From Italy to New Zealand

At the moment I am working on some projects involving Italian friends living here, to organize activities promoting the “Country Italy” in various aspects. For example, we promote the Italian language by participating for free in a club to help local people learn our language. 

• Are there any cultural activities promoted by our Embassy? Can you tell us about them?

The Italian Embassy in Wellington plays an active role in promoting Italian culture in New Zealand, organizing a variety of cultural activities. Among these are events that celebrate Italian culture, such as concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances, often featuring Italian artists or in collaboration with New Zealand artists. The embassy also promotes Italian cinema through film screenings, festivals, and showcases, offering New Zealanders the opportunity to explore the Italian film landscape. Additionally, language courses and cultural workshops are organized for those interested in learning Italian and gaining a better understanding of Italian culture. The embassy collaborates with local schools, universities, and cultural institutions for conferences and cultural exchanges, and organizes gastronomic events, such as tastings of Italian food and wine, to introduce the country’s culinary traditions. These initiatives help strengthen cultural ties between Italy and New Zealand and promote a greater understanding and appreciation of Italian traditions. 



What are, in your opinion, the activities that might interest those who want to invest in the country or focus on import/export?

Surely I would recommend to fill in what is missing here, focusing on food products, clothing, and craftsmanship. 

What is the situation like in terms of tourism? Are there many Italians coming to visit the country? 

Tourism in New Zealand is a fundamental part of its economy, attracting visitors from around the world with its spectacular landscapes, outdoor activities, unique wildlife, and culture.

New Zealand’s wildlife is truly unique due to the rich variety of birds that can only be found here. This is largely due to the absence of terrestrial predators until the arrival of humans, which allowed many bird species, such as the kiwi and kakapo, to evolve without worrying about threats. Many of them don’t even know how to fly, making them special and fully adapted to their environment. While strolling in nature, it’s common to come across these special birds.

But New Zealand’s fauna is not limited to birds; its waters are equally rich in life. The coasts are home to a variety of fish, including cod and tuna, which attract fishermen and snorkeling enthusiasts. It’s incredible to explore these marine ecosystems, where you can spot colorful fish and vibrant corals. For example, we went on a beautiful guided dive to swim with dolphins in the waters of Akaroa, near Christchurch, a village famous for its French atmosphere. 

One of the most extraordinary experiences is observing orca whales. In the Kaikoura area, you can participate in excursions to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. It’s an exciting experience to see orcas swimming and playing, along with other species of whales and dolphins that inhabit these nutrient-rich waters. The opportunity to get close to these extraordinary marine creatures makes the country a true paradise for nature lovers. In summary, whether you are a birdwatching enthusiast or a sea lover, New Zealand’s wildlife offers unforgettable experiences in a unique environment.

The main attractions include the South Island’s fjords, the North Island’s volcanoes, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities like Auckland and Wellington. I personally recommend the Great Walks for those interested in trekking. Although the number of Italians visiting New Zealand is not among the highest compared to other European countries, interest is growing. Every year, around 30,000-40,000 Italians visit New Zealand, drawn to the country’s natural beauty, adventure opportunities, and unique culture. I recommend young people under thirty to apply for a Working Holiday visa, which allows them to work and travel around the country for at least a year. 



Are there any critical issues for Italian residents there? 

Italian residents in New Zealand may face some critical issues, such as cultural adaptation and language barriers, as well as the recognition of professional qualifications obtained in Italy. Despite these challenges, many Italians have found significant opportunities in the country. 

What do resident Italians deal with from an economic standpoint? Any sectors of excellence? 

They are particularly active in the restaurant sector, where they manage restaurants and cafes offering Italian cuisine, which is highly appreciated in New Zealand. Additionally, some contribute to the wine industry, leveraging their winemaking expertise in a sector gaining international recognition. Many Italians are also entrepreneurs, starting and running local businesses, while others work in specialized professions such as engineering, architecture, and the technology sector. Their presence enriches the New Zealand economic and cultural landscape, bringing skills and traditions that further enhance the local context. 

