North Island / Te Ika-a-Māui Regions
In this post we explore the ten North Island regions to help you choose the best location to live.
Northland is situated at the North Island's northernmost tip and is known for its subtropical climate, beaches, and bays surrounded by numerous islands and ancient Kauri forests. The region has a population of around 204,000, and its economy relies mainly on agriculture, forestry, and tourism. Generally, housing costs are lower than the national average. The region is ideally suited for those who prefer less crowded areas, are community-oriented, and enjoy learning about the Māori culture and way of life. Potential Job Locations: Whangarei, Kaikohe, Kerikeri, and Kaitaia.
Auckland is the second northernmost North Island region and the most populous in the country, with approximately 1.7 million people. The climate is humid subtropical with warm summers and mild winters. The city offers diverse landscapes, including harbours, beaches, forests, and islands. Auckland is also the country's economic hub, driven by finance, construction, tourism, and technology sectors. Immigrants can live in the bustling city centre or the more relaxed and affordable suburbs. However, the city is known for having some of the country's highest housing prices. Auckland offers a multicultural city lifestyle, an inclusive immigrant environment, and excellent opportunities for psychologists in all sectors and locations. Potential Job Locations: Auckland Central, Manukau, South Auckland, Botonny, Henderson, Waitakere, North Shore, Takapuna, Rodney.
The Waikato region is situated just south of Auckland on the north-western coast of the North Island. It is known for its fertile farmland and stunning natural beauty and being the the home of the Hobbits. In terms of population, it is one of the larger regions with around 500,000 residents, with Hamilton being the main centre. The climate is generally mild, with warm summers and mild winters. The primary industries in the Waikato region are tertiary education, agriculture, and tourism, with dairy farming particularly prominent. However, several other sectors exist, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and education. Housing costs in the Waikato region are generally lower than the national average. Overall, the area offers a high quality of life, excellent schools, world-class healthcare, and a laid-back lifestyle, making it perfect for individuals, couples and families seeking an affordable, peaceful lifestyle with outdoor activities. Potential Job Locations: Hamilton, Thames, Te Awamutu and Tokoroa.
The Bay of Plenty region is next to the Waikato on the north-eastern coast of the North Island. It is known for its endless white sand beaches, geothermal activity, and lush forests. The region's population is approximately 340,000, with Tauranga being the largest city. The climate is mild and temperate, with warm summers, mild winters, and high sunshine. The Bay of Plenty has a diverse economy, with agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and tourism as its primary industries. The region is renowned for its kiwifruit and avocado production and has a thriving forestry industry. The port of Tauranga is the busiest in the country. Regarding housing costs, the Bay of Plenty is generally more expensive than the national average. However, this can vary depending on the specific city or town. Potential Job Locations: Tauranga, Whakatane, or Rotorua.
The Tairawhiti region is found south of the Bay of Plenty on the mid-eastern coast of the North Island. It is known for its coastline, surfing, rugged landscapes, and rich Māori heritage. The region's population is small, around 50,000 people, with the largest city being Gisborne. The climate in Tairawhiti is mild and temperate, with warm summers, cool winters, and moderate rainfall throughout the year. The primary industries in the region are agriculture, forestry, fishing and wine production. Regarding housing costs, Tairawhiti is generally more affordable than the national average. The Tairawhiti lifestyle is relaxed, with a strong sense of community and a focus on outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and fishing. It suits those seeking a more remote, small-population provincial lifestyle. Potential Job Location: Gisborne.
The Hawke's Bay region is situated on the lower east coast of the North Island. It is famous for its stunning coastline, picturesque landscapes, and Art Deco architecture. The region has a population of approximately 165,000, with Napier and Hastings being the main urban centres. The climate is generally warm and sunny, with hot summers and mild winters. Hawke's Bay has a diverse economy, with a focus on agriculture, horticulture, and forestry, and a thriving wine industry that produces some of the most well-known wines in New Zealand. In comparison to the national average, housing costs are generally lower. The region offers a relaxed, friendly provincial lifestyle, a strong sense of community, and a welcoming atmosphere to immigrants. Potential Locations: Napier and Hastings.
The Taranaki region is located on the North Island's mid-west coast. It is known for its coastline, surfing beaches, and panoramic Mt Taranaki, considered the country's most perfectly formed dormant volcano cone. The region has around 120,000 people, with New Plymouth being the largest city. The climate in Taranaki is mild, with approximately 2,000 hours of sunshine per year. The primary industries in the region are dairy farming, oil and gas exploration, and production facilities. Moreover, the tourism industry in the area is rapidly growing, with visitors attracted to the region's picturesque beaches, national parks, and cultural attractions. Potential Job Locations: New Plymouth and Hawera.
The Manawatu-Whanganui region is located in the lower North Island. It is known for its black sand beaches, mountains, rivers, and forests. The population is around 240,000 people. The climate is generally temperate, with warm summers and cool winters. The region's primary industries include agriculture, tertiary education, forestry, manufacturing, and growing healthcare and tech sectors. Housing costs in the Manawatu-Whanganui region are generally lower than the national average. The region has a rich arts and cultural scene, with many museums, galleries, and festivals held throughout the year. Overall, the lifestyle in the Manawatu-Whanganui region is relaxed and friendly. For immigrants, the region offers a welcoming community and a high quality of life at an affordable cost. Potential Locations: Palmerston North, Whanganui, Dannevirke and Levin,
The Wairarapa region is located on the lower eastern coast of the North Island, near Wellington. The region is famous for its coastal landscapes, vineyards, and outdoor recreational activities. The region's population is approximately 45,000, with Masterton being the largest town. The climate is typically mild, with warm summers and cooler winters, although strong winds can sometimes occur. The Wairarapa region has diverse industries, including agriculture, forestry, wine production, and tourism. Housing costs in the region are generally lower than the national average, making it an affordable option. For immigrants, the Wairarapa region offers a relaxed and friendly lifestyle, a strong sense of community and plenty of opportunities to participate in local activities and events. The region is also well-known for its excellent schools, making it an ideal choice for families with children. Potential Locations: Masterton.
The Wellington region is located at the southern tip of New Zealand's North Island. Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand, and the region is known for its beautiful beaches, parks, nature reserves, and a thriving food and drink scene with many restaurants, cafes, and a vibrant arts and cultural scene. The region has around 500,000 residents, with Wellington City being the most populous. The climate in Wellington is generally mild, with warm summers, cool winters and strong winds. Wellington has diverse industries. The region has many government agencies and a growing technology industry, with many start-ups and tech companies. The creative industries also significantly contribute to the region's economy, with many artists, writers, musicians, and filmmakers living and working there. Housing costs in Wellington are generally higher than the national average. The lifestyle that the Wellington region offers immigrants is diverse and welcoming. The region has a solid and supportive migrant community. Potential Locations: Wellington, Hutt Valley, Porirua, and Kapiti Coast.
