The ChristchurchRebuild

A new future for your career, family, and lifestyle?

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Contents

2......................Contents3......................How Catalyst will use LinkedIn to communicate with you in the future3......................Copyright & Disclaimer4......................New Zealand5......................A Brief History of Christchurch8......................The Who, What, When & Where of the Christchurch earthquakes... ...what actually happened?11....................Christchurch & Your Career14....................What are New Zealand Immigration doing to address the Canterbury

Skill Shortages?

Information

16....................New Zealand Income Tax & GST17....................New Zealand’s Education System18....................The New Zealand Healthcare System19....................Renting a property in New Zealand20....................Renting in Christchurch21....................New Zealand Importing Control Initiatives23....................Thinking about bringing your car over to New Zealand?24....................Driving in New Zealand - What you need to know25....................Changes to the Give Way at Intersections Rule26....................Professional Memberships: ICE New Zealand27....................Professional Memberships: RICS Oceania28....................CV Writing tips for the New Zealand market

Services

29....................Buying property in NZ is different to buying in the UK...30....................Overseas tax obligations31....................Tax Law and Estate Planning Specialists in Pre-Migration Structuring32....................Migrant & Expatriate Banking Services from Westpac33....................What about my currency transfer?34....................Discounted telephone services35....................Visa Costs36....................Working Holiday Visa (WHV)37....................New Zealand migration checklist38....................Useful Internet Links

39....................Life in Christchurch - A survey of Catalyst placed candidates living and working in the Canterbury region

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How Catalyst will use LinkedIn to communicate with you in the future

Copyright & Disclaimer

A bit about LinkedInLinkedIn is a business-related social networking site with more than 150 million subscribers worldwide in over 200 countries and is growing at the rate of 2 members per second.

MembershipYou can join LinkedIn very quickly and very easily – free of charge.

One of the main functions of the site is to allow you to maintain a list of contact details of people with whom you have some level of relationship, LinkedIn calls these Connections.

You may choose to connect with Andy or Phil for instance.

This way we can stay in touch with each other on a professional footing without sending emails from company accounts and even if you move employers.

GroupsAnother fantastic function of LinkedIn is the Groups function. This has allowed Catalyst to set up a group which we have called:-

Christchurch Rebuild Jobs and information

The beauty of the Group function is that if you click on the above link and join our Group – you will automatically be kept in touch regarding the latest news and information about Christchurch and the rebuild as it picks up pace.

Members will also be able to ask other group members (many of which are already in Christchurch) any questions regarding life in Christchurch.

Copyright. All rights reserved. Each recipient may print a single copy of the document. No part of this booklet may be reproduced or forwarded to others without written reference having been made to the origin of the material and to the author, Catalyst Recruitment Limited.

Despite making all efforts to ensure accuracy, completeness and reliability Catalyst Recruitment Limited and the contributors to this guide do not warrant or represent the accuracy, completeness or the reliability of any statement in this guide nor do they accept any liability arising in any way out of or in connection with this guide.

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New Zealand

Located in the South Pacific Ocean, New Zealand lies approximately 1,600km / 1000 miles off Australia’s east coast. It consists of two main islands - the North Island and South Island - which have a combined area about the same size as Japan or Great Britain.

Image copyright Google Maps

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A Brief History of Christchurch

CanterburyCanterbury lies one third of the way down the South Island’s east coast, just north of Banks Peninsula which itself, since 2006, lies within the formal limits of Christchurch; and is the country’s largest geographic region consisting of 45,346 square kilometres or approximately a quarter of the South Island. Over half a million people live in Canterbury, two thirds of which live in Christchurch.

ChristchurchChristchurch, the third largest city in New Zealand, is the central hub of Canterbury and the gateway to the South Island. Christchurch itself was named by the Canterbury Association, which settled the surrounding province of Canterbury. The name of Christchurch was agreed on at the first meeting of the association on 27 March 1848. It was suggested by John Robert Godley, who had attended Christ Church, Oxford. Christchurch became a city by Royal Charter on 31 July 1856, making it officially the oldest established city in New Zealand.

Christchurch

Christchurch

Image copyright Google Maps

Image copyright Google Maps

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Cathedral SquareAt the city’s centre is Cathedral Square, surrounding the now-damaged landmark Anglican cathedral. The area around this square and within the ‘four avenues’ of Christchurch (Bealey Avenue, Fitzgerald Avenue, Moorhouse Avenue and Deans Avenue) was considered to be the central business district of the city before the devastating earthquakes. The central city also has a number of residential areas, including Inner City East, Inner City West, Avon Loop, Moa Neighbourhood & Victoria. Cathedral Square stands at the crossing of two major central streets, Colombo Street and Worcester Street.

Christchurch is known for its English style of architecture and historic buildings such as the Christchurch Cathedral who’s design was commissioned from George Gilbert Scott a prolific British architect known for his gothic Revival churches and public buildings (he later went on to build St Pancras railway station in London, England).

Cathedral Square was known as the heart of the city, and traditionally hosted numerous attractions and events, such as the Wizard of New Zealand, Ian Brackenbury Channell, and evangelist Ray Comfort; regular market days; free standing food and coffee carts; an aquarium, pubs and restaurants and the city’s chief tourist information centre.

The central city also included the pedestrianised sections of Cashel and High streets commonly known as ‘City Mall’ which was refurbished in 2008/09. City Mall (Cashel Mall) featured specially designed seating, flower and garden boxes, more trees, paving, and an extension to the central city tram route.

Internationally known as ‘The Garden City’ Christchurch’s well established parks and public gardens owe much to the planning and foresight of the cities founding fathers. The centrally located 161 hectare Hagley Park, the Botanic Gardens, the four leafy inner-city avenues, Victoria Square and spectacular gardens such as Mona Vale on the banks of the River Avon bear testimony to this legacy. Two large floral festivals occur each year; The Festival of Flowers is held in February and the Ellerslie International Flower Show is held each march. It is a great time of year as the city is a blaze of colour a vision which is embraced and perpetuated today by proud residents throughout the city.

In 1996, Christchurch was acknowledged as the outstanding garden city from 620 international entries and in 1997, was judged Overall Winner of Major Cities in the Nations in Bloom International Competition to become ‘Garden City of the World’.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ChristchurchInformation Source:

Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

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Cultural PrecinctChristchurch’s Cultural Precinct was the finest in the Southern Hemisphere. Over 150 years ago, the city’s visionary founders planned a unique cultural heart for the province of Canterbury. Education, art, science, government, religion, history and recreation were provided for within an area of less than one square kilometre. The Arts Centre, the Canterbury Museum and the Art Gallery were located in the Cultural Precinct. The majority of the activities held here were free and a printable map was provided. This cityscape is of unrivalled natural and architectural beauty - with 19th century buildings, majestic trees, extensive gardens, interesting bridges and meandering paths - it provided a striking backdrop for a vibrant scene of ever-changing arts, cultural and heritage activities.

Christchurch is one of a group of only four cities in the world that was originally planned following the same layout of a central city square, four complimenting city squares surrounding it and a parklands area that embraces the city centre. The first city built with this pattern was Philadelphia, then Savannah and later Adelaide. Since the devastating earthquakes Christchurch has been heavily damaged but still holds an important legacy and a strong platform for future development.

See below

Hagley Park

Image copyright Google Maps

Image copyright Google Maps

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The Who, What, When & Where of the Christchurch earthquakes...

1st EarthquakeLocation: Darfield (mid-Canterbury)Date (NZ Standard Time): Saturday, 4th September 2010 at 4:35amEpicentre: 43.55°S, 172.18°EFocal Depth: 11kmMaximum Intensity: MM 9Magnitude: MW 7.1Casualties: No casualties reportedSeptember 4 2010 Christchurch Earthquake (Darfield Quake), the magnitude 7.1 earthquake occurred at 4:35 am on September 4; the epicentre was 40 km west of Christchurch city and a depth of the quake was at 10 km. It was the most damaging earthquake in New Zealand since the Hawke’s Bay earthquake in 1931, but there was no loss of life. It was fortunate the earthquake occurred when the central city streets were deserted, as there may well have been many deaths and serious injuries had it happened during a busy time of the day. Christchurch city and its environs had only experienced 3 moderate earthquakes in the previous 40 years. All that has changed with the Darfield earthquake, as dozens of its aftershocks caused at

New Zealand is located across the Tasman Sea, where usually only stories of rugby, hobbits and whale-strandings trouble even the inner sections of the papers published abroad! A run of earthquakes in Christchurch, one of New Zealand’s largest cities, has changed all that.

