We often receive questions about which city in New Zealand is the best and where it’s better to move.
Honestly, comparing cities isn’t easy, as each one has its own pros and cons. So, we’ve gathered general information about the cities on both the North and South Islands, therefore you may get the general understanding.
General information
As mentioned, the main cities of New Zealand are located on its two main islands: North Island and South Island. New Zealand’s population is more than 5 million people. Even though the South island is bigger, the large majority of people lives on the North Island. Wellington is the Capital of New Zealand, while the largest city is Auckland. However, these are not the only interesting places in New Zealand.
New Zealand’s popularity is growing worldwide. So more people are paying attention not only to Auckland but also to other regions of the country. Because there are many places with lower cost of living than in the biggest city.
Moreover, the development of the regions is also supported by the country’s current immigration policy. They award applicants 30 additional points toward permanent residency under the Skilled Migrant Category if they find employment outside of Auckland.
You can find out how much it costs to rent accommodation in different cities in New Zealand in a separate article with an interactive map.
Previously, we have described some of the advantages of living and studying in regions. You can read about it in our article Study Outside of Auckland.
Also, thanks to the website New Zealand Now, you can learn about the distinctive features of each region. Many people are curious about how easy it is to buy a house or apartment in New Zealand. To help with this, we have gathered interesting information on property prices, as well as median and average salaries in New Zealand dollars. Please note that salaries in New Zealand can vary depending on the city.
Key national averages for New Zealand
Well, let’s calculate a notional “Housing Price-to-Average Salary” ratio. However, this is a simplified indicator that doesn’t take into account taxes or other expenses, and is used solely to compare cities within New Zealand. More details about other expenses you may read in our separate article.
Additionally, detailed information on average salaries by industry you can find on the Careers website
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Population: 5,330,000 people
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Median house price: NZ$ 790,000
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Average salary: NZ$ 67,000
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Housing Price-to-Average Salary Ratio: 10.7
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Unemployment rate: 3.5%
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Annual crime rate per 10,000 people: 580
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Sunshine hours: 2,000 hours / year
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Rainfall: 1,100 mm / year
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Average temperature range: from +1°C to +25°C
Cities:
North Island
- Auckland
- Whangarei
- Hamilton
- Tauranga
- Rotorua
- Gisborne
- Napier
- New Plymouth
- Palmerston North
Wellington
South Island
North Island
Auckland
- Population: 1,700,000
- Median house price: NZ$ 940,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 71,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 13.2
- Unemployment rate: 3.3%
- Number of crimes per 10,000 people per year: 624
- Sunshine hours: 2,000 hours / year
- Rainfall: 1,210 mm / year
- Average temperature range: from +7°C to +24°C
Generally, this is the most expensive, largest, and most populous city in the country. Therefore, it offers a wide variety of entertainment options. Water sports, such as surfing, are especially popular here.
Also, Auckland offers the most job opportunities among all the cities in New Zealand. Because the country’s largest companies, firms, schools, and hospitals are based here, creating numerous jobs.
On the other hand, there are often traffic jams, and getting around by bike or on foot can be challenging due to the long distances and hilly terrain. Overall, it’s a great city for building a career or enjoying entertainment. However, to buy a house in Auckland can be difficult due to the high property prices.
Auckland doesn’t really have a winter. The climate is generally hot or mild. Although it’s not known for historic architecture, the city is surrounded by beautiful beaches, hills, and waterfalls.
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Whangarei
- Population: 100,000
- Median house price: NZ$ 730,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 67,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 10.9
- Unemployment rate: 3.4%
- Number of crimes per 10,000 people per year: 689
- Sunshine hours: 2,200 hours / year
- Rainfall: 1,300 mm / year
- Average temperature range: from +8°C to +24°C
Whangārei is the northernmost of New Zealand’s medium-to-large cities and has the warmest subtropical climate. Thus, it’s known for its white sand beaches, scenic views nearby, and proximity to popular tourist destinations in the Bay of Islands area.
The city has a significant Māori population (around 30%). The main economic sectors include tourism, farming, forestry, and marine industries.
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Hamilton
- Population: 180,000
- Median house price: NZ$ 770,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 67,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 11.5
- Unemployment rate: 5.2%
- Number of crimes per 10,000 people per year: 1,115
- Sunshine hours: 2,020 hours / year
- Rainfall: 1,110 mm / year
- Average temperature range: from +4°C to +24°C
Hamilton has no real winter and enjoys a temperate climate. While it isn’t rich in architectural landmarks, it is conveniently located between two of New Zealand’s most notable cities Auckland and Tauranga. It shares second place in terms of development speed in the country, alongside Tauranga. Friendly and safe, Hamilton offers a variety of activities, particularly appealing to students and sports enthusiasts.
The city is increasingly attracting professionals from various fields, partly due to its relatively affordable housing. Getting around is most comfortable by car or bicycle. Overall, Hamilton is a promising and steadily growing city, ideal for students and those who enjoy a quieter lifestyle.
