Kiwis love to move!
It’s estimated that over 50% of households will move at least once.
What’s more, statistics show that many ex-pats are moving back to New Zealand and that people are moving between cities for better career opportunities or improved lifestyles.
So, how much does it cost to move home across New Zealand’s major cities? What are the most popular cities for 2022 (and which are we leaving by the droves)?
We’ve crunched the numbers on moving costs and stats across the country. You’ll be surprised by what we found!
Most popular vs least popular city in New Zealand
Christchurch vs Auckland
Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island and according to TIME magazine, one of the “World’s Greatest Places of 2021”.
The cost of living in Christchurch is relatively affordable, and real estate prices are on the climb (which can be good if you get in now).
The average cost of buying a home in Christchurch is $801,614 and renting is averaged at $480 per week.
Sounds like a lot? The median house price in Auckland has actually dropped in recent years to around $1,290,000.
A more affordable lifestyle is one of the reasons many people are choosing Christchurch over Auckland.
And, while it will take your moving company around 17+ hours to cover the 1073km between Christchurch and Auckland – you can fly there in less than an hour and a half.
Interestingly, while locals are leaving Auckland, the city has become a hub for ex-pats because of the job security and cosmopolitan vibe. The cost of living in Auckland might be high (very high), but so are wages.
The Annual Demographia International Housing Affordability Survey has shown year after year that Auckland is the least affordable city in New Zealand.
The real cost: Moving different-sized homes in NZ
If you’re ready to make a move, having an idea of what it will cost is the first step in your planning process. Does shopping around for quotes really help? Definitely!
With Wise Move, the best quotes were up to 46% lower than the highest quotes and on average the price was the same, meaning you get the best deal no matter how much you’re moving!
Let’s take a look at the average moving costs in New Zealand for 2022:
Two-bedroom flat move from Auckland to Christchurch:
Highest quote: $4800
Average quote: $4490
Wise Move Quote: $3760
Three-bedroom flat move from Auckland to Christchurch:
Highest quote: $8500
Average quote: $7600
Wise Move Quote: $6400
Four-bedroom flat move from Auckland to Christchurch:
Highest quote: $9900
Average quote: $8170
Wise Move Quote: $7300
Why are Wise Move quotes better?
Wise Move is the leading online moving platform in New Zealand.
With all the leading moving companies in one place, you can place your delivery request and relax while the quotes roll in.
Why are our quotes better than the average?
With Wise Move, movers are incentivised to optimise their routes, loads and quotes. Same quality assurance, just at a fair price.
How many movers are needed?
You might be considering asking family and friends for help, but don’t underestimate the physical and emotional stress of moving.
Yes, you’ll probably be packing the bulk of your belongings beforehand and you can ask people to help you while you host a going away pizza night.
But, on the day of the move, make sure you have some muscle to help load the trucks.
Consider how much and what you need moved.
Also, think about how long it will take to load everything if you have one versus three movers helping.
In general, two-to-three movers are necessary for a larger apartment or house.
If you have a small flat, having one person to help makes a big difference.
Ready to make a move? Use Wise Move!
Make your next move easier with a little bit of planning and a lot of help from Wise Move!
Wise Move is New Zealand’s leading online moving company platform.
Not only will they help you plan a stress-free move, but they’ll also get you the best moving quotes, too.