[illinge]

I start work in Wellington July 01, 2008. I haven’t done much arranging yet so this is the time I begin and get my butt into action. I am initially coming over on my own for a few months after which my partner will be joining me. Sooooo, this means I have a few questions:

I am working in the city (I think!).

Renting:
1) I want to rent for a few months before purchasing a property (gives me a chance to get to know the Wellington areas)
a. What length of months should I rent for before buying?
b. Does one get a better rate if one rents for a longer period?
c. A flat will be fine for a rental but what area should I rent? Is renting in the city an option or are there great flats in the suburbs with views? I would prefer a view.
d. Perhaps the city is better for a single person (initially) so that one can walk to pubs and restaurants, entertainment etc….??
e. Where can I search for furnished 1 or 2 bedroom flats/apartment for rent? Is TradeMe the ONLY site?

Car:
I plan on renting a car for the first week or two until I purchase one.
1) Can I rent from the airport? Any advice on which rental company to use if I am to rent for a few weeks?
2) Can one purchase a car for cash on a SA driver’s license?
3) Can I ride in NZ using my SA driver’s license or do I need an international driver’s license
4) I plan on getting my NZ license ASAP but I guess that will only happen after a month or two in Wellington

Bank:
From the forum I have learned that its between Westpac and National:
1) Which is the better for Wellington? Are both national?
2) Is there a HSBC in Wellington?