Are you dreaming of a life in New Zealand, the Land of the Long White Cloud? "Making New Zealand Your Home" is your essential companion for turning that dream into reality. This comprehensive guide takes you on a journey from the initial decision to relocate all the way to embracing the Kiwi way of life. New Zealand, with its stunning landscapes, friendly communities, and high quality of life, has long been a top destination for people seeking a fresh start. Whether you're drawn to its pristine beaches, lush forests, or dynamic cities, this guide provides you with the practical knowledge and insider insights you need to make a successful move. Inside this book, you'll discover: Visa and Immigration Essentials: Navigate the sometimes complex process of obtaining a visa and learn how to meet the requirements for your specific situation. Finding Your Ideal Home: Explore the various accommodation options available in New Zealand, from renting to buying, and discover how to secure the perfect place to call home. Education and Healthcare: Ensure your family's well-being with a deep dive into New Zealand's world-class education system and healthcare services. Career Opportunities: Unlock the secrets to finding employment, starting a business, and thriving in the Kiwi job market. Financial Management: Master the art of managing your finances in New Zealand, from opening a local bank account to understanding the tax system. Cultural Integration: Immerse yourself in Maori culture, build connections with the local community, and make the most of your Kiwi adventure. Travel and Leisure: Discover the breathtaking landscapes and exciting activities that New Zealand has to offer, from hiking through pristine wilderness to savoring local culinary delights. Staying Connected: Stay in touch with loved ones back home and maintain international relationships effortlessly. Packed with practical advice, valuable resources, and real-life insights from those who have successfully made New Zealand their home, this guide is your passport to a smooth and enriching transition. Whether you're seeking a fresh start, better opportunities, or simply a new adventure, "Making New Zealand Your Home" equips you with the tools to turn your dream of living in Aotearoa into a thriving reality. Welcome to your new home in the Land of the Long White Cloud!

"Our homes should be a safe haven. In this succinct, fiercely argued book, building scientist and Passive House designer Jason Quinn reminds us of all the ways New Zealand housing fails. He takes aim at the Building Code and the high cost of building average (or worse) homes. Most of all, this is a book concerned with how to do better. It makes an impassioned argument for much wider use in New Zealand of the Passive House building performance standard. Jason Quinn demolishes myths about Passive House concepts and demonstrates its relevance for New Zealand conditions. The theory is backed up with concrete examples of New Zealand’s first 24 Certified Passive Houses and concludes with the more diverse projects - apartment buildings, offices and tourist accommodation - that are being planned. Of interest to architects and architectural designers - and those among their clients who are interested in how their new home will work and feel, not just how it will look - Passive House for New Zealand is also an important read for anyone involved in the building industry and in making policy on health and housing"--Back cover.

"I don't love this job anymore, but should I stay for the pension?" This gut-wrenching question is common for many people working in pensionable careers. But how much is your pension worth? And, is staying worth it? Since 2017, Grumpus Maximus has researched and written about this critical decision point, which he calls The Golden Albatross. Having served 20 years in the U.S. Military, he too struggled with the same questions, and now he helps others learn from his mistakes. If your job offers a pension, then this book is a must-read. Easily learn how to calculate your pension's objective value and weigh it against the subjective benefits of leaving for more fulfilling work. When done, you will agree, it was worth it.

Everything you need to know to build, renovate or just live in an eco-friendly and sustainable way. With loads of inspirational photographs of New Zealand homes, this book is packed full of practical and accessible information. It presents the modern home by moving from room to room, to look at structural materials, furnishings and general life hacks to improve your personal green-star rating. As well as the living spaces (kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, office, living area, utility rooms and outdoor areas) it also looks at the wider issues - why make an eco home at all? Also covered are- principles of sustainable building, choosing a property, building a team of professionals, foundations and floors, the structure and the shell. In a compact and colourful package, this book is both entertaining and informative. A must-have for all people with an eco-conscience.