Moving to Australia from NZ – A Complete Guide

A small wallaby standing on sandy ground in Australia, symbolizing a fresh start

Moving to Australia

Are you planning on moving to Australia from New Zealand? Whether you’re chasing career opportunities, family life, or a change of scenery, this complete guide will help you prepare every step of the way. Learn what to expect, what to bring, how much it costs, and how to make your international move simple and stress-free.


Why So Many Kiwis Are Moving to Australia

Australia continues to be a top destination for New Zealanders. With better job prospects, great weather, and a higher standard of living, it is no surprise that many Kiwis choose to move across the Tasman. Under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, most New Zealand citizens can live and work in Australia without needing a visa, making relocation more accessible than other international moves.


Best Australian Cities for New Zealanders

If you’re considering the move, here are the most popular Australian cities for New Zealanders:

Brisbane: A warm climate, relaxed lifestyle, and more affordable housing make it ideal for families.
Melbourne: Known for its culture, food, and arts scene, Melbourne offers a vibrant lifestyle and strong job market.
Sydney: As the largest city, Sydney provides plenty of work opportunities, stunning beaches, and diverse communities.


How to Plan Your Move from NZ to Australia

Proper planning is essential when relocating internationally. Here is a basic timeline to help you stay on track:

2 to 3 months before your move:

  • Make a list of the items you plan to take
  • Compare quotes from international movers
  • Decide what to sell or leave behind

1 month before moving:

  • Confirm your booking with your moving company
  • Notify landlords, utility providers, and your NZ employer
  • Arrange new housing and job details in Australia

1 to 2 weeks before departure:

  • Organise documents, shipping labels, and customs paperwork
  • Sell or prepare your car for shipping if needed
  • Begin final packing or schedule professional packers

What Can and Can’t Be Moved to Australia

Australia has strict biosecurity laws. Avoid packing items such as soil-covered tools, untreated wood, food, and anything that could carry pests or disease.

Most movers take:

  • Furniture and appliances
  • Clothing and personal effects
  • Labeled boxes of household goods
  • Electronics and valuables

Avoid overloading your move with low-value items. Shipping costs are based on volume (cubic metres), so being strategic saves money.


Shipping Options When Moving to Australia

At Galilee Movers, we offer two flexible shipping options:

Groupage (Shared Container Shipping): Ideal for small to mid-size moves. You share a container with other customers, and we consolidate items heading to the same city. It’s cost-effective and efficient.

Full Container Load (FCL): Best for full home relocations or if you’re also shipping a car. You get exclusive use of a 20ft or 40ft container.

We send regular shipments to Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, and handle everything from pickup in New Zealand to final delivery in Australia.


How Much Does It Cost to Move to Australia from NZ

The cost depends on:

  • Total volume of goods (in m³)
  • Whether you choose groupage or FCL
  • Origin and destination locations
  • Any packing or vehicle shipping services

As a general estimate, moving 15m³ to Brisbane could cost around $5,000 to $6,000 NZD with packing, shipping, customs, and delivery included. Contact us for a tailored quote based on your needs.


Why Choose Galilee Movers for Your Move to Australia

Galilee Movers specialises in international moving services from New Zealand to Australia. Our process is simple, transparent, and reliable.

  • Licensed NZ customs brokers
  • Competitive groupage and FCL pricing
  • NZ-wide collection and consolidation
  • In-house documentation support
  • Monthly shipments to Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne
  • Door-to-door delivery in Australia

Get a Free Quote for Your Move to Australia

Ready to make your move? Galilee Movers makes moving to Australia from New Zealand straightforward and affordable. Whether you’re sending a few items or relocating your entire household, we’ll guide you through the process.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote and start planning your move with confidence.

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