When Kristoffer Torres and his wife first imagined moving to New Zealand back in 2020, the world had other plans. The pandemic delayed their journey, but not their vision. For Kristoffer, with a background in research and development for infant milk formula, New Zealand stood out as the global hub for dairy innovation, and the perfect place to advance his career with The a2 Milk Company.
First Impressions
Coming from Singapore, Kristoffer was used to fast-paced efficiency, 24/7 convenience, and seamless public transport. Arriving in New Zealand, the early closing hours and work/life balance felt like a shock. But over time, he came to see it differently.
“It was a chance to stop and smell the roses,” he reflected. The shift became less about what was missing and more about discovering a new kind of balance.
Support That Made All the Difference
Kristoffer is quick to credit his Resettlement Advisor, Melissa Fletcher, for making his transition smooth. From organising temporary accommodation and bank accounts, to navigating Trade Me, buying a car, and even walking him through supermarket aisles, Melissa was there.
By the morning after his arrival, she had arranged property viewings. Within 24 hours, Kristoffer had shortlisted a preferred home, thanks to her preparation and coordination.
Melissa’s relocation checklist also covered the smaller but essential details, rubbish collection, shopping centres, and even Kiwi etiquette around payments. Her flexibility allowed Kristoffer to decide what he wanted to manage himself, while knowing support was there when needed.
Building Trust
What stood out most wasn’t just the logistics, but the personal connection. Melissa’s openness, punctuality, and attention to detail built trust quickly. Kristoffer contrasted this with an earlier move to Thailand, where he had been left largely to figure things out on his own.
“The amount of stress avoided, and the potential problems we didn’t have to deal with, made all the difference,” Kristoffer shared.
For him, the support wasn’t just about settling in. It also reinforced his sense of being valued by The a2 Milk Company, showing him that the organisation genuinely cared about his wellbeing.
The Bigger Picture
Relocation is never just about geography. It’s about adjustment, resilience, and the support networks that help new arrivals not just survive, but thrive. Kristoffer’s story is a reminder that behind every successful global hire are the people and systems at organisations like Mobile Relocation making the transition feel human.
Kia ora and welcome to New Zealand!
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.
If you are a recruiter or HR Professional bringing international talent to NZ Mobile Relocation has a range of settlement support services to suit your candidates and your business - from baseline support to meet Immigration New Zealand’s AEWV Accreditation requirements (Kiwi Launch Pad) through to personalised programmes to support your most valued international employees.
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.
Source: www.mobile-relocation.com