People and Lifestyle
Southland is one of New Zealand’s most affordable and liveable regions, offering great homes, strong job opportunities, and a lifestyle many only dream of. Here, you can enjoy the quarter acre dream - space to live, grow, and thrive.
Living at the southern edge gives us our southern edge. It shapes how we see the world, fuels our passions, and propels us to make the most of the boundless space, unparalleled freedom, and abundant opportunities that surround us. It’s not just where we live. It’s who we are - and we’d love you to join us.
Workforce
Southland offers a strategic advantage for businesses looking to attract and retain skilled, reliable talent.
With a low cost of living, exceptional lifestyle, and a strong sense of community, the region appeals to workers who value balance, wellbeing, and connection to the natural environment.
For employers, this translates into a stable, loyal workforce—essential for operations that depend on consistency and care. Employees benefit from short commutes, easy access to coastal and rural areas, and family-friendly living, all of which support higher productivity and lower turnover in a demanding, hands-on industry.
Housing
Southland’s accessible and affordable housing is a key advantage for employers. Unlike high-cost urban centres, the region offers spacious, family-friendly homes at prices well below the national average—making it easier to attract and retain staff.
Lower living costs mean employees enjoy a higher standard of living and reduced financial stress, boosting satisfaction and long-term retention. With ongoing investment in new housing developments, Southland is ready to grow alongside your business—providing a stable, supportive foundation for your workforce.
Lifestyle
Southland offers an ideal lifestyle for families, making it easier for businesses to attract and retain skilled workers. Surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and a strong sense of community, the region provides a safe, supportive environment where families can thrive.
With quality education, affordable housing, and endless recreational opportunities, Southland combines tranquillity with opportunity—creating a lifestyle that appeals to employees looking to put down roots and build a future.
From the vast open skies and sparkling stars to the roaring rivers, mighty oceans, sprawling plains, and towering mountains, every inch of this land is a treasure to behold. 58% of our land is protected as part of the conservation estate and National Parks; we are kaitiaki guardians of this natural paradise, deeply committed to preserving our rich ecosystems and the precious taonga it holds. So come and immerse yourself in the beauty of this place and rediscover your connection to the world around you.
In Southland, time feels more generous and our communities are close-knit, stable, and welcoming. We support each other and work together for the common good.
Research shows more than 90% of Southlanders rate their quality of life as ‘good’ or ‘extremely good.’ They’re proud and connected to their communities, feel safe, enjoy a favourable work/life balance, and appreciate our pristine environment.
Whether you’re seeking career opportunities, a better lifestyle for your family, or a fresh start in a place where potential is boundless, Southland delivers.
Come live life on the southern edge - and discover how far it can take you.
Southland offers:
Safe streets and a strong sense of community
Excellent education options
Affordable cost of living and accessible home ownership
Exceptional sports, cultural, and community facilities
Easy access to some of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes
Education
Building a Skilled, Work-Ready Workforce
For businesses and investors, Southland offers more than a stunning location and strong community—it delivers a future-focused education system designed to grow and sustain a capable, job-ready workforce.
New residents will find a variety of high-quality schooling options, while employers benefit from a pipeline of well-educated, adaptable talent.
Tertiary & Workforce Training That Meets Industry Needs
Southland is home to a robust network of vocational and tertiary education providers focused on aligning training with real-world demands:
Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) offers a wide range of industry aligned programmes which are focused on ensuring graduates are job-ready from day one. SIT’s Zero Fees Scheme for domestic students reduces barriers to training.
Front-Line Training Consultancy specialises in workplace training to help businesses meet regulatory requirements and upskill their staff efficiently.
Industry Training Organisations (ITOs) deliver a wide range of apprenticeships and on-the-job training in critical sectors such as marine systems (MAST Academy), food processing (Primary ITO) and engineering (Competenz).
Southland’s education sector isn’t just preparing students—it’s partnering with businesses to shape the region’s economic future.