinkedIn are essential for finding employment. Industries like construction are booming, offering plenty of trade roles, while sectors like IT, banking, and healthcare are in high demand for skilled professionals.

Sydney’s competitive job market offers strong wages, often higher than those in New Zealand, though the cost of living is proportionately higher. Many Kiwis find Sydney an appealing place for career growth, benefiting from the ease of integration and the city’s economic opportunities.

Lifestyle & Entertainment

Sydney offers a vibrant lifestyle with a diverse mix of entertainment options. Its stunning beaches like Bondi and Manly are central to the city’s beach culture, where locals enjoy surfing, swimming, and coastal walks. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore parks and hiking trails, such as the Royal National Park or Blue Mountains.

Culturally, Sydney is rich with world-class museums, galleries, theaters, and annual events. The Sydney Opera House hosts concerts, ballets, and performances, while the Art Gallery of NSW and Museum of Contemporary Art showcase both local and international art. The city is also known for its food scene, with a vast range of restaurants reflecting its multicultural population. From fine dining to street food, Sydney offers endless culinary experiences, alongside bustling markets and vibrant nightlife in areas like Newtown and Surry Hills.

Sydney Weather

Sydney has a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. Summers (December to February) are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C, though heat waves can push temperatures above 30°C. Winters (June to August) are mild, with average temperatures between 8°C and 17°C. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being March and June. Sydney also enjoys plenty of sunshine, making outdoor activities popular year-round, especially at the city’s famous beaches.

What our Service to Sydney Includes

Ausmove provide a full door to door international removals service to Sydney, so there’s no need to worry about a thing.

Here’s a summary of what we have to offer;

• A team of experts, all working together on your behalf
• Free consultations either by phone, video, or home visit
• Obligation free quotations
• A trusted and proven network of Australia’s best service partners
• Door-to-door international removals service, including all clearances
• Vehicle shipping and family pet transportation
• Different shipping and air freight options available to suit your needs
• Secure storage in both New Zealand and Sydney
• Professionally trained packing, stowing and delivery teams
• Customised ‘fit for purpose’ packing materials e.g., bike cartons
• Cost effective transit insurance options, to suit your needs

Learn more

Moving you to Sydney, Australia from New Zealand

We provide a complete door to door international removals service to Australia. Contact us and find out why we are Auckland’s best moving solution for relocating to Sydney.

Call us on: (09) 360-4777 or request a free quote online.

Moving to Australia from NZ can be an exciting prospect for many Kiwi’s. The stats show that every year up to 45,000 New Zealanders move to Australia seeking better lifestyle, employment or housing opportunities. But there are several things you’ll need to consider when moving to Australia from NZ.

In this article we will help you prepare for a move to Australia from NZ.

1. Preparing to move

Moving to Australia from NZ is a big life change, so it’s important to plan ahead and seek assistance with your move. Ausmove are NZ’s leading personalised mover to Australia. Ausmove are well versed in every aspect of the moving process. Whether you have a few furniture items, some cartons, or a six-bedroom household with artwork, antiques, vehicles and pets, they can get you there safely, on time and on budget.

Once you have your household items sorted you need to ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay in Australia. New Zealand citizens do not need a visa to enter Australia but will need a valid passport.

While New Zealand citizens do not require a visa to enter Australia under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, if you plan to stay longer than 3 months or wish to work or study in Australia, you may need to apply for the appropriate visa. This could include a Work Visa, Student Visa, or other types depending on your circumstances.

2. Finding a place to live

Once you have decided which of Australia’s many great cities you would like to live in you will need to research the area where you plan to move. Consider factors such as cost of living, housing market, employment opportunities, schools, healthcare facilities, and climate. Australia has a diverse range of housing options to suit various lifestyles, preferences, and budgets.

Detached houses, also known as single-family homes. These are standalone dwellings typically located on their own land. Apartments are also very popular, and are mostly located in urban centers. Apartments offer a more compact and low-maintenance housing option compared to detached houses. Lastly, Townhouses are multi-level dwellings that share walls with adjacent units. They offer a balance between the space of a detached house and the convenience of an apartment. Townhouses are common in both urban and suburban areas, often forming part of residential developments or complexes.

