7. Nelson
Living in Nelson puts families within easy reach of just about everything they could ever want. Kids do well at Nelson schools, with high levels of National Standard achievement and university entrance qualification levels.
The climate is New Zealand’s sunniest and there’s plenty to do with all that sunshine: parks and reserves, beaches, and you’re just a short hop from Wellington.
Unemployment levels and crime levels are extremely low in Nelson; this is a safe and secure environment where kids can enjoy an enviable outdoor lifestyle.