Settling in to New Zealand

Sample checklist of the steps required once you have arrived in New Zealand
This list is by no means complete, if you have items to add, please Contact Us

 
Settling in to New Zealand
     
Airport
     
Collect Luggage
Buy cell phones / prepaid cards
Call friends and family back in SA and here at home to let them know you have arrived safely
Hire a car / Call guest house to come collect you
Ensure you have directions to guest house / hotel
 
Cars
     
Find out the bus routes and buy tickets if required
Buy a car(s)
Register the car(s) if the garage doesn't do it
Ensure the car has a valid WOF
Buy Map book / GPS / NZ maps for GPS
Arrange insurance for the car (remember your no claim bonus from SA)
Book test to convert your drivers license
     
Finances
     
Apply for IRD numbers
Open bank accounts
Arrange for the remainder of your money to be transfered to your NZ account
Find work
Arrange Kiwi-Saver or other retirement plan
     
Accomodation
     
Find a rental / house to purchase
Have Utilities connected (Water & Lights)
Apply for landline
Apply for Internet
Buy initial groceries
Buy kitchen utensils
Buy Manchester (linen)
Buy Furniture
Apply for Sky TV
     
Children
     
Enroll kids in school
Buy school uniforms for kids
Buy stationary for kids' school work (ask the school for a list)
 
Health
     
Find a family Doctor
Find a family dentist
Ensure you know the route to the nearest hospital
Arrange for medical aid (if required)
Ensure you know where the local pharmacy is