Your first 90 days checklist
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Apply for an IRD number
Your tax number — needed to get paid correctly and open some accounts.
Open a NZ bank account
Where your salary, rent, and everyday spending will actually flow through.
Check your public healthcare eligibility
Whether you qualify for subsidised healthcare depends entirely on your visa.
Confirm your required health & travel insurance
Mandatory cover, since public healthcare generally won't apply to you.
Varies by provider/policy30 min to confirm with providerImmigration NZ — visas for studying in New Zealand ↗Know your student visa work rights
How many hours you're allowed to work, and when that limit lifts.
Enrol with a GP (general practice)
Get set up with a local doctor before you actually need one.
Free to enrol (consultations cost separately)20–30 minHealthpoint — find and enrol with a general practice ↗Lodge your rental bond
Make sure your rental deposit is actually registered and protected.
Up to 4 weeks' rent (refundable)Handled by landlord, 23 working daysTenancy Services — lodging a bond ↗Convert your overseas driver licence
You can drive on your current licence for a while — but not forever.
Varies — licence fee plus test fees if requiredBook ahead; test slots can take weeksWaka Kotahi NZTA — converting to a NZ driver licence ↗Set up mail redirection (optional)
Keep your mail flowing while you settle on a permanent address.