The 4 largest earthquake epicentres

least moderate damage; a moderate earthquake is one that produces a shaking intensity of Modified Mercalli 6. The Canterbury Plains are covered with river gravels so we cannot see the evidence of past active faults in this region. It is believed that the newly-revealed Greendale fault was pre-existing, and a patch was reactivated during the Darfield earthquake. The Darfield earthquake caused severe building damage in mid-Canterbury, particularly to the city of Christchurch.

2nd EarthquakeLocation: LytteltonDate (NZ Daylight Time): Tuesday, 22nd February 2011 at 12:51pmEpicentre: 43.58°S, 172.68°EFocal Depth: 5kmMaximum Intensity: MM 9Magnitude: ML 6.3Casualties: 181 killed, 164 seriously injuredFebruary 22 Aftershock 2011, the city had been comparatively lucky with the first earthquake, however on February 22 2011 an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 centred at Heathcote Valley, 5 kilometres from Lyttelton and at a depth of 5 kilometres hit Christchurch with full force. The location of this quake was within 10 km of the city and occurred in the middle of a working day which resulted in destruction, injuries and deaths. It is regarded by seismologists as an aftershock cluster or swarm from the 2010 earthquake. Many buildings collapsed or were significantly damaged; among them the city’s iconic Christchurch Cathedral. As of 1 June 2011, 181 people were confirmed dead as a result of the earthquakes.

http://www.geonet.co.nz with base images copyright Google MapsInformation Source:

September 4th 2010February 22nd 2011

June 13th 2011

December 23rd 2011

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...what actually happened?

Location: 10km East of Christchurch, near LytteltonDate (NZ Daylight Time): Monday, 13th June 2011 at 2:20pmEpicentre: 43.56°S, 172.74°EFocal Depth: 6kmMaximum Intensity: MM 9Magnitude: ML 6.3Casualties: 1 dead, 46 Injured (2 critically)On June 13th 2011 a magnitude 6.3 earthquake/aftershock struck Christchurch at a depth of 6 kilometres. It was preceded by a moderate magnitude 5.6 ML tremor that struck the region at a slightly deeper 10 km, destroying many structures previously damaged by other earthquakes. The earthquake injured a total of 46 people, while many others were evacuated from the city centre. Subsequent severe shaking in the city registered at 7 on the Mercalli scale, destroying some buildings and causing additional damage to many structures affected by previous earthquakes. The damaged tower of the historic Lyttelton Timeball Station collapsed before dismantling work could be completed. The earthquake also downed phone lines and triggered

3rd Earthquake

widespread power outages, leaving around 54,000 households without power. Rebuilding costs were estimated to increase by NZ$6 billion. Immediate reports following the quake indicated that at least 10 people were injured and hospitalised; however, the number rose to a total of 46 injuries the next day. There was no tsunami resulting from these earthquakes as they had occurred on land.

4th EarthquakeLocation: 10km North of LytteltonDate (NZ Daylight Time): Friday, 23rd December 2011 at 3:18pmEpicentre: 43.53°S, 172.74°EFocal Depth: 6kmMaximum Intensity: MM 8Magnitude: ML 6.0Casualties: No major casualties were reportedA series of earthquakes hit Christchurch residents on the afternoon of December the 23rd, starting with a 5.8 magnitude tremor at 1:58 pm. It was followed by a 6.0 magnitude aftershock at 3:18pm, centred 10km east of Christchurch in South New Brighton. There was also a 5.3 magnitude quake at 2:06pm and a 5.0 at 4:50pm. Major holes in the road were reported to have opened up on Broadhaven Avenue, and liquefaction was reported in Avonside. Initial reports said one person had received minor injuries, although St John had responded to 19 earthquake-related emergency calls in and around Christchurch. St John said all injuries were minor. Police say there is no tsunami threat, and they have no reports of serious or widespread damage or injury.

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Richter scale and the Mercalli scaleIn seismology (the study of seismic waves or vibrations in the ground / earthquakes) the Richter scale is a magnitude scale.

Magnitude scales show the amount of energy released by an earthquake. In the case of the Richter magnitude this is based on the amplitude of the seismic waves measured on a seismometer and the distance of the seismometer station from the epicentre of the earthquake. The magnitude value should be the same for a given earthquake no matter where it is recorded.

The Mercalli scale is an intensity scale. This gives information on the perceived ground shaking in a specific location. The value is derived from witness reports on the perceived violence of the shaking, from the damage done to buildings and other infrastructure and also based on measurements from accelerometers and other seismic recording instruments in order to make the Mercalli intensity value a less subjective parameter.

The intensity and damage to infrastructure can be influenced strongly by a number of variables including local ground conditions and the use (or otherwise) of earthquake resistant design.

http://www.geonet.org.nz & http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_the_difference_between_the_Richter_scale_and_the_Mercalli_scaleInformation Source:

Image copyright Geonet.org.nz

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Christchurch & Your Career

Future recruitment demandsChristchurch has been knocked by multiple devastating earthquakes and subsequent aftershocks throughout 2010 and 2011 and whilst this has caused severe short term disruption, New Zealand Prime Minister John Key believes that in the long-term, more people will come to live and work in the city compared to a time seen before the earthquakes.

The Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Fund has recently been announced at $5.5bn has only reinforced the Government’s commitment to the re-build. Quality tradesmen across all sectors and construction professionals will be needed to complete the rebuild of Christchurch.

The Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) is an agency specifically established by the Government to lead and coordinate the on-going recovery effort following the devastating earthquakes. CERA is working with a group of construction companies and have been appointed to assist with the rebuild of Christchurch city infrastructure that had been damaged by these earthquakes and is looking at more than $30 billion of work over the next five to ten years.

The building industry is worried there will not be enough skilled people to meet the needs of the $30 billion reconstruction programme. Construction industry training organisations have told the Tertiary Education Commission that New Zealand’s total of building trades workers needs to double - from 77,740 now to 155,400 - over the next five years to cope with rebuilding Christchurch, the national leaky home crisis and general economic recovery.

“We are going to have a significant shortage of skilled labour”

Ruma KaraitianaBuilding and Construction Industry

Training Organisation

“There is no doubt we are going to need external immigration support, and it’s not just in the trade areas, it’s also in the professional areas such as engineering, geotechnical engineering, architecture, design and supervision.”

Warwick QuinnMaster Builders Federation

On the other hand there are sounds of warning – a city can’t survive on trades alone.

“We still need lawyers, we still need accountants, and we still need bankers, people in the hospitality sector...”

Peter TownsendHead of Canterbury Chamber of Commerce

The hospitality industry that was centred in the central business district (CBD) was seriously impacted by the earthquakes as many restaurants and cafes were damaged, and now sit behind a cordon of warning tape. Clearly, it is not business as usual there. Canterbury Chamber of Commerce general manager Leanne Watson says many businesses in the region are still grappling with the longer term decisions which their businesses face – including what their future workforce will look like, where they will operate from, and what kind of business they will be in. But Watson says this has had a positive effect elsewhere.

