Want to become a Kiwi au pair in the UK?

Even though New Zealand and the UK both speak English and share some history, life as an au pair can feel a bit different across the world!

In the UK, families are often a bit more structured and formal in their routines — things like mealtimes, bedtimes and communication tend to follow a clearer rhythm. Kiwi families, on the other hand, are usually more laid-back and flexible, with a strong focus on the outdoors and a relaxed vibe at home.

You might also notice differences in holiday traditions, school systems, and of course — the cooler UK weather (bring a rain jacket!).

👉 Curious about what to expect?
Check out our Guide for Kiwi Au Pairs in the UK below

Register as au pair right here and create an account on Nina.care. Select “au pair” and you’re good to go!

👫 18-30 years old
💬 Intermediate level of English
🚫 Unmarried and no children
🎓 Finished high school
🌎 You love children and are ready for an adventure of up to 24 months!

Okay, we don’t like to brag or anything, but we often hear that we are super involved and know what’s up with the legislation laws. It’s an exciting adventure and we guide you in every step

The minimum monthly pocket money in the UK is £360, however, au pairs with Nina.care will receive at least £480 each month from their host family. 

The vibes can always be off in your new house or you disagree with a family member. This is why you discuss a notice agreement. This is usually 1 or 2 months. Actually, this almost never happens because you get to know your host family and children beforehand, so you know about their family life. If you don’t like your host family, we’ll go look for another host family!

Yes! Au pairs are entitled to a certain amount of paid holiday depending on the country they are in. You should check with your host family for the best week to go. Traveling is a wonderful opportunity to see some of the best scenery your host country or neighboring countries have to offer and a great way to meet other like-minded young people. You can check the rules regarding holiday leave per country right here.

In the UK, communication is often a bit more formal and polite than what you might be used to in New Zealand. British people tend to say “please,” “thank you,” and “sorry” quite often, and they may seem a little reserved or careful at first — even if they’re being friendly.

Back home in Aotearoa, we’re usually more open, relaxed and direct. A bit of casual banter, light teasing, or joking around (even with strangers!) is totally normal. That kind of humour is a big part of Kiwi culture — and it can take a little time to adjust when you’re in a place where people communicate differently.

Don’t worry — once you get used to the British way of speaking, things become much easier. And before you know it, you’ll be having a cuppa and a chat like a local!

British families often follow more traditional routines and clear structures. As an au pair, you’ll likely be given set working hours, specific responsibilities, and a bit more formality in how you interact — especially at first. Think of it like joining a household with clear expectations and boundaries.

In New Zealand, family life is usually more casual and relaxed. Kiwi au pairs at home are often seen more like a big sister than a formal helper. Flexibility, initiative, and being part of the family flow naturally — the tone is typically less structured and more easygoing.

It might take a little adjustment, but understanding these differences helps you settle in faster — and shows your host family how thoughtful and adaptable you are.

The UK has a cooler and wetter climate than what most Kiwis are used to — especially during autumn and winter. That means family life and kids’ activities often happen indoors, and things like playground visits or walks are more weather-dependent. Rainy days are common, so umbrellas and cosy indoor games will become part of your routine!

Back home in New Zealand, we’re used to a more outdoorsy lifestyle — beaches, BBQs, sports in the park… sunshine! So yes, the British climate may take a bit of getting used to — but it also brings new seasonal experiences, like autumn leaves, winter snow (sometimes!), and cosy tea breaks by the fire.

With the right mindset (and a waterproof jacket), you’ll soon learn to love the change of pace.

Au pair life in the UK can feel more structured than back home.
British families often follow clear routines and set expectations. As an au pair, you’ll likely have defined working hours, specific tasks, and clear boundaries — and you may be expected to take on a slightly more formal role within the household, especially in the beginning.

In New Zealand, things tend to be a bit more laid-back. Families often treat au pairs more like a big sister, and you’re encouraged to just jump in, help where needed, and blend naturally into daily family life — with fewer formalities.

