If you're really that mobile, go the whole hog and get to Collingwood, a 90min drive NW of Nelson.
We're mobile in terms of jobs, but price is an issue in terms of housing. Also, we're looking at cities that have that are large enough to have a hospital in them, that's why Mike was looking at Hastings/Napier. But Nelson sounds pretty good too!! We both have some chronic health issues, hopefully mine (minor heart condition) won't keep me from being allowed residency. Fingers crossed that it'll all work out. From what I hear about NZ, I'm going to have no shortage of scenic places to do my photography! Michael really misses living there.
Some hospital info here: http://www.health.govt.nz/new-zealand-health-system/health-targets/how-my-dhb-performing/how-my-dhb-performing-2013-14/health-targets-2013-14-quarter-one-results-summary
English Translation:
Capital & Coast = Wellington
MidCentral = Palmerston North