Living in Bali: A Guide for New Zealanders

Key Highlights

• Enjoy the affordable cost of living, which helps you have a good lifestyle, even if you are on a modest budget.

• Meet people in a thriving expat community and friendly locals, so it is easy to feel at home.

• For your visa application, you can pick a tourist visa, social-cultural visa, or wait for the new digital nomad visa.

• Get health insurance for peace of mind, because local healthcare can have some limits.

• Know that getting a job with a work permit is often hard, so many people choose remote work instead.

• See amazing natural places, like green rice terraces and beautiful beaches.

Introduction

Have you thought about leaving your normal life behind to enjoy the island life in Bali? You are not the only one. Many people from New Zealand feel pulled to this place in Indonesia. The island has its own energy, a friendly expat community, and a low cost of living. Bali gives you a mix of spiritual ways of life, amazing natural sights, and things you need right now. All of these make living here feel almost magical. This guide will help you with what you need to know if you want to make this island your new home.

Why New Zealanders Are Choosing Bali

Bali draws in people from New Zealand for more than just a quick getaway. It’s known as the “Island of the Gods” and has a warm, tropical climate all year. The cost of living in Bali is much lower than it is back home, so it’s a top pick for anyone thinking about living there for a while.

A lot of digital nomads and others wanting to try a new pace of life come to Bali. The busy expat community helps you feel like you belong right from the start. When you add in the amazing local culture, it’s easy to see why Bali is loved by people looking to start a new life. Let’s take a look at why this island is just so attractive.

The appeal of Bali for Kiwis

Imagine how good it would be to wake up to the soft sounds of a tropical paradise instead of an alarm clock. Many Kiwis in Bali get to do this every day. The island is full of natural beauty. You see green rice terraces at Ubud and you find cliffs and blue sea at Uluwatu. Everywhere you look, there is something amazing. There are always new places and landscapes to see.

All this makes your quality of life better. You feel like you are far away from busy life back home. If you plan to move here in 2025, you should know that Bali can still get busy in popular spots. But life on the island moves at a slower pace. It helps you take your time, relax, and focus more. You get to enjoy simple things, like a nice meal for cheap from local warungs.

It is also easy for you to get out and enjoy all sorts of nature. You can hike to a waterfall or lay back on a white sand beach. This way of living helps your well-being and it makes people feel at peace. Being close to nature is a big reason people love being in Bali. You do not find this feeling everywhere.

Comparing Bali and New Zealand lifestyles

Leaving your home country is a big choice, and it’s good to think about how life stacks up in both places. The first thing you’ll spot is the cost of living. In Bali, your money goes a lot further. You can get your own place, food, and get about for much less than it costs in New Zealand. This low cost is what many people like most, but there are tough bits too. The traffic can be busy, and the roads and other services are not as good as back home.

Life on the island has its own speed. Both New Zealand and Bali are easygoing, but in Bali, “island life” is even more slow and relaxed. This can be the perfect place if you want to get away from stress. At the same time, it’s not always simple to get things done because sorting out paperwork and other tasks can take longer.

At the end of the day, the best way to see if life in Bali is for you is to go and try it. You might miss some things from home, but with the cost of living, the way people get together, and something different all around, Bali can be a good choice for a lot of Kiwis who want something new.

Popularity among digital nomads and expats

Bali is now known around the world as a top place for remote workers and digital nomads. There is a thriving expat community here, which makes it easy to meet new friends and get to know people who think like you do. Social media groups and regular meet-ups help people connect, so you will not feel alone. If you want to build your own group or grow a work network, Bali is a good place for it.

For digital nomads, working in Bali is quite simple because of good set-ups made for remote workers. You will find lots of cafes and co-working spaces with strong Wi-Fi and comfy chairs. The government is working on a digital nomad visa too, which will let more people live and work here with less trouble. Many people also share their Bali life on social media, showing how good things can be and making more digital nomads want to come.

The set-up for remote work in Bali works well:

• Numerous co-working spaces, especially in popular spots like Canggu and Ubud.

• A big group of freelancers and business people, which means you get lots of chances to network.

• An uplifting space where you can mix work, wellness, and free time.

