Living in New Zealand
Short, practical answers to the first questions after you arrive, in Turkish and English, with the official page for each. Where a business can help, we link to ones on Merhaba.
Getting an IRD number
Your tax number. You need it for work, a bank account and KiwiSaver. Applying is free and takes about two days.
Opening a bank account
What banks usually ask for, and why opening one early helps with everything else.
Doctors, health and emergencies
Enrol with a family doctor (GP) early, know the numbers to call, and what ACC covers.
Driving on a Turkish licence
How long you can drive on it, and why converting takes a theory and a practical test. The time limit drops to 12 months on 1 November 2026.
Renting a home
The bond, rent in advance and fees a landlord may and may not ask for, and where to get help.
KiwiSaver
Who can join, how much goes in from 1 April 2026, and what the government adds.
Enrolling children at school
School ages, zones, and when state school is free.
Your rights at work
Minimum wage, holidays, sick leave and a written agreement: the same for everyone, whatever your visa.
The Turkish Embassy and consular services
Where to go for passports, notary work and other Turkish official business while living in New Zealand.
General information, checked against the official sources listed with each article. Rules and amounts change, so check the official page before you act. This is not legal, tax or immigration advice.