January holds a special place for New Zealanders, akin to August's significance for Europeans – a time when we're all drawn to the sun and seaside. Many Kiwis embark on an extended holiday, stretching from Christmas through the end of January.
During this period, New Zealand takes a collective break, with corporate offices closing before Christmas and reopening in the second week of January. Construction and tradespeople relish an extended break, schools are out for summer, and there's a shared sense of relief as the holiday season unfolds.
For those new to New Zealand, here's what it means:
Schools
Summer holidays start in the 2-3 weeks leading up to Christmas, with students not returning for 6-7 weeks. While many schools begin the first term of the new school year the week beginning January 30, other schools delay their return until February 7 after the long Waitangi weekend. School staff also take a break, so many offices won't open until a few days before school resumes.
Real Estate
The sector seizes the holiday opportunity, closing from the week starting December 18 until approximately the second week of January. Some agencies may have minimal staff working but property inspections will be limited, if possible. New properties typically come back on the market around the middle week of January.
Given this is also a time when Kiwis explore their own country, many AirBnB properties, or short term accommodation may be booked out by locals for summer, putting pressure on available rental properties.
Banks
All bank branches will be closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day while many, excluding those located in shopping malls, will be closed through to Sunday 7 January.
All New Zealand banks operate a free phone contact centre though this will also be closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day, and operating at reduced hours until Monday 8 January.
There are plenty of ATM machines (cash machines) throughout the country and if you are registered for Internet Banking you can continue to access your accounts 24 hours a day.
In summary, if you are new to NZ, navigating a lengthy, warm January in New Zealand calls for patience. Plan to visit potential schools, view possible rental properties and meet with a banking advisor towards the end of January/early February when Kiwis return to work rested and sun-kissed.
Everything will be ‘hunky dory’ (okay!) if you embrace the slower pace, take time for rest and rejuvenation, connect with others and enjoy the beautiful scenery, rivers and beaches of this fabulous country.
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Bridget is a New Zealander who has lived and worked as a diplomat in Singapore and India. After experiencing all facets of the relocation experience, she founded Mobile to work with private individuals moving to NZ and leading local and international businesses bringing in offshore talent.
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