Main Benefits of Living in Bali

One of the big advantages of living in Bali is you can get a very good quality of life for a low cost. It is cheaper to live here, and you can see the lovely rice fields and beaches every day. That makes life in Bali more scenic. A lot of people say the best part is how affordable things are and the nice places you get to see.

Another good thing is the way the Balinese people treat others and the kind expat community you will find. They are welcoming and friendly. This helps new people feel like they belong. Settling in can be easy because everyone is happy to help.

Now, let’s have a closer look at these things. We will talk more about the cost of living and the culture you get to enjoy on the island.

Affordable cost of living

Your monthly expenses in Bali can be a fraction of what you’d spend in New Zealand, making it a major drawcard. The affordable cost of living means you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the financial pressure. Real estate is a great example; renting a room in a guesthouse or even a private villa is significantly cheaper than renting an apartment back home.

Eating out is also very budget-friendly. You can enjoy delicious local food at warungs for just a few dollars, though Western-style restaurants will cost more. The low cost of living allows you to spend more on experiences like travel, wellness activities, and hobbies. How much you spend per month really depends on your lifestyle, but a comfortable life is possible on a modest budget.

Here’s a rough breakdown of potential monthly expenses to give you an idea:

Expense	Estimated Cost (NZD)
Basic Room in Guesthouse (with A/C)	$475
Monthly Scooter Rental	$85
SIM Card with Data	$17
Meals (mix of local and Western)	$300 – $800

Stunning natural beauty and island destinations

Bali is a real tropical paradise. The island’s natural beauty is easy to see everywhere you look. No matter where you are, you can find something beautiful like the green rice terraces in Ubud, the tall cliffs in Uluwatu, or clean beaches on islands like Nusa Penida. Being close to nature is at the heart of life here, and many people who move to Bali enjoy this focus on well-being.

The island gives you so many chances to get out and relax. On weekends, you might hike to a waterfall in the north. You can go snorkelling in the clear sea at Amed, or you can sit on the beach with a glass of fresh coconut water. It is simple to get to nature here, and that helps many people deal with stress and tiredness.

This place makes you want to be active and healthy. You can surf when the sun comes up or join yoga classes in front of the jungle. In Bali, it is easy to look after your body and your mind. The beautiful sights are not just around you—they are part of the way you live.

Welcoming Balinese culture and community

One special thing about living in Bali is the people. The Balinese people are famous for being friendly, gentle, and welcoming to outsiders. Their unique Hindu way of living adds more peace to daily life. The daily offerings and ceremonies make the area calm. These things help bring a sense of peace of mind. A small smile or a quick hello can mean a lot here.

Along with the locals, there is a big Bali expat community. Many people here find it easy to make friends. You get the chance to meet digital nomads, families, and many others. Most people in the expat community want to talk and connect. There are many social events, workshops, and groups. This makes it simple to meet people, join in, and build great friendships.

To settle into life in Bali, try to join in this friendly community spirit. Go to social events, and be kind to the local culture. Take time to chat with both the Balinese people and others in the expat community. This open style found in the local culture helps many people feel at home in no time.

Challenges New Zealanders May Face in Bali

Life in Bali can seem like a dream, but there are things that can be hard too. Moving to a new country, like Bali, comes with changes you need to deal with. Sorting out visas is often a complex process. You might need to make visa runs a lot, and that can get in the way of your plans.

You will also need time to get used to the traffic, which can be busy and messy. The wet season can bring a lot of humidity, the heat can get strong, and it can feel tough. You will also see pollution and many stray dogs on the streets. It is good to know about these problems before you get to Bali, so you can be ready for them. Let’s talk about some of the key things you may need to face.

Navigating local bureaucracy and regulations

Dealing with Indonesian rules and paperwork in Bali can be tough. The legal steps needed to live in Bali for a long time can look confusing, and these rules might change often. Finding a job that comes with a work permit is hard. The government wants to offer jobs to local people before any foreigner. For this reason, many expats use the internet to work, or they start their own business.