Anything special about New Zealand? 

One curious aspect of New Zealand is its “Kiwiana” culture, which celebrates the country’s unique identity with fun and sometimes unusual symbols. For example, the tradition of the “haka,” a traditional Māori war dance or chant, is widely practiced not only by Māori, but also by sports teams like the All Blacks, before events. Another peculiar element is the adoration of birds (given the country’s rich biodiversity aided by its isolated nature where the only mammals were a species of bat) and in particular the kiwi, a flightless bird that has become a national symbol and an affectionate nickname for New Zealanders themselves. Additionally, the city of Matamata, famous for the Hobbiton film set, has embraced its fame with themed events and merchandise, offering visitors a taste of the fantastical world of “The Lord of the Rings.” 

I thank Nuovo Terraglio for the interview and for the section dedicated to our association AIM on New Zealand, as it is certainly an opportunity to keep the many Italians scattered around the world updated and close to our country, and also to be able to host contributions from various countries on the website. I believe this is an important opportunity for the exchange of cultures, traditions, and customs.

Doctor Nespolo, why did you choose to leave Italy for New Zealand? 

For several years, I was already used to living abroad, so when I met my current partner, who is from the United States, during the Camino de Santiago, we immediately considered the possibility of moving together. He already had a visa and the intention to move to Australia, and we discussed the idea of ​​living in Oceania, instead of choosing one of our home countries. The decision was partly influenced by immigration issues: he did not speak Italian yet, and it would have been more complicated for me to obtain an American visa compared to an Australian one. While we were still in Italy and planning the move to Australia, during a tango night in Venice, we met someone who had spent a year in New Zealand and spoke about it with great enthusiasm. Up to that moment, we had not considered this island south of Australia. Starting to evaluate this possibility as well, and a bit overwhelmed by the numerous options, we decided to leave the choice to chance: a coin decided for us, and it came up heads, New Zealand. At the time of departure, we thought of staying for a year, the duration of our visa, but now, five years later, we are still here. 

Can you tell us something about this distant island, which also has the reputation of having an extraordinary and unspoiled nature… • 30,000 km² smaller than Italy, and with only five million inhabitants. How many Italians are currently residing in New Zealand? 

New Zealand is an island nation located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, renowned for its extraordinary and diverse natural landscapes. The country is made up of two main islands, the North Island and the South Island, each offering unique scenery ranging from pristine beaches (in the north) and rolling hills to majestic mountains and fjords (in the south). The North Island is more urban and populous, with about a third of New Zealand’s population living in Auckland (which can be mistaken for the capital, which is actually Wellington). 

In New Zealand, the inhabitants are colloquially called “Kiwi” due to the association with the iconic kiwi bird, a small, flightless animal native only to New Zealand. This nickname dates back to World War I, when New Zealand soldiers were dubbed “Kiwis” by their allies. The term caught on and was embraced both nationally and internationally, becoming an affectionate moniker for all New Zealanders. Today, the kiwi is a strong national symbol, featured on coins, crests, and logos, representing the country’s cultural identity.

With a population of around 1.7 million people, Auckland is the largest city in the country, representing approximately 33-35% of the national population. Population tends to concentrate in cities due to employment opportunities and the fact that most of the territory is rural. Agriculture is a cornerstone of New Zealand’s economy, playing a crucial role in exports and the overall economic well-being of the country. New Zealand is known for its highly productive agricultural sector, which includes dairy farming, sheep farming, beef cattle, and horticulture. The country is one of the world’s leading exporters of dairy products, such as milk powder, butter, and cheese, destined for markets worldwide. In fact, about 95% of New Zealand’s dairy production is exported, and overall 93% of its products in general, which helps drive up food prices for its own residents.

