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Auckland Information & Advice
Auckland has a range of information and support services available for migrants.
Looking for general information?
In 2010 Auckland’s four official cities became one supercity, managed by Auckland Council. This structure is ensuring a unified approach to services, making it easier to get things done. But local areas still have their own personality – so consider a visit to the local library, shopping and community centres to get a feel for that local flavour.
Immigration New Zealand - Information for new migrants
Immigration New Zealand offers a free information service for all new migrants available throughout the country.
Visit: Live and Work New Zealand
Call the Immigration New Zealand contact centre:
Freephone: 0508 558 855 (NZ fixed landline only)
From overseas or a mobile phone: +64 9 914 4100
Information in YOUR language
Sometimes, to be sure you understand and are understood, it can be helpful to have the support of an interpreter in your own language.
If you need to contact a government agency or use one of its services (including, hospitals, police, justice or NZ Immigration) you can ask for the assistance of an interpreter.
Just let the government agent know which is your preferred language. This service is free for you.
Your local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) will also be able to help you and answer any of your questions with the help of an interpreter.
The government interpreting assistance is available"24/7" - 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It could be useful to learn in English to say ‘I need an interpreter for ________ language’.
Interpreting and Translation Services (ITS)
There are interpreting and translation services available through Te Whatu Ora hospitals in the Auckland region. They provide interpreting and translation service solutions to a number of health, government and private agencies.
There are other local translation services available. You can find a list of these in the CAB directory.
ITS | Te Whatu Ora Counties Manukau
ITS | Te Whatu Ora Te Toka Tumai Auckland
ITS | Te Whatu Ora Counties Waitemata
Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB)
Cities and most towns across New Zealand have a local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB). It is a place where you will find someone who can provide information, advice and support on just about any problem you may have.
Citizens Advice Bureau Auckland
Migrant Connect information service
For newcomers to New Zealand, selected Citizens Advice Bureaux (CAB) provide a walk-in information service. You probably have lots of questions about how things work here. CAB can help or provide you with information on where to find the answers.
As well as helping with your settlement queries, CAB run information sessions for new migrants on relevant settlement topics.
The following CABs provide this service:
Migrant centres
Belong Aotearoa (previously ARMS)
If you are new to Auckland, Belong Aotearoa can help you and your family to find the right information, programmes and services, as quickly as possible.
Belong Aotearoa offers support in finding employment, English language support and settlement programmes. They hold regular workshops for migrants, and also have events from other providers listed on their website. They also have extensive information on their website about life in Auckland, covering everything from where to eat to what to expect from the weather.
Hearts and Minds
Hearts and Minds offers migrant support to newcomers on the North Shore. Check their website for details.
Chinese New Settlers Services Trust (CNSST)
Bilingual support for Chinese and Korean newcomers in Auckland. CNSST runs five multi-service centres providing bi-lingual programmes, seminars, and one-on-one case management to meet the settlement needs of local Chinese migrant community.
Chinese New Settlers Services Trust
Newcomers network
Many areas offer a service called the ‘Newcomers Network’. Each network works slightly differently, but they are all great ways to meet new people, find out about local events and get connected with your local community. If there is none in your area, the national body will give you all the help and support you need to start one.
Cultural groups
Auckland has a number of groups representing a wide range of ethnic groups in the area. Check them out on the Citizen's Advice Bureau (CAB) site.
Auckland Multicultural groups | CAB
Local libraries
There are 55 libraries in the Auckland region and membership is free to everyone living in Auckland. Every library provides free computer, internet and wi-fi access, with computer training available for people of all ages. Auckland Libraries has something for everyone, from children’s story times to book clubs, cultural celebrations, adult learning opportunities and homework help for teenagers.
They have an extensive range of books and e-resources in English, and also a community languages collection with over 30 languages. Support and resources are available for those wanting to improve their English.
You can access many services online and find the location of your nearest library at the Auckland Libraries website.
Locations & hours | Auckland Libraries
Visitor information
Wondering what to do in Auckland - what attractions to see, adventures to try, routes to take? The Tourism New Zealand site has all the information you need, plus help with travelling further afield in New Zealand including finding transport and accommodation. There are also 11 visitor information centres (i-sites) around the Auckland area.
Auckland visitor information | Tourism New Zealand
Community Law centres
If you need legal assistance, you can start with your local Community Law Centre. They have lawyers and advocates who can give you initial legal help so you can deal with the issue quickly, which may be free depending on your ability to pay. They may also be able to represent you in courts or tribunals.
Auckland | Community Law Centres
Justice of the Peace
Justice of the Peace (JPs) can be found in most areas of Auckland and can assist with the witnessing of documents such as applications for citizenship, certifying copies, and taking declarations, affidavits and affirmations.
Find a JP | Royal Federation of NZ Justices' Association
Immigration advice
If you need help with an immigration matter, you should talk either to a lawyer experienced in the field or to a licensed immigration adviser. There are a number of licensed advisers in Auckland. Find them using the online register operated by the Immigration Advisers Authority.
Find an adviser | Immigration Advisers Authority
Find an immigration lawyer | New Zealand Law Society
Parent Centres
Parents Centres offer support in all areas of parenting. That includes helping parents develop practical skills in baby and toddler care to preparing for the school years, and crisis help.
Locations | Parents Centres New Zealand
Budget and finance services
If you’re facing financial difficulties, you may need assistance with creating a personalised budget or advice from a financial advisor. They can give you tools, knowledge and advice to help you manage your money better. You may also find answers to your money questions on the Sorted website.
There is a range of budgeting help found in the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) directory if you are looking to speak to someone in person.
The New Zealand Federation of Budgeting Services also maintains a list of its professional members and their contact details.
Budget services Auckland | CAB
Find a budgeting service | MoneyTalks
Rotaract Clubs
Rotaract is for young professionals aged 18 to 30 years who get out into the community, network and have fun.