“ E c o n o m i c activity here is going to be enormous. Basically you are spending $25bn over a five year period, that’s the equivalent of the entire construction industry around New Zealand every year for five years. It’s going to be phenomenal”

“I think you are going to see a lot more people trained. I think you will see internal and international migration. Look at something like EQC, they’ve gone from having 29 people to something like 1500; that is a growth business. I n t e r n a t i o n a l l y people would also be attracted to work opportunities coming from the re-build. After 10 years of re-build, do you really think they are going to pack up and leave? Not a dog’s show”

John KeyNZ Prime Minister

http://www.migrationassociates.com/christchurch-rebuild.php & opinion piece by Rebecca Stevenson - The Press 23/06/2011Information Source:

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International ExperienceAccording to our calculations Christchurch will require approximately 5,000 professional staff and some 30,000 trade and semi skilled people. Companies hope to source one-third of those needed in Ireland and the UK. Immigration New Zealand’s temporary Canterbury Skill Shortage List (CSSL) identifies those occupations in demand for the Canterbury rebuild, and will facilitate temporary work visas for applicants whose skills are listed on the CSSL. It is expected that the list will change during different phases of the rebuild. New Zealand visa rules are less stringent than Australia’s in some respects, with age limits for permanent residency capped at 55 rather than 45, and a lesser requirement for recent work experience – which could leave the door open for workers who have been unemployed in the UK and Ireland for some time.

CareerHas your career/salary stalled/stagnated or are you experiencing the threat of redundancy? If so and you are keen to do something for the people of Canterbury and your career development, there is still plenty of work to do. Don’t be a victim of the Global Economic Crisis and take control of your own destiny. Now is your chance to be part of it! The Christchurch rebuild is offering candidates the opportunity to be a key contributor to the long term humanitarian and legacy projects. It will allow you to fully utilise your qualifications and skills whilst helping Christchurch off its knees and back to its feet; as well as achieving a positive New Zealand lifestyle change for you and your family.

Potential employers will be looking for candidates from all backgrounds at all levels through all sectors. Ideally they will be looking to fill, full time permanent roles, offering you the opportunity to grow within a respective company as well as offering you the opportunity for long term career development. Relocation packages and salaries have been competitive however these opportunities are not typically ex pat roles due to the scale and nature of the New Zealand market.

What about the Middle East & Australia?If you are considering opportunities in the Middle East and/or Australia, New Zealand cannot compete with the salaries you may be able to secure in those locations. You will find that salaries in Australia are approximately 40% higher than those seen in New Zealand; plus the exchange rate (i.e. NZ$100,000 to $140,000AUS) however it is all relevant to the cost of living which is at least 40% higher in Australia. The Middle East also offers high salaries but what is the cost to your lifestyle. Most candidates moving to New Zealand make the move to achieve a work life balance different to their previous experiences and are often not salary driven. New Zealand provides you with more than just a new job but a new lifestyle which many international candidates have already discovered (ever considered a job where you do not need to commute more than 20mins)?

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Lifestyle in ChristchurchChristchurch is a beautiful city in New Zealand dominated by attractive parkland and pretty gardens. It’s located on the South Island and is becoming increasingly popular with British candidates emigrating to New Zealand who want to rediscover an old style England. The way of life in Christchurch really mirrors that found in the UK - without the crime, the immigration issues, the poorer climate or the lack of basic personal respect now prevalent in British society!

If you are wondering about moving abroad because you really want to get back to a better way of life but you are worried about moving, consider New Zealand. And if you want to reside in or near a city that has a great deal going for it, why not live in Christchurch as it appeals to candidates who want the best of Britain without the worst of Britain.

It’s been quite a difficult time in Christchurch, defined by the unexpected, but as time moves on life does go on and although the city might have taken some knocks, it will prevail. No, it won’t look quite the same as it did before, but it will evolve and grow and offer us new opportunities. You only have to look at the bars and shops opening up in shipping containers to be reminded that there is opportunity behind every setback. We’re already discovering our new favourite haunts and there will be plenty more exciting new treasures to seek out in the coming months.

To keep up to date with Christchurch’s lifestyle:http://www.cityscape-christchurch.co.nz/

11 reasons to move to NZ

1. It’s a snakeless Garden of Eden: almost desert-free; stunning and extraordinarily varied scenery, with nowhere more than two hours’ drive from the ocean; uncrowned, clean beaches; majestic, clean lakes and rivers; and relatively gentle, sunny climate with few bush fires or extreme weather.

2. The cost of living can be less than either the UK or Oz (London has just moved up to second most expensive city in the world, only beaten by Tokyo). Auckland is NZ’s most expensive city followed by Wellington and then Christchurch which is relatively cheap in comparison.

3. Excellent, uncongested roads (except in Auckland and Wellington).

4. Wonderful, plentiful drinking water.

5. Rapidly improving food and wine (unbeatable seafood); and better beer than Australia or the UK!

6. Nuclear-free, and probably the least polluted and safest country in the world.

7. An extraordinarily responsive, accessible political system (including free postage to politicians!) for almost an optimum-sized democracy.

8. More humane immigration policy.

9. Excellent opportunities for developing innovative ideas.

10. Relaxed social atmosphere.

11. New Zealand education system is ranked in the top 10 based on world rankings.

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The government, through New Zealand Immigrati on, is committ ed to addressing both the short term needs of Immigrati on and the long term sustainability of New Zealand’s economic future. In order for New Zealand to grow, we need to make sure we have the right capabiliti es within the workforce to facilitate that growth.

In order to attract and measure the types of professionals emigrating to New Zealand, the Long Term and Immediate Skills Shortage lists have been developed to facilitate an easier transition through the immigration process for migrants with occupations on these lists.

The Canterbury earthquakes have presented the issue of skills shortages in New Zealand in a unique light. New Zealand will need to rebuild an entire city – unprecedented in New Zealand history. This has lead to a shift in requirements for the New Zealand labour force and on 10th August, New Zealand Immigration introduced the Canterbury Skills Shortage List (CSSL). This list is used to assist with temporary Work Visas.

In addition to this, they regularly liaise with industry bodies, stake holders and the Department of Work and Income (WINZ) to ensure they are accurately assessing which occupations are in demand and regularly amending the above lists to reflect this.

In terms of the immediate impacts, there is a heightened awareness nationwide as to how the earthquakes and subsequent rebuild will affect other regional centres. A recent article in the Herald reflected about the Christchurch rebuild and how it stacks up against other large construction projects nationwide.

To find out if you are eligible to move to New Zealand under current immigration policy, please visit WorkingIn’s web site and complete your free eligibility assessment:

http://www.workingin-newzealand.com/

What are New Zealand Immigration doing to address the Canterbury Skill Shortages?

http://www.immigration.govt.nz & http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/work/skilledmigrant/LinkAdministration/ToolboxLinks/essentialskills.htmInformation Source:

Occupational group  Occupation and ANZSCO number  Required standard for work visa applicants with an offer of employment Construction  Building Inspector / Building Surveyor (312113) National Diploma in Building Control Surveying, Building, Construction 

Management or Architectural Design/Technology  OR Bachelor Degree in Building Surveying or Building Science  AND two years experience 

Construction  Construction Project Manager (Chip sealing, Asphalt or other Technical Manager) (Roading and Infrastructure) (133111) 

Tertiary qualified or Diploma of Engineering and trained in Staff Management  AND ten years’ relevant practical experience 

Construction  Construction Project Manager (Foreman) (Roading and Infrastructure) (133111) 

At least five years’ experience in building or maintaining roads AND Staff management experience  AND appropriate drivers licence 

Construction  Construction Project Manager (Roading and Infrastructure) (133111) 

Bachelor or Diploma of Engineering or equivalent and Project Management qualification  AND a minimum of five years’ relevant experience  AND staff management experience 

Construction  Project Builder (including Building Project Manager and Site Foreman) (133112) 

National Diploma in Construction Management (Level 6)  AND three years’ relevant post qualification experience 

Construction  Quantity Surveyor (233213)  Bachelor of Construction (Quantity Surveying)  AND three years’ relevant post qualification experience 

Construction  Surveying Technician (Spatial Science Technician/Land Surveyor's Technician) (312116) 

Bachelor or Diploma of Surveying AND two years’ relevant work experience 

Construction  Surveyor (232212) Bachelor of Surveying

Construction  Urban and Regional Planner (232611)  Bachelors degree (or higher) in environmental or resource planning

 

   

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Occupational group  Occupation and ANZSCO number  Required standard for work visa applicants with an offer of employment Engineering  Civil Engineering Draughtsperson (312211) National Diploma in Engineering Level 6  

OR equivalent Engineering  Civil Engineering Technician (312212)  National Diploma in Civil Engineering (Level 6) or Level 6 Diploma in Civil 

