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Friendly people, great opportunities, affordable houses and the most sunshine hours in New Zealand. Are you interested?
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So, you've liked what you've seen and you are thinking about moving to the Eastern Bay of Plenty, New Zealand?
- The Basics Of Immigrating To NZ
If you are thinking of moving to the Eastern Bay of Plenty from overseas then you will need to be aware of New Zealand's immigration laws and systems.
- About Living In NZ
New Zealand is very much a multicultural country, with a unique mix of European, Maori, Polynesian, Asian, and many other ethnicities. We do not have a class structure and do have a firm belief in social equality.
- Stories From Immigrants To The Eastern Bay Of Plenty
Why are people moving to the Eastern Bay of Plenty? Read testimonials from immigrants who've moved here.
- British
Escaping the cold and the crowds? Hear how your fellow brits have successfully established themselves in our piece of paradise
- Canadian
From the far north to the far south of the globe, our Canadian friends find themselves at home in laid-back New Zealand.
- South African
We can’t give you lions and elephants, but find out why so many South Africans choose the Eastern Bay of Plenty as their new home.
- New Zealand
Many New Zealanders realise that this is the best place to be in the country. Find out what motivated them to make the move.
- Tell Your Story
- Tips on Moving to New Zealand
Made the big decision to move to New Zealand? You’ll be pleased to know it’s easy to move here, but there are a number of things you will need to think about and arrange before you leave.
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A wonderful outdoor lifestyle, affordable real estate, a stunning coastline and easy access to a fantastic variety of recreational opportunities mean that you will love living in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, but what about earning a living?
- Employment
If you are going to move to the Eastern Bay of Plenty, you will want to make sure you can earn a living. We have a number of industries active here, along with all the support services required by a mixed urban and rural population.
- Jobs
Currently advertised vacancies in Whakatane, Opotiki and Kawerau.
- List Your Vacancy
This is a great place to list your job to be seen by people across New Zealand and around the world.
- Industry
The Eastern Bay of Plenty has firm roots in primary production sectors with timber and dairy production being mainstays of the local economy.
- Infrastructure / IT
If you are thinking about moving here, living here and working here you’ll want to know a bit about the infrastructure of the area.
- Business Opportunities
If you are interested in starting or taking over a business you will find that government-sponsored funding opportunities and a relatively modest wage structure add to the Eastern Bay of Plenty’s attractiveness as a location for busines
- Businesses For Sale
If you are interested in starting or taking over a business you will find that government-sponsored funding opportunities and a relatively modest wage structure add to the Eastern Bay of Plenty’s attractiveness as a location for busines
- List Your Business For Sale
List your business for sale in the Eastern Bay of Plenty
- Support For New And Moving Businesses
We take economic development seriously in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. If you are thinking of starting a new business or relocating your existing business then we are set up to support you.
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Every year the Eastern Bay of Plenty welcomes new residents from around New Zealand and around the world.
- About Our Region
The Eastern Bay of Plenty is a beautiful place. It takes in over 200km of New Zealand’s coastline, from the lonely sands of the Matata straights through to the rugged rocks of the East Coast.
- Map
A map of the Eastern Bay of Plenty, a beautiful stretch of New Zealand encompassing native forest, unspoilt beaches and clear flowing rivers. Use this as your starting point for exploring our corner of the world.
- Whakatane
Whakatane District takes in over 50km of sandy coastline while pushing deep inland into pristine native forest. Central areas include fertile lowlands and farming areas on the Rangitaiki Plains.
- Ohope Beach
Imagine waking up in the morning to the sound of the surf gently washing up the beach. You walk out onto the deck and then down onto the sand. No, you are not at a holiday home.
- Opotiki
Opotiki District is a popular tourist destination for those looking to get away from it all. For the same reasons, if you are looking for a quieter pace of life and access to an unspoilt environment then you will enjoy living here.
