Can we get a Kia Ora, darling?
New Zealand isn’t just Lord of the Rings scenery and sheep. It’s got gorgeous queer vibes, strong legal protections, and cities that range from cozy and artsy to full-blown fab with ferry rides to wine islands. We break down the top 5 cities for LGBTQ+ retirement in NZ with real costs, real vibes, and real queer perks.
Ready to float through Middle Earth in style? Let’s go global gay with this week’s Queer Money®!
Takeaways:
🌍 New Zealand ranks in the top 10 on the Spartacus Gay Travel Index—but is still underrated for LGBTQ+ retirees
🏙️ Top 5 cities ranked from fab to MOST fab:
- #5 Christchurch: Charming, green, affordable (⭐ 7/10)
- #4 Queenstown: Adventure-packed and inclusive (⭐ 8/10)
- #3 Dunedin: Artsy, affordable, student-rich (⭐ 8/10)
- #2 Wellington: Culturally rich & walkable (⭐ 9/10)
- #1 Auckland: Big-city buzz & wine island chic (⭐ 8/10, but most well-rounded overall)
💰 Rents range from ~$1,000–$1,900/month for 2-bedroom homes
📉 Cost of living is generally 7–25% lower than the U.S. average
🏳️🌈 Strong LGBTQ+ protections and community support across the country
💃 Lesbian balls, Winter Pride, & gayborhoods galore
💡 Wellington & Auckland boast the most vibrant queer infrastructure
✈️ Auckland wins for lifestyle + international access—but Wellington gets the highest rating for vibe and livability
Start here:
🎁 Grab your free Happy Gay Retirement Calculator here: https://queermoneypodcast.com/hgrcalc
Chapters:
- 0:00 - Intro
- 1:10 - Past and future
- 1:51 - Christchurch
- 3:44 - Queenstown
- 5:21 - Dunedin
- 7:58 - Wellington
- 10:40 - Auckland
- 12:47 - Why the numbers don't line up
- 13:19 - Wrap up
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