A New Life in New Zealand

They say home is where the heart is but it turns out some of the happiest people are those who have put 11,500 miles between them and their home town – Britain’s most content expats are those living in New Zealand, according to new research, which found that the country ranked highly in all areas of life…

It may be on the other side of the world but that hasn’t stopped thousands of Brits starting a new life in New Zealand – in fact, it may even have encouraged them.

Despite being roughly the same size as the UK, the Land of the Long White Cloud has 56 million fewer people – meaning no more queuing for anything and shopkeepers that have time to stop and chat to you.

New research carried out by Natwest International Personal Banking found that Britons living in New Zealand rated the country highly in all areas. Not only does it have one of the lowest average property prices in the developed world, it also has lower taxes and a far better quality of life for children and those who enjoy outdoorsy pursuits.

Of course, you won’t find the same cosmopolitan offerings in terms of theatres and galleries as you will in London but that is cancelled out by the sheer weight of free outdoor activities on offer.

The stunning, unspoilt scenery also played a part in the British love affair with New Zealand.

Whilst average wages are lower than in the UK, a favourable tax regime means that earnings go further.

Of all the 2,000 expatriates surveyed in 12 countries, 86 per cent believed their lives were better than before they emigrated and 92 per cent said they were happier. Despite the global recession, eighty seven per cent were better off.

Most said their wages had gone up, with almost 80 per cent earning between £50,000 and £85,000.

Six out of ten left Britain with less than £5,000 in savings. But almost half now claim to be worth between £250,000 and £500,000. A quarter said they were worth between £500,000 and £1million.

Dave Isley, Head of NatWest International personal banking, said, “Expats say they are living healthier lifestyles abroad, whilst also benefiting financially.

“This is particularly true for expats in New Zealand who not only say they benefit from low property prices, a favourable taxation system and a healthy lifestyle but also the beauty of New Zealand’s natural environment.

“Our latest expatriate study has revealed that despite the global slowdown affecting everyone, the potential to earn more money abroad is clearly one of the main benefits expats are experiencing,” he added.

Quality, not quantity

In the quality of life index, New Zealand came ahead of Canada, which topped the poll last year. They were followed by Australia, France, the United Arab Emirates, Portugal, Spain, South Africa, the U.S. and China. Despite their wealth, Singapore and Hong Kong came last.

A feeling of being sick of Britain was the main reason given for moving abroad and almost all said that emigrating was the right decision.

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