There are a few visa options you can look at, but each visa has its own way to apply. Many people start off with a tourist visa. This visa can be made longer for up to 60 days. If you want to stay for more time, you might pick a social-cultural visa (B211A) or think about making a company (PT PMA) owned by people from out of the country so you can get an investor visa (KITAS). For those who can, a retirement visa is also out there to use.

The visa application can take a lot of time. It helps a lot to use a good visa agent. They know all the new rules. They can do the paperwork for you and help make the visa process easy and not stressful.

Adjusting to transport and infrastructure differences

One of the first things you will notice in Bali is how the roads and transport work. The roads in Bali are often narrow and get full, especially where many people go. There is almost no public transport. Most people in Bali use scooters or ride-hailing apps like Grab to move around. For your first week, using these apps is a good idea. This will help you get to know the place before you think about renting your own transport.

Many people drive a scooter to get from one place to another, but this way is not for everyone. The traffic can look wild at times. People often do not follow the rules. Many new people have accidents. You need to be honest about your skill and how sure you feel before you decide to drive by yourself. Public healthcare and other things you may need are also not good for bigger problems.

Here are a couple of key points for adjusting:

• Use ride-hailing apps like Grab for a safe and cheap way to travel.

• Know that the sidewalks may be broken or missing, so walking can be hard in many places.

Understanding cultural and social norms

Getting used to life in Bali means you have to know about and respect the local culture. The Balinese people are very spiritual, and their Hindu faith is part of what they do every day. You will see daily offerings called canang sari almost everywhere. There are also many ceremonies, and these are a big part of their social events and their world. It is really important to show respect for these ways.

There are a lot of social events for expats, and the social life is lively, but don’t forget you are a guest in someone else’s home. The different parts of the island all have their own feel. For example, Canggu is a place known for parties, and Ubud is known for being more about the spiritual way of life. One good tip is to watch how the Balinese people act and talk with others. You will see they are usually not confrontational and are really polite.

To help you get used to things, remember these points:

• Always dress in a modest way when you go to temples. Make sure your shoulders and your knees are covered.

• When you give or get things, use your right hand because people think the left hand is unclean.

This will help you feel welcome and make your time in Bali much better.

Essential Preparations Before Moving to Bali

Before you get ready to head to Bali, it will help to sort out a few things first. Taking time to get organised can make your move a lot easier. You want to start with your visa application, do good money planning, and get health insurance sorted.

Do not skip these steps. It can be easy to just buy your plane ticket and go, but you will have more peace of mind if you get all your papers, money, and medical insurance ready first. So, let’s see what you need to do before you pack up and go.

Key documents and visa requirements for New Zealanders

Sorting out your visa is very important if you want to live in Bali for a long time. If you are from New Zealand, you have different visa options. The one you pick will depend on what you want to do there. Most people start with a tourist visa (Visa on Arrival). You can get this when you land in the country. You can pay to extend it for 30 more days, so you get 60 days in total.

If you want to stay longer and do not have a work permit, the social-cultural visa (B211A) is popular. This lets you stay for up to six months if you get extensions. Indonesia is also working on a digital nomad visa, which will help remote workers live and work in Bali. It is important to know that if you want to work for an Indonesian group, you must have a work permit. Getting this is very hard.

Here are the key points for your visa application:

• Your passport must be valid for at least six months from when you enter.

• It is a good idea to use a reputable visa agent so that your application is done right.

Securing health insurance and vaccinations

Sorting out your health insurance is a must before you go to Bali. Basic medical care is there, but the health system is not as good as it is in New Zealand. This is true when it comes to emergencies or getting help from specialists. You do not want to get stuck without cover if there is a medical problem. Most travel insurance will not cover you if you stay for a long time.

To be safe, get an international health insurance plan made for people living overseas. This kind of medical insurance helps you with many things. It covers your doctor visits, time in hospital, and medical flights if you need to leave Bali for treatment. With strong international health insurance, you have real peace of mind.

It is also good to talk to your doctor before leaving New Zealand. You can ask about vaccinations for Indonesia. You do not have to get any shots to enter from New Zealand, but some, like Hepatitis A and Typhoid, are often given for your own safety.

