Auckland crowned best city for entrepreneurs in New Zealand

Auckland has been named the best city in New Zealand for entrepreneurs, according to new research from SumUp.

The study, which evaluates cities based on a blend of business opportunities and quality of life, ranks Auckland 33rd globally, solidifying its status as a premier destination for aspiring business leaders.

With a current population of 23,400 millionaires, Auckland stands out not only for its wealth but also for the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives within its borders. The city boasts a new business density of 16.3 businesses per 1,000 residents, highlighting its dynamic and vibrant economy.

The research reveals a burgeoning interest among Auckland residents in business success, with monthly online searches for “how to get rich” averaging 3,780 and “how to make it in business” reaching 4,740. These figures place Auckland among the top five cities worldwide for such searches, indicating a strong local appetite for entrepreneurial knowledge and success.

Moreover, the trend of people considering a move to Auckland is on the rise, with 320 Google searches for “moving to Auckland” and 210 TikTok searches, showcasing the city’s appeal as a relocation destination for business-minded individuals.

Auckland’s quality of life score of 184.76 ranks it 16th globally, further enhancing its attractiveness to entrepreneurs. The city offers a favorable environment, particularly for industries such as film production and tourism. Notably, Auckland is one of only twelve cities worldwide among the top fifty for entrepreneurs that does not impose capital gains tax, providing significant financial benefits to business owners looking to reinvest and maximise profits.

As of March 31, 2024, New Zealand has 726,727 registered companies, reflecting its robust entrepreneurial ecosystem.

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Founded in 2012, SumUp is a global financial technology company driven by the purpose of levelling the playing field for small businesses.