More than half of New Zealand’s total goods exports are agricultural products, reflecting the importance of the sector. In addition to dairy, the country exports large quantities of meat, wool, fruit, and wine. New Zealand’s temperate climate and fertile land contribute to agricultural success, while a commitment to sustainable farming practices has gained global recognition. The success of the agricultural sector is therefore essential to New Zealand’s economy, supporting rural communities and making a significant contribution to the country’s GDP. The country’s GDP is approximately 250 billion New Zealand dollars, with steady economic growth in recent years.

Regarding local fruit, two fruits that stand out for their unique flavor are kiwifruit and feijoa. Kiwifruit, with its fuzzy skin and sweet green flesh, has become a symbol of the country and is beloved by both locals and tourists. Feijoa, on the other hand, is an exotic fruit with an aromatic and sweet taste, often used in desserts and jams. In addition to these, New Zealand also produces crisp apples, juicy pears, sweet cherries, and citrus fruits like oranges and lemons.

During the summer season, orchards are full of freshness and variety, making local fruit highly appreciated. Additionally, fruit picking provides many job opportunities for foreigners, especially in the summer months when the demand for labor increases. This is a great way to immerse yourself in New Zealand culture and earn some money while exploring the country’s natural beauty. Working in orchards is a rewarding albeit exhausting experience, allowing you to appreciate the quality of local fruit while also contributing to the New Zealand agricultural economy.

We have managed to make the most of the different microclimates in New Zealand, having first lived in Queenstown and Wānaka (South Island), Palmerston North (where we are now attending university, North Island), and Whangārei (north of the North Island). Since we arrived, we have been able to appreciate like never before the contact with nature (often untouched here) and the pleasure of keeping fit, first in Queenstown and Wānaka, where there are mountains and glacial lakes (breathtaking views that you have probably seen in the Lord of the Rings) and where we could ski, climb, go canoeing on the lake, and do a lot of hiking. Here hiking is definitely more challenging than in Italy, considering a less populated and wilder territory. Palmerston North is convenient as it is central, and from here not only can you reach the capital in a couple of hours for a weekend of shopping and culture, but in a few hours you can reach other stunning places like New Plymouth (with its inactive volcano and the option of surfing), Taupo (with its beautiful lake and the possibility of doing many activities on it) or Napier (where a very interesting 1920s festival is held once a year). When we were in Whangārei, we mostly enjoyed the good weather and the multitude of postcard-perfect beaches where you can surf all year round. 

New Zealanders are known for their love of sports and their competitive spirit. New Zealand has a strong sporting tradition, with sports such as rugby, cricket, and sailing being particularly popular. In rugby, for example, the All Blacks are one of the most famous and successful teams globally. In the recent Olympics, New Zealand continued to achieve impressive results, with medals in sports like rowing, sailing, athletics, and track cycling. The passion for sports is deeply ingrained in New Zealand’s culture, with high levels of grassroots participation and a system that supports athlete development from a young age. This dedication translates into excellent performances on the international stage, highlighting how sporty and competitive New Zealanders are.



The country is known for its progressive society (although there is still room for progress in certain areas) and strong political stability – with the right-wing government now in power. The current government, in office since November 2023, is led by the National Party with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. This government is formed by a coalition with ACT New Zealand and New Zealand First. New Zealand prides itself on being one of the least corrupt countries in the world and success here is certainly more based on personal capability rather than nepotism.

In New Zealand, public healthcare provides a good level of access, covering services such as hospital care and emergencies for residents and citizens free of charge. However, visits to general practitioners come with a cost ranging from $50 to $80 depending on the area, with the exception of children under 14 years old who can access free visits. Dental and optical care are generally the responsibility of the patient as they are not included in the public system, which can make costs quite high.

The cost of living in New Zealand is high, especially in big cities like Auckland and Wellington. In Auckland, the rent for a 2-3 bedroom house ranges between 500 and 600 dollars per week, while in smaller or rural areas it can go down to 300-400 dollars. Food expenses are also expensive; a family can spend between 150 and 300 dollars per week, depending on food choices and whether they buy local or imported products.