To start looking for accommodation in your chosen city or region you can search online through real estate websites like www.realestate.com.au or work with a local real estate agent.

3. Employment in Australia

For New Zealanders seeking employment in Australia, there are several key things to know. The first is that there is an agreement between New Zealand and Australia called the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement. This agreement allows New Zealand citizens to live and work in Australia indefinitely. This means you generally do not need to apply for a visa before entering Australia.

Australia offers a wide range of employment opportunities across various industries. Research job markets and employment trends in your field to identify potential opportunities. Online job boards like www.seek.com.au allow you to see what type of jobs are available or you might choose to work with a recruitment agency.

New Zealand citizens working in Australia under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement are considered non-residents for tax purposes. This means you will not be eligible for certain tax benefits or concessions available to Australian residents.

Don’t forget to register with local authorities, open a bank account, obtain a tax file number, so you can start exploring your new job opportunities.

4. Education

New Zealand citizens have certain privileges when it comes to studying or attending school in Australia, thanks to the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement we mentioned earlier. Here’s what New Zealanders need to know about studying in Australia.

Australia offers a diverse range of educational institutions, including universities, schools, and English language colleges. You will need to research different institutions and courses to find the best fit for your educational goals.

Tuition fees for international students in Australia can vary depending on the institution, course, and level of study. New Zealand citizens may be eligible for domestic fee status or Commonwealth-supported places for higher education courses, but this depends on specific residency criteria.

Once you’ve decided on what suits you best, you can apply directly to the institution you’re interested in attending. Make sure to check application deadlines and requirements, which may include submitting academic transcripts, English language test scores, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

5. Transportation

Public transportation is available in most major cities and will play an important part in your new life in Australia. Most major cities have extensive train networks that connect suburbs to the city center and other key destinations. Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide have well-developed train systems. Some cities, such as Sydney and Canberra, also have light rail systems.

Bus services complement train networks and provide coverage to areas not serviced by trains. Bus routes cover suburban areas, and many cities also have dedicated bus lanes to improve efficiency.
Melbourne is known for its extensive tram network, which covers the central city and many inner suburbs. Trams provide a convenient and environmentally friendly way to travel within the city.

Cities situated along the coast or rivers, such as Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Perth, often have ferry services. Ferries offer scenic transportation options and can be an efficient way to travel between different parts of the city, particularly areas near the water.

You may also consider owning a car, especially if you’re living in a more rural area.

Moving to Australia from NZ

Moving to Australia can be a complex process, so it’s important to plan ahead and seek assistance where needed. Ausmove are experts in relocation services from New Zealand to Australia. For detailed information on Ausmove’s services and expertise visit Moving to Australia from NZ or call (09) 360-4777.

If you’re put off by the general hype, huge populations and housing prices of Sydney and Melbourne, let’s introduce you to Australia’s third largest city: Brisbane. It’s a place that enjoys picturesque weather, fantastic beaches and liveliness without being too hectic. Brisbane’s population is less than half of Sydney or Melbourne’s, sitting at a comfortable 2.3 million.

So, if you’re already a little curious, let’s delve deeper. Here are five top reasons to move to Brisbane.

1) Weather

Queensland is known as Australia’s ‘Sunshine State’, and Brisbane is its capital. On average, Brisbane gets 250 days of perfect sunshine per year. This means your jumpers and jackets will basically be sitting in your wardrobe, collecting dust. The coldest month is July which has an average temperature high of 21 degrees Celsius… can you even call that ‘winter’? Brisbane is the place for you if you want more Vitamin D in your life.

