When I first set foot in New Zealand in 2015 on a working holiday visa, I had no idea that this distant corner of the world would eventually become home. I arrived with a backpack, a curious spirit, and the intention to travel, work, and experience life in a different culture. What started as a temporary adventure slowly turned into a long-term decision—one that I stand by today with confidence and peace.
After returning to Germany, I couldn’t shake the feeling that New Zealand had changed me. The connection I felt to its landscapes, its lifestyle, and its people was something I hadn’t experienced anywhere else. So, a few years later, I made the move back, this time with the intention of staying.
Here are some of the main reasons why I chose to make New Zealand my permanent home:
1. The Connection to Nature
Nature is everywhere in New Zealand. Living in Queenstown, I’m surrounded by mountains, lakes, and trails that start just outside my door. I never have to drive far to go for a walk, breathe fresh air, or get away from everything. It’s not just beautiful—it’s healing.
Being able to hike after work, take spontaneous trips to the lake, or just sit outside in silence has brought a deep sense of calm and gratitude into my life.
2. The Lifestyle
Life in New Zealand feels slower and more balanced. People prioritize outdoor activities, spending time with family, and enjoying the small things. There’s less pressure to constantly rush or compete.
The Kiwi way of life has taught me to let go a little more, to not always chase productivity, and to make space for quality time and presence.
3. The Multicultural Community
New Zealand is home to people from all over the world. I’ve met so many people with rich and diverse backgrounds. Being in a multicultural environment has helped me grow, adapt, and feel a sense of belonging even though I’m far from where I was born. Working with people of different nationalities has taught me a lot, is hasn’t been easy at the beginning because everyone has a different upbringing and background, but once you get to know everyone better, you get to understand.
My partner is from Argentina, and here we’ve built a life that blends our different cultures in a shared home. It’s a reminder that where you come from is part of your story, but it doesn’t have to define your future.
4. The Safety and Quality of Life
While no place is perfect, New Zealand offers a strong sense of safety and stability. The healthcare system, the public spaces, the infrastructure—they all support a high quality of life. I walk alone without fear at night, leave my car unlocked at times and we even don’t lock our house, that’s how safe it feels here. I enjoy clean air and access to nature every day. A lot of farmers are selling their produce such as honey, fruits etc next to the road with an honesty box. I believe this wouldn’t be possible in Germany anymore nowadays, at least I wouldn’t feel comfortable showcasing and selling my produce without supervision.
5. A New Sense of “Home”
It’s not always easy being far from family and old friends. I miss spontaneous coffee dates, German bakeries, and the warmth of my community back home. But over time, I’ve come to see “home” not as a fixed place, but as a feeling.
New Zealand gives me that feeling: of peace, inspiration, and belonging. It’s where I’ve built new friendships, found love, created routines, and discovered a version of myself that feels more present and alive.
Choosing to stay in New Zealand for good wasn’t a snap decision—it was a series of moments, feelings, and realizations. It meant letting go of what was familiar in order to embrace what felt right.
And while I’ll always carry Germany with me, I know this is where I’m meant to be, at least for now. Who knows what the future brings?
I would love to hear, why did you choose to stay in New Zealand?