Engineering and at least three years work experience including at least 12 months relevant work experience in the past 18 months 

Engineering  Civil Engineer (233211)  A Washington Accord accredited engineering degree  OR Either a qualification specifically recognised by NZQA as comparable to a: • Bachelor of Engineering, or  • Bachelor of Engineering (with Honours), or  • Master of Engineering degree OR A bachelor degree (Level 7) or higher with a letter from IPENZ certifying that the degree and any further learning meets the academic requirements for registration as a ‘Chartered Professional Engineer’ in New Zealand  OR NZ registration as a ‘Chartered Professional Engineer’ 

Engineering  Electrical Engineer (233311)  A Washington Accord accredited engineering degree OR Either a qualification specifically recognised by NZQA as comparable to a:  • Bachelor of Engineering, or  • Bachelor of Engineering (with Honours), or  • Master of Engineering degree  OR A bachelor degree (Level 7) or higher with a letter from IPENZ certifying that the degree and any further learning meets the academic requirements for registration as a ‘Chartered Professional Engineer’ in New Zealand  OR NZ registration as a ‘Chartered Professional Engineer’ 

Engineering  Electrical Engineering Draughtsperson (312311) National Diploma in Engineering Level 6  OR equivalent 

Engineering  Electrical Engineering Technician (312312) Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (Level 7) majoring in electrical engineering AND three years’ relevant experience 

Engineering  Structural Engineer (233214)  A Washington Accord accredited engineering degree  OR Either a qualification specifically recognised by NZQA as comparable to a: • Bachelor of Engineering, or  • Bachelor of Engineering (with Honours), or  • Master of Engineering degree OR A bachelor degree (Level 7) or higher with a letter from IPENZ certifying that the degree and any further learning meets the academic requirements for registration as a ‘Chartered Professional Engineer’ in New Zealand  OR NZ registration as a ‘Chartered Professional Engineer’ 

Telecommunications  Telecommunications Engineer (263311) Bachelor Degree (Level 7) qualification majoring in computer science, information science or information technology  AND three years of relevant work experience 

Trades  Electric Line Mechanic (342211)  NZ registration as a line mechanic with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (qualifications in this area of absolute skill shortage are: National Certificate in Electricity Supply (Line Mechanic Distribution) (Level 4) or National Certificate in Electricity Supply (Line Mechanic Transmission) (Level 4)) 

Trades  Electrician (General) (341111)  New Zealand Electrical Registration

Trades  Scaffolder (Advanced) (821712)  National Certificate in Scaffolding (Level 4) with strands in Advanced Scaffolding and at least five years experience since obtaining the Level 4 Certificate 

Trades  Upholsterer (393311)  National Certificate in Furniture with strand in Advanced Upholstery (Level 4) AND two years’ relevant work experience 

 

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In May of 2010, in a Media release by the Hon Bill English (Minister of Finance) and the Hon Peter Dunne (Minister of Revenue), it was announced that across the board tax cuts and a package of other tax changes will be put in to moti on in order to “strengthen economic growth and help families get ahead here in New Zealand”.

“This is the most signifi cant tax reform package in New Zealand for nearly 25 years. For ordinary New Zealanders, it will reward eff ort, encourage savings and help families get ahead,” Mr. English says.

So what exactly does it entail?As of 1st October 2010:• Across the board personal tax cuts (as per the schedule

below)• A reducti on in Secondary tax and Resident withholding

tax rates• An increase in the rate of GST (VAT equivalent) from

12.5% to 15%

• An increase in NZ Superannuati on, Working for Families and benefi t payments

• A cut in the top tax rate for most PIE’s (portf olio investment enti ti es) from 30% to 28%

• Tax cuts on NZ Superannuati on

From the 1st April 2011 amongst others there will be ti ghter rules around taxati on of investment properti es, inclusive of loss att ributi ng qualifying companies and qualifying companies. In additi on there will be a reducti on of company tax rate from 30% to 28%

What’s it all in aid of?New Zealand currently raises more revenue, as a percentage of GDP, from personal income taxes than most other OECD countries. By lowering the personal tax rates, Mr. English reports that “these tax changes are broadly fi scally neutral and will make New Zealand more competi ti ve globally at a ti me when many other countries are increasing taxes to tackle rising debt from the global recession”. It is designed to sti mulate economic growth, by rewarding eff ort to give people the opportunity to save and as such get ahead, and encourages skilled people to stay or move to New Zealand.

What exactly does it mean for us then?• The vast majority of New Zealanders will be bett er off from the tax cuts, keeping more of their hard earned dollars and as such it is foreseen that it will induce savings as opposed to unsustainable borrowing and consumpti on as seen over the last decade. I.e.: a person on the average annual wage of $50,000 will enjoy a tax cut of approximately $29 per week. • At all taxable income levels, the personal income tax will more than off set the rise in GST.

For the full media release as presented by Hon Bill English and Hon Peter Dunne:http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/tax-cuts-strengthen-economy-and-help-families

New Zealand Income Tax & GST

htt p://www.ird.govt.nz/calculators/tool-name/tools-t/calculator-tax-rate.html

To fi nd out how much you will be taxed

http://www.taxguide.govt.nz/personal-tax-cuts.aspxInformation Source: P.17

New Zealand’s educati on system is world-class, modern and responsive. It combines proven, traditi onal principles of educati on with innovati on, creati vity and fresh thinking. All aspects of educati on have undergone transformati on in the past two decades, including the areas of governance, curriculum, assessment, qualifi cati ons, and teaching and learning.

Educati on is compulsory for all students aged between 6 -16 years, though most students begin school at age 5. New Zealand’s educati on system has three levels – Early Childhood Educati on (ECE), Schooling, and Terti ary Educati on. Below follows a basic synopsis on each of these, but should you wish to fi nd out more informati on, please feel free to ask more specifi c questi ons and we will do some research and get back to you with the answers.

ECE (Early Childhood Education) In New Zealand ECE means educati on and care for children from babies to school entrant age, it is heavily governed by Government which focuses on the development of the curriculum (Te Whaariki), regulati ng for minimum standards and teacher quality. Three and four year old children usually att end ECE for around 14-17 hours per week and the Government funds up to 20 hours free ECE per week for this age group at approved ECE providers.

Primary and Secondary Schooling Free educati on is provided to NZ citi zens or permanent residents in state schools between the ages of 5-19, and is compulsory unti l age 16. Primary educati on focuses on strong foundati on learning, especially in literacy and numeracy. In secondary schools the ti metable is arranged around subjects and although students conti nue to experience a broad and balanced curriculum some specialisati on is possible especially in years 11 to 13. The New Zealand school year usually runs from the end of January to mid-December, and is divided into four terms.

Tertiary Education Entry to work or further study (e.g. university) is not limited by the type of secondary school a student att ends. New Zealand’s terti ary qualifi cati ons and programmes are internati onally recognised for their quality and focus on graduate preparedness.

For further informati on about the New Zealand educati on system, check out the website links below or feel free to send us an email with your specifi c questi ons:

Levels of Education in New Zealand

W: www.minedu.govt.nzW: www.teacherscouncil.govt.nzW: www.ero.govt.nzW: www.educati onnz.org.nzW: www.newzealandeducated.com

New Zealand’s Education System

P.18

New Zealand has a quality public healthcare system, funded largely through general taxati on. Most treatment in public hospitals is free, and many other health services and medicines are signifi cantly subsidised.

Am I eligible for publicly funded healthcare?All permanent residents are eligible for public healthcare. People with a work permit valid for a minimum of two years at ti me of issue are also eligible. Eligibility also enti tles your partner and any children aged 19 years and under to public healthcare services.

Which health services are covered by New Zealand’s public health system?

The New Zealand Healthcare System

Doctor’s visitsA visit to the doctor will cost around $45 – $60 during the week, with an additi onal fee of $10 – $15 outside of normal working hours. Children under six are oft en free and fees for children between the ages of six and 17 are subsidised. You can usually see the doctor on the same day you make an appointment. Emergency care in a hospital is generally free, as are public hospital treatments following referral from a GP.Specialist services and non-urgent surgery are free when you are referred by a GP. Waiti ng ti mes for specialist care vary from hospital to hospital.

