Relocating to New Zealand is a dream for an increasing number of Americans attracted by the country’s handling of COVID and liberal politics. But what is it really like for someone from the US to live in New Zealand? What are the challenges, rewards and stand-out differences? Hear from one of our clients as she reflects back on her two-year experience of being an American in New Zealand.
Sara and her husband, Nate, along with their two children moved to New Zealand from Colorado with Mobile two years ago. Sara shares her reflections for the benefit of those who are at the beginning of their expat adventure:
What has been most surprising/difficult/easy about living in New Zealand?
Making friends. The most surprising and difficult part was creating a social network. For example, when we arrived we didn't even have a local emergency contact. We hadn’t really thought through what it would be like coming here and not really knowing anyone. That hit us pretty hard initially. We had to build that all again. The time and effort required took us by surprise.
Getting set up. That part wasn’t too hard, possibly because New Zealand is an English-speaking country. We figured out our new schedules pretty quickly, and we have a great dentist and doctor etc. So setting up a life was relatively easy and we will be sad to leave. The social connection was the harder part.
Working life. US and Kiwi work culture are quite different and that took some getting used to. For example, there is less of a focus on deadlines, but more importance attached to work/life balance. We’ve loved that, at the end of each 10 week term, we could take a decent break with the kids and go away somewhere during the school holidays.
Kids sport. Unlike the US where most sports are school-based, you need to find soccer clubs, gym classes, etc. in the community rather than through school. This takes a bit of effort.
What are the best memories from your Kiwi life?
All the wonderful holidays we´ve enjoyed around New Zealand, the friends we’ve made, and the bonds forged within our family as we relied on each other so much, particularly to start with.
What advice would you give to others relocating here from the US?
Give yourself some grace. It takes time and energy to reach out to Kiwis and establish friendships. We wanted our kids to have the full on Kiwi experience at local schools so we live in a neighborhood where people have established relationships, and we are just another family. I reached out to heaps of people, and even had a goal of meeting one person each week. It feels a bit like cold-calling at first! Some will respond and some won’t, but don’t take it personally.
Focus on the big picture. There have been ups and downs, but the overall experience has been super-positive. Try to focus on the end game rather than the daily totals.
Human contact means a lot when you relocate. Reach out to local family or friends if you have them. For us, it was so reassuring to have our Mobile Advisor on hand to answer questions and provide help.
Mobile Relocation connects you with what you need to thrive in New Zealand. Contact us today to talk about how we can carry your relocation burden.
Bridget is a New Zealander who has lived and worked as a diplomat in Singapore and India. After experiencing all facets of the relocation experience, she founded Mobile to work with private individuals moving to NZ and leading local and international businesses bringing in offshore talent. bridget@mobile-relocation.com
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