New Zealanders are increasingly setting their sights on Perth; a sun-drenched capital offering career growth, affordable homes, and family-friendly communities.
Whether you’re after warmer weather, stronger salaries, or a better balance between work and play, this guide breaks down why so many Kiwis are heading west and what you should know before joining them.
Why New Zealanders Are Choosing Perth
Over the past year, record numbers of New Zealanders have crossed the Tasman, with nearly 30,000 Kiwis making the move to Australia, and a noticeable share choosing Perth. Its appeal lies in the lifestyle: wide open spaces, higher wages, and less pressure than bigger cities like Sydney or Melbourne.
Perth’s strong job market, outdoor culture, and affordable housing make it a smart choice for both individuals and families. Many young professionals see it as a launchpad, while families are drawn to the slower pace, spacious suburbs, and welcoming community feel.
If you’re pondering on moving to Perth, you’re not alone. The city’s combination of opportunity and livability is resonating with more Kiwis every year.
Lifestyle in Perth: Sunny, Relaxed & Outdoor-Focused
Perth is Australia’s sunniest capital, with more than 3,000 hours of sunshine each year – ideal for anyone who enjoys life outdoors. The lifestyle is relaxed yet modern, offering a great balance between urban convenience and natural beauty.
From beach picnics at Cottesloe to kayaking on the Swan River or hiking through Kings Park, residents enjoy a wide range of recreational options year-round. Local markets, outdoor festivals, and weekend getaways to Margaret River all contribute to a lifestyle that feels both grounded and refreshing.
This is the kind of environment where work-life balance isn’t just talked about, it’s lived!
Popular Suburbs and Where Kiwis Tend to Live
When settling into Perth, most Kiwis seek suburbs that offer a strong sense of community, access to schools, and proximity to parks or beaches. You’ll find a variety of neighbourhoods that cater to different lifestyles:
- Baldivis: Affordable homes and strong growth make this southern suburb ideal for families.
- Joondalup: A well-planned community with shopping centres, schools, and public transport.
- Maylands: Popular among creatives and young professionals for its village feel and café scene.
- Victoria Park: Close to the city, with a vibrant culture and excellent walkability.
- Hammond Park: A newer suburb with good schools, green spaces, and family amenities.
These expat neighbourhoods in Perth are sought after for their lifestyle perks and practical features, especially among New Zealanders prioritising a smooth transition.
Job Market in Perth: Industries, Growth & Opportunities
Perth continues to offer strong employment prospects, particularly for skilled professionals. In 2025, job ads rose by over 2%, especially in areas linked to infrastructure and healthcare. While the broader economy remains stable, entry-level roles are more competitive, making experience a distinct advantage.
Sectors showing the highest demand include:
- Mining & Engineering: Still a backbone of the WA economy, with projects from Rio Tinto and others creating sustained demand.
- Healthcare & Aged Care: A critical growth area with high demand for trained professionals.
- Construction & Skilled Trades: Driven by ongoing urban development and housing demand.
- Education & Early Childhood: Steady need across public and private institutions.
- Technology & Office Support: Slowly growing, especially roles involving digital transformation.
Thanks to the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, New Zealanders can work in Australia without a visa, giving them direct access to Perth’s job market. It’s a practical destination if you’re looking to build a career while enjoying the benefits of a lower-cost city.
For broader international opportunities, Grace NZ also supports overseas moving to and from various global destinations.
Family-Friendly Perth: Schools, Beaches & Community
Perth is consistently rated as one of Australia’s most family-friendly cities and it’s easy to see why. Many suburbs cater specifically to families, offering safe streets, well-regarded schools, and plenty of green space.
Top choices for families include:
- Seville Grove and Harrisdale: Popular for affordability and access to parks.
- Willetton and Rossmoyne: Known for excellent public schooling.
- Applecross and Shenton Park: Great for older children and access to city amenities.
- Subiaco and South Perth: Offer a mix of lifestyle, walkability, and community events.
When it comes to leisure, Perth’s beaches like Scarborough and Cottesloe are clean, family-safe, and accessible. Add to that riverside walks, weekend markets, and welcoming local communities, and it’s clear why family relocation to Australia often leads to Perth.
Cost of Living in Perth vs New Zealand
While Perth is more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, it’s still slightly costlier than most New Zealand cities but that’s often balanced by higher wages.
Here’s how some key expenses compare:
- Rent: A family home in Baldivis costs around NZ$650 – $870 per week, similar to outer suburbs in NZ but often with more space.
- Groceries: Slightly higher overall, but weekly specials help, think NZ$250 – $300 for a family of four.
- Fuel: Around NZ$2.20 per litre in Perth vs NZ$2.80 in Auckland.
- Utilities and dining: Comparable to major NZ cities, with utilities averaging NZ$200/month for two people.
If you’re relocating for a job paying NZ$90k+ in fields like mining or healthcare, Perth often delivers better lifestyle value than cities like Auckland or Wellington.
Relocating Your Household Goods from NZ to Perth
The idea of relocating across the Tasman may feel daunting, but in reality, it’s a smooth process especially with the right support.
Grace NZ offers a professional door-to-door moving service that simplifies every step. The process typically includes:
- In-home consultation and personalised quote
- Expert packing and item inventory
- Biosecurity compliance and customs clearance in Australia
- Sea or air freight options
- Secure storage if needed
- Final delivery and unpacking at your new home
Whether you’re moving an entire household or a few select items, moving to Australia is far less stressful when handled by professionals who understand trans-Tasman logistics.
Why Move with Grace Removals?
Grace Removals NZ has decades of experience handling international moves, with a reputation built on trust, transparency, and care. Their services cover everything from packing and transport to storage and post-arrival unpacking.
Key benefits include:
- Accredited teams and FAIM-certified processes
- Real-time tracking of your shipment
- Expertise in biosecurity regulations
- Help with pet and vehicle relocations
- Friendly consultants available at every stage
If you’re planning to move, don’t leave the logistics to chance. Contact Grace Removals NZ today to get expert help tailored to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Perth offers a safe, friendly environment with excellent schools, clean beaches, and plenty of outdoor space – ideal for Kiwi families seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
Joondalup, Scarborough, Victoria Park, South Perth, and Fremantle are top picks thanks to their schools, community feel, and transport access.
There’s strong demand in mining, engineering, healthcare, education, and construction. New Zealanders benefit from open work access under the Trans-Tasman agreement.
Some costs like groceries and rent are slightly higher, but higher wages and cheaper fuel often make up the difference, especially for skilled workers.
Absolutely. Grace Removals offers full trans-Tasman services including packing, shipping, storage, and customs assistance to ensure a seamless move.
