I continue to be impressed by New Zealand’s urban planning and their ability to create togetherness in their cities.

Infrastructure seems to be catering to community building. Office buildings have coffee shops on ground floor and buzzing with business people who are attending meetings. When looking up, office spaces are open and inviting.

Very few streets allow cars. People are cycling, walking and on scooters! Rain or shine!

Community Gardens and Restaurants are plentiful and diverse!

When talking to people, seems for the most part, satisfied with how the government distribute tax money. The minimum hourly wage is 23.50 NZ$ and cost of living seems to be lower than what it is in Canada for example. Restaurants are pricey since it’s not a basic need. While walking around one notices public meeting places and tasteful urban parks everywhere. The streets are clean and public toilets are plentiful.

I looked into post secondary education and their fees, and here is what i found out: Up until 2025 first year of studies were free of tuition and fees.

• First-Year Fees Free (ended in 2024):The government previously covered the cost of one year’s worth of study or training for eligible first-time tertiary students. 
• Final-Year Fees Free (starting 2025):The scheme now applies to the final year of study or training for eligible students. 

In addition, similarly to the European model, “In New Zealand, healthcare is largely publicly funded and available free or at a reduced cost to citizens and permanent residents. This means that New Zealanders and those with resident visas who live in the country can access many health services without direct charges. While there may be small costs associated with some primary care like GP visits, these are generally subsidized”.