2) Close-by to world famous beaches

Brisbane is surrounded by world famous beaches. About an hour south by car, you’ve got the Gold Coast, known for its most popular beach, Surfers Paradise, and the best theme parks in Australia, including Wet ‘N’ Wild World. The Gold Coast is the place where action and excitement is a part of everyday life. Then, if you drive a little over an hour north, you’ve got the Sunshine Coast. This is the home of famous beaches Noosa and Mooloolaba, and it’s known for its super chilled atmosphere.

3) Affordable housing

Renting and buying property in Brisbane is bound to save you tons of cash, compared to living in Sydney or Melbourne. Brisbane’s housing market doesn’t have the same jaw-dropping, wallet-emptying prices, making it a lot easier to find something you love, somewhere you love in Brisbane. This makes it an ideal city for families and students alike.

4) Job market

Brisbane has a great job market with strong sectors in education, agriculture, mining, tourism and hospitality. Blue collar work like construction and trades is another area where finding a job is easy; as one of Australia’s fastest-growing cities, there’s plenty of work to be done!

5) Liveliness

Brisbane is home to some of the best nightlife, and day-life, in Australia. Vibrant, hip areas like Fortitude Valley and West End are known for their stunning range of cuisines, cute cafes, trendy bars and awesome nightlife. The city as a whole is pumping, and a testament to this is its hosting of the Olympic Games in 2032.

Brisbane, Brissy, Brisvegas… whatever you want to call it, it’s an awesome place to live. Ausmove can help you pack up and head for the Sunshine State. They’re New Zealand’s best team of movers and packers, being logistical experts when it comes to relocating to Australia. Get in touch with Ausmove and start your new Brisbane life today. Request a free quote online.

Love arts and culture? Looking for more job opportunities? Avid foodie and lover of different cuisines? Melbourne ticks all the boxes. As Australia’s second biggest city, Melbourne is recognised as one of the best places to live in the world. Ideal for singles, couples, families and retirees, Melbourne welcomes everybody with open arms.

In this post, we’re going to outline our five top reasons to move to Melbourne, and who to call if you’re keen on doing so.

1) Liveability

Melbourne is one of the most liveable cities in the world. It is always in the top 10 of the Economist’s list of most liveable cities; it’s usually in the top 5; and it took out the number 1 spot, seven years in a row until 2017. It’s hard to find fault with a place like Melbourne, given that it’s literally one of the greatest cities on Earth!

2) Arts and culture

Melbourne is one of the cultural capitals of Australia. Art and culture is prevalent everywhere: from the highest institutions to the atmosphere of the streets. Melbourne Museum and the Royal Exhibition Building are two of the most-frequented cultural establishments in the city – just the sheer size of these buildings is an indicator of how important art and culture is in Melbourne. Hip, creative suburbs like Fitzroy and Northcote are decorated with street art in all forms, giving these parts of the city a distinctly Berlin-esque vibe.

3) Food

Melbourne is a melting pot of all sorts of people, from all sorts of cultural backgrounds. With this comes the amazing blend of cuisines which are right on your doorstep. If you’re a self-proclaimed foodie, Melbourne is basically your heaven. Coffee snobs won’t be able to stick their nose up in the air in Melbourne – this city is home to some of the best coffee in Australia, if not the world.

4) Job market

Employment opportunities are aplenty in hustling, bustling Melbourne. Blue collar work, like construction and trades, is well-paid and easy to find. Creative types like artists, writers and musicians are also drawn to Melbourne. Other fields of work include technology, education, agriculture and hospitality.

5) Everyone’s welcome

Part of the beauty of Melbourne is that it’s suitable for everyone, regardless of age and circumstance. Young people are attracted to inner northern and southern suburbs, families thrive in leafy, green suburbs like Greensborough and Dandenong and retirees are attracted to the laid-back atmosphere and scenic beauty of the Mornington Peninsula.

Melbourne is where you need to be. Ausmove are the people who bring you there. As New Zealand’s best moving company for Kiwis heading to Australia, Ausmove pride themselves on their customer service, logistical expertise and competitive prices. They’ve helped countless others in hanging their hat in Melbourne and are keen to help you too. Get in touch with Ausmove and start your Melbourne journey today.