move to Australia Archives | Ausmove

Thinking of swapping Auckland’s skyline for Brisbane’s sunshine? You’re not alone. More Kiwis than ever are making the move across the Tasman in search of warmer weather, more affordable living, and a laid-back lifestyle. 

This guide breaks down how Brisbane and Auckland really compare from rent and groceries to salaries, housing, and everyday costs so you can decide if life in Queensland’s capital is the right move for you.

Cost of Living: How Far Your Dollar Really Goes

When it comes to everyday expenses, Brisbane offers real breathing room compared to Auckland. Rent, groceries, and utilities are noticeably cheaper, especially outside the city centre. A two-bedroom apartment in a good Brisbane suburb can cost 25–30% less than a similar home in Auckland, and fuel and public transport are also more affordable. 

Dining out and leisure activities often feel easier on the wallet too. While salaries in Australia can vary by industry, many roles offer higher take-home pay and with a lower overall cost of living, your money stretches further. It’s not just about saving; it’s about lifestyle. With the sun shining most days and more disposable income to enjoy it, Brisbane gives many Kiwis the sense of financial balance they’ve been missing at home.

Housing and Rent: Space, Sunshine, and Savings

If you’ve felt priced out of Auckland’s property market, Brisbane can feel like a breath of fresh air literally and financially.

More space for your money:
Brisbane’s housing market offers larger homes and sections for far less. A modern three-bedroom house in an outer Brisbane suburb can cost 30–40% less to buy than a similar property in Auckland. Even inner-city apartments often come with pools, gyms, or parking luxuries that command a premium back home. 

Rent that won’t stretch your budget:
Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Brisbane sits around AUD $600–$650 per week, compared with roughly NZD $700–$800 in central Auckland. Suburbs just 15–20 minutes from the CBD can offer further savings without sacrificing convenience.

Lifestyle uplift:
Brisbane’s subtropical climate means outdoor living year-round, decks, courtyards, and public parks replace cramped city balconies. With more space and lower housing costs, Kiwis often find they can finally afford the lifestyle they’ve been chasing in New Zealand: sun, backyard barbecues, and room to grow.

 

Work and Income: What You Can Expect to Earn in Brisbane

Brisbane’s job market continues to grow steadily, offering solid opportunities across industries especially for skilled Kiwis. The city’s economy is driven by sectors like construction, healthcare, education, IT, and professional services, with major infrastructure projects adding thousands of new roles each year.

Competitive salaries
Average full-time earnings in Brisbane sit around AUD $95,000–$100,000 per year, with many skilled roles paying more than their New Zealand equivalents. Even when comparing directly, salaries in Australia often stretch further once you account for the exchange rate and lower living costs.

Strong demand for skilled workers
Brisbane employers continue to seek experienced tradespeople, teachers, engineers, and healthcare professionals all areas where Kiwis are known to thrive. Flexible visa arrangements between New Zealand and Australia make it easier than ever to transition quickly into work.

Better balance
Higher wages, combined with more affordable housing and everyday expenses, mean most Kiwis moving to Brisbane notice an immediate lift in disposable income and with it, a better work-life balance.

 

Lifestyle and Climate: From Beach Days to City Nights

Brisbane’s lifestyle is one of its biggest draw-cards: relaxed, outdoorsy, and built around the kind of sunshine Kiwis dream about. With more than 280 days of sunshine a year, it’s a city designed for being outside. Mornings often start with a walk along the river or a coffee in a leafy suburb, and weekends mean trips to the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast, both less than an hour away.

Outdoor living, all year round
Forget winter blues, even in July, daytime temperatures hover around 20°C. Public parks, bike trails, and outdoor dining are part of everyday life.

Food and culture
Brisbane’s dining and arts scenes have exploded in recent years. From the lively South Bank precinct to rooftop bars overlooking the city, there’s always something to explore.

Relaxed and exciting lifestyle
Shorter commutes and a slower pace mean more time for the things that matter. Whether you’re raising a family, starting fresh, or just chasing more sun, Brisbane offers a lifestyle that feels both exciting and easy to settle into.

