Most expats and investor migrants relocating to New Zealand have had the experience of telling someone about the move and getting the reply, "I've always wanted to visit New Zealand." Sometimes, your first guest arrives not long after you do!
Whether it's family wanting to see where you've settled or friends finally ticking New Zealand off their travel bucket list, hosting visitors is a milestone that many migrants and expats experience during their first few years here.
While it's exciting to reconnect with the people you've missed, having guests can also remind you just how much your own life has changed.
You'll Realise How Much You've Learned
When you first arrived, everything from driving rules and supermarket brands to banking, healthcare and local customs probably felt unfamiliar.
Now you're the one answering questions and recommending places to visit.
You’ll know about the hidden gems like the wildlife sanctuary at Tiritiri Matangi Island off the coast of Auckland, regional art gallery treasures like Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery in Whanganui or the Govett Brewster in New Plymouth and South Island treasures like the Catlins, far from the typical tourist trail.
The things that once caused you to stumble or stress are probably now so ingrained that you might even forget to mention them. Even if you've only lived here for a few months, you'll likely know far more than you realise.
You May Find Yourself Defending New Zealand
It's a funny phenomenon that many migrants experience.
A visitor might comment on the price of groceries, the lack of late-night shopping, or New Zealand's rural roads. Even if you've made those same observations yourself, you may suddenly find yourself explaining why things are the way they are.
Over time, many newcomers develop a genuine appreciation for the Kiwi lifestyle, and it's only when visitors arrive that they realise how much they now feel at home.
You'll Notice How You've Changed
Your visitors may be the first people to point out the little things you've stopped noticing.
Perhaps you've started saying "sweet as" or "no worries". Maybe you've become more relaxed about work-life balance, embraced weekends outdoors, and naturally adopted some Kiwi habits.
These small changes are often difficult to recognise in yourself until someone from your former home points them out.
You'll Gain a New Perspective on New Zealand
You may find that your guests notice things about your new home, such as the food, cultural norms, language, lifestyle, and much more, that are different from how you experienced New Zealand as a newcomer or returning Kiwi.
Paying attention to your guests' observations can help you see New Zealand through fresh eyes and unlock another layer of joy in living here.
Reconnecting with old friends and distant family can bring both highs and lows. Be sure to check out our interview with Transformational Coach and Mentor, Paula Harrington, on Riding the Emotional Rollercoaster of Relocating to New Zealand.
Kia ora and welcome to New Zealand!
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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.