Stormer999

Don't worry visiting the country is a fatal move....that's when the penny drops and you suddenly realise how much we Brits and tinned sardines have in common. No short visit is going to help...just like a holiday break.
If it helps a holiday in Italy nowhere comes up to the feel good factor of a holiday in NZ.

DEANO79

Goodo folks and thanks for all of the replies. I am well aware of bad press anywhere you go but just needed a little reassurance from guys and gals like you, who have already made/or about to settle in NZ. There are many many reasons why I wish to settle in NZ but, the biggest of all is, you only live once so I am going to embrace all that NZ has to offer, particularly the rugby, surfing and the family friendly environment. I am planning a visit in 2010 once the visa is in my possession - following that, I will then begin the arguous task of sorting out matters in the UK and family, which will not be easy.

Have a great New Year folks !!

Genesis

I am sure that you will be fine. Kate my wife came here 'blind' and she loves it. Mind you..Italy THEN NZ.. I think you may find that a bit hard!!!!! I am only saying that as I adore Italy with a passion and would live there a few months of the year if I could. Just remember whilst NZ is utterly wonderful it's a total desert in terms of beautiful aged, physical culture....buildings, food et al. However I am sure whilst you will miss Italy NZ will be well the refreshing change for all the reasons you have mentioned. Good luck aye?

genzana

Thanks for all the support folks!

Yes, Genesis, you've hit the nail on the head. I'm trying not to think about leaving the Italian food, history, sense of community... Then again, I can't wait to go somewhere with relatively little sexism, ageism, racism(?), and a modern approach to bureaucracy and public services.

Genesis

Yes, I have heard Italy is a nightmare and each town's mayor weilds incredible power. Ageism is not an issue as people work here up to their 80s, racism does exist but I see very little personally (maybe I am dim )...but its all down to perception. I saw MUCH strife re racism in the UK..so from my frame of perspective NZ is pretty cool re race problems, although I know it does exist. Public transport out of the BIG conurbations is total crap...everyone is totally reliant on their 2/4 wheels. Sexism does not appear to be a big thing..that would be Oz!!!

baldylocks

I cant help but find it facinating that nobody in these forums gives mention to the fact that we moved or are moving to a foreign country, if you have moved or are about to move because you want little britain, think again, lots of things are similar but they are not what you are used to, what you need to do on arrival is relax, open your mind, and enjoy everything new zealand can offer you, but keep in mind it is not Britain, I have been here 13 years now and would never go back

Charismatic

If you have yourself largely sorted out financially or just don't want for much the New Zealand could be the country for you. Moved here over 6 years ago and I like it. I might not stay forever but it's such a step up from the UK that to even consider going back to live would be silly for me .

Just know that it's not sunny all the time (though the weather is better...mostly ) and you will have to put a lot of effort into making new friends over the first couple of years. The first year or two might be stressful but in the long term you'll come to realise how nice it is not to live in a constant pressure cooker.

Napier is nice, you picked a good spot. If it wasn't for work and university I'd probably move over that way myself .

ibex

I would say the majority of negativism is concentrated on Expat Exposed (so I don't read it ). There are no places where all is good/bad and I guess it is the same with New Zealand. It largely depends also where you come from and what your expectations are. But still, all this moaning caused more caution with us so we instead of permanent move at first hand, chose a 1 month trip with special attention to issues where people had been struggling. IMHO most of their reactions were exaggerated but still I don't say it is piece of cake to find a (good) job nor decent (rental) property. It cost us a fortune (roughly 8,5k EUR for the family of 4 in low season) which we would sure better spend on permanent move but we are now prepared to some level what to expect there and 100% dedicated to the "project" (all of us now - before trip, I was the only maniac ). I can certainly understand the annoying feeling you may have relying to internet only. I would not worry about the NZ food (the beef, fish, veggies and fruit are AWESOME!) as it tastes much better than any European greenhouse grown. I loved it (and I love italian food, too). And you may struggle with the crowd on the beach as there is hardly anybody to see. I believe NZ is there where Europe never will be (or never was, whatever).

Perry Groves

We are in the same situation, but the financial factor is killing the dream for us. All of the other bads, crime, boy racers, burglary, bad driving, racism, are things I have seen in the U.K. having lived in London where I even had the hat stolen from off my head! Expenses and fees seem the deal breaker for us

Justcol

It must be my warped sence of humour but that made me
laugh so much i chocked on my coffee


Why who are you paying??

Perry Groves

I meant cost of living expenses and medical fees etc.

Justcol

Ahhhh i see.

Charismatic

I drove through W(h?)anganui today and it seemed nice. I mean quiet but in a good way.