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Tauranga
- Population: 158,000
- Median house price: NZ$ 900,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 68,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 13.24
- Unemployment rate: 4.2%
- Number of crimes per 10,000 people per year: 610
- Sunshine hours: 2,350 hours / year
- Rainfall: 1,180 mm / year
- Average temperature range: from +6°C to +24°C
Tauranga is a sunny and warm resort city with virtually no winters. It boasts beautiful nature, a friendly population, nearly all types of entertainment, and excellent opportunities for water sports.
Moreover, Tauranga shares second place in terms of growth rate with Hamilton, second only to Auckland. This means more and more jobs are emerging across various industries, especially in tourism, while property prices remain relatively affordable. On top of that, the relaxed traffic makes it comfortable to get around by car or bicycle. Tauranga is ideal for families looking for comfort and safety.
Rotorua
- Population: 77,000 people
- Median house price: NZ$ 565,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 68,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 8.3
- Unemployment rate: 5.2%
- Annual crime rate per 10,000 people: 907
- Sunshine hours: 2,130 hours / year
- Rainfall: 1,340 mm / year
- Average temperature range: from +4°C to +23°C
Rotorua is the centre of Maori culture and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Located in the centre of the North Island, the city is situated between several beautiful lakes. The majority of the city’s population are involved in wood processing, due to the abundance of forests around the area, as well as in tourism and hospitality. By the way, absence of traffic jams, affordable house prices, proximity to other interesting cities make Rotorua attractive for many families.
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Gisborne
- Population: 38,000 people
- Median house price: NZ$ 575,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 67,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 8.6
- Unemployment rate: 4.2%
- Annual crime rate per 10,000 people: 777
- Sunshine hours: 2,220 hours
- Rainfall: 1,050 mm
- Average temperature range: from +5°C to +25°C
Gisborne is another city with a large number of indigenous people who live here. The city is located on the east of the North Island, where the stunningly beautiful beaches are considered one of the best places in the country for surfing enthusiasts. Gisborne is also one of the sunniest cities in the country. Agriculture and wine industry are well developed here too. So specialists from this sector will find this city most appealing, also because of attractive cost of housing.
In addition, the city has a large port that sees a lot of goods pass through it, including timber and lumber. Probably, not the most economically developed, but beautiful and cozy. So, the town is gradually developing and seen by many as the perfect place to have a holiday home by the sea.
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Napier and Hastings
- Population: 67,000 and 90,000 people
- Median house price: NZ$ 700,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 65,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 10.8
- Unemployment rate: 4.2%
- Annual crime rate per 10,000 people: 680
- Sunshine hours: 2,260 hours / year
- Rainfall: 780 mm / year
- Average temperature range: from +6°C to +25°C
In the sunny and warm Napier, there is no wintertime as such. It is a friendly city, located in beautiful surroundings. The city center is built in the Art Deco style, which attracts many tourists every year. This means that there is always work in the field of hospitality, as well as the presence of interesting places for a fun pastime. In addition, in the vicinity of the city are many wineries. Affordable cost of housing, a quiet lifestyle, the absence of traffic jams and the city’s safety attract people here, so the prospects here are gradually growing.
New Plymouth
- Population: 88,000 people
- Median house price: NZ$ 580,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 69,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 8.4
- Unemployment rate: 3.8%
- Annual crime rate per 10,000 people: 488
- Sunshine hours: 2,200 hours / year
- Rainfall: 1,400 mm / year
- Average temperature range: from +6°C to +22°C
The city of New Plymouth is located on the west coast of the North Island. A picturesque shore of the ocean, and at the foot of Mount Taranaki adds to the atmosphere. Besides, this is the main region of the country for chemical, fuel and engineering industries. A cosy and small town where many students are studying at a local technical institute. There are also many professionals working in the oil and gas storage facilities, which provide the country with its energy needs.
What’s more, for lovers of outdoor activities, there is a lot to do here, from skiing to surfing. With an affordable cost of housing, this region is promising for engineers and people from other professional specialities.
Palmerston North
- Population: 90,000 people
- Median house price: NZ$ 660,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 63,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 10.5
- Unemployment rate: 2.8%
- Annual crime rate per 10,000 people: 890
- Sunshine hours: 1,740 hours / year
- Rainfall: 920 mm / year
- Average temperature range: from +5°C to +24°C
Palmerston North is a student city, located two hours north of Wellington. The local university offers a wide range of specialities, but has a focus on agricultural and veterinary sciences. For this, it is one of the best in the world. Thanks to its convenient location, the city is also considered a kind of logistical stronghold. However, no one here forgets about entertainment and that students need time off! So, here is a large selection of pastime activities, surrounded by beautiful nature.
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Wellington
- Population: 435,000 people
- Median house price: NZ$ 790,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 72,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 11
- Unemployment rate: 3%
- Annual crime rate per 10,000 people: 280
- Sunshine hours: 2,060 hours
- Rainfall: 1,250 mm
- Average temperature range: from +6°C to +20°C
Wellington is the windy capital of New Zealand. However, not the most comfortable climate is compensated here it with unique features. Perhaps this is one of the few places in the country, where you can get the real sense of a city. Wellington offers the highest salaries on the national average, mostly because of the location of government departments and head offices of many large companies.
