Hi. In just over a year I plan on moving to Belgium from New Zealand. To help with banking in Belgium I thought I could open a bank account in NZ with a bank that also has offices and branches in Belgium - hoping that this would create a smooth transition. I have a Dutch passport, which I hope will also help. The banks in NZ that could be of use are ABN Amro and HSBC. Are these banks in Belgium, and is my idea a good one? Thanks

Use ABN Ambro, HSBC do have a presence in Belgium but not really a high-street bank. ABN Ambro would be much more common.

There is really no reason that your bank has to have a presence in both countries. They all work through correspondent banks for cash transfers etc. so it is probably better to find one locally who speaks your language and gives you good service.