A few questions about moving
Jan 18th 2014, 12:15 am
#31
Forum Regular
Joined: Oct 2007
Location: west midlands
Posts: 166
Re: A few questions about moving
Hi
This is my personal opinion and drawn from my own experiance. But we are a family of 4 living in Christchurch for 3 and a half years now .
Our first year I was offered a job of $65,000 a year ,my husband worked as an apprectice while taking his reg exams , He was only on $17 an hour casual employment .
Finacially it was very hard and we used all our savings the first year . If we could of afforded to return back to the UK we would of done in a heart beat. We did nt count on just how expensive it is here, earthquakes and adjusting to the lifestyle and missing family and friends of course . We very nearly separated and I had to go on anti depressants
However we did stuck it out weather right or wrong but now we are starting to save some money every month . We have made some very good friends and both have good jobs now . We ve adapted to life here and know where to get cheapest products from. We don t know if we shall stay here and often talk about moving on ,only time will tell .
My advice is do your research first. I don t think $50,000 is enough to live here comfortably
This is my personal opinion and drawn from my own experiance. But we are a family of 4 living in Christchurch for 3 and a half years now .
Our first year I was offered a job of $65,000 a year ,my husband worked as an apprectice while taking his reg exams , He was only on $17 an hour casual employment .
Finacially it was very hard and we used all our savings the first year . If we could of afforded to return back to the UK we would of done in a heart beat. We did nt count on just how expensive it is here, earthquakes and adjusting to the lifestyle and missing family and friends of course . We very nearly separated and I had to go on anti depressants
However we did stuck it out weather right or wrong but now we are starting to save some money every month . We have made some very good friends and both have good jobs now . We ve adapted to life here and know where to get cheapest products from. We don t know if we shall stay here and often talk about moving on ,only time will tell .
My advice is do your research first. I don t think $50,000 is enough to live here comfortably
Jan 18th 2014, 8:53 am
#33
BE Enthusiast
Joined: Jan 2013
Location: Invercargill
Posts: 627
Re: A few questions about moving
Hi ruth. I would agree, you will struggle on 50k IMO in Auckland. Be very careful with rentals too, specially at 350 per week. I live in Invercargill and that's about average, but it sounds mighty cheap for Auckland.
Jan 18th 2014, 7:01 pm
#34
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 2,994
Re: A few questions about moving
Ruth, firstlyt ake on board what Purrball is saying here - ask yourself what you are expecting of Auckland. And I'll be honest with you - on a family income of 50k you won't be living in the Brit suburbs.
Yeah, I still think a 3:1 conversion covers the cost of living from uk- nz at the bottom end and then tapers down as your income rises over 100k. 50k in Auckland with kids will feel like about 16-17k but this doesn't factor in that you will need to live like a Kiwi on that income to survive. This means you won't be running heaters all winter, you won't be flying back to the uk (don't kid yourself - no way will you be able to save on that income), sometimes you'll put off the dr visit for costs and you and your partner will probably rarely see a dentist if at all. And you won't have family.
Ruth, and I would say, please don't let the trite phrases people use about emigrating unduly influence you. The reality is you have everything to lose from emigrating; it might well be better not to try, if trying and failing means you lose your health, your happiness and your marriage. You might regret not coming, that is true, but the regret you might feel by coming is something you should think carefully about too. A family with kids in Auckland on a family income of 50k and no significant cash to bring to buy outright or have minimal mortgage looking to live in the Brit suburbs - you need to go back to the drawing board.
Don't move to the other side of the world to live life scraping by, the cost of living here is expensive, basic stuff costs a lot more than back in blightly. $50,000 ...... in real terms it'd be more like living on GBP17,000 back home. NZ isn't the place to live if you've not got much money.....Have a good think about it, unless you're cashed up NZ ain't no paradise like it seems when you're sat back at home in the UK.
I miss the British humour, looks like some people also "miss" the humour.
Please dont let people scaremonger you into staying in the uk. <snip>
If you want to come then come and give it a go, You might love it, you might hate it, but if it's what you want and you dont come you will regret it.
Take the chance, Weve all heard the cliche "Its better to try and fail than to have never tried at all"
I know some people will think this is very naive and idealistic and in some respects it might be but will your life be better by not coming? and how would you know?.
Please dont let people scaremonger you into staying in the uk. <snip>
If you want to come then come and give it a go, You might love it, you might hate it, but if it's what you want and you dont come you will regret it.
Take the chance, Weve all heard the cliche "Its better to try and fail than to have never tried at all"
I know some people will think this is very naive and idealistic and in some respects it might be but will your life be better by not coming? and how would you know?.
