New Zealand, known for having some of the world’s best universities like the University of Auckland, is also one of the safest countries in the world. Ranked 4, on the Global Peace Index 2023, the country is home to some of the most peaceful and liveable cities on the planet.
As a student, it is important to know about the quality of life in a country before one finally decides to move. New Zealand is known for its cosmopolitan culture and friendly people. If you are looking for some of the safest cities to live in New Zealand, then you have come to the right place. Let’s explore some of the safest cities in New Zealand and the quality of life in these cities!
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List of Safest Cities in New Zealand
When we talk about the safety of a place, it means safety in terms of low crime rates and geographical stability. Here are some of the safest cities to live in New Zealand!
Hamilton
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Hamilton is home to the University of Waikato, one of the finest universities in New Zealand. The city is the fourth largest in New Zealand and one of the most student-friendly cities to live in. If you are looking for safety from natural disasters like earthquakes, volcanoes, and tsunamis, then as per the International Citizens Insurance, Hamilton is the safest city in New Zealand. The city’s inland location protects it from any kind of water disasters. The city also has a low risk of volcanoes and earthquakes. Hamilton provides a great quality of life for students with low crime rates.
Also Read: Check out the best museums in New Zealand
Wellington
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Wellington is the capital of New Zealand and one of the most preferred overseas destinations for students. The city has many excellent universities such as the Victoria University of Wellington and the University of Otago. As per International Citizens Insurance, Wellington is New Zealand’s safest large city and forms the economic and social hub of New Zealand. Any serious offences or issues are rare in this city.
If we talk about earthquakes, the city does sit on a geographical faultline. Though rare, the earthquakes have been known to occur in this city in the past. For extra safety, students can keep an emergency safety kit in their room and a first aid kit, which is one of the must-have essentials for international students while studying abroad.
Auckland
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Auckland is another one of the safest cities in New Zealand as per the International Citizens Insurance. The biggest advantage of staying in Auckland is its modern and inclusive culture. Home to the prestigious University of Auckland, the city has excellent transport connectivity and many safe neighbourhoods. The city boasts of an extremely low crime rate and the roads here are safe to drive during the night. The city offers its residents good food options having some of the best restaurants in New Zealand like ‘The Shed Te Motu’.
Christchurch
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Home to some of the top-quality institutions like the University of Canterbury and Lincoln University, Christchurch is another famous destination for students. Also known as the ‘Garden City of New Zealand’, the city holds a good reputation when it comes to the safety of students. As per a press release by the New Zealand Police, Christchurch is one of the safest cities in New Zealand after dark. The crime rate in the city is low and the city is well covered by CCTV cameras. The city is also lively with many entertainment options like clubs, cafes, and restaurants. Christchurch also has some of the best theatres in New Zealand for students like the Alice Cinematique.
Queenstown
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Queenstown, located on New Zealand’s South Island, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, nestled between Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps. Known as the adventure capital, it offers world-class activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, bungee jumping, and jet boating. In winter, nearby resorts like Coronet Peak and The Remarkables attract snow sports enthusiasts, while summer brings outdoor adventures and scenic beauty.
Beyond its natural attractions, Queenstown features a vibrant arts scene, fine dining, and excellent wineries, making it a popular spot for both tourists and residents. With a friendly, welcoming community and a temperate climate, Queenstown is a great place for short visits or long-term living, offering a balance of adventure, relaxation, and high-quality living.
Further Read: Check out some of the best parks in New Zealand
Safety Tips for Living in New Zealand
Living in New Zealand offers a generally safe and peaceful environment, but like any place, it’s important to stay informed and proactive to ensure your safety. Whether you’re new to the country or looking to enhance your awareness, here are some essential safety tips to help you navigate daily life in New Zealand:
- Familiarize Yourself with Local Emergency Protocols
- Learn about New Zealand’s civil defence measures, including tsunami, earthquake, and flood preparedness.
- Download the NZ Civil Defence App to receive real-time alerts and updates on emergencies in your area.
- Know the location of evacuation zones, especially in coastal or earthquake-prone areas.
- Choose Safe neighbourhoods
- Research neighbourhoods before renting or buying property; areas with low crime rates and community watch programs are ideal.
- Utilize resources like local council websites or crime statistics tools to assess the safety of specific suburbs or towns.
- Stay Connected with Your Community
- Engage with local community groups and attend neighbourhood events to build trust and connections.
- Join online community forums or social media groups to stay informed about local happenings and safety concerns.
- Be Aware of Natural Hazards
- Understand New Zealand’s geographical risks, such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and flooding, particularly in certain regions.
- Regularly check weather forecasts and alerts, especially during storm season or in areas prone to natural disasters.
- Keep an emergency kit with essentials like food, water, and first-aid supplies.
- Practice Road Safety and Respect Local Laws
- Follow traffic laws diligently, as New Zealand’s roads can be narrow and winding, especially in rural areas.
- Be cautious of rural driving conditions and wildlife crossing the roads. Always use seat belts and avoid distractions while driving.
- Familiarize yourself with New Zealand’s strict laws regarding alcohol, drugs, and driving, as penalties can be severe.
FAQs on Safest Cities to Live in New Zealand
Wellington and Hamilton are considered the safest cities in New Zealand for students.
Both North Island and South Island are considered to be safe in New Zealand. Both have safe communities for international students to live in.
Auckland is one of the least active of New Zealand’s seismic regions.
The country is ranked 4th on the Global Peace Index 2023 and is one of the safest in the entire world.
Yes, as per an official press release by the New Zealand Police, Christchurch is a safe city to live with low crime rates and high safety rates.
Yes, New Zealand is prone to natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, and tsunamis. It’s important to be prepared by knowing the emergency protocols and keeping an emergency kit on hand.
New Zealand has a relatively low crime rate compared to many other countries. However, like any place, crime can occur, especially in urban areas. It’s always best to stay aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.
New Zealand’s roads are generally safe, but you should be cautious while driving, especially in rural areas where roads may be narrow or winding. Follow all traffic laws, use seat belts, and be mindful of wildlife on the road.
New Zealand offers excellent healthcare services. Residents have access to public health care, and there are many private clinics and hospitals as well. It’s important to register with a local general practitioner (GP) and have health insurance for peace of mind.
New Zealand experiences a variety of weather patterns, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and occasional snow. It’s important to stay informed during storm seasons and follow any local weather advisories for your area.
This blog was all about the safest cities to live in New Zealand. For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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