Triumphrat

keystiger

Wife, son and I are looking to get away from the excess and global destruction the US of A is proliferating on the world today ecologically & economically.

We have researched many other locations, and New Zealand seems to come up #1. on the list every time.

It will be a couple years before we can sever ties to the capitalism machine here, but can any of you supply info on which areas are better/worse, things to expect, hints, tips tricks to relocating and gaining citizenship in your lovely country?

Currently live in Florida Keys/Key West, so rain (we get 30-40"per year min.) and weather(hurricanes, squalls, power outages, water rations etc.) not a concern.

Have heard Hawkes Bay is nice. I am in Advertising and Marketing Sales.
Wife is in Banking, and a 17yr. old in high school(he will graduate prior to move)

Any info is much appreciated.

Corky

Hi keystiger

You will find New Zealand a great wee country and with a positive attitude you will fit in fine especially with our beautiful country that was tailor made for motorcycle riding. If you are comtemplating such a move then I would thoroughly recommend you make a personal trip to NZ first and look around and see what you think I do believe you will not be dispointed. Please feel free to email me if you need more info or help.

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Blair Corkran
RentaTriumph
Christchurch, New Zealand

bushybester

This may be a little late but I could not agree more with Corky. I am originally from South Africa and the move here was the best move I have ever made. I am very fortunate to be in the Coromandel which is truly beautiful and possibly one of the closest in NZ to your tropical weather. You must come and visit first. I didn’t and am very happy. When you come you may want to look at Australia as well. Good luck.

gmcc

Hey there Keystiger great to hear you may be relocating towards the Southern Star !
I live in Hawkes Bay but have travelled and lived in the South Island and as far as climate goes we do have some lovely weather in HB
As far as bike riding and in particular road/touring goes I would opt for the SI anytime
Less traffic, superior road surfaces, and in particular a more relaxed lifestyle!
Guess it depends on your wants in life but Im trying very hard to work on the " otherhalf " to make the move !
Both Islands do have huge hobby and recreational activities so this could also sway your thinking
I hunt Stewart Island each year and have done for the past 15 and find the lower part of the SI more to my appeal etc
With so called " global warming " a move to the SI could be an advantage
Employment opportunities are varied but some restraints are starting to bite ! - Blame it on ? World Bank !
Anyhow thats my two cents worth
Hope it all works out

Northlandrider

Hey Keys
You'll need to have held a permanent residence permit for a minimum period of five years before you can apply for NZ citizenship. You'll also need to keep on the right side of the law, be a fit and proper person, speak English, and intend to permanently reside in NZ (that intention to be at the time of your citizenship application). Good luck! Check out www.dia.govt.nz Good Luck!

Kiwi Rat

Some good advice on coming and looking first - quite a few of my friends have done that and it pays off in spades, even checking out the job scene whilst you're here. I live in Coromandel Town, a couple of hours' drive from Auckland, Tauranga and Hamilton. Always a warm bed and food if you do decide to come for a look-see.

Cheers,

Geoff

P.S, There are quite a few people on www.kiwibiker.co.nz who have done the same as you are thinking of doing. If you join that site, you'll get some good insights from recent expats. I came in 1975 from the UK and haven't regretted it for an instant.

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Bike blog: http://geoffjames.blogspot.com/