Hey adventurous souls, looking for an adventure Down Under? Australia and New Zealand offer exciting opportunities and unique experiences to those looking for a Working Holiday experience. Australia is one of the most popular Work and Travel destinations, with attractive landscapes and plenty of fun things to do. New Zealand also boasts of amazing nature and outdoor activities, along with a thriving tourism industry. But when it comes down to it, which one should you pick? Let’s break down some key factors that make these top destinations for Canadians to help you make the right choice for your adventure!
Jobs and Wages
Australia is known for its diverse job opportunities. Cities like Sydney and Melbourne are bustling with industries ranging from hospitality to agriculture, farming and construction work. Australia’s biggest advantage is perhaps its competitive wages, as rates are higher compared to New Zealand. The minimum wage is among the highest in the world, which can be a huge plus for those looking to save during their working holiday.
New Zealand’s job market is also thriving, especially in areas like adventure tourism, vineyard work, and seasonal jobs like hospitality. While wages are generally lower than in Australia, the lower cost of living can make up for this. Additionally, New Zealand offers a more laid-back and relaxed working culture, which might be appealing if you want to strike a good work-life balance. When you are thinking about the right destination for you, consider which location will offer you better savings based on your salary expectations and spending habits.
Climate and Lifestyle
When you think of your dream Working Holiday, what vibe do you envision? A laid-back beach culture, or perhaps an adventurous mountain landscape? Australia’s climate is pretty diverse, but it can get quite hot in some areas during summer. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, beach trips, and hikes.
The climate in New Zealand is milder overall, and the landscape is a blend of rolling hills and rugged mountains. Outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking are popular. If you love exploring nature and prefer cooler temperatures, New Zealand could be the perfect fit. When you are trying to decide on the best destination, think of the kind of climate that favours your preferred lifestyle.
Adventure and Travel
From the iconic Great Barrier Reef to the bustling cities, Australia is an adventure-lover’s dream. Whether you want to dive into vibrant coral reefs, trek through national parks, or discover the cultural wonders of cities like Melbourne, there’s no shortage of experiences. Australia’s vast size also means that there’s a wide range of terrains to explore, from beaches to deserts.
New Zealand is world-famous for its adventure sports and outdoor activities. Known as the birthplace of bungee jumping, it also offers excellent hiking trails, kayaking, and is perfect for those into campervan life. The country’s dramatic landscapes (mountains, lakes, and forests) make it an adventure playground. If adrenaline-pumping activities like rafting, zip-lining, or hiking excite you, New Zealand will definitely deliver. If adventure travel is what you’re after, both Australia and New Zealand will have a thrilling experience for you!
Cost of Living and Travel Budget
Australia is known for its relatively high cost of living, especially in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. However, the higher wages can help offset these costs. If you’re planning on living in a smaller town or rural area, the cost of living can be more affordable. New Zealand tends to have lower wages, but it’s offset by more affordable cost of living. While cities like Auckland and Wellington can be expensive, overall, you’ll find that housing, food, and transport costs are more affordable than in Australia.
While budgeting can be daunting, there’s steps you can take to make sure you can afford your dream experience. Try to cook your own meals when you can, and if you do eat out skip the tourist traps and look for local spots and street food stands. If you need to exchange money do your best to avoid the airport exchange houses and opt for a bank instead. The best way to budget is to plan ahead and make sure to track your expenses. There are plenty of apps you can use to plan and track your budget easily.
Both Australia and New Zealand offer incredible working holiday experiences, but your ideal destination will depend on what you’re looking for in terms of work opportunities, lifestyle, and budget. If you like a beach vibe and warmer weather Australia might be your first choice. New Zealand is the perfect option for those who want milder weather and outdoor adventure to be the focus of their holiday.
Wherever you choose to go, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience! Start planning your Working Holiday to New Zealand or Australia today.
If you’re unsure how to get started on your visa process, Go International will provide step-by-step guidance. Thanks to our local partners in these destinations, you can also choose to join a week-long tour in Australia with our Australia Platinum Adventure package or social activities in New Zealand with our Gold package and explore what these exciting places have to offer with fellow like-minded travelers.
Our team is always here for you, so don’t hesitate to contact us today to start planning your Working Holiday abroad.
To explore all our destinations, check out our list of Work and Travel destinations!