Both the northern and southern islands of New Zealand are at risk for a variety of natural disasters, with flooding being the most often occurring and destructive natural hazard.
Hamilton is considered the most geologically sound city. It's far enough away from the coast to avoid the threat of tsunamis. Additionally, it's far away from any known fault lines. Plus, it's a far distance from Auckland's volcanic field and not likely to be in the path of volcanic ash.
New Zealand lies in the path of the roaring forties weather systems. The mountainous terrain often increases the rainfall produced by frontal storms and tropical cyclones. Flooding, due to intense or prolonged rain, is by far the most frequent and costly disaster in New Zealand.
Countries such as New Zealand, Iceland, and Switzerland are considered likely to survive WWIII due to their geographical isolation, political neutrality, and strong self-sufficiency in resources.
Is it safe to travel alone in New Zealand as an American? Absolutely! New Zealand consistently ranks as one of the world's safest countries. I know many solo American travelers, particularly women, who've had fantastic experiences. The biggest risks are natural hazards (weather, terrain) rather than crime.
Espionage is an ongoing threat to New Zealand's national security that is directed against organisations in both the private and public sector. Global competition and insecurity drive the majority of espionage activity against New Zealand.
92-day rule
You do not have to apply for a certificate of exemption from withholding tax if you come from a country that has a DTA with New Zealand and you're eligible for total New Zealand tax relief under that agreement. You must also be present in New Zealand for a total of 92 or fewer days in any 12-month period.
Consider all the pros and cons of living in New Zealand long-term so you don't regret making the move!
Countries often considered the safest in the event of World War III include New Zealand, Bhutan, Iceland, Indonesia, and Switzerland, as well as certain parts of South America. These countries are known for being politically neutral, geographically isolated, self- sufficient, and having stable societies.
New Zealand's entire coastline and some of our larger lakes are at risk of tsunami. This is because of our location in the Pacific and our geography. The biggest tsunami in New Zealand can arrive in less than an hour.
Over the coming decades and centuries, this will pose increasingly serious problems for all coastal communities. But this is not the end of our troubles. Some parts of New Zealand's coastline are also sinking. In many New Zealand cities, shorelines are steadily subsiding, with growing impacts on coastal infrastructure.
The 2025 WorldRiskIndex Report ranks the Philippines as the most disaster-prone country globally, scoring 46.56 out of 100 for exposure and vulnerability. Why Philippines is ranked high in disasters?
Cyclone Bola dumped over 900 mm of rain and produced hurricane-force winds in regions of northern New Zealand in March 1988. More recently, Cyclones Fergus and Drena brought torrential rain and storm-force winds to the North Island in December 1996, triggering an exodus of summer tourists from coastal resorts.
New Zealand vs US: cost of living. Living in New Zealand is generally more affordable than in the US especially when it comes to housing, food, and healthcare.
Iceland is consistently ranked as the #1 safest country in the world by the Global Peace Index (GPI), a position it has held for over a decade due to extremely low crime, no standing army, high social cohesion, and minimal conflict, though some other reports might place Switzerland or the Netherlands first based on different survey criteria.
In a worst-case scenario the "safest states" would be Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, District of Columbia, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama and Mississippi.
Iceland remains the most peaceful country in the world in 2021, a position it has held since 2008. It is joined at the top of the index by New Zealand, Denmark, Portugal, and Slovenia.
New Zealand is experiencing a record exodus of people, mainly due to a cost of living crisis, low wages, housing affordability issues, and limited job opportunities, with many heading to Australia for better pay and more prospects. Push factors include a weaker economy and job market, while Australia offers stronger economic pull factors like higher salaries and more available roles in sectors like healthcare and construction, making it a significant "brain drain" for NZ.
It used to be that once someone's salary hit six digits, they would be considered highly paid. But there are now about a dozen sectors paying at least a median $100,000. Over the past 10 years, the median wage across New Zealand has risen from about $67,000 – depending how you measure it – to nearly $80,000.
Most people who move here agree that New Zealand has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and an easy-going way of life. New Zealanders have a strong work ethic, but they also believe in having a good work-life balance.
Yes, NZ$70,000 is considered an average to decent salary in New Zealand, hitting the national average but falling short of "comfortable" in expensive cities like Auckland, especially for families; for a single person, it's generally enough to cover basic living costs and some savings, but luxuries like frequent dining out or big travel might be tight, especially in major cities.
People travelling on a passport from some countries must apply for a Visitor Visa to visit New Zealand. You can stay for up to either 6 months or 9 months. You cannot work, but you can study for up to 3 months.
Tax for New Zealand tax residents As a New Zealand tax resident, you'll generally pay tax on your worldwide income. Leaving New Zealand If you're a New Zealand tax resident and leave the country, you'll need to work out whether you've become a non-resident taxpayer. If so, your income tax obligations will change.