Crown Relocations is NZ’s leading moving company.
Bloemfontein (literally ‘flower fountain’) is widely known as the “City of Roses” for its abundance of rose bushes and the annual rose festival each October. Located in the heart of central South Africa, Bloemfontein is the judicial capital of South Africa, as well as the capital of the Free State Province. Bloemfontein offers a change from the hustle and bustle of South Africa’s larger urban centers. It is known for its calmer pace of life, wide open spaces, and a strong sense of community. For New Zealanders considering relocating to South Africa, Bloemfontein provides an opportunity to settle into a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still enjoying access to excellent services, cultural activities, and educational institutions.
The city’s central location makes it a convenient base for travel within South Africa. It has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold, dry winters, which is quite different from the more temperate conditions of New Zealand. While it lacks a coastline or mountain ranges, Bloemfontein offers many inland attractions. Franklin Game Reserve and Naval Hill provides sightings of giraffes as well as panoramic views of the city. From whitewater rafting and abseiling experiences, to cultural museums and historical landmarks, there is much to discover. Bloemfontein may not be as internationally known, even though it’s where renowned author J.R.R. Tolkien was born. However, it offers an authentic South African experience for those seeking a more grounded way of life.
The lifestyle in Bloemfontein revolves around family, education, and community involvement. While it may be more traditional and conservative compared to other major South African cities, it is equally welcoming. New Zealanders moving here will find a more relaxed atmosphere and friendly people. As with any international move, there are challenges such as adapting to a new climate, cultural differences, and practical matters such as load shedding (scheduled power outages). However, with good planning and an open mind, life in Bloemfontein can be very fulfilling.
Crown Relocations NZ makes moving to Bloemfontein simple and stress-free with customised services to meet your relocation needs. We understand every part of international relocations, with 60 years of experience in providing international shipping around the world, including to Bloemfontein, South Africa.
Whether you have a houseful of furniture or just a few precious items, Crown offers flexible shipping options to suit your needs and budget, ensuring your belongings arrive safely at your new home. Sole-use containers can be used for large items and households, while a shared container is a cost-effective option for smaller loads. We also offer air transport for priority items that need to arrive more quickly.
With Crown, you can leave all the paperwork to us. Our team handles all necessary clearances and entry documentation, assisting with Bloemfontein’s customs regulations and requirements. We make sure your move complies with all regulations.
Our comprehensive moving services include transit protection insurance, a free relocation checklist, as well as assistance with relocating vehicles and pets. With Crown, you can go knowing that every aspect of your move to Bloemfontein is managed with care and professionalism.
For an international moving quote, call our friendly team on: 0508 227 696 or complete our online form.
Imagine your team thriving in their new Bloemfontein home, embracing the culture and excelling in their roles. At Crown Relocations, we make this vision a reality. Whether moving long term or short term, our worldwide expertise makes sure your team, and their families, have a seamless transfer to Bloemfontein.
We oversee every part of your team’s move from beginning to end, ensuring a smooth transition throughout their journey. Our consulting services are tailored to your company’s unique needs, helping you build a strategy that not only moves your employees successfully but also supports them throughout their transition.
Bloemfontein’s progressive culture and innovative work environment offer exciting possibilities for your team. Our Mobility Specialists provide comprehensive support, from navigating immigration requirements to offering settling-in and orientation services.
Our settling-in services go beyond the basics. We help your employees and their families connect with their new home through a variety of ways according to their needs. This can include language learning, house hunting, exploring local services, and even career support for partners, ensuring everyone can feel at home.
Contact our World Mobility specialists to find out more: call us on: 0800 243 578, or (+64) 9 415 730094157300). Alternatively you can email us: [email protected] or complete our contact form.
Yes! New Zealand citizens can move to Bloemfontein, but must meet South Africa’s visa requirements. Available visa options include work visas for job offers, study visas for students, retirement visas for financially qualified individuals, and business visas for entrepreneurs. Applicants need a valid New Zealand passport, proof of health insurance, a police clearance certificate, proof of sufficient funds, and possibly medical reports. Work visa applicants must also provide qualifications and proof of employment.
Crown can help you navigate South Africa’s immigration system when relocating from New Zealand, making the whole process less stressful for you. Call our friendly team today on 0508 227 696 to find out more.
Relocating from New Zealand to Bloemfontein can be expensive. Shipping costs, applying for visas, securing accommodation are some of the costs to consider when relocating. Crown is best placed to provide you a stress-free move at a reasonable cost. As well as packing and relocation services, we offer additional services such as moving insurance, international vehicle transport and pet relocations.
Let us take care of your international move to Bloemfontein, South Africa.
To find out how much it will cost, give our friendly team a call on 0508 227 696 or obtain a free quote online.
Although the process of moving from New Zealand to Bloemfontein can be daunting at first, it becomes manageable with thorough planning. One of the main challenges is understanding the visa process and collecting the necessary documentation. Shipping belongings across continents also requires careful logistics, and adjusting to a new culture can take time.
However, many New Zealanders find that joining local or online expat communities can ease this transition significantly. Events, from weekly parkruns up Naval Hill to the annual Rose Festival, can also help build a sense of community. The key is to remain flexible, patient, and open to new experiences. Despite any initial challenges, many expats find themselves quickly falling in love with the city’s welcoming nature and its slower pace of life.
Our team at Crown provides customised services, assisting with both moving and settling into Bloemfontein.
Discover how we can simplify your move to Bloemfontein: reach out to us at 0508 227 696 or request an online quote.
Crown Relocations has a variety of international shipping options that can be tailored to meet your budget and relocation needs. Whether you’re shipping a few items, or a full household, we provide options to suit you. With 60 years of experience, we guarantee a reliable and simple relocation experience, assisting you every step of the way.
