Global Work-Life Wisdom: New Zealand

In 2023, I spent time in New Zealand and it’s one of the many places I could see my family living. The natural beauty is undeniable, but what struck me even more was the ease of life. People seemed not just generally, but genuinely, content. Of course, no country is perfect; challenges will always exist...and certainly do in New Zealand. But something about it drew me in.

Well, it turns out, it wasn’t just me. For the past three years, New Zealand has ranked #1 in Remote’s Global Life-Work Balance Index. It consistently scores high on global well-being and happiness measures, thanks to a mix of culture, policy, and values.

A few highlights from the data:
→ 32 days of statutory annual leave (minimum + public holidays) built into law.
→ 26 weeks of paid parental leave, among the most generous worldwide.
→ Mandatory rest + meal breaks, depending on hours worked.
→ Top 10 worldwide in life satisfaction in the World Happiness Report.
→ A culture rooted in Whānau (Māori for extended family/community), shaping work expectations.

Clearly, policies and practices do make a difference. Family and community commitments are respected. Rest is non-negotiable. Flexibility isn’t a perk, it’s the norm. And of course, the outdoors is an everyday priority, not just a weekend escape.

Here are a few New Zealand-inspired experiments you might try:
1️⃣ Plan a no-commitment evening. Once a week, leave a night totally open. No meetings, no chores, no social obligations. Let the evening unfold however you feel.
2️⃣ Whānau-style decision-making. Before saying yes to something at work, pause and ask how it will affect the people you care about outside of work.
3️⃣ Work-to-live reminder. At the end of each week, consider: What did I work for? Write down one way your job supported your life (a bill paid, a trip saved for, a family moment made possible).
4️⃣ Honor the break rule. Pretend NZ’s law applies to you, to the extent you can of course. Take at least one real break during the day, ideally outside, no screens.
5️⃣ Adventure Hour. Block one hour a week for something novel and outdoorsy. It doesn’t need to be epic. Even a short hike or paddleboarding counts. Novelty + nature = instant reset.

Bottom line: New Zealand shows us that thriving careers and fulfilling lives aren’t at odds. In fact, they fuel each other.