writer seeks advice

I'm a writer who earns a regular income from books published in the UK. My partner and I would like to spend a few years living in NZ on my earnings (I would continue to write for British publishers), although my partner (a web designer) would like to be able to work while we're there. We wouldn't be a burden on the state and would be net contributors to the economy - does anyone know if this is likely to be enough to allow us to stay in NZ? Any advice greatfully received.

Hi,
It depends on how many years you want to stay. If your husband is a qualified or experienced web designer, he would be able to get a 2 year work permit, which you would then also be entitled to as his partner (as long as you can provide evidence that you have been together for at least 12 months and have a stable future together).

Sometimes this visa can be extended for a third year, but only in exceptional circumstances normally.

That would be the absolute maximum amount of time you could stay without applying for residence itself.