Financial planning and money matters

Good planning with your money is the key to having a good move. While Bali has an affordable cost of living, you need to know your budget well. Work out how much your monthly expenses will be, like rent, food, transport, and fun. It is a good idea to have some extra savings for surprise costs. For example, you might need money for visa renewals or bills from the doctor that your expat insurance does not cover.

When you look at your cost of living, think about the big spends too. If you want to rent a villa, check real estate prices in the area you want to live in. Remember that life in Bali is cheap, but the costs can build up. Open a bank account that gives you low-fee transfers for money sent from other countries. This can save you money over time.

Here are a few ways to handle your money:

• Make a full budget of what you think you will spend each month before you come to Bali.

• Make sure you have enough savings to cover three to six months of living costs.

Beginner’s Guide: How to Get Started Living in Bali

Ready to start your new life in Bali? At first, it can feel like a lot, but a bit of help will make things better. It is good to begin with some research and talk to people from the community before you get there. You can use social media groups to ask questions and get good tips from people who already live there.

This helps you find the best parts of the island for the way you want to live, and you will get used to it quicker once you arrive. Starting your new home in Bali is a big, exciting step. We will help you through the first things you need to do so you can settle in well.

What you’ll need to start your new life in Bali

Starting your new life in Bali means bringing some key items and having the right way of thinking. You need to have your passport, visa, and proof of health insurance. Take some local money too, called Indonesian Rupiah, so you can use it in your first few days. Before you find a private villa to rent for a long time, it is good to book a place to stay in for your first week or maybe two.

You also need to be ready in your mind. Life in Bali can move a bit slow, so try to be patient and open. If you are one of the remote workers, remember to bring your laptop and everything else you need for work. It can also help to join online expat community groups before you go. This helps you meet new people and build up your social circle early on.

Here are a few things for your new home:

• An open and respectful attitude towards the local culture and people.

• Connections with the expat community through social events and online forums.

Step-by-step process for moving to Bali

Moving to Bali can be made easy if you break it into smaller steps. First, do some research. Use social media and blogs to find the best places to live that fit your lifestyle. After you get this information, the next important thing is your visa application. Work out which visa works for you and start your visa application as soon as you can. It is a good idea to get help from an agent.

For your first week, try to sort out the basics. You should get a local SIM card and work out how to get around. Spend some time walking around your new neighbourhood too. Don’t be in a rush to sign a long-term lease. Take your time and look for the right place. Be ready for visa runs depending on which visa you have, and add these trips when you plan your days.

A step-by-step process for your move is:

• Research & Plan: Pick an area, sort your budget, and start your visa application.

• Arrive & Settle: Stay in short-term accommodation, pick up a local SIM, and look around before you say yes to a long-term rental.

Step-by-Step Guide to Moving from New Zealand to Bali

Are you ready for a clear plan to start your new life in Bali? This easy guide will show you each step you need to take. It covers everything, from your first research to getting comfortable in your new home. If you follow these steps, your move from New Zealand should be smooth.

We will go through how to pick a good area to live in, get your visa application sorted, and choose the right international health insurance for you. You will also see ideas on setting up your daily life once you arrive. Let’s get to it and make your dream of living in Bali come true.

Step 1: Research the best areas to live based on your lifestyle

The first thing you need to do is pick where you want to live in Bali. The island has many different areas. There are busy beach towns, but you can also find calm jungle spots. The best places to live depend on the kind of lifestyle you want. Each part of the island is good for different people. For digital nomads and surfers, Canggu is a great place. If you want culture, yoga, and wellness, then Ubud is for you.

Think about what matters most for you. Do you want to be near the beach and all the cafes, or do you want peace and nature? Seminyak and Sanur are good if you are after a relaxed spot near the sea. They are also popular with families and people who want an nicer lifestyle. If you don’t want to spend too much or you want to get away from the crowds, there are parts of the island further north or inland that could be better.

To make your choice easier:

• Canggu: This area is a great place for young expats, surfers, and digital nomads. It has a fun, social feel.

• Ubud: A good pick if you want to be close to nature and be a part of a wellness crowd.

Each part of the island has its own style, so think about what kind of lifestyle is right for you when choosing the best places to live.

