How difficult is it to immigrate to New Zealand?

I am thinking about immigrating to NZ in about six months to a year...what are the requirements (besides marrying a Kiwi) and any other information would be appreciated. I'm an American, from S. California. Thanks!

Hi- Read everything from the immigration web site.
I too was born and raised in So Cal, but I live in NZ now. I have been here for 2 years. Best decision I've ever made. Luckily, my husband also wanted to move as much as I did, so we did this together.
Really search yourself for your reasons.
I never will go back to the US. This is now my home.
Good Luck to you :)

Your American and you want to come here?
Lets swap visas!

Even if you marry a Kiwi, it's not certain you'll be granted citizenship. You'll be interviewed by customs to make sure that's not the reason for marage.

Like Australia, the migration scheme works on a point basis, you need to have a certain amount of points to get in.
These points come from your qualifications, your skills etc.
If for example you're a hair dresser, and NZ are short on hair dressers you'll get more points.
I'm not sure what skills they're looking for at the moment though.


Here is a link you may find helpful www.immigration.govt.nz