Why South Africans Continue to Relocate to New Zealand

In 2024, South Africans comprised 10% of the 40,000 individuals granted New Zealand citizenship, making them the third largest group of overseas-born nationals to achieve this status.

The most recent census reveals that over 95,000 South Africans now reside in New Zealand, a significant increase from 71,382 in 2018.

Between January and July 2025, nearly 1,700 visa applications were submitted by South Africans (including dependents), underscoring New Zealand’s enduring appeal.

As per the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs, South Africans surpassed Filipinos to become the third largest group of overseas-born citizens awarded citizenship in 2024, with a total of 4,132 South Africans obtaining citizenship, up from 3,387 in 2023.

This trend is echoed in the 2024 Migration Report by Statistics South Africa, which lists New Zealand among the top five destinations for South Africans living abroad since 2010.

The New Zealand government offers accurate, up-to-date statistics on visa applications, issued and declined visas, and residency status. By the end of July 2025, 29,600 South Africans were residing in New Zealand under valid residence visas, which apply to individuals who have held residency for five years or less. After five years, residents are considered citizens for census purposes and are no longer counted separately.

Why South Africans find New Zealand appealing

Quinton Keyser, Network and Growth Manager for CENTURY 21 New Zealand, notes that South Africans are attracted to the country primarily for its high quality of life, safety, and breathtaking landscapes.

Many South Africans seek lucrative job opportunities or wish to join family members who are already in New Zealand. The predominantly English-speaking environment enhances its allure.

In 2025, New Zealand ranked first in the Global Life Work Balance Index for the third consecutive year, according to Remote, a global HR software provider. This index considers factors such as paid leave (which totals 32 days for New Zealanders), access to healthcare, and robust legislative protections like paid parental leave (up to 26 weeks to support families).

And of course, there’s rugby. This shared passion fosters a fierce yet respectful rivalry between the two nations that spans generations.

Financial and tax considerations for those leaving South Africa

Emigrating involves more than just packing your belongings and shipping them abroad. John-Paul Fraser, an emigration tax specialist at Tax Consulting South Africa, stresses the necessity of addressing crucial tax, financial planning, banking, and compliance matters. This is relevant for South Africans contemplating a move to New Zealand, those currently in the process of relocating, or even those who left long ago but did not complete the exit process correctly.

There are several critical areas to consider, all interconnected:

Ability to transfer funds from South Africa

If your tax and exchange control status is not correct, you will be unable to move money out of South Africa. The process for transferring money in and out of the country has drastically changed, and having the appropriate tax status with SARS is essential. Your bank will not permit fund transfers without a valid tax clearance from SARS. This clearance will only be issued if your non-resident status is correct and your records are up to date. SARS employs sophisticated technology, including third-party data and artificial intelligence, making it nearly impossible to move funds without compliance with correct procedures.

SARS tax status and exit taxes

You must notify SARS following the correct process and pay any applicable exit taxes. Some assets incur exit tax while others are exempt. Strategic planning can help minimize tax liabilities.

Financial planning and banking

A thorough review of your retirement savings, policies, bank accounts, and potential inheritances is crucial to avoid mistakes.

A holistic approach

One of the most vital factors is selecting a single holistic advisor instead of multiple separate advisors. What may seem like the best advice from a financial planning perspective often isn’t the best when it comes to tax advice or transferring money abroad. Some advisors may be driven by the potential to earn fees from selling limited solutions, rather than catering to the client’s specific needs.

Simplicity is key

Complicated processes or expensive solutions are usually unnecessary. Tax Consulting offers legal privilege, ensuring that even sensitive cases can be addressed securely.

What South Africans should know about purchasing a home in New Zealand

Keyser notes that buying residential property in New Zealand is primarily restricted to citizens and resident visa holders, making eligibility a key consideration for South African buyers.

The property prices can be surprising to South Africans, necessitating careful financial planning. As of June 2024, the median house price in New Zealand was NZD$770,000 (R8.3 million), in contrast to South Africa’s median of around R937,000 (NZD$87,450).

The rental market often serves as an initial entry point for relocating South Africans. Given the tight supply in sought-after regions, prospective foreign tenants should begin their search early and consider enlisting the help of local real estate agents.

Securing a successful property purchase

According to Keyser, prospective buyers should first engage a mortgage broker to obtain financial pre-qualification and set a clear budget, a service generally provided at no cost to the buyer.

Once a suitable property is identified, a formal sale and purchase agreement is generated. Keyser emphasizes the importance of having this document thoroughly reviewed by the buyer’s solicitor prior to signing. After the offer is accepted, the agreement enters a conditional stage, allowing for essential due diligence, which typically includes finalizing financing, obtaining a satisfactory building report, and reviewing the Land Information Memorandum (LIM). Once all conditions are fulfilled and both parties are satisfied, the agreement becomes unconditional and legally binding.

“The experience of purchasing a residential property in New Zealand can be exceptionally efficient for those who are well-prepared.”

Settle Smarter: Secure the right guidance from the start

Although New Zealand is inviting to skilled migrants, the relocation process necessitates the right direction and expertise.

Collaborating with licensed immigration advisers and cross-border tax professionals can alleviate stress, ensure compliance, and enhance your chances of success.

Tanya Tosen is a tax and remuneration expert at Tax Consulting SA.

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