Where is the best place to live in New Zeland?

I know that New Zeland is supposed to be beautiful all around, but where would be the best place to live and why? Not just because of beauty, but most accessable and best all-around place?

South Island and North Island is very different. I've been to almost every city on both islands but i guess it would depend on what sort of environment you're more comfortable with. I personally would recommend Christchurch on the south island. It's not as hectic as auckland and has more of an old-english surrounding. The outskirts are of the beautiful canterbury plains. It's located on the northeast of the island so you could easy drive to Kaikoura, Akaroa, Dunedin, Timaru, Queenstown during the weekends.

I lived in Auckland, New Zealand for almost 7 years. That city was the best. You have access to anything and everything. It is also very diverse and the people are great!
Now if your're looking for a place where there is nothing but calmness and peace i suggest you go live in ChristChurch. That city is almost like a suburb and the open lands and scenery are great.

gizzy town (gisborne) coz it not like a big city and not a lot o ppls like big citys so try g town

don't go to Auckland. Pick a city on the mainland, maybe Sydney or Melbourne...

I like Dunedin, but Wellington is also nice esp if you like bigger cities with lots to do

I say Dunedin. It has everything you could possibly want and is close to the beautiful area of central Otago.

If not, then Christchurch - it is great too. I would definitely recommend the South Island anyway.

New Zealand is known as: "God's own Country". I have been here for nearly five years and it still amazes me! But most of all, the people of New Zealand are absolutely fantasticly friendly. I would recommend any place on the South Island.

Wellington is beautiful, cosmopolitan, has great ocean views, gorgeous green hills, lots of walking tracks, lots of great cafes, lots of everything. It is just senstational. Real estate is MUCH cheaper than in Australia, but it's very much like Melbourne.