Goldberry

Hiya,
we're a British-German couple looking to emigrate in three years when our son has finished school. I'm 51 now, spouse is 40 and son is 15. Will we be having problems finding jobs (dental technician, office clerk and an apprentice)??
Here in Germany you needn't apply for any qualified job when you're past 45 - I have heard it's positively different in NZ. Can anyone confirm this and/or give us some information on the general tendency towards employment in NZ? Thanks.

Also, I'm a bit confused at information on attitude to work that I'm reading. On the one hand I read that people work really hard in NZ (for less money than in the UK), on the other hand I read that people are rather lazy in NZ.

Maz

I *think* the upper age limit for skilled migrant is 56, but you'd do worse than to check out the NZ immigration website to be sure. Good luck!

sky

Most kiwis look ancient before their time anyways with all the sun damage to their skin so you'll most likely look very youthful for your ages and have no probs getting a job.

Goldberry

Hi maz. Thanks. Yeah, the age limit on paper is 56, but what's the employers' attitude? Would they want to give a job to a 54 yr. old secretary/personal assistant/clerk? I'd have the attractive blonde factor on my side...

LOL sky. That sounds a reasonable argument, too. .......... so what's your secret for not getting any wrinkles?

sky

Oh I've got a few more now than I had when I first arrived, I keep slapping on the sun block to try prevent any more. I think a lot of kiwis must have got their sun damage as kids and the younger generation are a lot wiser and cover up ... if they can afford the cream :scared:

Goldberry

Hmmpff! I was really hoping to tap into people's experiences/gut feelings here. Is there only young people on this forum? If so, please someone point me in the right direction. Thanks.