Comparing the real difference between NZ and UK is not straightforward and just looking at tax rates will mislead you. There is a significant difference in favour of NZ (despite what others might say!).

If you run your own business or are self-employed then NZ is a far better environment in the long run.

The tax rates are actually pretty much the same as in the UK but in NZ you will not get the allowances you have in the UK. However, you wont pay NI contributions in NZ (and neither will your employer). Neither will you pay capital gains tax nor, when you die, will your family be hit with inheritance tax.

You wont pay stampy duty on house purchases when you move either... And because houses cost less than in NZ even if mortgage rates are a bit higher you wont have to borrow quite so much!

You'll save a fortune on Council Tax and fuel for your car too.

If you are an employee in the UK your aggregated top tax rate can be approx 50%... in the NZ it is 39% (plus 1%-odd ACC) max. If you run your own business in the UK your aggregated top rate can easily be beyond 64%... in NZ it will be 39% max.

The NZ financial system is a lot more transparent than in the UK where we have numerous hidden/stealth taxes that are often overlooked when you compare the cost of living between the two countries.

Alan.