Step 2: Apply for the appropriate visa and gather required paperwork

Once you pick a place you like, your main focus should be the visa application. This is the most important rule to follow if you plan to move. Like I said before, there are a few visa options, and you have to pick the one that suits you best. Most people start off with a paid tourist visa when they arrive. This lets you stay for 60 days, which is enough time to get to know the island.

If you want to stay longer, you will need a different visa, like the B211A social-cultural visa. It’s a good idea to get help from a visa agent for your visa application. They will tell you what paperwork you need. For most people, this is your passport, flight details, and maybe proof of your money. Keep in mind, getting a work permit is very hard. So, if you want to work, go for remote work choices. You might have more work options after the digital nomad visa is launched.

Try not to put off your visa application to the last minute. The process can take some time. It is important to get the right visa, so your stay is smooth and worry-free.

Step 3: Arrange accommodation before arrival

It’s not a good idea to sign a year-long lease for a place while you are still overseas. The best way is to sort out short-term accommodation just for your first one or two weeks. This gives you a base to stay at while you look around neighbourhoods and check out long-term real estate choices in person. There is no pressure, and you can go at your own pace. Booking a guesthouse or hotel online is simple and will be a good place to arrive and get settled.

When you get to Bali, you can start searching for something more permanent. Your real estate choices include getting a room in a house you share with others or choosing a private villa just for you. The best way to adjust to life with the locals is to take your time before you decide. Often, a place that looks good online is not the same in real life. Seeing the houses yourself lets you check things like how noisy the road is, if the internet is any good, and what the neighbourhood feels like.

This style helps you work out your monthly expenses, too. You get to see the real costs and what you actually get for your money in the spot you want to live.

Step 4: Set up banking, SIM cards, and essential services

Once you get here and have found somewhere to stay, you should set up the things you need. One of the first things to do is to buy a local SIM card. This is not expensive, is easy to get, and it will help you with finding your way around. You will need it to use ride apps and to stay in touch with people. You can get a SIM card at the airport or in many small shops across the island.

When it comes to money, you can use your New Zealand bank cards at most places, but the extra fees can build up fast. Think about opening an account with a digital bank. These banks let you use your card for international payments with only small fees. If you want to open an Indonesian bank account, you will need a visa for a long stay, which is called a KITAS, so it is not as easy.

Once you have sorted things like phone and your banking, sorting out your monthly expenses will be a lot less stress. You can feel better knowing you are not paying high bank fees and can use the internet without any problems. Doing this before you start your new life here is very important. This will help you get started and settle in without trouble.

Step 5: Register with local authorities and understand legal obligations

Finalising your legal status in Bali is important if you want to stay for a long time. The steps you need to take will depend on what visa you have. Some visas mean you must register with the local authorities. If your visa needs extensions, a visa agent will usually deal with the needed reports. But you must know and follow what your visa says. For example, you cannot work for an Indonesian company unless you have a work permit.

If you want to start a business and get an investor visa (KITAS), you have to open a PT PMA, which is a foreign-owned company. Starting a PT PMA takes many steps and is not easy. You will need help from legal and visa experts. Knowing about these obligations helps you meet the rules for living in Bali.

Following the rules does not just keep you safe from legal problems. It also shows you respect the local culture and laws. Make sure you keep up with your visa conditions and extension dates. This way, your time in Bali will stay easy and safe.

Best Areas for New Zealanders to Live in Bali

Choosing where to live can be a big and exciting step. The best places in Bali for you will come down to your lifestyle, what you want, and your budget. Some parts of the island are full of energy with a thriving expat community. You can meet new friends there as well.

Other areas in Bali are quiet and close to nature. They can be great if you want to relax. No matter if you are a digital nomad, have a family, or want to focus on wellness, there is a spot that will work for you. Here, we look at the parts of the island where many expats settle and what makes these areas the best places to live.

Canggu – the digital nomad hotspot

Canggu is a main spot for digital nomads and young people from other countries living in Bali. The town is full of life and energy. It mixes the beach, great surf, and a busy social scene. For remote workers, this place is close to perfect. There are many co-working spaces, cool cafes with good Wi-Fi, and a thriving expat community. This makes it simple to meet new people and grow your network. With the digital nomad visa coming soon, it looks like even more people will want to move here.