Jan 18th 2014, 8:31 pm
#35
Forum Regular
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 166
Re: A few questions about moving
Ruth, and I would say, please don't let the trite phrases people use about emigrating unduly influence you. The reality is you have everything to lose from emigrating; it might well be better not to try, if trying and failing means you lose your health, your happiness and your marriage. You might regret not coming, that is true, but the regret you might feel by coming is something you should think carefully about too. A family with kids in Auckland on a family income of 50k and no significant cash to bring to buy outright or have minimal mortgage looking to live in the Brit suburbs - you need to go back to the drawing board.
The negative spin of losing your health, happiness and marriage is perhaps a tad bleak and not at all a comprehensive assessment of all the possible outcomes of emigration but this is afterall a site populated by Brits so why would I expect anything less.
There I go again with my trite phases....
Jan 18th 2014, 9:27 pm
#36
Forum Regular
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 166
Re: A few questions about moving
Er. What?
This is completely fatuous and what's more, is gratuitously insulting to the millions of people who live and work in the UK's capital. How could anyone not take this in the 'wrong way'?
I've lived and worked in the centre of London, zones one and two, east, south, north and west for almost 25 years. Your statement is utterly absurd... and if you or any others think that by fleeing to the largest Maori and Polynesian city in the South Pacific, also comprising a sizable Asian immigrant population, is going to alleviate your embarrassingly obvious cultural anxiety, then you might be disappointed.
Sometimes I really do wonder what is beneath the surface of some people's motivations to move all the way out to New Zealand, when they clearly have so few connections with the country and know so little about it.
This is completely fatuous and what's more, is gratuitously insulting to the millions of people who live and work in the UK's capital. How could anyone not take this in the 'wrong way'?
I've lived and worked in the centre of London, zones one and two, east, south, north and west for almost 25 years. Your statement is utterly absurd... and if you or any others think that by fleeing to the largest Maori and Polynesian city in the South Pacific, also comprising a sizable Asian immigrant population, is going to alleviate your embarrassingly obvious cultural anxiety, then you might be disappointed.
Sometimes I really do wonder what is beneath the surface of some people's motivations to move all the way out to New Zealand, when they clearly have so few connections with the country and know so little about it.
I also fail to see the embarrassingly obvious cultural anxiety but would like to add that in Auckland prior to having a child, back when I had a social life that I found the Maori and Pacific Island people I met to be very pleasant and friendly, initially a lot more so than white European Kiwis. The Asians also have a very polite and respectful nature which puts a lot of us Brits to shame - myself included.
When dining out especially with a young child I always found the Asian foodcourts/restaurants the most accommodating and social atmospheres and these were also the cheapest places to eat out - The food as well is brilliant and something I actually miss now that I dont live in Auckland.
But again everyones experiences and perceptions are different.
Jan 18th 2014, 9:34 pm
#37
Looking for my marbles.
Joined: Jul 2013
Location: durham, durham, England
Posts: 730
Re: A few questions about moving
Mr Biscuit has so eloquently reiterated the point I was trying to make. Please dont let the experiences/opinions of other influence your own decision.
The negative spin of losing your health, happiness and marriage is perhaps a tad bleak and not at all a comprehensive assessment of all the possible outcomes of emigration but this is afterall a site populated by Brits so why would I expect anything less.
There I go again with my trite phases....
The negative spin of losing your health, happiness and marriage is perhaps a tad bleak and not at all a comprehensive assessment of all the possible outcomes of emigration but this is afterall a site populated by Brits so why would I expect anything less.
There I go again with my trite phases....
It's easy to sugar coat emigrating. It's harder to be honest about your own experiences to people you do not know.
Jan 18th 2014, 10:31 pm
#38
Forum Regular
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 166
Re: A few questions about moving
I have to respectfully disagree, I dont think looking on the positive side of things is unfair. This thread focuses primarily on the negative aspects of emigrating with some really bold statments about how bad a persons life may become if they move to NZ. In my eyes this is an unfair viewpoint and one skewed by the negative experiences of others.
All I am offering is a different perspective and trying to emphasis that the decision should not be made basedon what has happend to others.
Based only on the views represented on expat forums I would find it difficult to be enthusiastic about moving to NZ had I not already been through it.
I dont see any sugar coating going on on this thread or any others from what I can tell, in fact "trite phrases" (if I may quote buscuit) such as "The reality is" makes things sound overwhelmingly hard and difficult and it does nt have to be like that.