Talk with our friendly team on 0508 227 696 or request an online quote.
Bloemfontein has a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different needs and lifestyles. Universitas is popular with students and academics due to its proximity to the University of the Free State. Families often prefer suburbs like Langenhoven Park, which offers modern houses, schools, parks, and a safe, family-friendly environment.
Professionals tend to gravitate toward areas like Dan Pienaar, known for its peaceful atmosphere and upmarket homes. Westdene, located closer to the city center, appeals to those looking for character-filled homes and easy access to amenities. The cost of living in these areas is generally lower than in New Zealand’s cities, and property tends to be more spacious.
Bloemfontein offers a diverse range of housing options, from cozy city apartments to spacious suburban homes featuring large gardens and outdoor entertainment areas. Many properties come with amenities such as swimming pools, braai areas (barbecue spaces), and garages.
Renting is a straightforward process, and property prices are quite reasonable compared to New Zealand. Renting a comfortable family home in a good suburb typically costs about 50% less than in NZ. Foreigners are permitted to purchase property in South Africa, but certain financial regulations may apply, such as obtaining approval from the South African Reserve Bank.
At Crown, we can help you find accommodation before moving to Bloemfontein, making your relocation easier.
Healthcare in Bloemfontein is both accessible and affordable, particularly for those with private medical insurance. The city boasts a variety of healthcare facilities, including public hospitals as well as several high-quality private hospitals and clinics. Notable institutions include Mediclinic Bloemfontein, Life Rosepark Hospital, and Pelonomi Tertiary Hospital, all of which have excellent reputations.
While public healthcare provides essential services, many residents prefer private options for quicker access and personalized treatment. It’s advisable for New Zealanders moving to Bloemfontein to secure private health insurance for the best care.
Education is a strong point in Bloemfontein, especially for families moving with children. The city is home to excellent public and private schools, some of which have long-standing traditions of academic and extracurricular excellence. Grey College, Eunice High School, and St. Michael’s School for Girls are some of the most well-known schools in the area.
Most schools require students to wear uniforms and follow structured curricula. While Afrikaans is widely used in the Free State, many schools offer instruction in English, and language is rarely a barrier for New Zealanders. At the tertiary level, the University of the Free State offers a wide range of programs and is internationally recognized for its research and academic quality.
Contact our team at Crown to help you find the best school for your child, with our school search programme.
Bloemfontein has a low cost of living, with the local currency being the South African Rand (ZAR). Paying for items is similiar to NZ with cash, debit/credit cards, mobile apps, and online banking. Daily expenses like groceries, rent, and transportation are cheaper than in New Zealand. Opening a local bank account is relatively easy, requiring a passport, proof of address, and proof of income. Banks like Standard Bank, Absa, FNB, and Capitec have branches across the city and offer services for foreign nationals.
Bloemfontein offers various transport options, including a well-developed public transport system with buses and minibus taxis, making travel affordable. The city has low traffic congestion and easy highway access, and many residents choose to own cars, with various dealerships and rental services available. In South Africa everyone drives on the left side of the road, making the transition easier for Kiwi drivers.
Cycling is also popular due to bike-friendly roads. For longer journeys, Bram Fischer International Airport connects to major cities and some international destinations. Ride-hailing services add flexibility for short trips, making Bloemfontein an attractive choice for relocation.
Afrikaans is commonly spoken in Bloemfontein, especially in schools and government offices. While most residents speak English, learning basic Afrikaans is helpful and appreciated by locals. Classes are available at the University of the Free State, through private tutors, and online. Learning Afrikaans can enhance your daily life, whether shopping, making friends, or attending community events.
Sesotho is one of the most widely spoken languages in the Free State. It serves as the home language for a significant portion of the population, particularly in rural areas and within the black South African community. While it’s not essential, learning a few Sesotho greetings and expressions will give you a better understanding of the local culture. This knowledge can help you build stronger relationships, especially if you are working in community settings, education, or healthcare.
Crown also offers language learning as part of our additional services, so you can be more confident when moving from NZ to Bloemfontein.
Networking in Bloemfontein is relatively easy, thanks to the city’s community-oriented atmosphere. Newcomers can find friends and support by joining clubs, religious groups, parent associations, or professional organizations. The Bloemfontein Chamber of Commerce is a valuable resource for business professionals, while the University of the Free State often hosts public lectures and events that attract diverse audiences. Expats can also connect through Facebook groups or Meetup events. Locals are typically warm and welcoming to foreigners who show an interest in the city’s way of life.
Moving to Bloemfontein? Go knowing
Bloemfontein is a welcoming and affordable city that offers a unique South African experience for those relocating from New Zealand. Its friendly communities, low cost of living and quality education make it appealing for families seeking a slower pace of life. While it may not have the glamour of Cape Town or the energy of Johannesburg, its charm lies in its authenticity, strong community spirit, and sense of stability.
To ease your transition, it’s important to research visa requirements, explore different neighborhoods, and plan for your healthcare, education and transport needs. Learning Afrikaans or a few phrases in Sesotho can help you settle in and make connections. With an open mind and proper preparation, Bloemfontein can provide a fulfilling new chapter for any New Zealander.
Ready to move? At Crown, we offer tailored services, from finding accommodation and local tips on your new neighbourhood, to full door-to-door relocation. We can ensure a smooth transition into your new life in Bloemfontein, South Africa.
Go knowing you can trust Crown to make your move simple and hassle-free. Call us on 0508 227 696, fill in our online quote request, or visit Crown Relocations NZ for more information.
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