Moving house can feel like spinning every plate you own while packing them at the same time. Dates, notices, utilities, kids, pets—miss one detail and the whole act wobbles. Relax; the hard part is already done: you’ve found a checklist written for New Zealand moves, not borrowed from overseas blogs.
Below you’ll get a week-by-week game plan covering the eight weeks before settlement or key-handover day, with 15 clear steps and printable tick boxes you can stick to the fridge. From redirecting your NZ Post mail and updating the electoral roll to booking movers during Otago’s busy snow season, every task is spelled out alongside insider tricks from removalists who’ve shifted thousands of Kiwi homes. Ready to swap chaos for control? Let’s get cracking.
1. Map Out Your Moving Timeline & Budget (8+ Weeks Out)
The first entry on any moving house checklist is simple but powerful: put pen to paper early. Eight weeks gives you breathing room to lock in dates, compare quotes, and avoid paying premium “last-minute” rates when trucks and tradies are scarce.
Why starting early matters
- Typical Kiwi settlement or possession dates land 4–6 weeks after signing, so diary reminders keep lawyers, lenders and movers in sync.
- Tenants must serve a 28-day notice under the Residential Tenancies Act; missing that can cost an extra month’s rent.
- Prime weekends in Queenstown’s ski season book out fast—early enquiries mean better times and prices.
- With time to shop around, you’ll spot hidden costs (after-hours surcharges, stair carries) before they ambush your wallet.
Budgeting for the big shift
List every expense, then add a 10–15 % buffer:
- Removal company or truck hire
- Packing supplies and eco-crate rentals
- Cleaner or carpet shampoo hire
- Transit insurance
- Storage fees, takeaway dinners, pet boarding
Total it in a spreadsheet so the numbers stare you in the face, not lurk in the background.
DIY tools & templates
Download a free Google Sheets budget, sync it to your phone, and colour-code weekly goals. Pair it with a printable A4 countdown calendar on the fridge and a task-manager app such as Trello or Any.do—instant reminders wherever you are.
2. Sort, Declutter, Donate & Sell
Before you tape up a carton, trim the cargo. Every lamp or mug you release now is one less item to pay movers for, lift twice and stash later. Think of it as paying yourself in saved cubic metres.
The benefits of less stuff
NZ removalists quote by volume, often $120–$150 per m³. A ruthless declutter of even 4 m³ (about one trailer-load) can slice $500+ off the invoice and shrink the carbon footprint of your move.
Room-by-room purge plan
- Garage & shed – broken tools, half-empty paint tins
- Spare rooms & attic – forgotten furniture, suitcases
- Wardrobes – out-of-season or ill-fitting clothes
- Kitchen – duplicate appliances, chipped glassware
Sort each item into four piles: keep, donate, sell, recycle.
Where to offload items in NZ
- Donate: Salvation Army Store, Habitat for Humanity ReStore, local op-shops
- Sell: Trade Me, Facebook Marketplace, car-boot sales
- Recycle: council transfer stations, e-waste drop-offs, scrap yards
Pocket the cash or karma, then move on lighter.
3. Gather Eco-Friendly Packing Supplies
Buying boxes on moving day is a rookie error that chews through cash and creates waste. Lock in your supplies now so you can pack methodically and keep fragile items protected. With a little planning you’ll save money, lighten landfill and still look after the planet.
How many boxes you’ll need
Rule of thumb:
- Studio/1-bed flat – 15 – 20 medium cartons
- 2-bed home – 30 – 35 mixed sizes
- 3-bed home – 45 – 55
- 4-bed+ – 65 – 80
Add five speciality boxes for glassware or wardrobes if you own lots of clothes.
Sustainable options that save money
- Hire sturdy, reusable plastic crates from your mover—no tape, no assembly.
- Source second-hand cartons from supermarkets or Buy Nothing groups.
- Use biodegradable corn-starch pellets and recycled paper instead of bubble wrap.
These swaps cut costs by up to 40 % and keep your moving house checklist planet-friendly.
Must-have supplies checklist
- Double-walled boxes in small, medium, large
- Brown paper tape plus fragile stickers
- Packing paper, towels or old tees for cushioning
- Mattress and sofa covers
- Permanent markers and colour dot stickers for labelling
- Zip-lock bags for screws and remote controls
Gather everything in one corner so packing can start the minute decluttering ends.
4. Notify Landlord, Body Corp or Kick-off House Sale
Paperwork and notice are as vital as packing boxes. Act early so keys change hands without extra rent, penalties or grumpy neighbours.
Renters: giving proper notice
Residential Tenancies Act requires at least 28 days’ written notice. Fixed-term? Confirm rollover terms or any break fee. Keep a dated copy.
Sellers: lining up paperwork
Order a LIM, set pre-settlement inspection dates, and ask council to transfer rates from settlement day.
Apartments & body corporates
Book lifts, pay the refundable damage bond, and drop a note to neighbours with your move-out window.
5. Research & Book a Reputable Moving Company
Locking in the right movers is the make-or-break moment on any moving house checklist. Treat it like hiring a builder: compare, question, then confirm in writing.
