For New Zealanders seeking more sunshine, better job opportunities, and an affordable coastal lifestyle, the Gold Coast is a top choice.
Located in Queensland, this vibrant city offers warm weather, surf-friendly beaches, and a relaxed pace of life. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or a fresh start with your family, the Gold Coast has plenty to offer.
This guide explores what to expect when moving from New Zealand to the Gold Coast, covering suburbs, jobs, family life, and the relocation process.
Lifestyle on the Gold Coast: Beaches, Sunshine & Outdoor Living
The region’s 300+ sunny days and 70km of coastline make outdoor living a way of life. Life here is centred around surf, sunshine, and social connection. Highlights include:
- Iconic beaches like Burleigh Heads, Currumbin, and Surfers Paradise
- Family barbecues in local parks or along beach promenades
- Water sports, cycling trails, and national parks
- Vibrant café culture and weekend markets
- Cultural hubs in Southport and Broadbeach for nightlife and events
The laid-back vibe resonates with many Kiwis, especially those who value nature, health, and community making it easy when adapting to Australian culture.
Family-Friendly Gold Coast: Schools, Parks & Community
The Gold Coast is a great place to raise a family, with safe neighbourhoods, excellent schools, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Top schools include:
- Robina State High School
- AB Paterson College
- Coomera Anglican College
- Pacific Pines State High
Recreation is everywhere – from Broadwater Parklands to theme parks like Wet’n’Wild and Sea World. Suburbs such as Robina and Helensvale offer community hubs centred around schools, parks, and shopping centres.
The Gold Coast lifestyle is naturally family-focused, giving Kiwi families the chance to enjoy the outdoors, connect with supportive communities, and make the most of Queensland’s sunny climate.
Cost of Living on the Gold Coast vs New Zealand
While rent and dining may be slightly more expensive than in parts of New Zealand, higher wages and lifestyle benefits often make up for the difference. Typical costs (converted to NZD for easy comparison):
- Rent: A 3-bedroom home outside the city centre costs around NZD 2,330/month.
- Groceries: Weekly shopping for a family costs NZD 250-300.
- Transport: Public transport passes are approx. NZD 60/month.
- Utilities: Monthly utilities average around NZD 160-200.
Although the cost of living on the Gold Coast can be 10-20% higher in some areas, it’s generally more affordable than major cities like Sydney or even Auckland when comparing property prices.
As part of your overseas moving plan, it’s smart to budget for initial settling-in costs including rent, utilities, and groceries while you get established.
Best Suburbs and Where Kiwis Tend to Live
New Zealanders on the Gold Coast often settle in suburbs that combine convenience, beach access, and family-friendly infrastructure. Areas like Robina, Burleigh Heads, and Southport have become popular thanks to their welcoming communities, schools, and amenities.
Top choices include:
- Robina: Ideal for families with top-rated schools, Westfield shopping centre, and green spaces.
- Burleigh Heads: A trendy beachside suburb with boutique cafés, national parks, and a thriving surf scene.
- Broadbeach: Offers a vibrant urban vibe with light rail access, dining, and proximity to Pacific Fair shopping.
- Helensvale:Â Known for its family-oriented community, schools, and spacious homes.
- Southport: A central suburb with a diverse population, major healthcare facilities, and Griffith University.
These Gold Coast suburbs offer a balance of lifestyle and practicality, making them attractive for Kiwi families and professionals alike.
If you’re considering moving to the Gold Coast, it’s worth exploring these suburbs to see which best suits your goals and budget.
Job Market on the Gold Coast: Key Sectors & Opportunities
Employment prospects on the Gold Coast remain strong, particularly in sectors aligned with population growth and lifestyle needs. Key industries in the Queensland job market include:
- Healthcare and aged care
- Construction and infrastructure
- Tourism and hospitality
- Education and childcare
- Professional services such as property, finance, and admin
If you’re moving to Australia with trade or healthcare qualifications, opportunities are abundant. The region’s growing economy and expected population boom also point to long-term job security.
With lower competition compared to major metro centres and the added lifestyle benefits, many Kiwis find it the ideal place to work and live.
Relocating Your Household Goods from NZ to the Gold Coast
Grace Removals offers a complete, proven process for moving your belongings across the Tasman. A typical relocation takes 8-10 weeks and includes:
- In-home or virtual quote to assess inventory
- Packing and transport services by professionals
- Sea freight from NZ to Brisbane, then trucked to the Gold Coast
- Customs clearance in Australia
- Final delivery and unpacking at your new home
Their knowledge of shipping household goods overseas, plus support for biosecurity and insurance, ensures a seamless experience. Grace’s experience with trans-Tasman relocation makes them a reliable choice for Kiwis starting fresh in Queensland.
Why Move with Grace Removals?
Grace Removals NZ makes Trans-Tasman relocations smooth, simple, and stress-free. With over 100 years of experience, we’re the go-to experts for Kiwis heading to Australia.
As a leader in international relocations, Grace handles every detail, from packing and insurance to customs paperwork and vehicle shipping. Our door-to-door moving service means you can start your new chapter without worrying about the logistics.
Kiwis praise our professional teams for the care, speed, and efficiency, whether moving a small apartment or a full family home. Whether you’re relocating for work or lifestyle, we understand the nuances of family relocation to Australia, making us a trusted partner.
You can contact Grace Removals NZ for a free quote and moving advice tailored to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions for New Zealanders Moving to the Gold Coast
Yes. The Gold Coast is popular with New Zealand families thanks to its schools, safe suburbs, beaches, theme parks and relaxed, outdoors-focused lifestyle.
Popular areas include Southport, Robina, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads and Helensvale. These suburbs offer good schools, transport links, and strong community appeal.
Key industries include tourism, construction, healthcare, education, hospitality and professional services. Many Kiwis find strong job opportunities across these growing sectors.
The Gold Coast is often more affordable than Auckland when it comes to housing and transport. The cost of living varies by suburb, but many families find the lifestyle great value overall.
Yes. Grace Removals offers complete overseas moving services — from packing and transport to shipping, delivery and customs clearance — making your Gold Coast relocation smooth and stress-free.
Ready to Make the Move?
If you’re ready to enjoy sunshine, stability, and a vibrant lifestyle, the Gold Coast is calling. And when you’re ready to get moving, contact Grace Removals NZ to make it happen. Our expert service, personal support, and proven track record in Trans-Tasman relocations will help turn your move into a seamless success.
