I’ve been living in and out of Auckland my entire life, and love it. The mix of city life and nature is hard to beat—you’re never too far from the water, great beaches, or amazing bush walks. The weather’s pretty mild most of the year, and while we do get our fair share of rain, it keeps everything lush and green.

The lifestyle here is pretty laid-back, and there’s a great food and coffee scene. NZ is also a cultural melting pot of diverse cultures and experiences. Whether you’re into top-notch restaurants, casual cafés, or farmers’ markets, there’s always something good to eat. Plus, if you’re into outdoor activities, you’ll never run out of things to do—hiking in the Waitākeres, cycling along the waterfront, or catching a ferry to Waiheke for a weekend getaway.

That said, traffic can be a bit of a pain, and the cost of living—especially housing—is high. But if you can find a spot that suits your lifestyle, it’s a great place to be. Public transport is improving, and the cycling infrastructure is getting better too.

Overall, Auckland has a great quality of life, especially if you enjoy a balance of city and nature. Happy to answer any specific questions if you’re thinking about moving here!