Comparing quotes like a pro
- Ask for an in-home or video survey so the cubic-metre estimate is accurate.
- Check if the quote is all-inclusive—look for extra fees on stairs, heavy lifts, rural mileage or weekend loading.
- Get at least three written quotes and line them up in a spreadsheet for an apples-to-apples view.
Credentials to insist on
- NZTA transport service licence number and visible branding on trucks.
- Public liability and comprehensive transit insurance.
- Proven experience with pianos, antiques or awkward access.
- Clear dispute-resolution process and T&Cs.
Example of a trusted choice in Otago & Queenstown – Central Lakes Removals
With 30+ years’ hands-on experience, over 12,000 successful moves and a flawless 5/5 Google rating, Central Lakes Removals ticks every box above. Their team offers fine-art handling, eco-crate hire and transparent pricing—so booking early secures both your preferred date and peace of mind.
6. Arrange Comprehensive Moving Insurance
Even a perfectly loaded truck can hit a rogue pothole. Transit insurance is the seatbelt for your stuff—sort it once dates are locked.
What’s covered and what’s not
Standard contents policies stop at your front gate. Ask for specialist transit cover that includes breakage, theft, loading accidents and rain damage.
Valuing and documenting possessions
Build a quick inventory: photos, serial numbers, and any receipt for items over $1,500. Insurers use this declared value to set premiums and payouts.
Claim process simplified
If mishaps occur, email photos and the mover’s docket within 24 hours, then submit the claim form—most are settled inside 10 working days.
7. Transfer & Set Up Utilities Early
Nothing kills first-night vibes faster than a cold shower or no Wi-Fi. Slot utility transfers into your moving house checklist as soon as dates are solid; most providers need 5–10 working days to switch accounts and book technicians.
Electricity & gas
- Book final meter reads for moving day; photograph the dials for your records.
- Set the start date at your new address a day before arrival to keep the lights on.
- Ask about “move-in” specials or bundled rates to offset any $70–$120 reconnection fee.
Internet & phone
- Fibre installs in many NZ regions require two visits—lock them in early.
- Label your modem cables now; you’ll thank yourself later.
- Check if your provider offers a 4G loan modem to bridge any gap.
Water, rubbish & council services
- In metered areas, submit a final water reading and update the council roll online.
- Order new rubbish and recycling bins; delivery can take a week.
- Redirect rates notices to avoid late fees and keep insurance valid.
8. Change Your Address Everywhere That Matters
Once the movers are booked it’s time to tell the world where you live now. A scatter-gun approach leads to missed bills and lapsed regos, so build this step into your moving house checklist.
NZ Post mail redirection
Set it up online in five minutes. Prices start around $60 for 2 months, $99 for 4 months or $165 for a full year; renew if needed.
Government bodies
Tick off IRD, NZTA (licence and rego), Work and Income, the electoral roll and your local council. Most changes take mere clicks when you have your NZ Driver Licence handy.
Financial, insurance & subscription services
Update banks, KiwiSaver provider, credit cards, insurers, power company (again), gym, vet, streaming platforms and loyalty schemes before statements keep hitting the old letterbox.
Printable master list
Download our A4 checklist with 25+ common organisations plus blank lines for anything unique to you.
9. Organise School, Childcare & Medical Records
Kids, health providers and pets each run on their own paperwork clock—tackle them early so your first week isn’t spent chasing files instead of unpacking boxes.
School enrolment in a new zone
Moving across zoning lines? Complete the new school’s enrolment form, attach proof of address (rates notice or tenancy agreement), birth certificate and vaccination record, then submit before the usual week-six cut-off. Book an orientation morning so uniforms and stationery lists don’t blind-side you later.
Transferring medical & dental files
Email your current GP and dentist requesting electronic transfer of notes; most practices handle this within five working days. Pre-enrol with a new clinic online, update repeat prescriptions and photograph any specialist referrals you’ll need on hand.
Pet paperwork
Update microchip details on the NZ Companion Animal Register, print vaccination certificates for kennels or catteries, and measure your travel crate to airline specs if your move involves a flight.
10. Pack Non-Essentials Systematically (4–2 Weeks Out)
With utilities booked and paperwork flying, it’s time to fill those boxes—just not the ones you’ll need tomorrow. Working in logical waves keeps living spaces usable and your sanity intact.
Sequence that prevents chaos
- Seasonal gear: skis, wetsuits, Christmas décor
- Guest rooms and linen cupboards
- Decorative items, books, board games
- Little-used kitchen gadgets and bulk pantry items
This order shrinks daily disruption while letting you see real progress.
Labelling hacks
- Assign each room a colour sticker, then write the major contents on two sides and the top.
- Number every box and record the details in a shared Google Sheet so you can search “toaster” instead of tearing cartons open.
Safety & compliance
- Cap weight at 20 kg per box; heavier loads risk injuries and void mover insurance.
- Set aside restricted items—flammables, LPG bottles, corrosives—for specialist transport or safe disposal under NZTA rules.