 

Making the Move: Tips for a Smooth Transition from NZ to QLD

Relocating to Brisbane is exciting, but the smoother your planning, the easier the transition will be. Start by organising the essentials early passports, employment documents, and somewhere to stay when you first arrive. Setting up an Australian bank account before you leave New Zealand will make life easier, and it’s worth checking that your mobile plan, insurance, and health cover work across the Tasman.

When it comes to logistics, using a professional relocation service like Ausmove can take the stress out of the process. With decades of experience helping Kiwis move to Australia, Ausmove manages everything from packing and shipping to customs clearance and delivery, so your belongings arrive safely and on time.

Once you’re in Brisbane, apply for a Tax File Number (TFN), open local accounts, and familiarise yourself with transport options, school zones, and neighbourhoods. A little preparation goes a long way and with the right help, your move to Queensland can be seamless, leaving you free to settle in and start enjoying Brisbane’s sunshine, lifestyle, and opportunities from day one.

Get a Personalised Quote

To receive an accurate cost, you’ll need to provide details like:

  • Your full inventory (furniture, boxes, special items)
  • Pickup and delivery addresses
  • Preferred dates
  • Whether you’re including a car or boat

Ausmove’s team then tailors a quote to match your needs, giving you clear options for groupage or full container services.

Moving you to Australia from New Zealand

Planning a move from New Zealand to Brisbane takes preparation, but you don’t have to figure it all out yourself. With decades of experience helping Kiwis settle in Australia, Ausmove makes relocating simple and stress-free. From organising shipping and navigating customs to managing timelines and delivery, they understand every step of the journey ensuring your belongings arrive safely and your move to Brisbane starts smoothly.

Ready to find out your exact cost? Request a FREE quote from Ausmove or call (09) 360-4777 today.

If you’re planning a trans-Tasman move, one of the first things you might be thinking is: “How much will it cost me to move from New Zealand to Australia?” The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Costs depend on how much you’re moving, where in Australia you’re headed, and what type of shipping service you choose.

Ausmove breakdown the key factors, typical price ranges, and some smart ways to keep your relocation budget under control.

What Affects the Cost of Moving from NZ to Australia?

Several variables determine your final price. Understanding these factors will help you plan ahead and avoid unexpected expenses, here’s a summary:

Volume of belongings
More items means more container space. A couple of boxes is very different from a full 3-bedroom house plus a car. On a pro rata basis the more you ship the cheaper it is by volume rate.

Type of service
Groupage/shared containers are cost-effective, while sole-use containers offer speed and privacy. Air freight is faster but significantly more expensive. Ideal for priority items your household needs whilst the sea freight is enroute.

Destination city
Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne will be cheaper than shipping to Perth, Northern Queensland, or Tasmania because of distance and logistics.

Customs & quarantine
Australia’s biosecurity rules mean inspections are mandatory, which can add fees if items need treatment. We include these in our quotations for peace of mind or a no surprises approach.

Packing Services
Packing, storage, unpacking, or insurance all increase the total bill, but its best to have a professional company, like Ausmove do the packing to avoid more invasive customs and quarantine inspections.

Vehicles
Shipping a car or motorbike adds cost, though often it can be combined in the same container as household goods. Hybrid cars can be shipped too but via Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) service.

Typical Moving Cost Examples

While every move is unique, here’s what you might expect to pay for different move sizes:

Move Size Estimated Cost (NZD) Notes
Small shipment (boxes, personal effects) $1,500-$4,000 Usually sent via groupage/shared container. Best for students, singles, or small volume loads.
2–3 bedroom household $6,000-$15,000 May require a 20ft container. Costs vary depending on packing, insurance, and destination.
Full house + vehicle $15,000+ Likely to need a 40ft sole-use container.

These figures are estimates only. The best way to know your exact cost is to request a personalised quote based on your inventory and destination.

FAQs: Moving from NZ to Australia

How much does it cost to move a household from New Zealand to Australia?
A typical 2–3 bedroom home usually costs between $6,000 – $15,000 NZD, depending on container size, destination, and extra services like packing and insurance.

