In an era where burnout is all too common and remote work has become the new normal, more people are rethinking what really matters—not just economic opportunity, but a better quality of life. In 2025, New Zealand continues to lead the world in this shift, ranking #1 on Remote’s Life-Work Balance Index for the third year in a row, while its largest city, Auckland, has earned a place in the top 10 of the EIU’s Global Liveability Index.
So, what makes New Zealand the ultimate destination to live, work—and truly live?
A Country That Puts Life First
New Zealand has reshaped the global conversation around work-life balance by flipping the focus—from work to life. With a score of 86.87 out of 100 in Remote’s 2025 Global Life-Work Balance Index, it consistently ranks high across key metrics: generous annual leave, paid parental benefits, public happiness, safety, and one of the highest minimum wages in the world.
But these numbers only tell part of the story. In New Zealand, life is the priority, and work is meant to support it—not dominate it. As the government’s own employment guide states: “Life is for living, and employers generally respect that.”
Natural Beauty as a Way of Life
This philosophy is easy to embrace in a country as naturally stunning as New Zealand. Known to the Māori as Aotearoa—“The Land of the Long White Cloud”—New Zealand is a landscape of glaciers, volcanoes, rainforests, vineyards, beaches, and fjords. Here, outdoor living isn’t a weekend luxury—it’s part of the rhythm of everyday life.
Locals shape their schedules around their surroundings—surfing at sunrise, hiking at lunch, stargazing after dinner. And with a strong digital infrastructure, remote workers can plug in from a coastal bach (holiday home), vineyard loft, or lakeside cabin.
Auckland: A City Where City Life Meets Coastline Calm
In 2025, Auckland ranked 7th globally on the EIU’s Liveability Index with a score of 96.0, tying with Osaka, Japan. Known as the "City of Sails," Auckland is nestled between two harbours and dotted with volcanic cones, urban beaches, and lush green parks. It’s cosmopolitan, connected, and naturally beautiful—the best of both city energy and nature’s calm.
Whether you’re logging in from a coworking space downtown, ferrying off to Waiheke Island for a weekend among the vineyards, or watching the sunset at Mission Bay, Auckland blends professional opportunity with lifestyle ease.
10 Best Places to Explore in New Zealand
Relocating or just visiting, these 10 iconic destinations offer a deep dive into the country’s unmatched natural and cultural richness:
1. Milford Sound – A mystical fjord in Fiordland National Park, with waterfalls, towering cliffs, and boat cruises that redefine awe.
2. Queenstown – The adventure capital of the world, where thrill meets serenity, nestled by Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables.
3. Rotorua – A geothermal wonderland rich in Māori culture, geysers, mud pools, and wellness retreats.
4. Tongariro National Park – Home to the epic Tongariro Alpine Crossing and dramatic volcanic landscapes made famous by The Lord of the Rings.
5. Waiheke Island – A ferry ride from Auckland, filled with boutique wineries, sandy beaches, and art-filled cafes.
6. Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park – New Zealand’s tallest mountain, perfect for hiking, glacier viewing, and stargazing.
7. Bay of Islands – A subtropical marine playground of 140+ islands for sailing, diving, and coastal escapes.
8. Franz Josef Glacier – One of the few glaciers in the world that descends into a temperate rainforest—perfect for heli-hikes and hot pool soaks.
9. Te Anau – A peaceful lakeside town, gateway to glowworm caves and multiple Great Walks including the Kepler Track.
10. Hobbiton (Matamata) – A must-see for fans of Tolkien’s Middle-earth; stroll through the Shire’s real-life movie set.
Thinking of Relocating?
With its people-first policies, thriving remote work scene, and breathtaking environments, New Zealand isn’t just a dream vacation—it’s a real lifestyle choice. Whether you're seeking a short-term sabbatical, a career refresh, or a permanent move, the country’s continued top rankings in both life-work balance and liveability make it a standout.
In 2025, if you're ready to swap gridlock for green trails, and stress for starlit skies—New Zealand is ready to welcome you.
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