- Wrap sharp tools in cardboard sleeves and tape securely.
11. Prepare Furniture & Large Appliances
Big furniture and appliances can wreck walls—or morale—if you wing it. Give them a separate prep day so move-out runs like clockwork.
Measure twice, move once
Measure doorways, stair turns, lifts and driveway clearance at both addresses. Compare with fridge depth and sofa length. If space is tight, schedule door removal or a balcony hoist early.
Disassembly roadmap
Photograph each piece, grab Allen keys and zip-lock bags. Remove table legs, bed heads and shelves; tape screws inside labelled bags. Flat pieces load faster and save valuable cubic metres.
Special care for whiteware
Defrost fridge-freezers 48 hours prior, wipe dry, wedge doors ajar. Secure washing-machine drums, drain hoses, and tape plugs to casings so nothing dangles or drips in transit.
12. Pack a First-Night Survival Kit
Add a labelled first-night box to your moving house checklist and avoid midnight scavenger hunts in a sea of cartons. Keep it within arm’s reach in your car, not on the moving truck.
Must-have personal items
- Bedding and pyjamas for each person
- Toiletries, towels, toilet paper
- Chargers, powerboard, night-lights
Vital documents & valuables
- Passports, licences, insurance papers
- Jewellery and small electronics with you
- Spare keys, wallet, basic tools
Quick-fix food & pet needs
- Kettle, mugs, tea bags, milk
- Easy dinner or takeaway vouchers
- Pet food, bowls, lead/litter
13. Moving Day Game Plan
The trucks are booked, boxes stacked—now it’s all about execution. A clear game plan keeps stress low and protects your bond or settlement funds. Print this mini moving house checklist, stick it on the fridge and tick as you go.
Early morning checklist
- Read and photograph power, gas and water meters
- Empty fridge, drain hoses, switch off hot-water cylinder if required
- Walk every room, cupboards and shed for stragglers
- Lock windows, switch off lights, label spare keys
- Pack cleaning kit and takeaway coffee in your car
Coordinating with movers
- Reserve a parking bay with cones or a parked car overnight
- Introduce the point-of-contact, hand over the room colour key
- Flag fragile/heavy items first so they’re loaded with care
NZ weather contingencies
- Keep tarps, old towels and gumboots by the door
- Lay flattened cartons to protect wet floors
- In summer, slip slop slap—hydrated crews work faster
14. Clean, Inspect & Hand Over Old Property
The last thing between you and a full refund—whether it’s the bond or the sale proceeds—is a spotless, trouble-free hand-over. Block out half a day after the truck leaves and work through these steps.
Deep-cleaning standards
Landlords and buyers expect “as-you-found-it” condition. Focus on:
- Oven, rangehood filters and fridge alcove
- Carpet steam-clean or professional shampoo (keep the receipt)
- Windows, sills and skirting boards
- Bathroom grout, shower glass, extractor fans
Tick them off and photograph the results for insurance against late claims.
Final walkthrough
With the property empty:
- Take dated photos of every room and utility meter.
- Return all keys, remotes and security cards.
- Complete the bond refund form or settlement statement on the spot and get a signed copy.
Recycling leftover materials
- Donate intact boxes to Buy Nothing groups or the local op-shop.
- Drop soft plastics at supermarket collection bins.
- Book a council inorganic pick-up for broken furniture, keeping landfill to a minimum.
15. Settle Into Your New Home Smoothly
Boxes are through the door, the truck’s gone—now the fun starts. A few deliberate moves over the first 48 hours turn a shell of rooms into a functioning household and close out your moving house checklist in style.
Unpack strategically
- Start with bedrooms so everyone sleeps well and spirits stay high.
- Next hit the bathroom: towels, toiletries, shower curtain, loo paper.
- Tackle the kitchen third—plug in whiteware, locate kettle and daily crockery; gourmet cupboard can wait.
Labelled boxes and the colour-coded plan you made earlier will keep momentum humming.
Safety & admin tasks
- Test smoke alarms and carbon-monoxide sensors.
- Identify the mains switch, water shut-off and fuse board; note them on your phone.
- Update your contents policy start date and photograph each room for fresh insurance records.
Meet the neighbours & explore
A quick hello breaks the ice and gathers gold-dust intel on rubbish days, reliable tradies and the best coffee. Join local Facebook groups, check council websites for recycling schedules, and stroll the neighbourhood so it feels like home, not just a new address.
Ready to Move? A Quick Recap
Ticking off this 15-step moving house checklist puts you miles ahead of the mayhem. You’ve:
- mapped out dates and dollars,
- cleared the clutter, sourced eco boxes,
- lined up legal notices, movers and insurance,
- switched power, internet and mailing addresses,
- secured school files, packed methodically, dismantled furniture,
- prepped a first-night kit, sailed through moving day,
- cleaned the old place and set up the new one.
All that’s left is to enjoy the fresh start knowing every Kiwi-specific detail is handled. If you’re shifting within Otago or Queenstown-Lakes, grab a no-obligation quote from the locals who wrote the playbook—Central Lakes Removals. Happy moving!