Relocating an entire family across the world is a massive undertaking, and the mental load of processing a new reality can be heavy. From navigating a new education system to finding a rental property that welcomes four pets, the logistics can easily become overwhelming. At Mobile Relocation, we know that fast, confident settlement matters, and supporting the whole family unit is the smartest way to ensure a successful transition.
Recently, our advisor Melissa Fletcher had the pleasure of supporting US teacher Sarah Jette, her partner, and their three children as they moved to New Zealand.
In this guest post, Sarah shares her personal relocation journey, the refreshing differences she has found in the Kiwi classroom, and how early, practical support helped her family settle in smoothly.
As returned Peace Corps Volunteers, my partner and I have always wanted to live abroad with our three children, who are 15, 13, and 11. In early 2025, my partner's career shifted and he was offered an early retirement package. Right around the same time, I discovered that New Zealand was actively looking for overseas teachers. After speaking with a friend who connected me to her Kiwi network, we grew increasingly excited and began the process of moving our family - including our four cats, from the US to New Zealand.
Relocating an entire family across the world is an overwhelming task, but the transition has been an incredible learning experience. Here is a snapshot of our journey and the three things that surprised me most about living and working in New Zealand.
1. Finding the Perfect Base (Cats Included!)
Before we moved, finding housing was my biggest concern. In New Zealand, the location of your house determines which schools your kids can go to. I also needed to consider my commute to South Auckland, and we needed a place that would welcome our four cats, whose transport from the US had already been complicated and expensive.
Working with Mel from Mobile Relocation was our lifesaver. She advised us on different neighbourhoods and school options, viewed properties on our behalf, and sent us detailed photos and written reports. Mel even picked up the keys before we arrived and was at the house when our rental furniture was delivered. Because we secured a long-term rental right away, our kids didn't have to wait to start school - they got to begin alongside their peers. Today, we live within walking distance of a nature reserve, the kids catch the bus just down the street, and my girls are thrilled to finally have their own bedroom.
2. A Breath of Fresh Air in the Classroom
The work culture and teaching environment in New Zealand are quite different from what I am used to. While the standards align with the US, the pacing is much more laid back, and there is no strictly scripted curriculum. At my old school, the rigor was intense; taking an extra day to teach a math concept went against my pacing chart and was frowned upon. Here, I have the freedom to create lessons that actually fit my students' needs.
There is also a strong "learn as you go" culture where you are trusted rather than micromanaged. If I need clarification, I ask, but there is an underlying assumption that I am capable. I have also had to adjust to a collaborative teaching style. Instead of a single-cell classroom, I share a space and about 65 students with two incredible co-teachers. We departmentalise to split the workload, and it has been a wonderful adjustment.
3. The Power of Play
I am still getting used to the amount of playtime my students have - it is amazing! At my previous school, kids had 20 minutes of recess for the whole day. In New Zealand, they get a 20-minute morning tea and a 35-minute lunch break. During recess, students have access to entire fields, playgrounds, and even a bicycle track. They return to the classroom with rosy cheeks, having burned off their energy, and are completely ready to learn.
4. Surviving the First Days
When we first arrived, we were jet-lagged and completely overwhelmed. Having on-the-ground support to manage those initial days made all the difference. Mel drove us to the bank, explained the differences between the local grocery stores, and walked us through the traffic rules. That practical guidance helped us navigate the cognitive load of being newly arrived expats, allowing our family to settle in quickly and start our new Kiwi life.
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.