Moving to New Zealand? Tax advice & business support for expats
Kendons are your local specialists supporting inbound private business and individuals moving to New Zealand.
Let’s make it a smooth transition, financially and strategically.
Whether you’re moving as an individual, a family, or bringing a business across the border, Kendons provides the expert advice and on-the-ground support you need to get set up the right way.
We work closely with expats worldwide, helping you navigate New Zealand’s tax rules, structure your business, and make informed decisions for your future.
How we can help
Relocating brings tax implications, business structures to review, and long-term business planning to consider. Kendons goes beyond traditional accounting to offer forward-thinking advice that helps you:
Understand New Zealand’s tax laws and residency rules
Structure your business within New Zealand
Navigate GST and tax compliance from day one
Get set up with the right accounting systems and business tools
Make confident decisions with a local partner by your side
Ongoing advisory support to help you grow and improve your business.
Why partner with Kendons?
Local expertise with global perspective: Kendons are New Zealand’s tax and business specialists, helping individuals and businesses navigate the transition here. With deep knowledge of local tax laws, business structures, and compliance requirements, plus experience in cross-border complexities, we’re uniquely positioned to help you land smoothly and confidently.
Personalised service: No two moves are the same. We take the time to understand your background, goals, and unique challenges. From pre-move planning to post-arrival setup, we provide personalised guidance every step of the way.
Global experience and connections: We’ve successfully supported clients worldwide through business and personal relocations. Our expertise and partnership approach ensure you're not just compliant, but set up for long-term success in New Zealand.
Get started today
Get in touch with our expert accountants and business advisors to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
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You generally become a New Zealand tax resident if you are present in New Zealand for more than 183 days in any 12-month period, or if you establish a permanent place of abode in New Zealand.
Once you are considered tax resident, your worldwide income may be subject to New Zealand tax, so it’s important to understand your position early and plan accordingly.
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New migrants and returning New Zealanders may qualify for transitional tax residency, which provides a temporary exemption on most foreign-sourced income.
This exemption (if applicable) typically lasts for 48 months from the date you become a New Zealand tax resident. It can be extremely valuable for individuals with overseas investments or income streams.
Professional advice is recommended to ensure you make the most of this period, understand any exceptions and potential issues to be aware of.
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Once you are a New Zealand tax resident, you may be taxed on income earned anywhere in the world, including:
Overseas employment income
Foreign investment income
Rental income from overseas property
Business income earned offshore
New Zealand has double tax agreements with many countries, which can help prevent the same income being taxed twice.
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Overseas superannuation schemes can be transferred to New Zealand, but tax treatment depends on the type of scheme, when the transfer occurs and the country it comes from.
Some transfers may trigger tax obligations, while others may fall within transitional residency exemptions. Because the rules can be complex, it’s important to review your options before transferring or withdrawing funds. We would generally recommend transfers sooner rather than later when migrating permanently to NZ.
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Not always. Depending on your circumstances, you may operate through:
A New Zealand company
A branch of an overseas company
A partnership, limited partnership or sole trader structure
The best option depends on your business model, county of residence, and long-term plans in New Zealand.
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Kendons specialises in providing expert tax advice for people moving to New Zealand, those with cross-border tax obligations, overseas individuals starting a business in New Zealand, employers relocating staff, and companies expanding into the New Zealand market.
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Ideally, before you relocate. Early advice allows you to structure investments, income streams, and business operations in a way that takes full advantage of transitional residency rules and tax planning opportunities.
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You can reach us anytime via our contact page, phone or email. We aim to respond within one business day. Visit our contact page here.