Neither way is better — just different! Understanding this cultural shift will help you adjust faster and feel more confident in your role as a Kiwi au pair in the UK.

Even though you’ll speak English in the UK, don’t be surprised by the differences!
British English has a wide range of regional accents — from London to Liverpool, Scotland to Cornwall — and some can take a little getting used to. You might find yourself asking people to repeat things now and then (and that’s totally okay!).

There are also plenty of vocabulary differences. For example, Brits say “nappy” instead of “diaper,” “boot” for the trunk of a car, and “biscuit” when they mean a cookie. And while your Kiwi accent is usually easy for Brits to follow, your own New Zealand slang (like “jandals” or “sweet as”) might be unfamiliar to them.

It’s all part of the fun — you’ll both learn from each other, and your language skills will only get sharper!

Getting around as an au pair in the UK is usually easy — especially in cities.
The UK has a well-developed public transport system, with buses, trains, and subways that make it simple to get around without a car. Most au pairs don’t need to drive, unless they’re placed in a more rural or remote area, where public transport may be limited.

In New Zealand, just like in Australia, families often expect au pairs to drive, especially outside the main cities. The good news? Both the UK and NZ drive on the left side of the road, so if you do need to drive, the transition is much easier.

Tip: If you think you’ll need to drive, check in advance if your New Zealand driver’s licence is valid in the UK, and whether you need an international permit.

In the UK, Christmas feels totally different — in the best way.
Instead of sunshine and BBQs, you’ll experience the festive season in full winter mode: cosy nights by the fire, roast dinners, mulled drinks, and twinkling lights everywhere. British families love their tea rituals, Sunday roasts, and traditional holiday moments like carol singing and Christmas crackers.

For Kiwi au pairs, it can feel like stepping into a Christmas movie — magical, but also a little surreal if you’re used to summer celebrations, beach days, and backyard fun in December.

This seasonal swap is one of the biggest lifestyle contrasts, but also one of the most memorable parts of your UK adventure. So pack a warm jumper, and get ready for a whole new kind of holiday spirit!

Making friends in the UK can take a little more time — and that’s totally normal.
British people are often a bit more reserved at first, so it might take a little longer to build close connections. But once you do, those friendships are usually deep and lasting.

In bigger cities, you’ll find lots of chances to connect — from au pair meetups and language exchanges to hobby groups and local events. You just have to take that first step!

In New Zealand, making friends often feels more natural and quick, thanks to our relaxed and friendly culture. So if you’re heading to the UK, it helps to be proactive and open — try something new, start a conversation, or join a club. Before you know it, you’ll feel right at home.

You might be surprised how much feels familiar in the UK.
Start your morning with a flat white from places like Grind, Blank Street, or Kiwi- and Aussie-run cafés like Ozone and Bluestone Lane. You’ll spot Tim Tams in the international aisle (yes, really), and even Vegemite hiding near the Marmite.

Some pubs serve a pretty decent chicken parmy, and avo toast with feta is a staple in just about every trendy brunch spot. Craving Sydney café vibes? Try Bill’s or head to Bondi Green in London — it’s pure Down Under brunch culture.

With cricket on the telly, proper coffee in your hand, and the occasional Kiwi accent on the street, the UK isn’t such a big leap from home after all.

The UK could be a great fit if you enjoy a bit more structure, cooler weather, and clear boundaries in your role.
It’s also the perfect base for exploring Europe — weekend trips to Paris, Amsterdam or Rome are just a short flight away!

If you’re more into a relaxed, outdoorsy lifestyle and warmer days, you might feel more at home in places like Australia. But if you’re a Kiwi looking for a European-style adventure, the UK offers the best of both worlds: rich culture, meaningful connections, and a touch of tradition — all while still speaking English.

It’s a new experience that feels just far enough from home, but still familiar.