What’s the cheapest way to move to Australia from NZ?
The most cost-effective method is groupage shipping, where your belongings share space in a container with other shipments. You only pay for the volume you use, but it may take a little longer to arrive, so plan well in advance.

How long does shipping take from New Zealand to Australia?
Most sea freight shipments typically take 6-8 weeks door-to-door, depending on the service chosen, customs clearance, and final delivery location. Using a sole use container can reduce this down to four weeks.

Can I ship my car to Australia along with household goods?
Yes. Many movers, including Ausmove, can ship your vehicle and personal effects in the same container, which can save both time and money. Hybrid vehicles are shipped via Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) service.

How to Save Money on Your Move

Moving doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right planning and choices, you can significantly reduce your relocation costs while still enjoying a smooth, stress-free experience. Here are some of the most effective ways to keep your budget under control.

Declutter first
Sell or donate items you don’t need. Shipping less saves you money.

Choose groupage shipping
If you’re not moving an entire house, this option is far cheaper.

Be flexible with dates
Avoid peak moving seasons if you can.

Transferring funds
We refer you to the experts at Xe who guarantee better bank rates. The savings are real and have covered the cost of moving in some circumstances.

Compare services
Not all quotes include the same extras, so check carefully.

Bundle goods and vehicles
Shipping them together is often more cost-effective.

Get a Personalised Quote

To receive an accurate cost, you’ll need to provide details like:

  • Your full inventory (furniture, boxes, special items)
  • Pickup and delivery addresses
  • Preferred dates
  • Whether you’re including a car or boat

Ausmove’s team then tailors a quote to match your needs, giving you clear options for groupage or full container services.

Moving you to Australia from New Zealand

Planning a move across the Tasman takes preparation, but you don’t have to do it alone. With decades of experience, Ausmove specialises exclusively in helping Kiwis relocate to Australia. From costs and shipping options to customs and timelines, they understand every step of the process and make your move easier.

Ready to find out your exact cost? Request a FREE quote from Ausmove or call (09) 360-4777 today.

Moving across the Tasman is exciting, but shipping household goods from New Zealand to Australia can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. From furniture and personal belongings to fragile or oversized items, understanding the process helps make your relocation smoother and less stressful. With the right planning, you can save time, avoid hidden costs, and ensure your possessions arrive safely at your new home. 

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from shipping options and customs requirements to packing tips and timelines so you can move with confidence knowing your household goods are in trusted hands.

Shipping Options Explained

When moving household goods from New Zealand to Australia, you’ll generally choose between sea freight and air freight. Each option has its own advantages depending on your budget, timeline, and the amount you need to move.

Sea Freight:

This is the most common and cost-effective option for moving larger volumes such as furniture, whiteware, and boxes.

You can choose:

Shared Containers:
Your belongings travel in a container with shipments from other families. This keeps costs down if you don’t need a full container.

Sole Use Containers:
Ideal if you’re moving an entire household. Your goods travel in their own container, giving you faster delivery and more control.

Air Freight:

Best suited for smaller shipments or items you need quickly, such as personal effects, clothing, or essential household goods. While more expensive than sea freight, it offers the fastest turnaround.

Customs & Quarantine Requirements

Australia enforces some of the world’s strictest biosecurity and customs regulations, which means everything you ship from New Zealand must comply with Australian Border Force (ABF) and Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) requirements.

Items that may carry soil, seeds, or pests such as garden tools, outdoor furniture, bicycles, or shoes will be carefully inspected. Food, alcohol, plant materials, and animal products are also heavily restricted and may be seized or require additional clearance.

Every shipment needs a precise inventory list, and some items may need cleaning or treatment before they are accepted. This is where Ausmove makes the process easier. Their team advises you on what can and can’t be shipped, prepares the paperwork, and arranges inspections when needed. With Ausmove managing customs and quarantine requirements on your behalf, you avoid unnecessary delays and costs, and your belongings arrive in Australia without stress.

Shipping Timeline, How Long Does It Take?

When relocating household goods from New Zealand to Australia, the overall timeline depends on the shipping method you choose, the volume of goods, and your final destination. The two main options are sea freight and air freight, each offering different timeframes.