What about private healthcare?Many New Zealanders purchase private health insurance in order to receive care in private hospitals and to avoid waiti ng lists for the treatment of non-urgent medical conditi ons. People with private health insurance are sti ll eligible for free public health benefi ts. For more informati on about New Zealand health services, see Immigrati on New Zealand’s health sett lement pack.

What if I have an accident?If you have an accident you are enti tled to free hospital care. The Accident Compensati on Corporati on (ACC) helps to cover the cost of out-of-hospital care for accident-related injuries. If your injury aff ects your ability to work, ACC will provide compensati on based on your income. It can also assist with recovery-related costs such as training and transport, residenti al nursing care, home help and childcare.

Is dental care covered by the public health system?In New Zealand, general dental care for people over 18 years of age is not subsidised by the government. Instead you can select the denti st of your choice and receive treatment as a private pati ent. Basic dental care for school children is free up to age 18 and routi ne dental checks are off ered to all school children. Emergency dental care is subsidised by the government for low-income residents.

• Free public hospital treatment, including 24-hour accident and emergency (A&E) clinics

• Most laboratory tests and X-rays, unless made at a privately run clinic

• Healthcare during pregnancy and childbirth, including hospital stays and pre- and postnatal care

• Subsidised prescripti on medicines

• Free specialist care when referred by a general practi ti oner (GP)

• Free child immunisati ons

• Free prescripti on medicine for children under six and subsidised visits to the doctor

• Free basic dental treatment for school children

• Free breast screening for women aged 45 to 69

T: +64 9 302 0977 E: visas@workingin.com

http://www.workingin-newzealand.comInformation Source: P.19

Many migrants upon arriving in New Zealand choose to rent a property in order to avoid making ill informed and possibly costly purchasing mistakes by buying in the wrong area for all the wrong reasons!

Moving across the other side of the world can be stressful enough, why add to that by spending every spare moment of your fi rst couple of weeks in our beauti ful country, franti cally visiti ng one open home aft er another without any real idea of what you’re looking for. How will you know the diff erence between one locati on and the next and, while local, is handy for all your family’s needs such as schools, social outlets and partners’ proximity to prospecti ve places of work?

So what is the rental market like?If there is one thing that is ingrained upon Kiwis’ is that you can’t go wrong with bricks and mortar (or more likely ti mber and iron). Coupled with current favourable property tax legislati on, many invest in a second dwelling early on, resulti ng in a buoyant and plenti ful array of rental properti es to suit all budgets and life-styles.

Furnished rental properti es are not the norm in New Zealand. Rather, properti es come equipped with the standard stove/oven and laundry tub faciliti es, as well as carpet and curtains. If white ware is referred to in adverti sing it pays to check, as this can include the likes of a dishwasher, washing machine, drier, fridge/freezer (this is more common in city apartment set-ups, where space is of the essence).

There are two main types of rental agreements as set out by the Department of Building and Housing, Tenancy Services department as follows:

A Periodic Tenancyis any tenancy that is not for a specifi c term. This is the most common form of tenancy. It conti nues unti l the landlord or tenant gives the correct noti ce to end it.

A Fixed Term Tenancyfi nishes on a specifi c date set down in the writt en Tenancy Agreement. There is no provision for either the landlord or the tenant to give noti ce to quit.

For further informati on regarding each party’s responsibiliti es under these agreements visit: www.dbh.govt.nz/tenancy-index

Entering in to a rental agreement generally consists of up front costs inclusive of up to 4 weeks rent in the form of bond (which gets held by the New Zealand Ministry of Housing, and is refunded to you upon terminati on of the tenancy minus the costs of any damage committ ed or rent outstanding). In additi on it is common to pay anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks rent in advance and if dealing through a real estate agency a fee of one week’s rent equivalent plus GST. It is important to be aware that further costs such as setti ng up electricity/gas/telephone and in some regions water rates are also the responsibility of the tenant.

How do you go about fi nding a rental?The most common means of locati ng a suitable rental is either via the internet or through a real estate agency or property management company. Many rental property owners choose to property manage themselves and as such may charge a slightly lower market rate than those managed through a professional property manager or agency. www.realestate.co.nz and www.trademe.co.nz are the most common means of adverti sing via the internet.

Renting a property in New Zealand

For more informati on: htt p://www.dbh.govt.nz/tenancy-index

P.20

Christchurch city is recovering from a major earthquake which has had a signifi cant impact on the housing market including rental properti es within the Central City and its fringes.

Soon aft er the Christchurch earthquakes an esti mated 70000 people left the City, many of which leaving behind suitable rental accommodati on - therefore initi ally there was somewhat of an infl ux of extra rentals available. Like the commercial building sector; a large number of these rental properti es were snapped up shortly aft er the two main earthquake events by Cantabrians who were displaced from their own homes which were no longer habitable. Obviously as ti me has passed and with the increase in new arrivals to Christchurch, this initi al infl ux of properti es has diminished.

So what does it mean for people coming in to Christchurch now? Is there rental accommodati on available for them? In short the answer is yes. There are plenty of suburbs that experienced litt le or no damage whatsoever, although they tend to be a litt le further away from the heart of the City (5-15 kilometres or 10-20 minutes drive) but similarly the majority of businesses have had to relocate away from the central city also to new premises in these more suburban areas.

The same rules apply in Christchurch as if looking to rent in any other NZ city; if you view a property and like it, don’t wait around, make your intenti ons clear to the real estate agent/landlord, ask for an applicati on form and submit it immediately. Otherwise reality is that someone else will beat you to it, meaning you’ll have to conti nue the search.

Helpful hint: While it can be quite easy to arrive in the country and put off commencing the search for a rental instead putti ng your feet up in the short term (2-3 weeks) accommodati on arranged for by your employer to get over your jetlag, this is not a trap you should allow yourself to fall in to. Instead upon arrival the search for a rental property should be your number one priority, even if it may not be the property that you can see yourself sett ling in for the long term, key is to take away the pressure of trying to arrange house viewings once you’ve started your new job and well before your temporary accommodati on runs out. You can focus on fi nding the dream property at a later date when you have plenty of ti me on your side to do so. If an employer does provide you with accommodati on upon arrival don’t assume this can be easily extended as it will typically be in the form of a self contained motel unit which most likely will be fully booked for many months in advance due to the disti nct decrease in hotel/motel accommodati on faciliti es left able to operate in the city.

The types of housing available in New Zealand are quite diff erent to that in the UK for example. Many of our older houses tend to be made out of ti mber and not the brick and ti le you may be more used to. To get an understanding of the types of properti es available in Christchurch follow the links below:

Renting in Christchurch

htt p://www.realestate.co.nz/rental/search/districts/282

htt p://goo.gl/bTqQM

P.21

New Zealand Importing Control Initiatives

To many people overseas, New Zealand is synonymous with the images and ideology of a clean, green environment, of being relati vely unspoilt and unpopulated (people versus land rati o), and having an economy built on its agriculture, farming and tourism industries, which are all equally dependent on keeping it just so.

New Zealand is fortunate that we do not have any wild animals of the mammal, reptile or fish variety (aside from those you can safely encounter at the zoo) nor of the creepy crawly insect variety, that can seriously do harm. More important however is the fact that due to the very nature of New Zealand’s geographical isolation from other countries, it enjoys less than 10% of the world’s pests and diseases. As our economy is largely dependent on primary industry such as agriculture and farming, keeping it that way is crucial. Therefore we have stringent rules and legislation in place which is regulated and controlled by MAF (Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry) Biosecurity New Zealand (MAFBNZ) in terms of what can and cannot be brought into the country.

How does it apply to people co ming to the country? Every aspect of your move will need to comply with and pass the scrutiny of MAFBNZ. From shipping your household belongings, to your physical touch down on NZ soil and passing through customs, from which pets you can and cannot bring, to the process you need to follow in order to bring them.

Bringing your Pet to New ZealandWe’re often asked if pets can be brought across, and in many cases with dogs and cats the answer is yes depending on which country they are coming from, whether they meet the specific conditions for entry which are dependent on that country of origin, and in the cases of dogs; that they are not on the list of prohibited breeds.

