Brisbane is the most popular city for New Zealanders to relocate too. So, we thought it would be useful to list the top 11 things New Zealanders should know about moving to Brisbane.
- Brisbane’s Weather
Brisbane has a humid subtropical climate and it can take some getting used to. There is humidity and tropical storms are frequent in summer. However, the winter is generally brief with predominantly clear sunny days and there’s a casual relaxed feeling where it almost feels like everyone’s on holiday all the time.
The weather is definitely a big drawcard and why so many New Zealander’s are relocating to Brisbane.
- Air-conditioning is good
Given Brisbane’s weather most houses have air conditioning which is good to know.
- Pool
A pool is one of the most common requests we get from New Zealanders who are relocating to Brisbane. Given the beautiful weather many homes will have a pool. You can expect to pay more and depending on the property the owner may cover the cost of any pool maintenance. Each real-estate agent works differently, and any pool maintenance requirements will be outlined in the lease.
- Mould
Given the humid weather conditions, it’s not uncommon to see mould in Brisbane homes. To help manage mould, try to keep your windows closed during the rain so that the moisture doesn’t get inside. And, during the dry days, open the windows a little to keep your home dry. You could also purchase a good dehumidifier as that is one of the best ways to keep your home mould-free.
- Food
As a New Zealander, you will also notice that food prices are definitely cheaper and there is more variety here in Brisbane compared with New Zealand, both buying fresh food and eating out.
- Sport
Sport is big in Queensland just like the rest of Australia. However, if you are moving to Brisbane, then you will need to think about a rugby league team to support, as Rugby is the predominate sport, followed by the AFL (Australian Football Leage). If you hear someone talking about the “Maroons” it’s the Queensland rugby league team named after the colour of their jersey.
- Kangaroos
Yes, we do have kangaroos hopping around but don’t expect to see them in your local Brisbane suburb anytime soon. They are generally found further out in bushland areas.
- Spiders
We also have spiders too, but they are not as bad or big as you think (or read about).
- Medicare and Family Tax Benefits for New Zealanders
New Zealander families are eligible for Medicare and family tax benefits
- Brisbane Schools and Kindergarten
In Queensland Prep is the first year of schooling and children must be 5 by 30 June in the year they enrol in Prep.
For Queensland Kindergarten programs, like most states in Australia they help children prepare for Prep. They are generally offered by kindergarten and long day care services. Children must be at least 4 by 30 June in the year they attend the program.
11.Transferring your New Zealander driver licence to a Queensland licence
If you are moving from New Zealand to Brisbane, you can transfer your licence to a Queensland driver licence.
You generally will not need to pass a road rules test or practical driving test if you hold or have held within the last 5 years, a New Zealand driver licence that corresponds to a class C, RE or R driver licence and you are applying for a Queensland car or motorcycle driver licence.
You will need to provide 3 Evidence of Identity (EOI)documents, along with evidence of Qld residency. At least 1 EOI document must show your signature, they must be original documents and could include a Passport, Birth Certificate, Debit or Credit Card or Medicare Card.
You will need to visit one of the following centres, transport and motoring customer service centre or a participating Queensland Government Agent Program (QGAP) office can complete the necessary paperwork, have your photo taken and pay the fee.
We hope that these 11 things New Zealanders should know about moving to Brisbane has been useful. If you do need further information, then please contact Australian Relocation Managers. We have helped lots of New Zealanders relocate to Brisbane recently. Plus, several of our Brisbane Relocation Consultants are originally from New Zealand so they really do have the inside knowledge on the differences between New Zealand and Brisbane.
Not only can they help you find you a lovely home to rent in Brisbane, but they can also connect you with likeminded New Zealanders who have already made the move before you. For more information on helping you relocate from New Zealand to Brisbane, contact us.