Sea Freight
Sea freight is the most popular choice for families and individuals moving larger volumes such as furniture, appliances, and personal belongings. On average, you can expect a door-to-door timeframe of 3–6 weeks. This includes packing, shipping across the Tasman, and clearance through Australian customs and quarantine. A sole-use container generally moves faster since it doesn’t rely on other shipments, whereas shared or groupage containers may take longer because they wait for consolidation. Seasonal demand, port congestion, and inspections can also add to the timeframe.

Air Freight
Air freight is significantly faster, typically arriving in 7–14 days from New Zealand to most Australian cities. This option is ideal for smaller shipments or essential items you want on hand immediately, such as clothing, documents, or personal effects. While more expensive than sea freight, air freight provides the quickest turnaround, giving peace of mind when time is a priority.

Choosing What’s Best
If cost is your priority and you’re moving an entire household, sea freight is the practical option. If speed matters most, or you need essentials right away, air freight is worth considering and many people choose a mix of both.

Costs of Shipping Household Goods

The cost of shipping your belongings from New Zealand to Australia varies depending on the volume of goods, the shipping method, and your final destination. Sea freight is generally the most affordable choice for full households, with shared containers reducing costs if you don’t need the entire space. A sole-use container is more expensive but offers faster delivery. Air freight, while much quicker, comes at a higher price per cubic metre and is usually best for smaller shipments or essential items.

Other factors that influence cost include customs duties, quarantine inspections, insurance, and optional packing services. Requesting a detailed quote upfront ensures you understand exactly what’s included and avoids unexpected fees once your goods arrive in Australia.

Common Questions About Shipping to Australia

Do I need insurance?
Yes. While professional movers take every precaution, insurance is highly recommended to protect against unforeseen events such as damage, loss, or delays during transit.

Can I ship vehicles or pets?
Household goods shipments don’t usually include vehicles or pets. Cars can be shipped under separate arrangements and must meet Australian import regulations. Pets require specialised relocation services and strict biosecurity clearance.

What items are restricted or prohibited?
Food, alcohol, plants, and animal products face strict controls. Outdoor items like garden tools, furniture, or bicycles must be thoroughly cleaned to pass quarantine. Hazardous materials and some electronics may also be restricted.

What happens if my goods are delayed?
Delays are uncommon but can occur due to customs inspections, port congestion, or seasonal demand. Accurate paperwork and proper preparation help minimise these risks.

Can I split my shipment?
Yes. Many people send essential items by air freight for quick access, while larger household goods travel by sea. This combination balances cost and convenience.

Moving You to Australia from New Zealand

Planning a move across the Tasman takes preparation, but you don’t have to do it alone. With decades of experience, Ausmove specialises exclusively in helping Kiwis relocate to Australia. From shipping options and customs requirements to timelines and costs, they understand every step of the process and make it easier for you.

For detailed information on Ausmove’s services and expertise click here or call (09) 360-4777.

Moving to Australia from NZ Checklist

Want to make your move even smoother? Download our FREE Moving to Australia from NZ Checklist. It covers everything from packing and paperwork to customs requirements, so you don’t miss a step. Click here to get your copy and start planning with confidence.

More Kiwis than ever are packing up and heading across the ditch but what’s really driving the surge in New Zealanders moving to Australia? Is it better job prospects and higher wages? Or more affordable living and sunnier skies? It seems there’s no shortage of reasons New Zealanders are making the move. With cultural similarities and an easy transition process, Australia is more appealing than ever.

In this article, we explore the top reasons behind the growing trend of Kiwi’s moving to Australia.

Is Australia Really More Affordable?

It’s a common question for Kiwis considering the move and while the answer depends on where you’re headed, many find that Australia offers better value across key living costs.

According to recent 2025 data from Numbeo and Trade Me comparisons, average salaries in Australia are around 25–30% higher than in New Zealand, particularly in trades, healthcare, and skilled professions. At the same time, everyday expenses like groceries and petrol are often cheaper, thanks to stronger supply chains and lower taxes on goods.