The real estate market has seen a significant increase in prices. In Auckland, the average value of a house exceeds one million New Zealand dollars, while in cities like Wellington and Christchurch prices range from 600,000 to 800,000 dollars. Even in rural areas, prices can be high compared to other countries.

Despite the high cost of living, the quality of life in New Zealand is considered very good. Crime levels are low, the air is clean, and there are plenty of green spaces, which contributes to a good work-life balance. Average salaries range around 55,000-60,000 New Zealand dollars per year, which can help cover expenses, but remains challenging, especially in more expensive urban areas.



The government provides a lot of help with subsidies if needed, and many sectors are facilitated by a mostly socialist government. This is surpassed by the Australian one, so many are tempted by an easy transfer to a wealthier country. Also, citizens moving to Australia can access residency and work rights through a special visa known as the “Special Category Visa” (subclass 444). This visa allows New Zealanders to live and work in Australia without having to obtain a traditional immigration visa. 

The country was the last to be discovered by humans, in this case by the Māori, a Polynesian people who arrived in the islands around 1300-1400 AD. The Māori developed a rich and complex culture, establishing settlements and a structured society based on tribes and family ties. Europeans arrived in New Zealand later. The first European to reach the islands was the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman in 1642. However, it was the British captain James Cook who extensively mapped the islands during his voyage in 1769-1770, paving the way for further explorations and contacts. New Zealand is part of the Commonwealth of Nations, an association of countries that were formerly under British rule or have historical ties to the United Kingdom. 

What is the relationship like between Italians residing in New Zealand and Italy? Are they integrated and is Italy always in their hearts? 

The Italian community in New Zealand is small but steadily growing. Today, around 4,500 people of Italian descent live in the country, with the majority having settled in cities like Auckland and Wellington. Many Italians arrived after the Second World War, seeking new opportunities, and mostly integrated into the agriculture and restaurant sectors. Today, more and more Italians are choosing New Zealand for work or study reasons, and are supported by local associations that keep traditions alive through cultural events and language schools. Although not numerous, Italians have found a way to maintain a strong connection with their culture and home country, contributing to New Zealand’s multicultural character.

Surely, Italy is a country that is very hard to forget and New Zealand, while offering a lot, is very different from our country. For example, even though it is possible to eat well here too, it is certainly not the culinary culture and appreciation for enjoying food that we have, considering that their basic culture is English. The love for the typical beauty of our culture is definitely missing, and it is also evident in everyday life, for example in architecture (there are few cities worth visiting) or in the lack of interest in fashion. All the Italians I have met so far still have strong roots in Italy, and even if they do not consider returning permanently, they usually try to come back at least a couple of times a year or have friends and relatives who come to visit. The Italians living here seem to be well integrated, usually speaking a high level of English and mostly working in companies or for the New Zealand government; even on a social level it would be difficult to isolate oneself as a community since there are not many of us. In general, I would say that we enrich their culture, especially with our warmth.

• What are the initiatives of the Association for Italy in the World in New Zealand?

At the moment I am working on some projects involving Italian friends living here, to organize activities promoting the “Country Italy” in various aspects. For example, we promote the Italian language by participating for free in a club to help local people learn our language. 

• Are there any cultural activities promoted by our Embassy? Can you tell us about them?

The Italian Embassy in Wellington plays an active role in promoting Italian culture in New Zealand, organizing a variety of cultural activities. Among these are events that celebrate Italian culture, such as concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances, often featuring Italian artists or in collaboration with New Zealand artists. The embassy also promotes Italian cinema through film screenings, festivals, and showcases, offering New Zealanders the opportunity to explore the Italian film landscape. Additionally, language courses and cultural workshops are organized for those interested in learning Italian and gaining a better understanding of Italian culture. The embassy collaborates with local schools, universities, and cultural institutions for conferences and cultural exchanges, and organizes gastronomic events, such as tastings of Italian food and wine, to introduce the country’s culinary traditions. These initiatives help strengthen cultural ties between Italy and New Zealand and promote a greater understanding and appreciation of Italian traditions. 

