Why moving to this Island is costing South Africans millions

Johannesburg – Over 95,000 South Africans now live in New Zealand, making it one of the most popular destinations for those leaving the country, BusinessTech reports.

“In 2024 alone, 4,132 South Africans became citizens, up from 3,387 the year before, and by mid-2025, nearly 1,700 more visa applications had already been submitted,” the report says.

“South Africans now make up 10% of all new citizens in New Zealand, overtaking Filipinos to become the third-largest group of overseas-born nationals.”

The appeal is driven by New Zealand’s high quality of life, safety, and beautiful landscapes, as well as lucrative job opportunities and the ability to join family members already living there.

The shared English language and cultural connection through rugby further enhance the country’s attractiveness, according to Quinton Keyser, Network and Growth Manager at CENTURY 21 New Zealand.

New Zealand continues to captivate South Africans, with over 95,000 now calling it home. This is a significant increase from 71,382 in 2018.

“The country is attractive for South Africans, primarily due to its high quality of life, safety, and beautiful landscapes.” – Quinton… pic.twitter.com/3f6I687Lt2

— Tax Consulting South Africa (@taxconsultingsa) September 2, 2025

New Zealand also tops the Global Life Work Balance Index for 2025, its third consecutive year at the top. The ranking factors in paid leave (32 days a year), healthcare access, and strong family support, including up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, making the country highly attractive for professionals and families alike.

However, according to Daily Investor,  experts warn that emigrating comes with financial and legal challenges.

Tax Consulting South Africa specialists emphasise the importance of ensuring correct tax status with SARS, understanding exit taxes, and managing retirement savings, bank accounts, and inheritances.

South Africans must also navigate New Zealand’s property market, where the median house price reached NZD$770,000 (R7.99 million) in June 2024, compared with South Africa’s R937,000, the report says.

Eligibility to purchase residential property is largely restricted to citizens and resident visa holders, adding another hurdle for newcomers.

Statistics show South Africa’s Migration Reports have consistently placed New Zealand among the top five destinations for emigrants since 2010, highlighting a growing trend of South Africans seeking better work-life balance, safety, and opportunity abroad.