Looking for somewhere with affordable housing, job opportunities galore and a safe environment to raise your children? The South Island is an exciting, beautiful and livable place that ticks all of these boxes.
Each part of the island has its own unique charm. From the bustling streets of Christchurch to the action and adventure of Queenstown, the South Island presents a range of different lifestyle choices for every different type of person and family.
Here, we ask the experts at New Zealand Movers about the top destinations to move to in New Zealand’s beautiful South Island.
Christchurch
Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city, offers a unique blend of mountains, beaches, rivers, and cosmopolitan living. As of January 2025, the Canterbury region’s median house price stands at $675,000, significantly lower than Auckland’s median, which exceeds $1 million. This affordability continues to attract new residents. The city has evolved into a modern, resilient urban center, with ongoing developments such as the Te Kaha stadium and Parakiore Recreation & Sports Centre enhancing its appeal. Christchurch’s economy is robust, with thriving industries in technology, healthcare, and construction, offering abundant job opportunities for professionals seeking both career advancement and an exceptional quality of life.Read more about the best area to live in Christchurch.
Dunedin
Dunedin is an underrated gem on the South Island. A university city, it’s the perfect place for students thanks to the highly-esteemed University of Otago, ranked in the world’s top 1% of universities. It’s also home to a distinct mix of Scottish and Maori culture, with beautiful Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Dunedin is known for its strong job market in the areas of education, healthcare and professional services. To learn more about the best areas to live in Dunedin click here.
Nelson
Art galleries, wineries, mountains, and beaches – this compact gem facing Tasman Bay remains one of the top cities to live in on the South Island. As of 2025, Nelson continues to be known for its thriving arts scene and outdoor lifestyle, offering a mix of culture and adventure. Nelson also boasts New Zealand’s largest fishing port, making it a hub for well-paid jobs in the fishing, agriculture, and horticulture sectors, which attract newcomers seeking career opportunities. The city is recognised for its safety and family-friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent place for children to grow up, with plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and exploring nearby national parks. With an enviable climate and a welcoming community, Nelson offers an ideal balance of work, play, and relaxation.
Queenstown
Queenstown, New Zealand, is often regarded as the adventure capital of the world, attracting those who seek an exhilarating lifestyle amidst stunning natural beauty. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Southern Alps, Queenstown offers breathtaking views, world-class skiing in the winter, and hiking, mountain biking, and water sports in the warmer months. It’s not just about the great outdoors, though—this vibrant town also boasts a thriving food and wine scene, lively events, and a growing tech industry, making it a great place for professionals and families alike. While the cost of living may be higher compared to other South Island towns, the exceptional quality of life and proximity to both nature and urban amenities make Queenstown a highly desirable destination for those looking to move to the South Island.
Wanaka
Snow-capped mountains and huge alpine lakes mark the resort town of Wanaka in Otago. The gateway to the Southern Alps, it’s a popular town in winter due to alpine sports. Wanaka is a fantastic place to live for those in tourism and alpine education, presenting a safe and interesting place for children to grow up.
No matter where you decide is the right place on the South Island for you and your family to move to, make sure you pick a trusted moving service like New Zealand Movers. New Zealand Movers are one of the country’s most experienced and highly-regarded furniture movers, with 43 years of experience in the industry. New Zealand Movers can help you get settled in your new home, whether you’re on the North Island, South Island, or somewhere across the globe. Grab a quote from the friendly team today!
