Life in New Zealand: Why This Place Feels Like Home (When Mom Visits)

Having my mom visit us here in New Zealand has been such a joy. Thanks to the Grandparent Visitor Visa, she can stay with us for six months of the year, and we’ve made the most of every single day. From beach walks to helping out in the kitchen (my kids love her cooking), having her around has been a reminder of just how much family shapes our lives.

At the same time, it’s been tough. Watching the news from the United States brings a wave of emotion that’s hard to shake. Loved ones are still back in California and spread across the country, and every day the headlines feel heavier. It makes you appreciate just how precious calm, stability, and peace really are.

That’s part of why I do what I do, help people explore migration and immigration options. Over the past months, I’ve connected with families of all ages, ethnicities, and regions of the U.S. (and beyond!). Some want to move to New Zealand, some are looking elsewhere, but the conversations are always heartfelt. The questions range from highly technical details to broader questions like, “Will my family feel safe and happy there?”

I always make it clear: I’m not a licensed immigration advisor, but I can speak from experience. And honestly? Life in New Zealand has been wonderful for my family. No place is perfect, but this country suits us.

Live and Let Live

One of the first things you notice here is the culture. New Zealand is very much a “live and let live” society. People respect each other’s differences, cultural, religious, or otherwise, and simply get on with their lives. You’re free to be yourself, as long as you’re not harming anyone else.

Even politics feels different here. People can disagree without it turning into chaos. Decisions get made, life goes on, and there’s a sense that the system actually works for the people. Contrast that with the constant political noise we’re used to back in the U.S., and it’s a breath of fresh air.

Work-Life Balance: Actually Balanced

One of the things I’ve grown to love most is how New Zealand values work-life balance.

• Paid holidays: Full-time employees get at least 20 days of paid annual leave plus public holidays. That’s four weeks of real downtime, time to travel, rest, or just spend with family.

  
  

• Sick leave: You also get at least 10 days of sick leave per year, meaning taking time to recover or care for loved ones is normalized, not frowned upon.

  
  

I’ll admit, it took some getting used to. In the U.S., the idea of taking multiple weeks off can feel almost irresponsible. Here? It’s expected, and people actually enjoy it.

Healthcare That Doesn’t Break the Bank

Another major difference is healthcare. New Zealand has a public system that ensures residents have access to essential medical care. Routine check-ups, emergency treatment, and maternity care are all accessible without worrying about crippling bills.

And then there’s the ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation). This is a government program that covers almost all accidents, whether at home, at work, or on the street. It’s such a unique safety net. If you slip on a wet floor or have a minor car accident, you’re taken care of. That kind of peace of mind is hard to overstate.

Home, Beach, and Everyday Joy

Let me talk about housing and lifestyle, because this is where life in New Zealand really shines. Our home is within walking distance of the beach. That’s not just a weekend perk, it’s part of everyday life. Morning walks with my mom, evenings spent dipping our toes in the sand, weekends with the kids flying kites or kayaking… simple pleasures that feel extraordinary when you’ve experienced them daily.

In many parts of the U.S., homes near nature or beaches are out of reach for most families. Here, it’s possible. And it changes how you live. You wake up to sunlight reflecting off the water, neighbors say hi without suspicion, and the kids have room to explore safely.

Why We Love It Here

The list of differences goes on:

• People are practical, fair, and inclusive.

• Schools are supportive and focused on wellbeing.

• Public services generally function efficiently (kinda).

• You feel safe in your community.

  
  

These are not just conveniences, They’re freedoms and stability that make life feel good.

I’ll be honest: moving anywhere is a leap of faith. But for my family, New Zealand has been a place of balance, opportunity, and peace. Having my mom here has made it even sweeter, giving us time to share memories, support each other, and embrace the slower, more intentional pace of life.

A Message to Those Considering a Move

To everyone who has reached out to me recently: thank you. I know the world feels heavy right now. I see your courage in exploring change and planning for a better future. Whether or not New Zealand ends up being your destination, know that you’re not alone. You’re thinking ahead, asking the right questions, and that’s the first step toward making a meaningful move.

From one family to another: take care of yourselves, prioritize what matters, and remember that there are ways to live differently, ways to find calm, fairness, and joy even in uncertain times. New Zealand isn’t perfect, but for my family, it’s home. And that makes all the difference.