Four months in, so a quick update.

Hubby had a job from the get go. I've just found a job - my advice is to use a couple of agencies and also look yourself. You may have to take a wee step back as you are "foreign" and your experience does scare some of them, but I am only earning £2k less than I was and am not bothered about a wee step back. Will soon find out what the kiwi workplace is like.

After renting a shed which is either toasty (in the sun) or 90% damp (in the rain) we had a look at second hand properties but were not prepared to put up with Kiwi "heating" options and the lack of double glazing so we have decided to build. Plus we want a view - why live in Wellington and not have one.

Brought our dogs, and they love it. I've found plenty of places around Porirua to walk them off the lead and on it.

We have joined a kayaking club and have booked a couple of trips. The first steps in having a different, more outdoorsy life.

Starting to make friends - random meetings, be proactive, never so no to an invitation.

I don't feel too homesick or far away at all...I keep in touch with my friends and family via Facebook, email and skype.

And the sun definitely does shine more often. So loving it so far...I think it does take a few months to adapt, but we're starting to feel pretty settled.

Brilliant, Mrs Pointer, very glad you are settling in and good luck with the kayaking

Good on you and yours, that's the spirit.

Bit chilly for kayaking for me at the moment, but did some in the summer - good fun.

Thanks for the update.

Fab Update!....love the 'grab life by the balls' attitude.....Defo life is what u make it!

Thanks for this - inspirational.

Great update glad you are settled and enjoying it good luck with the build

Awesome