If your dog is of the American Pit Bull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa or Brazilian Fila or Perro de Presa Canario variety, then they will not be allowed in the country. Furthermore birds, guinea pigs, ferrets, mice, rats, and reptiles are also a definite no-no.

Depending on which country you are coming from will determine whether you can bring your dog or cat with you. The first thing to do is to take a look at MAFNZB’s website to establish whether your country of origin is on the list of approved countries to import pets. (www.maf.govt.nz). There are three categories of approved countries, each with their own specific requirements pertaining to the requirement of import permits, veterinary checks, vaccinations, micro-chipping and imposed quarantine periods.

As of January 1st, 2012 there have been two major changes to the requirements by MAFBNZ pertaining to the import of cats and dogs. The first being that all new arrivals (except those from Australia) to NZ must now spend a minimum 10 days at one of the five MAF registered quarantine facilities for domestic cats and dogs around the country. Secondly; cats and dogs from the UK, Malta, Republic of Ireland, and Sweden will now be required to have a rabies vaccination and rabies titre test prior to entry in NZ.

Furthermore, your pet must be more than 16 weeks of age at the date of departure and no more than 42 days pregnant in order to qualify.

Deciding to bring your pet with you on your new adventure can be an emotional choice but consideration should be given as to whether it is the right thing for your particular pet. If your pet is elderly, has a medical condition or has a nervous disposition then the number of flights and subsequent quarantine period required to bring them here may not be in their best interest, and it may be kinder to re-home them with a friend or family member.

Conti nued on next page...

http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz & http://www.customs.govt.nzInformation Source:

P.22

Personal Effects and Household GoodsMAFBNZ assess all shipments of goods coming into the country by checking the required accompanying documentation and when necessary physically inspecting the goods. There are some items that cannot be brought into NZ and should these items be found during inspection they may either be treated, reshipped or destroyed at the owners cost. Furthermore, belongings whether shipped via air or sea, need to be packaged in a freight container that meets the requirements of the Import Health Standards for Air Containers and Sea containers respectively. Using a professional moving company familiar with NZ biosecurity laws may therefore make your move a whole lot less stressful and timely.

Examples of what is restricted and prohibited and therefore you shouldn’t pack unless you have obtained relevant official certification are; any packets of food, bee products, plant products such as; seeds, cuttings, bulbs, and straw, along with any items restricted under the convention on International Trade in Endangered species (coral, ivory etc). By the way, don’t go round collecting food cartons from your local supermarket that were used for the transportation of fresh food to use for your packing of household goods either, as they too are not allowed to come into the country.

Arriving at the AirportThankfully gone are the days where every plane landing at an international airport in NZ automatically was fumigated. An experience which consisted of, after landing, MAF officers boarding the plane and walking down the aisles with two giant spray cans (not too dissimilar to those that hold fly spray) and emptying them out over the passengers as they passed. These days, planes that regularly come to NZ are issued with a bio-security certificate and it is only in very rare circumstances (such as if that certificate has expired or it is a plane that doesn’t normally come to NZ) that passengers get to enjoy this particular treat!

What you can expect though is a comprehensive border control procedure involving several phases. The first being the arrivals declaration card that you are asked to complete while still on board – if in doubt declare it – otherwise no matter how innocent the mistake your first impression of NZ may not be as you’d expected when you’re hit with a hefty fine at customs!

When walking through to the baggage claim, it will be highly likely that you will come across MAFBNZ inspectors with their detector dogs (typically Beagles) trained specifically to locate any food and other agricultural products amongst travellers and their baggage.

Once you have located your baggage you will precede to customs which is your last chance to declare any items that may be considered a potential biosecurity risk before your baggage passes through an X-ray machine. Here too, you may be asked to show any camping or sports gear and shoes that may have been used in forestry or farms especially where foot and mouth disease outbreaks may have occurred. Again, thorough cleaning of these items before packing them is strongly advised for a smooth arrival. If your shoes are dirty you will be required to wait while they are fumigated and cleaned before being allowed to clear customs.

Note:MAF Biosecurity New Zealand must be provided with the flight/ship number and arrival time of any animal at least 72 hours before expected arrival. Migrants are asked to use the following email addresses or phone numbers depending on intended port of arrival:

• AucklandE: mgsakac@maf.govt.nzT: +64 9 909 8631

• WellingtonE: mgswlg@maf.govt.nzT: +64 4 894 4213

• ChristchurchE: mgschc@maf.govt.nzT: +64 3 943 3803

http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz & http://www.customs.govt.nzInformation Source: P.23

From ti me to ti me we get asked whether it is worthwhile to bring the family car over when you move to NZ. A hard questi on to answer as it depends greatly on what kind of car it is, how old it is, how long you’ve owned it and fi nally how att ached you are to it. We can totally appreciate that if it’s the prized 1963 Bentley Conti nental left to you by Uncle Jack that you would defi nitely bring it with you regardless of the shipping costs. However, if it’s the 2002 Ford Focus, then you may want to buy yourself another one upon your arrival, aft er reading what is involved below.

Thinking about bringing your car over to New Zealand?

Used vehicles from EuropeIf you want to bring the car, you must be able to provide evidence that it meets a range of approved standards for the type of vehicle before it can be registered for use on NZ roads. All vehicles entering NZ must be checked, certi fi ed, registered and licensed before you can use them on our roads. It pays to research whether your car meets these criteria in-depth fi rst as if your car arrives in NZ and it does not meet these standards, you will not be able to use it on our roads, making it rather an expensive and pointless exercise.

What evidence do you need to provide?Europe has two vehicle standard regimes:

• The Regulati ons of the United Nati ons Economic Commission for Europe

• The Directi ves of the Commission of the European Communiti es.

• Evidence that your vehicle complies with either of these standards may be acceptable but you may also need to provide documents to prove acceptable compliance for the following:

• Proof of ownership- that you are legally enti tled to your vehicle inclusive of registrati on, change of ownership papers and purchase receipts.

• Emissions standards

• Frontal impact standards

• Statement of compliance

• Fuel consumpti on

• Heavy-vehicle brakes standards

• Overall standards (check with an entry certi fi er to determine whether the EC or UN/ECE whole vehicle approval on your vehicle is acceptable)

Duties or No Duties Payable?You’ve done your research and the car complies with New Zealand’s entry regulati ons, now it comes down to facts and fi gures whether it is actually economical to bring it. Aside from the actual shipping costs, associated MAF (Ministry of Agriculture & Forestry) Bio security cleaning and clearance fees, and the import transacti on fee; depending on the age of the car and how long you’ve owned it, there may be duti es payable also.

In general, you will not need to pay customs charges by form of concessionary entry for motor vehicles if you meet the criteria below:

• You have arrived in NZ and on the date the motor vehicle is imported you hold a document authorising permanent residence in NZ; and

• For the whole of the period of 21 months preceding your arrival, you have resided outside of NZ; and

• You have personally owned and used the vehicle for at least one year before the date of your departure for NZ, or the date on which the vehicle is surrendered for shipping; and

• The vehicle is being imported for your own personal use and not for sale or gift purposes; and

• You are prepared to sign a deed where you agree not to sell the vehicle for 2 years.

However, if vehicles do not qualify for concessionary entry they will be subject to duty and GST based upon the customs valuati on of the vehicle. Depending on the value of the car and the amount of ti me you have owned it, this can be costly. For example: a car valued at £8,500 which you have owned for 7 months will att ribute a $3656.85 total customs charge.For a complete breakdown of customs charges payable and calculati on matrixes that are relevant to your car, please go to:htt p://www.customs.govt.nz/travellers/Motor+vehicles/When+Customs+charges+are+payable.htm

For further informati on relati ng to importi ng private vehicles:www.customs.govt.nz | www.nzta.govt.nz | www.biosecurity.govt.nz

http://www.customs.govt.nz & http://nzta.govt.nzInformation Source:

P.24

Driver license requirementsIt is a legal obligati on to have your valid and current driver licence or internati onal driving permit with you at all ti mes when you are driving.

