I agree with Tigerlily 100%.
Rentals are generally cheaper here, but NZ housing standards are quite low. Insulation was a relatively new requirement and 2 paned windows are still options rarely seen. So a US standard home can be a bit dear, but not too bad compared to Seattle.
Used Cars are comparable, but new are very very dear.
If you don't care too much about "luxury" goods that are now the US norm than NZ can be quite comfortable on 88k. In NZ these items are still priced quite high relative to income. Petrol is a lot, so if you don't drive you'll save alot. Food is a mixed bag, it's not cheap as a rule, but some great deals on beef, lamb, apples, kiwifruit,etc. Off-season produce tends to be quite dear though, unlike the states where we don't even pay attention.
Welly is a lot like those 3 west coast cities, but way smaller, way more walkable(due to size) and way friendlier. (though the Seattle chill means almost anywhere is friendlier)
Here, I run into someone I know about once a week. In Seattle I'd randomly see someone I knew once every 2 or 3 months.
Ultimately noone moves here to increase their financial standard of living, but their joy of living. I stand by my estimate that 88k is approximately 68k, so if you could live on that in Seattle you could live on it here. If this is less than your current funds consider the other things that make up quality of life.
When I moved I here I think our combined income took a 10% to 20% hit, we're now 5% to 10% and it generally seems worthwhile.
Feel free to PM me any specifics