New Zealand might be 11,500 miles away, but those who make an effort to move there appear to be the happiest among thousands emigrating every year.

New Zealand is highly rated in all areas; in comparison to other developed countries, it has lower property prices, lower taxes and better weather.

Many interviewed Britons stated that because of those three advantages they were less stressed and could afford a better quality of life. They said that average wages are lower, but because of lower taxation earnings go further.

Head of NatWest International personal banking, Dave Isley, whose company conducted the survey of Britons living abroad, said: “Expats say they are living healthier lifestyles abroad, whilst also benefiting financially.

“This is particularly true for expats in New Zealand who not only say they benefit from low property prices, a favourable taxation system and a healthy lifestyle, but also the beauty of New Zealand's natural environment.”

The survey revealed that 86 per cent of all expatriates thought that their lives had improved since they emigrated and 92 per cent were happier and almost 87 per cent stated that they were better off, despite the global economic downturn. Among those surveyed were engineers, teachers, economists, accountants, IT professionals and professionals working in financial services and marketing.

The majority said their wages had gone up with around 80 per cent earning between £50,000 and £85,000. It is hard to believe that six out of ten left the country with less than £5,000. Now, almost half of them are worth £250,000 and £500,000 with another quarter worth between £500,000 and £1,000,000.

Mr Isley added: “Our latest expatriate study has revealed that despite the global slowdown affecting everyone, the potential to earn more money abroad is clearly one of the main benefits expats are experiencing.

“The fact that this study has indicated that most adults leave the country with less than £5,000 in cash, but that their net worth abroad is largely between £250,000 and £1million is impressive and should not be understated.”

The main reasons cited by British citizens for moving abroad was a feeling of dissatisfaction in the UK and almost all surveyed Britons admitted that they were happy to have relocated abroad.

New Zealand came ahead of Canada in the quality of life index this year and was followed by Australia, France, the United Arab Emirates, Portugal, Spain, South Africa, the U.S., China, Singapore and Hong Kong.

Recently, New Zealand has been trying to recruit experienced British policemen. It has been increasingly difficult to find enough recruits at home or in Australia, leading the Government to look further afield.