What kind of objective statment is this:-
"The reality is you have everything to lose from emigrating; it might well be better not to try"
Come on
All I am offering is a different perspective and trying to emphasis that the decision should not be made basedon what has happend to others.
Based only on the views represented on expat forums I would find it difficult to be enthusiastic about moving to NZ had I not already been through it.
I dont see any sugar coating going on on this thread or any others from what I can tell, in fact "trite phrases" (if I may quote buscuit) such as "The reality is" makes things sound overwhelmingly hard and difficult and it does nt have to be like that.
What kind of objective statment is this:-
"The reality is you have everything to lose from emigrating; it might well be better not to try"
Come on
Jan 18th 2014, 11:24 pm
#39
Looking for my marbles.
Joined: Jul 2013
Location: durham, durham, England
Posts: 730
Re: A few questions about moving
I have to respectfully disagree, I dont think looking on the positive side of things is unfair. This thread focuses primarily on the negative aspects of emigrating with some really bold statments about how bad a persons life may become if they move to NZ. In my eyes this is an unfair viewpoint and one skewed by the negative experiences of others.
All I am offering is a different perspective and trying to emphasis that the decision should not be made basedon what has happend to others.
Based only on the views represented on expat forums I would find it difficult to be enthusiastic about moving to NZ had I not already been through it.
I dont see any sugar coating going on on this thread or any others from what I can tell, in fact "trite phrases" (if I may quote buscuit) such as "The reality is" makes things sound overwhelmingly hard and difficult and it does nt have to be like that.
What kind of objective statment is this:-
"The reality is you have everything to lose from emigrating; it might well be better not to try"
Come on
All I am offering is a different perspective and trying to emphasis that the decision should not be made basedon what has happend to others.
Based only on the views represented on expat forums I would find it difficult to be enthusiastic about moving to NZ had I not already been through it.
I dont see any sugar coating going on on this thread or any others from what I can tell, in fact "trite phrases" (if I may quote buscuit) such as "The reality is" makes things sound overwhelmingly hard and difficult and it does nt have to be like that.
What kind of objective statment is this:-
"The reality is you have everything to lose from emigrating; it might well be better not to try"
Come on
Jan 18th 2014, 11:59 pm
#40
Forum Regular
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 197
Re: A few questions about moving
Lots of dancing around the point.
No-one's unrealistically pissing in anyone's cornflakes here, but only NZ$50k on a single salary for a family of four in Auckland, because that's where the job offer and visa is tied to, is asking for a crapload of serious headaches... and that's before you add the substantial costs of getting your family and all your stuff over there. Aren't many families that can make ends meet in New Zealand on only one salary and those random internet people who might say it's doable aren't likely going to be there to help out in times of trouble.
'Quality of life', 'better lifestyle': these are hollow aspirational marketing terms that mean little in themselves, unless you get specific about what it is in life you're looking for. When you're near the point of deciding whether you can afford to turn on the heating, can't afford to pay for a visit to a GP and a prescription or get shoes for the kids, then the idea of moving out to New Zealand only to struggle from the get-go in a faraway land... it's an exercise in wishful thinking, in my view.
However, for ruthhunt and her partner who seems to work in flooring, the better way to approach the question is how you can make it happen in the longer term? And from my experience in interior design and flooring, my response would be this, just as it would be in London: go to where the money is. Specialise in fitting wood and stone, bespoke hand-cut linoleum and other materials for higher-end clients, go out there with money in the bank, network with interior design agencies and set up your own business.
No-one's unrealistically pissing in anyone's cornflakes here, but only NZ$50k on a single salary for a family of four in Auckland, because that's where the job offer and visa is tied to, is asking for a crapload of serious headaches... and that's before you add the substantial costs of getting your family and all your stuff over there. Aren't many families that can make ends meet in New Zealand on only one salary and those random internet people who might say it's doable aren't likely going to be there to help out in times of trouble.
'Quality of life', 'better lifestyle': these are hollow aspirational marketing terms that mean little in themselves, unless you get specific about what it is in life you're looking for. When you're near the point of deciding whether you can afford to turn on the heating, can't afford to pay for a visit to a GP and a prescription or get shoes for the kids, then the idea of moving out to New Zealand only to struggle from the get-go in a faraway land... it's an exercise in wishful thinking, in my view.
However, for ruthhunt and her partner who seems to work in flooring, the better way to approach the question is how you can make it happen in the longer term? And from my experience in interior design and flooring, my response would be this, just as it would be in London: go to where the money is. Specialise in fitting wood and stone, bespoke hand-cut linoleum and other materials for higher-end clients, go out there with money in the bank, network with interior design agencies and set up your own business.
