Many Kiwis come over to the UK in their twenties, on their OE, thinking that they’ll stay for a couple of years, earn some money and return home. But life in the UK draws them in, and then they meet their partner, and everything changes.
From this point on, there will always be a decision to make about where to spend their shared future together, as a couple, and when to make the move back, if at all.
Returning home can be a bittersweet experience. While it promises the comfort of familiarity, it can also present unique challenges for couples. From cultural adjustments and job market hurdles to relationship strains and financial concerns, the transition can be complex.
But don’t let the challenges put you off from realising your end goal. By weighing up the potential benefits against the challenge, you can make an informed decision that’s right for both of you. Here are some strategies to help you evaluate:
Identify Your Goals and Priorities:
- Personal Goals: What are your individual and shared aspirations for the move? Are you looking for better job opportunities, a higher quality of life, somewhere to start a family, or a new adventure?
- Career Goals: How will the move impact your career paths and professional development?
- Lifestyle Goals: Do you envision a different lifestyle, such as spending more time outdoors or experiencing a different culture? Will you be moving closer to family, or further away, and how will this impact your everyday life?
Carry out research:
- Cost of Living: Compare the cost of living, where you live now, with New Zealand. Consider housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and education expenses. The New Zealand Now website is a good source of information to start comparing these costs:
- Job Market: Research the job market in New Zealand, focusing on your specific field and the availability of suitable positions.
- Quality of Life: Consider factors such as healthcare, education, safety, and overall quality of life in New Zealand.
- Cultural Differences: Research cultural norms, customs, and social etiquette to understand potential challenges and opportunities.
Create a Pros and Cons List:
- Benefits: List the potential benefits of the move, such as career progression, improved quality of life, new experiences, having family close by and personal growth.
- Challenges: Identify the potential challenges, including financial strain, cultural adjustment and separation from loved ones.
- Take a quiz to see how your thoughts align: Fill out our short quiz, and compare your scores, to see if your Kiwi dreams align.
Consider the Impact on Relationships:
- Partnerships: Discuss how the move will affect your relationship with your partner and any children. Open and honest conversation about how you are feeling is key.
- Family and Friends: Consider the impact on your relationships with family and friends who may remain behind.
Seek Advice and Support:
- Friends and Family: Talk to friends and family who have experience living abroad, or have moved back to New Zealand themselves.
- Expat Communities: Connect with online expat forums or communities to gain insights from others who have made similar moves.
- Professionals: Talk to a licensed immigration adviser, like myself, to get advice on your visa options. Our Partnership Eligibility Assessment is a good place to start.
Sign up for our Simple 9-Step Guide: Knowing What to Expect You Move to New Zealand
- Simple 9-Step Guide: Our comprehensive guide offers provide practical solutions to help you understand what it takes to start a new life in New Zealand, with resources for everything from finding accommodation to setting up a bank account.
Test the Waters with a Short-Term Stay:
- If possible, consider a short-term stay to experience life in New Zealand together first-hand to see if it aligns with your expectations.
By carefully considering these factors and weighing the benefits against the challenges, you can make a more informed decision about whether moving back to New Zealand is the right choice for you and your partner.
And, armed with all the information you need, you can put things in motion to live the life you have both been talking about.
