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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
To receive an accurate cost, you’ll need to provide details like:
Ausmove’s team then tailors a quote to match your needs, giving you clear options for groupage or full container services.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
To receive an accurate cost, you’ll need to provide details like:
Ausmove’s team then tailors a quote to match your needs, giving you clear options for groupage or full container services.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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% |
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.
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.
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.
| 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 |
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.
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.
Perfect weather, a bustling, vibrant city, and plenty of job opportunities – where else could we be talking about other than Perth, Western Australia? An underdog city with a not-so-underdog size, Perth is fast-growing and ranked as one of the most liveable cities in the world.
If you’re thinking of becoming a Perthite, we could probably give you a hundred reasons to do so. Perthites themselves could give you thousands, being such a proud bunch. But let’s keep it simple, hey? Here’s our top five!
Perth is the most isolated capital city in the world: it’s further away from any other capital city across the globe. And yet, it really doesn’t feel like it when you’re there. You feel like you’re part of a huge, bustling international city – which it is! In fact, it’s Australia’s fourth biggest town at around 2 million people. At the same time, you don’t get the fuss of a huge city – you don’t get the skyrocketing property prices or eternal traffic jams. You just get the perks!
Perth has a fantastic climate. Summers are hot, and spent down by the beach – of which there are many to choose from in Perth. Winters are mild, with the average high being 19 degrees Celsius. So, be prepared to sell many of your jumpers and jackets… you won’t need them very often!
Perth is a fast growing city with plenty of jobs on offer. Known especially for its mining sector, there seems to be an endless demand for workers in the mines, who fetch big bucks and great perks. Other areas include hospitality, retail, education and blue collar areas like construction and trades.
Perth is a diverse city that draws influence from loads of different cultures. It’s characterised by European-style small bars and cafes, local farmers’ markets, and a wide range of cuisines from across the world. Fremantle, in recent years, has become an ultra popular place for foodies and drinks enthusiast, with plenty of bars and restaurants.
Perth is a big city, with a big bustling heart. There’s a roaring live music scene, home to some of Australia’s favourite and most famous bands, from Tame Impala to Birds of Tokyo. The nightlife in Perth is one of the best in the country. There are around 255 events that happen in Perth each year – that’s more than four per week!
Pack up your bags, because you’re moving to Perth and you’re going to love it. Ausmove are the team of dedicated movers who’ll help you get there. They’re New Zealand’s experts in shipping Kiwis to Western Australia, providing unbeatable moving solutions at unbeatable prices. Get in touch with the team at Ausmove to find out more about what your future in Perth holds. Request a FREE moving quote online now.
