Perry Groves

Hi Everyone,

I was a regular on Canada forums, but have decided NZ would suit me better. Just trying to find out about work, life balance in NZ compared to UK and job prospects .

Genesis

Hi, lots will say that tall poppy syndrome exists here. Lots say that kiwis make you work too long, the wages are generally worse than in the UK and the cost of living can be dependent on your fiscal welfare BEFORE you arrive..unless you have a very very well paid job. By that I mean if you come over with a decent sum and you have a minimal mortgage life can be cruisy. If you have a high mortgage or high rent life can be dire living from on pay cheque to the next. Been here 4 years and we love it, being older we came over with a reasonable amount of wedge thus are motrgage free..it makes a very big difference to our view on life in NZ. I was sick of being beholden to a mortgage in the UK which took the best part of 33% of my good gross wage. I no longer have to work now..only one of us does..thus work life balance well improved..can give the kids more time.

Perry Groves

I read that average working hours are 37.9, does that sound right?

Genesis

I guess so..if thats what they say..some UK folk say they are worked like dogs though!! Where are y'all going and what do you do??

Perry Groves

We plan to go to Wellington or Auckland I think. I work as an Electrical Design Engineer.

Genesis

May I suggest you go for Wellington, less people, easier to get around and the proximity to the south island make it all that more alluring than Auckland.

Only my opinion..I am sure many will say Auckland is way ahead of Welly..I prefer a less populous place to live.

bourbon-biscuit

I way, way prefer Welly to Auckland or Christchurch. Cool city- pity about the climate but if that's not an issue, it's a very sound choice!

40 hr working week is the norm I think, certainly for nurses.

Dustybin

40 seems to be the norm. Oh and that can means more as often meal breaks aren't paid.

Deb

Ta muchly ..