Upon arrival in New Zealand, if you hold a valid and current overseas driver license or internati onal driving permit, you can drive for a maximum of 12 months from the date that you arrived in New Zealand. If your license is from overseas and not in English you must carry an accurate and authorised English translati on with you at all ti mes.

It is advisable prior to the expirati on of the 12 months that you apply to a driver licensing agent to convert your overseas license to the New Zealand equivalent, pass the required eye test and pay the relevant fees. Currently if you hold a valid license from the UK for more than 2 years, you would not need to sit any additi onal theory or practi cal tests.

Unlike the UK, New Zealand does not have a disti ncti on between automati c and manual full driver licenses. In New Zealand is it not compulsory to have car insurance although this is advisable in the case of an accident where your car is damaged through the fault of somebody else who happens to not be insured!

Our Road RulesUnlike the UK, you can only park in the directi on of traffi c fl ow on your side of the road. You can be fi ned or towed away for parallel parking on the wrong side of the road.

Drivers are no longer allowed to use hand-held mobile phones when driving. Writi ng, reading or sending text messages on a mobile phone is also illegal.

Everything is referred to as kilometres per hour not miles. On most New Zealand’s main rural roads and motorways, the speed limit is 100km/h unless a sign says a lower speed applies. In urban areas the speed limit is normally 50km/h again unless a sign says otherwise.

By law, everyone in the vehicle must wear a safety belt or appropriate child restraint; it is the driver’s responsibility to ensure this is abided by. Children under the age of 5 must be secured in an approved child restraint.

At fi rst glance driving in New Zealand may not seem too dissimilar to that in the UK but there are a couple of things that you need to be aware about surrounding licensing and unique road rules and legislati on.

Conti nued on next page...

Driving in New Zealand - What you need to know

http://www.nzta.govt.nz & http://www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/around-nz/road-user-rule.htmlInformation Source: P.25

Change 1: The left-turn verses right-turn ruleCurrently, when turning left you must give way to vehicles that are coming from the opposite directi on and turning right. Essenti ally you need to treat every intersecti on like a roundabout, giving way to traffi c from your right.

As of the 25th March 2012, the new rule will require all traffi c turning right to give way to a vehicle coming from the opposite directi on and turning left . This only applies at cross roads, T-intersecti ons and driveways where:

Change 2: At uncontrolled T-intersectionsAs of the 25th March 2012, all traffi c from a terminati ng road will have to give way to all traffi c on a conti nuing road.

a) Both vehicles are facing each other with no signs or signals (neither vehicle is controlled)

c) Both vehicles are facing stop signs

b) Both vehicles are facing give way signs

d) Both vehicles are facing green traffi c signals

As of Sunday 25th March 2012 two changes to our cantankerous and rather unique give way rules at intersecti ons which has confused people for years (especially those coming from the UK), will take eff ect.

NB: The changes below do not apply to give-way rules at roundabouts. You should conti nue to give way to vehicles on the roundabout coming from your right.

These are by no means the only applicable rules relevant to driving in New Zealand, as such before driving in New Zealand it is suggested to view the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) website for further informati on and to familiarise yourself with a copy of the ‘Offi cial New Zealand Road code’

Changes to the Give Way at Intersections Rule

P.26

We have been responsible for assisti ng well over 450 Engineers and their families with the move to New Zealand. Part of this move can be to introduce Engineers to the New Zealand Chapter of the Insti tuti on of Civil Engineers.

Presently the ICE has around 600 members in NZ and that number is growing. The well developed engineering sector and unrivalled lifestyle opportuniti es have seen an increasing number of younger Engineers make the move to this side of the world, either as a career move or as a lifestyle choice.

The objecti ve for the New Zealand branch of ICE is to support and promote the internati onal strategy of ICE within New Zealand. The internati onal strategy is set out on the ICE web site.

The strategy for the branch of ICE is to support those members of ICE who reside temporarily or permanently in New Zealand who wish to maintain links with ICE in the United Kingdom. ICE aims to undertake the strategy by:

• Providing services that are relevant and valued by members and employers

• Maintaining and promoti ng high professional standards

• Providing an internati onal source of skills and knowledge for tomorrow’s engineering

• Being broad and inclusive of all those engaged in civil engineering

• Partnering with, and respect for, local relevant bodies locally, to support the engineering community in infl uencing governments and industry.

VisionWe will be recognised as the leading source of internati onal knowledge and skills required to create a sustainable natural and built environment for the benefi t of future generati ons.

Core ValuesTrust and honesty, ethical behaviour and integrity, high standards, quality and professionalism.

Core PurposeTo set standards for qualifi cati on and registrati on of all engaged in civil engineering; to provide a knowledge exchange for best practi ce and to promote the contributi on that we make to society.

Jo ConwayRegional Administrator - Trans TasmanM: + 64 21 22 55 256E: transtasman@ice.org.uk

Professional Memberships: ICE New Zealand

http://www.ice-newzealand.org.ukInformation Source: P.27

Migrating to NZThere are many issues to consider when thinking about migrating to Australia or New Zealand. These include:

• What is the market like? Will you gain employment?• How much can you expect to be paid?• Will your professional qualification be recognised?• Will the area of practice that you have been

involved in elsewhere be similar or very different here?

• What licenses will you need to work in NZ?• What employment or residency visa do you need

and are you entitled to?

All of these questions and more depend on a whole range of factors including:

• What area of work you have experience in;• What discipline of RICS or RICS Chartered

Designation you have attained;• What state, territory or country you will be moving

to;• What type of work you wish to undertake.

The RICS attempt to answer the main questions that members raise but some questions can only be answered by those directly involved in the market.

Also please understand that it is not often possible to answer generic questions like ‘Will I get a job’ or ‘Can you advise me which firms are recruiting’ - thats a question for Catalyst Recruitment!

Will you be ‘recognised’ in New Zealand?RICS is working hard to raise the profile of our members in Australia and New Zealand, through running events, government, media and lobbying on specific issues.

The term ‘Surveyor’ is not used in a Property context in New Zealand. Property professionals are either valuers, agents, managers, developers, asset mangers, fund managers etc. There is less of a notion of a general practitioner than in the UK. Quantity Surveyors and Land Surveyors use the surveying label as do Building Control Surveyors (who are known in Australia as Building Surveyors.)

When dealing with government agencies or the immigration department (who often seek advice on employment label/classification) it is important to bear this in mind. While there are some hurdles to overcome in migrating to New Zealand there are many benefits and opportunities. Of the c.2000 Chartered Members here more than a half will have qualified elsewhere in the world and migrated here.

RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) Oceania represents: Australia, New Zealand, American Samoa (USA), Norfolk Island (Aust), Fiji, East Timor, French Polynesia (Fr), Guam (USA), Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, New Caledonia (Fr), Cook Islands, Niue, Tokelau, Northern Mariana Islands (USA), Palau (USA), Papua New Guinea, Pitcairn Islands (UK), Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Wallis and Futuna Islands (Fr), Samoa.

The Head Office of RICS Oceania is based in Sydney and there are offices in several other Australian states and in Auckland, New Zealand. RICS has these main roles within the Oceania property sector:

• To maintain the highest standards of education and training;• To protect consumers through strict regulation of ethics and standards;• To advise organisations, such as governments and regional boards.

Immigration VISA options:htt p://www.rics.org/site/download_feed.aspx?fi leID=8818&fi leExtension=PDF

Any queries:info@rics.org.au

Professional Memberships: RICS Oceania

http://www.rics.orgInformation Source:

- Oceania

P.28

All employers seek to reduce the inherent risks associated with recruitment. This can become parti cularly apparent when recruiti ng overseas staff . Simply put, Kiwi employers prefer to employ local candidates, which put internati onal candidates at a disadvantage from the start.

To secure a positi on in New Zealand you will need to prepare a résumé that presents your work experience in the best possible way to hopefully secure interviews and job off ers. Potenti al New Zealand employers are not likely to know the companies you have worked for or projects that you have worked on, therefore you will need to provide more informati on than you would in your current locati on. Your résumé will probably need to be 5 to 7 pages long and contain descripti ons of your employer, role and the projects you have worked on.