Life in this area is about finding a good work-life balance. You can go for a surf in the morning, do your work while sitting in a nice cafe, and join different social events when the day ends. While you get a low cost of living compared to many home countries, Canggu is one of the most popular and a bit pricier places in Bali.

Why Canggu is a top choice for settling down:

• Vibrant Community: There is a very active expat community here, with lots of social events and ways to network.

• Excellent Amenities: The area has lots of cafes, co-working spaces, gyms, and good restaurants for those living the remote worker life.

Ubud – culture, wellness, and nature

If you want island life with lots of green around you, like rice terraces and jungle, Ubud is the spot for you. This town is seen as the heart of Bali for spirit and culture. It is wrapped in natural beauty that gives off a calm feeling. It’s great for people who like wellness and living life at a slower pace.

Ubud is full of things to do if you want a healthy lifestyle. You’ll find many yoga studios, places for meditation, and spots where you can eat good, organic food. If you need to step back from all the rush in life and find yourself again, this is a good place. Ubud is not by the beach, but the culture and its peaceful vibe pull a lot of people in.

When you live in Ubud, you get the chance to enjoy the art and old ways that are part of the island. You can go to temples, see dance shows, and really feel a calm spirit here, all while you are close to wonderful rice terraces and the natural beauty around you.

Sanur and Seminyak – family-friendly and beachside living

If you want a relaxed or top-tier beach life, Sanur and Seminyak are two of the best places you can go. Sanur has calm waters and a smooth path by the beach. It is great for families and well-liked by older people from other countries. The town has a slow pace where you can feel at ease, but there are still lots of places to eat and things to do.

Seminyak is known for its fancy shops, private villa rentals, and top-rated places to eat. This area gives you a polished take on life in Bali. The cost of living is higher here, but you get a great quality of life in return. The beaches are lovely, and there is a cool, modern feeling around.

These places are the best choice for:

• Families: Sanur is safe, calm, and good for families.

• Luxury Seekers: Seminyak gives you top private villa stays, good food, and shopping for a better quality of life.

Conclusion

Living in Bali is a good way to enjoy bright culture, great views, and friendly people. That is why so many people from New Zealand want to go there. The island has an affordable cost of living and there is a lot to do, from relaxing on the beach to trying something new. But you should get ready for things that can be a bit tricky too. You will need to deal with local rules and get to know the way people do things there. If you understand these things first, it will help you settle in much better.

When you start your new life in Bali, it helps to follow the simple tips in this guide. If you want to try something new and make the move, you can reach out to us. We can give you a free consultation to help you start your new life in Bali. This is a good place for people who want a good life and an affordable cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it really cost per month to live in Bali in 2025?

The cost of living in Bali is low, which makes it easy for many people to live well without spending a lot of money. If you want to have a simple lifestyle, your monthly expenses can be about $1,200 NZD. But if you like to stay in a private villa and eat at Western restaurants, your costs can rise to over $3,000 NZD a month. The low cost of real estate and local food means that most people can have a good life even on a small budget.

Is healthcare in Bali suitable for foreigners?

Healthcare facilities in Bali are good for basic care and when there is an emergency. But, public healthcare is limited. If you have a serious health problem, you may need to leave Bali for treatment. That is why all foreigners should get health insurance. This could be medical insurance or international health insurance. It helps you get the best care if you need it.

What are the main pros and cons of living in Bali as a New Zealander?

The main pros are the low cost of living, beautiful nature, warm weather, and a friendly expat community. But, there are some cons too. You need to deal with a lot of paperwork, and traffic can be busy. Some parts of the island have issues with pollution. It can take some time to get used to the local culture. The quality of life can still be high if you go with the flow and just accept the changes.

Is it easy for New Zealanders to work remotely or as digital nomads in Bali?

Yes, this place is the top choice for digital nomads. There is a big expat community here, and you can find a lot of good cafes. These things help remote workers do their job every day. You might not get a work permit right away, but you can still do your remote work with a tourist or social visa. Soon, there will be a digital nomad visa to make things even easier.

This spot is famous for its thriving expat community and is great for all digital nomads and remote workers.