Is It Possible to Live in New Zealand for Free?
Often described as a paradise, New Zealand presents an intriguing question: can one truly live there for free? The answer, much like the country itself, depends on how one interprets the term 'free.'
Community Living and Free Amenities
New Zealand offers a myriad of communal benefits that can make life here seem free. Access to public transportation with free trains and buses, shared meals, and public showers are just a few examples. In addition, there are no taxes, wars, or conscription, providing a unique sense of freedom in a peaceful context.
Communities often foster a sense of solidarity. Working together, residents can benefit from shared resources. This could mean maintaining extensive gardens, raising chickens and livestock, keeping bees, or engaging in various crafts and trades. By pooling resources, individuals can create a support network that minimizes the need for monetary transactions.
Volunteering and Community Services
Volunteering is another key component of communal living. Many organizations serve the elderly and those with disabilities, openings for both paid and unpaid work. Similarly, community gardens often provide a space for both volunteering and gardening, which can sometimes come with free accommodation.
Health and dental services in New Zealand are largely taxpayer-funded and are often available at no cost. However, public health facilities like hospitals can still be accessed, and transportation to these facilities is not provided free of charge.
Augmented Survival: Off-Grid Living
If one is truly determined to lead a life with minimal expenses, off-grid living presents an option. There are those who choose to live in the wilderness, far from modern conveniences. With enough money, one can travel to remote areas, set up a home in the backblocks, and forage for food. This type of lifestyle is particularly popular in regions like the North Island, where nature provides much of what one needs to survive.
While some advocate for a life of simplicity and self-sufficiency, others dismiss the idea. Living off the land requires a deep understanding of the local ecosystem and an ability to adapt to harsh conditions, such as cold and wet weather. Foraging for food is not always reliable, and the nutritional value of local flora can sometimes be lacking, leading to potential vitamin deficiencies.
Despite the challenges, many do find a sense of fulfillment in this way of life. For some, the thrill of self-sufficiency outweighs the drawbacks, allowing them to live in New Zealand with a high degree of freedom and independence.
Conclusion
Living in New Zealand can indeed be free if one is willing to embrace a communal lifestyle and rely on shared resources. However, achieving this level of freedom requires a significant lifestyle change and a strong commitment to the community.
If you truly believe you can live for free in New Zealand, consider whether you are willing to embrace the challenges and the unique lifestyle it offers.