> USEFUL INFO

NEW ZEALAND

Settling In

Education
Most schools in New Zealand are part of the state system. There is no legal requirement to pay fees at state schools, but it is usual for parents to pay some fees and charges. New Zealand has a supplementary private school system but it is expensive. Private schools get some government funding, but income is largely from fees. Kadimah Jewish Day School is a private school and therefore funded by school fees. Uniforms are worn at private schools, but not necessarily at public schools and English is the language of instruction in schools. Children usually attend primary school from age five, and it is compulsory to attend by age six. They stay at primary school until Year Six at about age 10-11. After primary school, children attend intermediate school for two years (Year Seven and Eight) and secondary schooling, which commences at Year Nine. There are a number of options for further education and training beyond secondary school. New Zealand has seven universities, 25 polytechnics, six Colleges of Education, a number of private educational institutions, as well as industry training options.

Several language programs cater for adults and children. For children, there are a number of programs within the school system.
More information: http://www.minedu.govt.nz
Around 30,000 foreign students come to study in New Zealand every year.
More information: http://www.studyinnewzealand.com

Health care
The New Zealand government offers immigrants two health choices through its parallel public and private systems. You can choose to be covered by the Government's public health system, in which case you will pay minimal charges for health care but may occasionally have to wait some time for non-urgent health care. Or, you may purchase private health insurance and receive health care immediately and at a "private" hospital. Individuals who can afford to pay for private health insurance generally do so while those who cannot, use the public health system. As a permanent resident, you and your family will be covered under New Zealand's public health system as soon as you arrive. Public hospitals are available to all New Zealand permanent residents and citizens. Under the private health care system, any one may buy health insurance which means paying an annual premium to an insurance company in exchange for which all or part of the individual health expenses, including doctors' bills, surgery, optical care and dentistry are covered. The cost of fully insuring a family of four (two adults and two children) under the private health system for 100% of health costs, would be approximately NZ$3,360.00 per year.
More information: http://www.moh.govt.nz

Housing
Most New Zealanders live in separate houses and multi-resident dwellings are just beginning to "catch on" in Auckland. New Zealand has one of the highest home ownership rates in the world, as housing is relatively affordable. In Auckland, the average house price is approximately NZ$350,000, however, properties outside of the city may only cost around NZ $150,000. Interest rates for a mortgage are around 7.5-8/per cent. You can expect to pay on average NZ $350-400 rent per week for a three-bedroom house. Inner city locations are more and rural locations are less. The majority of rental properties in New Zealand are unfurnished and additional costs will be incurred for electricity, telephone gas and water charges. Most rental properties are advertised in newspapers in the "To Let" column or at Letting Centres and with real estate agents. You will also be expected to pay a bond of up to 4 weeks rent (which can be refunded to you when you leave the property) and rent is usually paid fortnightly in advance.
More information:
http://www.reinz.org.nz
http://www.allrealestate.co.nz

Leisure
New Zealand's spectacular and varied natural environment, as well as its friendly and adventurous people, provides excellent opportunities to participate in a huge range of sightseeing, cultural, and outdoor activities. New Zealanders pride themselves on being the most adventurous people on the globe, and the South Island's ski season is one of the most successful in the world, bringing thousands of tourists every year. From thrilling bungy jumps to gentle hikes through scenic native bush, to beautiful beaches, lakes and rivers providing some of the most exciting kayaking, surfing, jet skiing, fishing and sailing in the world. New Zealanders also love playing sports. Eden Park in Auckland is the home of rugby and cricket, and the scene of many famous international matches. Golf is also played at over 20 courses around the city.

NEW ZEALAND