A practical guide to your first year.

Get a local phone number

A prepaid SIM from any supermarket or phone shop is enough to start. Almost every form you fill in will ask for a New Zealand number.

Open a bank account

Bring your passport and visa. Banks also ask for proof of address — a letter from your employer, school or landlord usually works. Some banks let you start the application before you arrive.

Apply for an IRD number

You need an IRD (tax) number to be paid correctly. Without one, your employer must deduct tax at a much higher rate. Apply online once you have a bank account.

• Inland Revenue — IRD numbers

Tell us you have arrived

Send us a message. Someone from the community will get in touch, and you will hear about the next gathering.

Know your work rights

Everyone working in New Zealand is entitled to a written employment agreement, at least the minimum wage, paid holidays and a safe workplace — whatever your visa. If something feels wrong, ask before you sign.

• Employment New Zealand

Keep to your visa conditions

Your visa sets where, how much and for whom you can work or study. Check your conditions yourself on the Immigration New Zealand site. Only use licensed immigration advisers — unlicensed 'agents' are a common source of harm.

• Immigration New Zealand
• Check an adviser is licensed

Renting a home

Landlords may ask for a bond of up to four weeks' rent, which must be lodged with Tenancy Services — ask for the receipt. Letting fees are not allowed. Take dated photos of the property when you move in.

• Tenancy Services

Enrol with a doctor

Find a GP (family doctor) near you and enrol before you are unwell. Whether your visits are publicly funded depends on your visa. Accidents are covered by ACC for everyone in New Zealand, including visitors.

• Health New Zealand — eligibility
• ACC — injury cover

Driving

You can usually drive on your overseas licence for up to 12 months from arrival, then you need a New Zealand licence. Check early whether you will need to sit theory and practical tests. Traffic keeps left, as in Bhutan.

• NZ Transport Agency — overseas licences

Prepare for winter

Many New Zealand houses are cold and damp. Heat the rooms you use, open windows for a few minutes each day, and wipe condensation off windows in the morning.

Come to a gathering

Losar, Tshechu and community days are the easiest way to meet people. You do not need to be a member to come.

Become a member

Members shape what the Association does, and are the first to hear about gatherings and when someone needs help.

Free independent advice

Citizens Advice Bureau gives free, confidential advice on almost anything — tenancy, work, money, family — in many languages.

• Citizens Advice Bureau