- Kawerau
Kawerau township is nestled within the Tarawera valley at the foot of the dramatic Putauaki (Mt Edgecumbe), a volcano which became dormant about 1,000 years ago.
- Climate
The Eastern Bay of Plenty is ideally located between bitter winters and sub-tropical summers, leaving residents surprised if they ever have to wear more than a light jumper in winter.
- History
When you live in the Eastern Bay of Plenty you very soon realise that you don’t know as much about New Zealand history as you thought.
- Photos & Videos
While it is hard for you to get an idea of the beauty and relaxed atmosphere of the Eastern Bay without actually experiencing it, we have done our best for you with the following media. Enjoy.
- Infrastructure and Utilities
If you are thinking about moving here, living here and working here you’ll want to know a bit about the infrastructure of the area.
- Lifestyle
Few places can rival the Eastern Bay of Plenty when it comes to lifestyle opportunities. The climate is superb and every year the main centre, Whakatane, ranks near or at the top for the sunniest town in New Zealand.
- Great Outdoors
If you ask people in the Eastern Bay of Plenty what one factor distinguishes this region, you will get a single answer - the great outdoors. We have a huge outdoor playground here and we love to get out amongst it.
- Fishing
If you enjoy fishing, or you are keen to try it out, this is the place to be. Every style of fishing is catered for, whether you prefer to stalk trout with a fly, or battle a marlin for hours; you will be able to do it here.
- Events
Events make an important contribution to the diversity, vibrancy and identity of the Eastern Bay of Plenty. They also provide opportunities for entertainment and boost the local economy.
- Diving
Have you ever dived at an active marine volcano? One of the best diving experiences in the world is available here in the Eastern Bay, and living here is your ideal opportunity to get into the amazing sport of SCUBA diving.
- Walking
The Eastern Bay of Plenty offers a range of walking tracks for every level of fitness. If you are looking for an easy 30 minute walk or a tramping/hiking trip spanning several days, you’re in luck because they are all here.
- Beaches
The Eastern Bay of Plenty is spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches. From the safe golden sand beach of Ohope to excellent surfcasting and surfing spots right along this coast, to the secluded beach of Otarawairere.
- Links to Tourism
Tourism is the fastest growing local industry and presents plenty of investment opportunities. The Eastern Bay of Plenty’s spectacular inland and coastal attractions, including marine volcano White Island
- Arts & Culture
Looking at websites and literature about the Eastern Bay of Plenty, it would be easy to think that everyone is outdoors all the time, fishing, tramping, swimming and generally enjoying the outdoors.
- Sports Clubs
You’ll be able to follow your passion for pretty much any sport you choose when you live here. Most sporting facilities are available right here in the Eastern Bay.
- Education
A key factor that comes into decision making about a new home is the quality of the education available. A number of secondary and primary schools serve urban and rural communities throughout the Eastern Bay of Plenty
- Real Estate
The majority of New Zealanders own their own homes, and the affordability of purchasing real estate is another factor that distinguishes New Zealand from many other western countries.
- Services
The Eastern Bay of Plenty is a caring community with a wide range of support services to suit all different ages and needs.
- Childcare
It is important to be confident that your child is in professional and caring childcare when you need them to be.
- Support Services
You’ll find we have all the support services you need, such as Citizen’s Advice Bureau. We even have a newcomers group to help you get settled and connected.
- Elderly Care
The Eastern Bay of Plenty is a popular spot for retirement. With some of the highest annual sunshine hours and an appealing climate, along with our relaxed lifestyle, the region is ideal to enjoy your retirement years.
- Medical
Whakatane has a full range of health care services including the Whakatane Hospital, Disabilities resources and Health Care Professionals
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Here are some helpful links to websites from the Eastern Bay of Plenty region.
- Questions & Answers
Browse the list of Frequently Asked Questions below or submit your own question and we will endeavor to get you the answers you need.
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If you have any questions that you cannot find answers to on the website, feel free to send us an email using the online form below and we will get back to you with any information you need.
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