Yet, this is a place not only for those wishing to build a career, but also for creative people. Because the city is rightfully ranked ‘the creative capital of New Zealand’. It offers an abundance of all kinds of entertainment options and opportunities for self-realisation. For example, there is the Weta Digital studio for animation professionals. The owner is one of the world’s leading filmmakers – Peter Jackson.
Moving around the city is easier via public transport, as hills and traffic jams will complicate your journey by foot or private vehicle. Overall, Wellington is a great place for those who would like to obtain a quality education, build a career or engage in a creative industry.
South Island
Nelson
- Population: 55,000 people
- Median house price: NZ$ 720,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 68,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 10.6
- Unemployment rate: 3%
- Annual crime rate per 10,000 people: 467
- Sunshine hours: 2,480 hours
- Rainfall: 960 mm
- Average temperature range: from +2°C to +23°C
Located in the northern part of the South Island, Nelson is one of the sunniest cities in New Zealand. Climate here resembles the Black Sea coast. The beautiful nature, safety and friendliness of the town are the hallmarks here. Also, Nelson is dominated by tourism, agriculture and marine fishing. For sure, it is excellent for lovers of nature and active recreation, and largely preferred by those with family values.
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Greymouth
- Population: 8,500
- Average house price: $ 239,600.
- Median salary is $ 40,404.
- Average salary is $ 64,607.
- To save for an average priced house with a median salary: 5.93 years
- To save for an average priced house with an average salary: 3.71 years
Greymouth is a very small city in the west of the South Island. The main aspect to the economy is seafood cultivation here. In addition, it is a transit point among popular tourist destinations. Finally, mountains, rivers, the sea – all these make Greymouth charming and different from big cities.
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Christchurch
- Population: 390,000 people
- Median house price: NZ$ 680,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 68,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 10
- Unemployment rate: 3.1%
- Annual crime rate per 10,000 people: 870
- Sunshine hours: 2,140 hours
- Rainfall: 580 mm
- Average temperature range: from +1°C to +23°C
Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island with a temperate climate. You can observe here all four seasons in all their glory. Before the earthquakes in 2011, the city was considered “the most English city outside of England”, thanks to its architecture. Now the city is experiencing a rebirth. It rebuilding itself and promising to become one of the most modern cities in New Zealand. Thanks to global projects, the city offers excellent opportunities for engineers of all varieties, especially in the construction industry.
Besides, there is always something to do. For example, fans of active sports can enjoy a huge selection of options from snowboarding to surfing. Due to its flatness, using bike is very convenient and efficient. As for students, they have many options for obtaining a quality education. While residents can lead a comfortable and safe lifestyle.
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Dunedin
- Population: 130,000 people
- Median house price: NZ$ 621,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 64,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 9.7
- Unemployment rate: 3%
- Annual crime rate per 10,000 people: 275
- Sunshine hours: 1,680 hours / year
- Rainfall: 740 mm / year
- Average temperature range: from +3°C to +19°C
Dunedin is a piece of Scotland in New Zealand. Here you will observe all four seasons as well as enjoy very beautiful architecture in the center. In fact, this is the student capital of the country. In total, comfortable city with its own special atmosphere, an abundance of friendly people and a variety of activities. Annually, Dunedin receives a large number of students from all over New Zealand and the rest of the world. Whereas affordable housing allows them to live a comfortable lifestyle.
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Queenstown
- Population: 50,000 people
- Median house price: NZ$ 1,700,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 65,000
- House price-to-income ratio: 26.2
- Unemployment rate: 2.2%
- Annual crime rate per 10,000 people: 242
- Sunshine hours: 1,900 hours / year
- Rainfall: 760 mm / year
- Average temperature range: from -2°C to +22°C
Queenstown, perhaps, is the most beautiful city in New Zealand. It boasts all four vibrant and vivid seasons in their full glory. Stunning lakes and mountains. Despite its small population, the city is full of life year-round thanks to the huge number of tourists. Because tourism is the main industry here. So, you never get bored! Therefore, jobs in this field are always in abundance. However, the cost of property is among the highest in the country.
In addition, Queenstown is considered the capital of extreme sports and known as a ski resort. So, this city is perfect for students or anyone who enjoys meeting new people, leading an active lifestyle, and participating in extreme sports.
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Invercargill
- Population: 57,000 people
- Median house price: NZ$ 485,000
- Average salary: NZ$ 62,000
- Price-to-income ratio: 7.8
- Unemployment rate: 3.8%
- Annual crime rate per 10,000 people: 499
- Sunshine hours: 1,680 hours / year
- Rainfall: 1,150 mm / year
- Average temperature range: from +1°C to +18°C
Invercargill is a small, cozy town located in the very south of New Zealand. A cool climate, beautiful nature, safety and friendliness of the population are distinctive features of this place. Moreover, affordable cost of housing and land with good average salary allow people to feel comfortable here. So, they enjoy quiet family life with the opportunity to participate in active sports.
Besides, there are many enterprises here attracted by lower cost of land for factories and warehouses. Invercargill can be a nice start for those who want to get a good and affordable education, while not spending a lot of money on housing and rent.
