Though New Zealand is a famous holiday destination, many people wish to relocate and build a life there. And if that describes you, you may be wondering where to reside in New Zealand.

If you're thinking about migrating to New Zealand, check out these top areas to reside!

1. Queenstown

Queenstown was probably the highlight of my trip to New Zealand.

Many expats consider this alpine city to be one of the best places to live in New Zealand, thanks to its stunning landscapes and adventurous activities such as bungee jumping!

Queenstown is a tourist town on the south island, nestled between the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the breathtaking mountain hills.

Although it is a small town, there is enough to do and a vibrant community atmosphere.

There are several events and festivals in the summer, and because it is a ski resort, the town is just as vibrant in the winter.

Queenstown is a thrill seeker's paradise, with attractions such as the famed AK Hackett Bungy Jump and Shotover Canyon Swing.

These activities are not for the faint of heart. Still, if you can find the guts, you'll have one of the most memorable experiences of your life.

Queenstown also features New Zealand's top ski slopes, which is why so many foreigners prefer to reside here.

During the winter, you can spend your leisure time skiing and snowboarding amidst stunning surroundings.

The one disadvantage of living in Queenstown is that rental prices have skyrocketed due to its popularity.

2. Auckland.

Auckland is New Zealand's largest metropolis, with approximately 1.5 million people living there. It serves as the country's business hub, attracting a large number of foreigners.

As a result, this global metropolis is the best place to live in New Zealand in terms of employment, education, and healthcare.

Nonetheless, living in Auckland is not entirely work and no play. The north island city is located on the Pacific Ocean's Hauraki Gulf, and it is known for its spectacular nature reserves and beaches.

Furthermore, the city's position allows you to board a ferry to several islands, like Waiheke Island, which is only 40 minutes from Auckland's downtown.

However, as a major metropolis, there is a lot of traffic, and living prices are substantially greater than in other areas.

Even so, if you enjoy the rush and bustle of the week and the option to escape to nature on weekends, you'll love Auckland.

Furthermore, due to its location on the north island, Auckland remains much warmer than cities in the south.

3. Wellington

Wellington is New Zealand's capital, making it one of the best places to live in the country. Wellington is smaller than Auckland, yet it still has a lot to offer.

The seaside city boasts stunning beaches, a tiny, easy-to-navigate central business district, and extremely friendly locals.

Wellington is less metropolitan and built-up than Auckland, resulting in less career prospects.

Having said that, the banking, technology, and creative sectors are currently growing here.

Plus, with significantly less traffic, you won't have to cope with a stressful commute every day!

Wellington has some lovely, tranquil suburbs that provide a relaxing lifestyle. There's also a vibrant cafe scene and a plethora of events and festivals.

As a result, it strikes a balance between calm and community activity, making it one of the nicest locations to live in New Zealand.

4) Tauranga

Tauranga has recently emerged as a popular destination for New Zealand expats and Kiwis alike.

Despite its small population, the seaside village on the North Island boasts magnificent beaches and a surprisingly bustling nightlife.

Tauranga is adjacent to the geothermal paradise of Rotorua and the stunning Lake Taupo.

As a result, if you live there, you'll have lots of possibilities for day trips whenever you want to get away from the city.

Tauranga is an affordable area to live. Furthermore, as a port town and vacation resort, there are ample job options for working vacationers.

What I liked best about this coastal town was its all-year-round vacation atmosphere.

Living and working in Tauranga might easily feel like an extended vacation.

5) Napier

Napier is a tiny coastal city in the North Island's Hawke's Bay region. With a population of less than 66,500 people, you won't find a bustling city atmosphere here.

Instead, you'll see a breathtaking coastline, over 70 vineyards, and Marine Parade, a bustling tree-lined street on the shore.

Napier has a seaport and several rivers that flow through the city and beyond.

This makes Napier one of the greatest places to live in New Zealand if you enjoy watersports.

Napier offers a wide variety of water activities, including jet skiing, kayaking, and rowing.

Napier has a much lower cost of living than other cities and towns.

However, there are fewer work opportunities available.

Unfortunately, most expats in New Zealand prefer larger cities.

However, if you can work remotely, you may believe Napier is one of the best places to live in New Zealand.