Housing is more nuanced while Sydney and Melbourne remain pricey, regional centres and smaller cities like Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide offer larger homes at lower cost per square metre compared to major NZ cities. Renters, in particular, may find more space for less.

Factor in lower income tax rates at certain thresholds and stronger employer benefits, and it’s clear why many New Zealanders feel they can get ahead financially in Australia. While not everything is cheaper, the overall earning potential and lifestyle trade-offs are tipping the scales for thousands making the move.

To illustrate this, we’ve put together a simple NZ vs AU comparison table below highlighting some of the most common financial differences Kiwis are weighing up when considering life across the ditch.

Category New Zealand Australia
Average Salary NZD $62,000 AUD $92,000 (~NZD $100,000)
Petrol (per litre) ~NZD $2.90 ~AUD $1.90 (~NZD $2.05)
Groceries Higher overall Often 10–20% cheaper
Rent (3-bed home) Auckland: ~$800/week Brisbane/Adelaide: ~$600–$700/week
Income Tax 30% on income over NZD $70k 32.5% on income over AUD $120k
GST/Sales Tax 15% 10%

Are There Really Better Job Opportunities and Higher Incomes in Australia?

Yes, and it’s one of the biggest motivators for Kiwis making the move. Australia’s job market continues to outperform New Zealand’s in both availability and income potential, especially in sectors like healthcare, construction, education, mining, and IT.

In 2025, the Australian unemployment rate is sitting around 4.1%, compared to New Zealand’s 5.2%, reflecting stronger economic demand and broader opportunities across states. What’s more, average full-time weekly earnings in Australia recently surpassed AUD $1,900 (Stats Australia), which equates to over NZD $100,000 annually, a significant jump from the NZ average of NZD $62,000.

Many Australian employers also offer better superannuation (retirement) contributions and professional development support, making long-term financial growth more accessible. For skilled workers and tradies, Australia’s migration and labour shortage strategies are opening even more doors.

It’s not just about the paycheck, it’s about career progression, training opportunities, and being in a job market that rewards experience and qualifications. For many Kiwis, Australia represents a chance to build a better future, faster.

Here are top 5 employment sectors currently driving job opportunities for Kiwis moving to Australia in 2025:

1. Healthcare & Aged Care
Australia is experiencing a long-term skills shortage in nursing, allied health, mental health, and aged care roles with thousands of vacancies across both metro and regional areas.

2. Construction & Trades
Infrastructure investment and a housing shortfall are fuelling strong demand for builders, electricians, plumbers, and project managers. Many roles are on Australia’s skilled migration lists.

3. Education
Teachers (especially in early childhood, secondary STEM, and regional schools) remain in high demand, with attractive relocation incentives offered in some states.

4. IT & Tech
From cybersecurity and data analysis to software development, Australia’s tech sector is growing fast offering competitive salaries and career progression opportunities.

5. Mining & Engineering
With resource-rich states like WA and QLD booming, engineers, geologists, and mining professionals are highly sought after, often with premium pay and benefits.

Sun, Space, and a Fresh Start

For many Kiwis, the move to Australia isn’t just about money, it’s about lifestyle. The lure of year-round sunshine, warm winters, and endless outdoor living is a major drawcard, especially for families and retirees looking for a change of pace.

Australian cities like Brisbane, Perth, and the Sunshine Coast offer more space for your dollar, often with larger homes, bigger backyards, and easy access to beaches, parks, and nature reserves. It’s a climate and lifestyle that encourages barbecues in July, after-work swims, and weekend road trips.

Beyond the weather, many see the move as a chance to reset to chase new opportunities, raise their kids in a different environment, or simply enjoy a better work-life balance. With cultural familiarity and easy access back to New Zealand, Australia offers the rare mix of adventure and comfort that makes a fresh start feel possible and exciting.

When it comes to sunshine, the difference is clear. While Auckland averages around 2,100 sunshine hours per year, cities like Brisbane and Perth enjoy upwards of 2,800–3,200 hours annually that’s up to 1,000 extra hours of sunshine each year. For many, that alone is enough to make the move.

