A new report has revealed the number one healthiest country to live in for work-life balance. Plus, a large number of South Africans have been moving there over the last two decades, too.
According to global HR software provider, Remote, the number one work-life balance destination is New Zealand. And after the UK, US, Netherlands and Australia, the ‘land of the long white cloud’ is home to the highest number of relocated South Africans (nearly 100 000).
HEALTHY WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, work-life balance has rocketed ahead of earning potential as a priority for most citizens. The advent of remote working, while convenient, has also eroded traditional boundaries for work-life balance.
However, countries like New Zealand still prioritise a positive work-life balance, and it’s paying off. In 2025, the antipodean nation topped Remote’s Global Life Work Balance Index for the third year in a row, reports BusinessTech.
WHY IS NEW ZEALAND SO ATTRACTIVE?
The report’s findings take into account the number of paid days’ leave. And New Zealanders top the list globally with 32 per year. South Africa offers an average of just 21 annually. Moreover, the report notes access to top-notch healthcare and 26 weeks of paid paternal leave in New Zealand.
In light of this, it’s no wonder that South Africans are drawn to New Zealand for its high quality of life, job opportunities and safety. And don’t underestimate the shared cultural connection through rugby and love for the outdoors.
BIG EXODUS SINCE COVID
In fact, so enticing is the work-life balance of New Zealand, that South Africans now make up 10% of new citizens in the country. South Africans are now the third-largest group of overseas-born nationals. Before the pandemic, roughly 70 000 South Africans lived in New Zealand.
Now, the number sits just under 100 000. More than 4 000 are achieving resident status each year in the country. However, eligibility is the first hurdle South Africans must clear, because purchasing residential property is largely restricted to resident visa holders only. There are reportedly another 30 000 South Africans on residence visas who will become citizens soon.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF SOUTH AFRICA’S WORK-LIFE BALANCE?
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