Thinking about swapping your Kiwi lifestyle for cobblestone streets, Roman ruins, and pasta on every corner?
Whether you’re considering Italy for retirement, study, or a cultural reset, this guide walks you through what New Zealanders should know before making the leap.
Why Italy Appeals to New Zealanders
Italy’s mix of ancient charm and modern appeal continues to attract New Zealanders looking for a lifestyle change. With over 32,000 New Zealand-resident trips to Italy in 2024 alone, interest is on the rise. The Mediterranean lifestyle, vibrant culture, and emphasis on family and food resonate deeply with Kiwis.
Thanks to visa-free travel for up to 90 days, Italy is also a convenient entry point to Europe. Many choose to explore further through the Schengen Area, making it a popular base for both short-term adventures and long-term international relocation.
Embracing the Italian Lifestyle: Food, Culture & Traditions
The Italian lifestyle offers a unique combination of daily rituals, deep social connections, and regional pride.
- Food: Italians value fresh, seasonal ingredients and take pride in traditional dishes. Meals are social events. From aperitivo to multi-course Sunday lunches, eating in Italy is about savouring food and conversation.
- Culture & Values: Expect a strong sense of community, close family ties, and respect for heritage. The pace of life tends to be slower and more relaxed compared to urban centres in New Zealand.
- Traditions: Participate in events such as local festivals, saints’ days, and weekly markets. Italian culture is best experienced by joining in.
- Language: While English is common in major cities, learning Italian will go a long way in helping you connect with locals and navigate daily life. Cultural adjustment in Italy becomes easier with even basic language skills.
Cost of Living in Italy: City vs Countryside
Italy is generally more affordable than New Zealand, especially outside the big cities. Here’s how the costs stack up:
- City Living: In places like Milan or Rome, expect monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre to be around NZD 1,300 – 1,700, with higher food and transport costs.
- Countryside or Small Towns: These areas offer significant savings, with rent as low as NZD 450 – 800, and lower daily expenses. Think of it as the Italian equivalent of living in Whanganui or Nelson – quieter, cheaper, and community-centred.
Groceries and essentials are mostly on par or slightly cheaper than in New Zealand. For example, a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant might cost around NZD 70, similar to dining out in Auckland.
Best Places for Expats: Rome, Milan, Florence, Tuscany & More
Whether you’re after career opportunities, a slower pace, or rich cultural immersion, Italy has a destination to match:
- Rome: Great for history buffs and those working in diplomacy or international business. Chaotic but culturally rich.
- Milan: Italy’s business and fashion hub. Fast-paced and cosmopolitan, best for those in finance, tech, or creative industries.
- Florence: Ideal for art lovers and those seeking a relaxed lifestyle in a walkable city with a strong expat presence.
- Tuscany: Rural charm, world-class healthcare, and postcard-worthy views. A favourite for retirees or those seeking balance.
Other rising expat-friendly areas include Bologna, Le Marche, and even Sicily, offering a more authentic and affordable Italian lifestyle.
Education and Healthcare in Italy: What to Expect
- Education: Italy’s public education system is free and compulsory from ages 6–16. While state schools teach in Italian, international schools in cities like Rome and Milan offer English-language curricula such as IB or British A-levels.
- Healthcare: Italy has one of the world’s top public healthcare systems (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale), offering low-cost or free care. Expats can register upon obtaining residency, with private healthcare available for added flexibility.
Both education and healthcare systems are generally more affordable than in New Zealand, especially when factoring in subsidies and universal access.
Working and Doing Business in Italy: Opportunities & Challenges
If you’re moving from New Zealand to Italy for work or business, here’s what to expect:
- Opportunities: Italy’s stable but slow-growing economy offers roles in tourism, renewable energy, manufacturing, and digital services. Startups also benefit from government incentives and tax breaks.
- Challenges: Bureaucracy is complex, and labour market regulations can be rigid. Language barriers and slower processes may require patience.
- Business Environment: Italy’s strategic location offers access to wider European and Mediterranean markets, making it attractive for exporters and SMEs.
With the right preparation and local support, Kiwis can thrive professionally in Italy’s unique business landscape.
Relocating Your Household Goods from NZ to Italy
Relocating your household items across continents is a major part of any international relocation – and Italy is no exception.
- Shipping Options: Choose between full container loads (FCL) or shared/groupage shipping depending on your volume and budget. Sea freight typically takes 30 – 40 days, while air freight is faster but more expensive.
- Packing & Protection: Professional packing and transport services ensure your belongings arrive intact after the long journey.
- Customs Clearance: Italian customs can be complex. Accurate declarations, itemised lists, and documentation are required. Partnering with a company that understands customs clearance in Italy is essential to avoid delays.
- Costs: Expect NZD 15,000 – 25,000 for sea freight depending on the volume. Air freight is usually 4–5x more per cubic metre.
To avoid surprises, work with professionals experienced in shipping household goods overseas to Italy.
How Crown Relocations Supports Your Move to Europe
Planning an international relocation is a complex task, and this is where Crown Relocations New Zealand makes all the difference.
With over 55 years of expertise, Crown Relocations provides end-to-end door-to-door moving services, making your transition smooth and stress-free. Their services include:
- A personal move manager to coordinate each step
- Expert packing and transport services
- Full support for customs clearance Italy
- Flexible storage solutions
- Additional help with housing, schools, and even pet relocation
Whether you’re moving to Europe for retirement or adventure, Crown ensures every detail is handled. Their local knowledge and global network give you peace of mind during every stage of the journey.
Looking to start your Italian chapter the right way?
Whether you’re considering a family relocation to Italy, a lifestyle change, or retirement in Tuscany, moving overseas with Crown Relocations ensures expert support every step of the way.
Contact us to start your personalised plan or get a quote tailored to your Italy move.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Italy from New Zealand
Many Kiwis are drawn by Italy’s culture, food, history, and lifestyle — whether for career opportunities, study, or retirement.
Housing and groceries can be cheaper in smaller towns, but major cities like Milan and Rome can be costly. Overall, lifestyle costs depend on location.
While English is spoken in tourist and business hubs, learning Italian will greatly help with daily life and integration.
New Zealanders require a visa for work, study, or long-term residence. Crown can provide resources to guide you through the requirements.
Sea freight generally takes several weeks, while air freight offers faster transit for essential items. Crown helps you choose based on your timeline and budget.