Average Annual Sunshine Hours
City Country Avg Sunshine Hours (per year)
Auckland New Zealand ~2,100 hours
Wellington New Zealand ~2,000 hours
Christchurch New Zealand ~2,200 hours
Brisbane Australia ~2,800 hours
Perth Australia ~3,200 hours
Sydney Australia ~2,600 hours
Melbourne Australia ~2,200 hours
Adelaide Australia ~2,900 hours

Family Ties, Community, and Ease of Transition

One of the biggest comforts for Kiwis moving to Australia is how familiar it feels. With strong cultural overlap, a shared language, and similar systems, settling in often feels more like relocating than immigrating. There’s no need to navigate new currencies, healthcare systems, or driving rules making the transition remarkably smooth.

Many New Zealanders also have friends or whānau already living across the ditch, which makes the move feel less daunting and more inviting. Whether it’s reconnecting with family or joining an established Kiwi community, you’re never far from a sense of home.

From schools and sports clubs to local cafes and workplaces, you’ll find communities that are welcoming, diverse, and easy to integrate into. There’s also the peace of mind that, under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, New Zealand citizens can live and work in Australia without the need for a visa making the logistics of moving far simpler than most international relocations.

Why Getting Expert Help Matters

Moving to Australia from New Zealand? It’s important to plan ahead and seek assistance where needed. Relocating across the ditch involves more than just packing, from customs regulations and quarantine rules to shipping logistics and timing, expert support can make a huge difference.

Ausmove are experts in relocation services from New Zealand to Australia. With decades of experience, we handle everything from packing and freight to documentation and delivery, ensuring a seamless, stress-free move.

For detailed information on Ausmove’s services and expertise click here or call (09) 360-4777.

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

Feel like a taste of Australia’s biggest city? Moving to Sydney is the dream for many Kiwis, who want a world of job opportunities, amazing weather and internationally famous beaches all at their doorstep. If you’re intent on calling Sydney home, you probably don’t need much convincing… but, nevertheless, here are our top 5 reasons to hang your hat in Sydney!

1) Lifestyle

If you love a fast-paced city with lots to see and do, then Sydney is right up your alley. The city has a population of over 5 million, meaning there’s always something exciting happening, every day of the year. Sydneysiders enjoy a lifestyle which is busy and jam-packed full of activities.

2) Beaches

There aren’t many beaches in the world that are more famous than the ones in Sydney: Bondi Beach has had a globally-watched TV show made about it, for crying out loud! The beaches in Sydney are well-known for simply being the bomb. Clovelly, Coogee, Manly and Tamarama are just a few of the other fantastic beaches which are right in the heart of suburban Sydney life.

3) Weather

And what do you need to enjoy some of the world’s best beaches? Some of the world’s best weather! Sydney’s weather is perfect if you love warm, slightly humid summers and ultra mild winters. The average winter temperature high in July (the coldest month) is 17 degrees Celsius. Not too bad, huh? Summers are spent down at the beach, or exploring some of the other amazing beachside towns and villages which spread up and down the coast. The South Coast is a favourite holiday spot among locals, as are the northern NSW towns of Port Macquarie and Byron Bay.

4) Job opportunities

Unless you’ve won the lottery, you’ll need a job in Sydney in order to live there. Rest assured: Sydney has a strong job market. Unemployment is low in Sydney, with the rates sticking around the 3.75% area. There are always jobs to be found in Sydney – whether you’re an IT expert, a construction heavyweight or an upcoming artist.

5) Great public transport

You might hear of Sydney’s size, and think, “Well, public transport must be a nightmare!” Truth is, it has one of the best public transport systems in the country. Trains, buses and ferries are all part of the highly efficient transport system. Can you see yourself ferrying across the water to get to work every day? How frickin’ cool is that!

Moving to Sydney is just one phone call away – get in touch with the guys at Ausmove! They’re New Zealand’s favourite moving company for Kiwis who want to pack up and head across the ditch. Moving expertise, smooth service and affordable prices are what you get with the team at Ausmove. Grab a quote from them today!

Tasmania offers a great range of things to do for every kind of person – both indoors and out; from culture and music to adventure sports and exploration.