What are, in your opinion, the activities that might interest those who want to invest in the country or focus on import/export?

Surely I would recommend to fill in what is missing here, focusing on food products, clothing, and craftsmanship. 

What is the situation like in terms of tourism? Are there many Italians coming to visit the country? 

Tourism in New Zealand is a fundamental part of its economy, attracting visitors from around the world with its spectacular landscapes, outdoor activities, unique wildlife, and culture.

New Zealand’s wildlife is truly unique due to the rich variety of birds that can only be found here. This is largely due to the absence of terrestrial predators until the arrival of humans, which allowed many bird species, such as the kiwi and kakapo, to evolve without worrying about threats. Many of them don’t even know how to fly, making them special and fully adapted to their environment. While strolling in nature, it’s common to come across these special birds.

But New Zealand’s fauna is not limited to birds; its waters are equally rich in life. The coasts are home to a variety of fish, including cod and tuna, which attract fishermen and snorkeling enthusiasts. It’s incredible to explore these marine ecosystems, where you can spot colorful fish and vibrant corals. For example, we went on a beautiful guided dive to swim with dolphins in the waters of Akaroa, near Christchurch, a village famous for its French atmosphere. 

One of the most extraordinary experiences is observing orca whales. In the Kaikoura area, you can participate in excursions to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. It’s an exciting experience to see orcas swimming and playing, along with other species of whales and dolphins that inhabit these nutrient-rich waters. The opportunity to get close to these extraordinary marine creatures makes the country a true paradise for nature lovers. In summary, whether you are a birdwatching enthusiast or a sea lover, New Zealand’s wildlife offers unforgettable experiences in a unique environment.

The main attractions include the South Island’s fjords, the North Island’s volcanoes, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities like Auckland and Wellington. I personally recommend the Great Walks for those interested in trekking. Although the number of Italians visiting New Zealand is not among the highest compared to other European countries, interest is growing. Every year, around 30,000-40,000 Italians visit New Zealand, drawn to the country’s natural beauty, adventure opportunities, and unique culture. I recommend young people under thirty to apply for a Working Holiday visa, which allows them to work and travel around the country for at least a year. 



Are there any critical issues for Italian residents there? 

Italian residents in New Zealand may face some critical issues, such as cultural adaptation and language barriers, as well as the recognition of professional qualifications obtained in Italy. Despite these challenges, many Italians have found significant opportunities in the country. 

What do resident Italians deal with from an economic standpoint? Any sectors of excellence? 

They are particularly active in the restaurant sector, where they manage restaurants and cafes offering Italian cuisine, which is highly appreciated in New Zealand. Additionally, some contribute to the wine industry, leveraging their winemaking expertise in a sector gaining international recognition. Many Italians are also entrepreneurs, starting and running local businesses, while others work in specialized professions such as engineering, architecture, and the technology sector. Their presence enriches the New Zealand economic and cultural landscape, bringing skills and traditions that further enhance the local context. 

Anything special about New Zealand? 

One curious aspect of New Zealand is its “Kiwiana” culture, which celebrates the country’s unique identity with fun and sometimes unusual symbols. For example, the tradition of the “haka,” a traditional Māori war dance or chant, is widely practiced not only by Māori, but also by sports teams like the All Blacks, before events. Another peculiar element is the adoration of birds (given the country’s rich biodiversity aided by its isolated nature where the only mammals were a species of bat) and in particular the kiwi, a flightless bird that has become a national symbol and an affectionate nickname for New Zealanders themselves. Additionally, the city of Matamata, famous for the Hobbiton film set, has embraced its fame with themed events and merchandise, offering visitors a taste of the fantastical world of “The Lord of the Rings.” 

I thank Nuovo Terraglio for the interview and for the section dedicated to our association AIM on New Zealand, as it is certainly an opportunity to keep the many Italians scattered around the world updated and close to our country, and also to be able to host contributions from various countries on the website. I believe this is an important opportunity for the exchange of cultures, traditions, and customs.