New Zealand isn’t just Lord of the Rings scenery and sheep. It’s got gorgeous queer vibes, strong legal protections, and cities that range from cozy and artsy to full-blown fab with ferry rides to wine islands. We break down the top 5 cities for LGBTQ+ retirement in NZ with real costs, real vibes, and real queer perks.

Ready to float through Middle Earth in style? Let’s go global gay with this week’s Queer Money®!

🌍 New Zealand ranks in the top 10 on the Spartacus Gay Travel Index—but is still underrated for LGBTQ+ retirees

🏙️ Top 5 cities ranked from fab to MOST fab:

• #5 Christchurch: Charming, green, affordable (⭐ 7/10)
• #4 Queenstown: Adventure-packed and inclusive (⭐ 8/10)
• #3 Dunedin: Artsy, affordable, student-rich (⭐ 8/10)
• #2 Wellington: Culturally rich & walkable (⭐ 9/10)
• #1 Auckland: Big-city buzz & wine island chic (⭐ 8/10, but most well-rounded overall)

💰 Rents range from ~$1,000–$1,900/month for 2-bedroom homes

📉 Cost of living is generally 7–25% lower than the U.S. average

🏳️‍🌈 Strong LGBTQ+ protections and community support across the country

💃 Lesbian balls, Winter Pride, & gayborhoods galore

💡 Wellington & Auckland boast the most vibrant queer infrastructure

✈️ Auckland wins for lifestyle + international access—but Wellington gets the highest rating for vibe and livability

🎁 Grab your free Happy Gay Retirement Calculator here: https://queermoneypodcast.com/hgrcalc

• 0:00 - Intro
• 1:10 - Past and future
• 1:51 - Christchurch
• 3:44 - Queenstown
• 5:21 - Dunedin
• 7:58 - Wellington
• 10:40 - Auckland
• 12:47 - Why the numbers don't line up
• 13:19 - Wrap up