Tasmania may be a small island, but it packs in a great number of things that you can do. Tassie, as it is popularly known, has vast national parks, a vibrant food scene, several adventure sports options to begin with. It offers some great shopping too. If you’re considering a move to Tasmania, here is a handy list of things to do in Tasmania to get you started.

Touristy things

It’s very common to overlook the tourist destinations in the city that you stay, so the first thing you must do, is make notes for yourself on the places to visit. Here are some options. Take some time to explore Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Here you will find glacier lined crags, lakes that shimmer, as well as extensive beech forests. A great walk to take is the Lake Dove Walk trail which gives you some great views of the mountain.

The city of Hobart alone has so much to offer someone looking to explore. The MONA – Museum of Old and New Art which documents the region’s art beautifully is a great place to start. For an immersive experience of Tasmania’s food, a walk around the waterfront precinct is a great way to start. The Port Arthur Historic Site is the old convict settlement of the region and is around an hour away from Hobart. It makes for a great day trip. Spend some time at the World heritage-listed Freycinet National Park and particularly at the Wineglass Bay, one of the top beaches of the region.

If you are one for great views, then you cannot beat the majestic views from Kunanyi at Mount Wellington. Salamanca Place and Bruny National Park are also great places to visit. Begin with these and you are sure to find many more to add to your list.

Music and culture

Music enthusiasts will have a great time at any one of the many venues for music in Tasmania. Some of the best music venues are at Hobart. Check out the gigs playing at some of these places. Start with The Brisbane Hotel – it’s not the most premium of places but it is one of the best music venues around. The bands that play here are passionate musicians, who create some beautiful music and don’t just play covers. Another great place is The Grand Poobah. This is a popular spot for visiting bands as well as local ones. The Republic Bar has to be one of the most popular ones around, with live gigs happening every day of the week. Playing at this venue is believed to be a band’s step to stardom. The Royal Oak Hotel and Club 54, both in Launceston are quite popular with the youngsters.

If you would like to explore some of the culture of Tasmania, then there are numerous things that you can do. Head to the Old Hobart Town Model Village that replicates the life and history of Hobart. Another great place to visit is the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre that tells you the story of the miners back in the day and how they worked. The West Coast Heritage Centre explains elaborately the history and development of the West Coast. Do take some time out to visit the Port Arthur Historic site, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is little more than an hour’s drive from Hobart. And automobile enthusiasts will definitely have to make a stop at the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania.

Art and theatre

If you are looking for some good classical and theatre performances, there are several places that you can head to. Check out what is happening at the Salamanca Arts Centre, which has both theatre and performing arts. You could also try Princess Theatre, the Devonport Entertainment and Convention Centre as well as the Earl Arts Centre. There are several other venues that you can choose to go to.

Tasmania is quite serious about its art and you will see that are over 50 galleries dedicated to various art forms. Rosny Barn is a gallery at Rosny Park; You have the Queen Victoria Art Gallery which is a heritage museum and bookshop as well. The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery in Hobart draws quite a crowd as well. Some other important galleries for your list should be Colville Gallery, The Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery and Design Tasmania.

Outdoor activities

The great thing about Tasmania is the fact that it has weather that is not too extreme and so the outdoors is always a great place to be. There are several activities that you can indulge in and numerous companies that will organise some great things for you to in your free time.

Considering that the island has a wonderful coastline, water-based activities are aplenty, from swimming to surfing and to other more adventurous activities. With the undulating landscape and the numerous mountains around – hiking and trekking are much loved activities as well. Rock climbing and camping are popular too.

Thanks to the great weather, you can also spend time exploring the food scene in Tasmania. There are several great spots for you head out to. What’s more, having a BBQ with the family in your backyard is something you can consider at all times.

Winter time is when you can make the most of the range of festivals that come to town (there are plenty that do the rounds in summer as well) and have yourself a great time.

In general, Tasmania has a humming arts, food and music scene, as well as being heaven for those who love the outdoors. If you have decided to make the move, contact Ausmove. We can arrange moving your possessions, your car, and even the cat and dog over the ditch.