Retirement

Retiring to New Zealand

By Regency FX
l
February 28, 2025

At Regency FX we help you achieve the most from the currency you are converting, this includes giving you all the information you need to make an informed decision before retiring to New Zealand. From New Zealand retirement visa requirements, to getting the most from your pension pot, you can be sure Regency FX will be there to guide you seamlessly through the whole process.

As an independent currency specialist, we have lower overheads than the banks enabling us to pass on the savings to you. We can also discuss and agree on the right time to exchange your money rather than using a bank or online-only system and having to accept the rate they give you on the day.

UK to New Zealand - Retirement guide

If you’ve been considering retiring to New Zealand, you’re not alone. Many UK retirees are drawn to its beautiful landscapes, high quality of life and welcoming communities. But before you can make the move, there are some important details to get right, including New Zealand retirement visas, where you’ll live and the conditions your visa may carry.

Having the correct paperwork is essential to make the most of your retirement in New Zealand. Get it right from the start and you’ll find the transition far smoother.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about retiring to New Zealand from the UK, from visa types and requirements to the lifestyle benefits that await.

Retiring from the UK to New Zealand

New Zealand is a warm and welcoming country that attracts people from all over the world, including many retirees from the UK. If you’re planning your move, one of the first steps is to check your visa eligibility. A retirement visa is essential and it’s important to understand that most retirement visas do not allow you to work.

Visa Options for Retiring in New Zealand

There are two main retirement visas available for the UK to New Zealand move: the Temporary Retirement Visa and the Parent Retirement Resident Visa.

Temporary Retirement Visitor Visa

The Temporary Retirement Visitor Visa is ideal if you want to retire in New Zealand for a shorter period without permanent residency.

Key requirements:

  • You must be aged 66 or older.
  • Have at least NZD $750,000 to invest in New Zealand.
  • Have at least NZD $500,000 available for living expenses.
  • Show an annual income of at least NZD $60,000.

Visa details:

  • Length of stay: up to 2 years.
  • Cost: from NZD $7,891.
  • Processing time: around 3 weeks for 80% of applications.
  • You can include your partner in the application (but not dependent children).
  • Allows study for up to 3 months in any 12-month period.
  • Freedom to travel in and out of New Zealand during your stay.

This visa is renewable after two years if you continue to meet the requirements.

Parent Retirement Resident Visa

The Parent Retirement Resident Visa provides a pathway to permanent residency if you have an adult child living in New Zealand as a citizen or resident.

Key requirements:

  • Have an adult child who is a New Zealand citizen or resident.
  • Have no dependent children.
  • Invest at least NZD $1 million in New Zealand for 4 years.
  • Have at least NZD $500,000 available for settlement.
  • Show an annual income of at least NZD $60,000.
  • Prove your funds are lawfully earned or acquired and transfer them into New Zealand.

Visa details:

  • Length of stay: indefinite once granted.
  • Cost: from NZD $12,850.
  • Processing time: around 19 months for 80% of applications.
  • Allows you to live, work and study in New Zealand.
  • Lets you include your partner in the application.
  • Permits travel in and out of New Zealand for the first two years of the investment period.
  • Apply for permanent residence after 4 years if your investment remains in place.

Which Visa is Right for You?

If you’re looking for a shorter stay and flexibility, the Temporary Retirement Visitor Visa may be the best option.

If your goal is to settle permanently near family in New Zealand, the Parent Retirement Resident Visa offers a direct route to long-term residency.

Where in New Zealand should you retire to?

Choosing where to settle is just as important as getting your visa. Here are some popular spots among retirees:

  • Hawke’s Bay – Laid-back living with great weather, vineyards and community spirit
  • Wellington – Ranked second in the world for quality of life, with affordable costs and a lively cultural scene
  • Queenstown – Perfect for adventure lovers who want easy access to mountains, lakes and outdoor sports
  • Auckland – The country’s largest city, with easy flight connections, beaches and vibrant shopping districts
  • Christchurch – A compact city with a cooler climate, excellent transport and plenty of green spaces

Important information about retiring in New Zealand.

Regarding property, if you have a temporary visa then you can only rent a property however, if you have residence visa then you can purchase a property!

You might not need to pay tax on your UK income within the first 4 years!

UK citizens can get free or cheap state healthcare services if you are only staying for a short stay or if you have a residence visa or if you become a permanent resident!

Finally, you can get your UK state pension in New Zealand; all you need to do is apply with the International Pension Centre!

The 6 main steps to retiring in New Zealand.

  1. Apply for your visa.
  2. Choose where you want to live.
  3. Check your healthcare options.
  4. Inform HMRC that you’re leaving the UK.
  5. Arrange a removal company for your belongings.
  6. Open a New Zealand bank account.

The Benefits of Retiring in New Zealand

Retiring in New Zealand offers a lifestyle that combines the familiar with the new. While there are similarities with life in the UK, there are also many differences that make it an attractive destination for retirees.

One of the biggest draws is the climate and scenery. New Zealand is famous for its natural beauty, open spaces and less crowded cities compared to the UK. The weather is generally milder and the views are breathtaking.

Another advantage is the healthcare system. Ranked in the top 20 worldwide, New Zealand’s healthcare is high quality and operates in a way that will feel familiar to people from the UK.

Finally, the overall quality of life in New Zealand is excellent. People are friendly, communities are welcoming and the lifestyle is relaxed. With incredible food, wine and a wide range of activities - from outdoor adventures to cultural events - you’ll never be short of things to enjoy in retirement.

Who are we?

Regency FX are a UK based independent currency broker, specialising in high volume transfers.

We pride ourselves on our premium level of customer service, you will be allocated your own personal account manager whom you will have direct access to.

All funds transferred through Regency FX are made using client segregated accounts in accordance with the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) guidelines.

Get a free quote today!

The important thing is the comparison, online rates shown on Google and other search engines are not always accurate for the consumer.

They can often refer to the rates that banks exchange at rather than what is available to you, the customer.

Even if you are just looking for property at this stage it is worth getting in touch to discuss your options.

We can monitor the market on your behalf enabling you to budget more effectively.

As a first-class currency transfer service, here at Regency FX we endeavour to get competitive exchange rates regardless of how much you are transacting.

Get a quote and see how we stack up.

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