Jan 19th 2014, 12:45 am
#41
---
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 2,994
Re: A few questions about moving
That's Mrs Biscuit to you 
I'm not negative about NZ - had the OP come on and said "We're thinking of moving to NZ, dh has job offer with 120k salary and we have a 200k deposit to bring - what will life be like?", I would have been quite happy to wax lyrical about the lifestyle here and what she would be coming to, cos let's face it, NZ is bloody wonderful if money issues don't exist. I refuse to do that for 50k, renting in Auckland - not because I'm negative but because I have nothing gain or lose by portraying life here as one way or another. I'm just being honest.
I'm not negative about NZ - had the OP come on and said "We're thinking of moving to NZ, dh has job offer with 120k salary and we have a 200k deposit to bring - what will life be like?", I would have been quite happy to wax lyrical about the lifestyle here and what she would be coming to, cos let's face it, NZ is bloody wonderful if money issues don't exist. I refuse to do that for 50k, renting in Auckland - not because I'm negative but because I have nothing gain or lose by portraying life here as one way or another. I'm just being honest.
Jan 19th 2014, 12:49 am
#42
Forum Regular
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 166
Re: A few questions about moving
Whats the median income for families in Auckland? Whats the median wage for a person in NZ vs Auckland?. Im asking because I dont know.
Maybe one of the randon internet people can help, giving that everyone is oh so helpful.
(Insert doom and gloom statement here) - Oh wait thats not me
This has strayed way off topic and is more than a little catty, I take responsibily for my fair share but the negativity really alludes to people not enjoying themselves here which I find quite sad.
I hope people manage to overcome their issues with New Zealand.
Enough said
Maybe one of the randon internet people can help, giving that everyone is oh so helpful.
(Insert doom and gloom statement here) - Oh wait thats not me
This has strayed way off topic and is more than a little catty, I take responsibily for my fair share but the negativity really alludes to people not enjoying themselves here which I find quite sad.
I hope people manage to overcome their issues with New Zealand.
Enough said
Jan 19th 2014, 1:01 am
#43
Looking for my marbles.
Joined: Jul 2013
Location: durham, durham, England
Posts: 730
Re: A few questions about moving
I don't have an issue with NZ. I have an issue with my lifestyle here. I can't afford to live, just exist. I do enjoy the beaches, walks and all that's on offer. But these things do not provide food, clothing, money etc. If anyone asks then I will be truthful.
Jan 19th 2014, 2:57 am
#44
MODERATOR
Joined: Oct 2011
Location: Wellington - I miss Castles, the NHS & English school system
Posts: 9,077
Re: A few questions about moving
unfortunately what ever country you live in if the cost of living is beyond a household income or leaves little left for some niceties then life is more than likely going to hard and maybe unhappy.
5:30 AM Saturday Oct 5, 2013
Statistics New Zealand's annual income survey found the median weekly income from wages and salaries was $844.
Taken from http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/n...ectid=11134957
not being all that up on tax and stuff not sure if that is take home or before tax? may say something in the article about that and don't forget you get taxed on every cent.
5:30 AM Saturday Oct 5, 2013
Statistics New Zealand's annual income survey found the median weekly income from wages and salaries was $844.
Taken from http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/n...ectid=11134957
not being all that up on tax and stuff not sure if that is take home or before tax? may say something in the article about that and don't forget you get taxed on every cent.
Jan 19th 2014, 3:17 am
#45
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 2,994
Re: A few questions about moving
And don't forget the difference between median income and median family income - and the geographical differences.
ETA: quick look at stats NZ shows median weekly for couple with 2 kids in June 2013= approx 1,600. Remember that median means half of all households will earn less, half will earn more - so as a potential expat you need to ask yourself what your 'lifestyle' aspirations are for emigrating. If you're thinking about living in Brit populated suburbs then you aren't planning on living a lifestyle akin to those living on less than the median household income.
It's not doom and gloom, or being "catty" (WTF?) - it's just being practical.
ETA: quick look at stats NZ shows median weekly for couple with 2 kids in June 2013= approx 1,600. Remember that median means half of all households will earn less, half will earn more - so as a potential expat you need to ask yourself what your 'lifestyle' aspirations are for emigrating. If you're thinking about living in Brit populated suburbs then you aren't planning on living a lifestyle akin to those living on less than the median household income.
It's not doom and gloom, or being "catty" (WTF?) - it's just being practical.
Last edited by bourbon-biscuit; Jan 19th 2014 at 3:25 am.
