Who are you?
Dawn and Isaac originally from Cornwall in England! We are very cornish but now live in Wellington! We run our own blog called Going NZ where we document our journey and our move to New Zealand.Where, when and why did you move abroad?
We moved here in 2014, we are just coming into our 3rd year now!
We moved to New Zealand to take advantage of the outdoors lifestyle and opportunities NZ afforded us.
What challenges did you face during the move?
We were lucky compared to many, as we have family in New Zealand and friends. Many of the issues we had, we’ve documented on our blog to help other expats.
How did you find somewhere to live?
Initially we lived with family when in Auckland, we used Trade Me to help us find an apartment in the city.
Are there many other expats in your area?
Auckland is full of expats from the UK and further afield, it’s a very cosmopolitan city like London. We found Meet Up to be our life line when we first arrived, they run lots of different groups and activities, mostly free as well!
What is your relationship like with the locals?
We have a few local friends, though it has been generally harder to make local kiwi friends than expat friends. With expats you instantly connect due to the similar things you are going through with living in New Zealand, so it is only natural it is easier.
What do you like about life where you are?
We like the city of Wellington and how we can get to the beach within 20 mins. We like the small city vibe and public spaces – you don’t get that much in England!
What do you dislike about your expat life?
We are so far away from home it can feel like a long way from the UK. We struggle with missing our family and friends, but we think that will disappear over time.
What is the biggest cultural difference you have experienced between your new country and life back home?
I’d say New Zealanders tend to have more of a can do attitude 🙂 Everything is no bother to a Kiwi!
What do you think of the food and drink in your new country? What are your particular likes or dislikes?
We love the selection of food and drinks in here, it is more expensive but much better quality! New Zealand wine is amongst the best in the world (we happen to enjoy wine). Auckland & Wellington both have lots of international food choices also, which we really enjoy.
What advice would you give to anyone following in your footsteps?
Research before you leave, speak with expats living in the country before you leave. Save more money than you think you’ll need (just in case) and if possible try to get a job before you leave.
What are your plans for the future?
We plan to explore as much of New Zealand as is possible. We’ve moved to Wellington for a short while and whenever possible travel around. There is so much more of this beautiful country we have yet to explore!
You can keep up to date with Dawn & Isaac's adventures on their blog, Going NZ.