Build your future.
From the edge of the world.

Auckland is the economic centre of New Zealand – a global city shaped by its landscape, its people, and its position in the Indo-Pacific region.

0 No capital gains tax
17 Free Trade Agreements
14 Universities and research institutes
5 International data cables

Economy

A fast-growing, ambitious economy.

Young and vibrant, Auckland attracts dynamic businesses and talented people.

Auckland is thriving. Home to a high density of serial entrepreneurs, the city is also transforming itself with some of the largest infrastructure projects in New Zealand's history. With a stable, investment-focused economy, it provides an ideal environment for businesses and a natural base for headquarters serving the rest of the country.

The region accounts for more than a third of New Zealand's GDP – and its concentration of talent, capital and connectivity makes it the entry point for almost all foreign direct investment into New Zealand.

Click on the video link to hear from three recent investors about why they chose Auckland.

27-PRO-0201 Invest Auckland_Map for Why Auckland_Final — Auckland's Indo-Pacific connections

Indo-Pacific position

At the edge of the world's most dynamic region.

The Indo-Pacific will shape global trade and investment flows for decades to come, and Auckland is ideally positioned to connect with these markets.

New Zealand has 17 free trade agreements in force, covering more than 70% of our global trade. In April 2026, the signing of the New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement further strengthened New Zealand's links to one of the world's largest and fastest-growing economies.

New Zealand has agreements with Australia, Singapore, China, ASEAN, the United Kingdom, the European Union, the United Arab Emirates and Korea, and participates in regional frameworks such as CPTPP, RCEP and DEPA.

Global connectivity

Connected when the world is asleep.

As one of the first cities to greet the new day, an Auckland office lets multinationals operate around the clock.

World-class digital infrastructure supports thriving technology and creative industries. Globally connected via five international submarine data cables, Auckland businesses enjoy excellent digital capacity, speed and resilience – allowing them to compete globally from a city where lifestyle attracts top talent.

Companies including Warner Bros, Disney and Netflix all produce or commission digital products and services from Auckland, using ultra-fast bandwidth to deliver content worldwide. 5G is widely available across the Auckland region.

With the country's largest airport, seaport and freight operations, Auckland is also New Zealand's prime logistics hub.

Time zone — when it's 9AM in Auckland

Auckland	09:00
Sydney 2 hours behind	07:00
Singapore 4 hours behind	05:00
Mumbai 6.5 hours behind	02:30
London 11 hours behind	22:00
Los Angeles 19 hours behind	14:00

Invest-Auckland-Banner-Why-Auckland-Infobox-2

At a glance

World Bank Business Ready score for Financial Services: 84%
Corporate tax rate: 28%
Capital gains tax: None
Free-trade agreements: 17
Currency restrictions: None

Business environment

Simple to set up. Structured to grow.

New Zealand is a top performer in the world for ease of doing business – and that clarity extends to tax, regulation and investment frameworks.

Auckland is a globally trusted partner. Our deregulated, decentralised economy has simple structures across business, legal, regulatory and tax policies. There is no capital gains tax, stamp duty, or payroll tax. The corporate tax rate is an internationally competitive 28%. Successive governments have maintained open investment frameworks, removing barriers and continuing to encourage productive foreign direct investment.

Liveability

An extraordinary place to live.

Auckland ranks in the top 12 cities globally for liveability, according to the EIU 2026 Global Liveability Index.

With its geo-political stability and beauty, Tāmaki Makaurau is a stunning place to live, work and raise a family. Home to a diverse and vibrant culture, the city offers a balanced way of life rich with opportunity. Locals embrace the outdoors, arts and culture, food and sport. Surrounded by incredible natural beauty and beaches, and supported by quality health and education systems, Auckland makes a welcoming home for New Zealanders and migrants alike.

For international companies, this matters: the ability to attract and retain global talent is directly tied to where that talent wants to live. Auckland delivers on both counts.

Invest-Auckland-Banner-Why-Auckland-Infobox

34% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher
⅓ of residents speak two languages or more
40%+ of residents were born overseas
180+ ethnicities call  Auckland home

Workforce

Skilled, diverse, and ready to build.

Auckland's unique combination of work and lifestyle attracts people looking for innovation, diversity and opportunity.

With an urban and natural environment like no other, Auckland is the preferred destination for most immigrants to New Zealand. This makes it easy for businesses to attract top talent—and has led to a high density of serial entrepreneurs and a strong culture of innovation.

More than 34% of adult Aucklanders hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and there's a strong pipeline of graduates across all sectors. About a third of residents speak two or more languages. Known for its manaakitanga (hospitality), the region fosters and welcomes diverse cultures, skills and talent.

Leading R&D institutes and first-class universities—including the University of Auckland and Auckland University of Technology—keep the talent pipeline flowing.