An indicati on for each employer could be…

Employment Company NameDurati on three to 5 lines of company descripti on

Dates positi on Positi on TitleHeld (if multi ple) three to 5 lines of job descripti on

Responsibiliti es& Achievements: *… *…

Project 1 Title, descripti on (including constructi on style), scale (stories, m2, £’s/$’s, etc), specialist techniques used, your contributi onProject 2 Project 3 Etc… Repeat above for each Company / Positi on

CV Writing tips for the New Zealand market

This style of résumé layout gives you the best chance of securing interviews. You should include all positi ons; however, you should provide more informati on for more recent roles and less for those in the distant past.

It is also important to note that NZ employers rarely ‘chase’ internati onal applicants, (due to the perceived additi onal risk), therefore you will need to be committ ed to immigrati ng to NZ. You must demonstrate your commitment to migrati ng by indicati ng your compelling reason for moving to NZ, research completed, potenti al date of arrival, etc - a good way to do this is to complete our ‘Further Informati on Form’ (if you need a new copy contact us).

Please also remember that although salaries for professionals within New Zealand provide for a great lifestyle in New Zealand, they do not always compare favourably to your home locati on (depending on your current locale) but we have some great informati on that explains that New Zealand is if oft en less expensive place to live and provides many exciti ng things to do. We also have some of the best and safest citi es in the world.

Finally, nothing demonstrates your commitment higher than calling us directly on 0808 234 3587 - our free phone made for UK to NZ calls. This will allow signifi cant amounts of informati on exchange which will help both sides progress any potenti al applicati on.

P.29

NZ has freehold and leasehold property, the same as the UK. The vast majority of our land is registered so you get an indefeasible*, and generally quite understandable, ti tle to your land, without the need for signifi cant historical searching through deeds.

The principles of caveat emptor apply. So it’s buyer beware and buyers should carry out thorough due diligence. It’s important for a buyer to recognise that when you sign a contract here in NZ that contract is binding on you and you will be obliged to complete, subject to your rights to cancel if conditi ons you include in the contract are not sati sfi ed or if there is a breach of some other legal requirement. Sellers are likewise bound.

If you are buying in Christchurch, make sure you use a local solicitor. Post-earthquake diff erent legal issues have arisen in Christchurch and it’s mostly being handled by the local solicitors.

These issues include:

• Geotechnical issues concerning the land

• Structural issues concerning the buildings

• Insurance considerati ons

In the rest of NZ it is generally business as usual, although insurance ramifi cati ons are far-reaching and closer att enti on is being paid to the informati on available on the land and buildings e.g. earthquake rati ngs, liquefacti on risk.

Most of the conveyancing in NZ is carried out by lawyers. Look for a lawyer who is a member of the New Zealand Law Society Property Law Secti on. They know their stuff .

...and buying property in Christchurch is diff erent to buying in the rest of NZ!

Denise MarsdenPartner - AlexanderDorringtonT: +64 9 375 2789M: +64 9 375 2771E: denise@alexanderdorrington.co.nzW: www.alexanderdorrington.co.nzSkype details available on request

Andrew LoganPartner - Mortlock McCormackT: +64 3 343 8452M: +64 21 2224 646E: andrew@mmlaw.co.nzPA Claire Smith: claire@mmlaw.co.nzW: www.mmlaw.co.nz

Buying property in NZ is different to buying in the UK...

If you are thinking of buying property in Christchurch, contact Andrew Logan - Partner Mortlock McCormack Law. If you are looking outside Christchurch then contact Denise Marsden - Partner AlexanderDorrington Lawyers. We will look aft er you!

*Indefeasible means the person recorded on the registered ti tle to the land is, subject to very limited excepti ons, guaranteed ti tle.

http://www.alexanderdorrington.co.nzInformation Source:

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The questi on of residency and tax obligati ons is quite complicated and factors in the following:

• Durati on of stay

• Permanent place of abode

• Social and economic ti es

With regard to a UK resident who arrives with a work visa aft er staying and working in NZ for 183 days in a 12 month period then they become New Zealand tax residents , BUT as UK residents the United Kingdom–New Zealand Double Tax Agreement (DTA) can be used to determine a single residence status.

Under the DTA the taxpayers are deemed to be resident in the country in which they have a permanent home available. If they have a permanent home available in both countries, they are deemed to be resident in the country to which they have closer personal and economic ti es. Should they not be able to determine this, they are deemed to be resident in the country in which they have their habitual abode. If they have a habitual abode in both countries or neither country, they are deemed to be resident in the country of which they are nati onals.

If deemed UK tax residents, they will be required to fi le a non-resident return for any income earned in New Zealand during the income tax year- eg, New Zealand interest.

If deemed New Zealand tax residents, then the worldwide income is required to be fi led in the NZ tax return HOWEVER there is a temporary tax exempti ons on foreign based income for a 4 year period, this can include but not limited to the following:

• Dividends

• Interest

• Bonuses from a previous job overseas, even if received aft er arriving in New Zealand

• Taxati on arising from employee share opti ons

• Accrual income from foreign fi nancial arrangements

• Certain trust income

• Rental income derived off shore

• Royalti es derived off shore

• Gains on sale of property derived off shore

• Off shore business income that is not related to the performance of services.

Peat Johnson Murray Limited is a medium sized chartered accounti ng practi ce based in Auckland. Simon has over 15 years accounti ng experience and provides accounti ng advice to a wide range of clients.

Be sure to check the website for Peat Johnson Murray Accountants - www.pjmca.co.nz - for useful resources such as an Income Tax calculator and other handy informati on!

Simon PeatT: +64 9 526 9610E: simon@pjmca.co.nzW: www.pjmca.co.nz

Overseas tax obligations

Direct communication & http://www.pjmca.co.nzInformation Source: P.31

Kevin JonesPrincipalM: +64 21 598 862 T: +64 9 486 0957E: kevin@jones-law.co.nzW: www.jones-law.co.nz

Amber NellConsultantM: +64 21 061 9935T: +64 9 486 0952E: amber@jones-law.co.nz

Tax Law and Estate Planning Specialists in Pre-Migration Structuring

Did you know...?

You may qualify for a four-year tax exemption on foreign income Consider whether your funds should be moved to New Zealand or left off shore to derive income tax-free.

There are no death duties in New ZealandIf you’re coming to New Zealand indefi nitely you may be able to limit the impositi on of estate and death duti es.

Foreign exchange gains may be taxable - even if unrealisedForeign exchange gains can be taxable, in some cases even if the foreign currency loan or deposit remains in place. Learn how the fi nancial arrangement rules apply to foreign currency holdings and mortgages. Your partner may be entitled to half your property even if you’re not marriedNew Zealand has liberal relati onship property laws which allow for equal sharing of property once you’ve been together for three years (or even sooner in special circumstances), whether or not you are married. Ensure you understand your rights and protect your property from potenti al claims from future partners.

We can assist with:

• Pre-migrati on planning

• Taxati on advice

• Trust establishment and administrati on

• Business and investment structures

• Relati onship property advice

• Estate planning

Contact UsThe best results are achieved by making sure you understand your planning opportuniti es before arriving in New Zealand. Please contact us for a no obligati on discussion on your positi on.

Jones Law - Barristers & Solicitors437 Lake Road, Takapuna, AucklandPO Box 32 581, Devonport 0744, Auckland, NZwww.jones-law.co.nz

Direct communication & http://www.jones-law.co.nzInformation Source:

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We know that moving to a new country is tricky, and a key life event. So we make it easy for Catalyst’s clients to open a bank account before they arrive and we will make it happen with a minimum of fuss.

We are often asked “why should I set up a bank account before I arrive in New Zealand?”

Here are some of the benefits:

• You can use your NZ bank account right from the start to avoid paying unnecessary fees and charges back home.

• You are able to transfer money into your account through your FX specialist before you leave, ensuring your funds are ready to use when you arrive.

• It’s often hard to produce enough identification after you land in New Zealand, which can make it difficult to open a bank account once you arrive.

• You can give your new employer a NZ account number in advance so you’re part of the first pay cycle in your new job.

• It’s one less thing you need to worry about doing when you arrive in NZ.

If you would like to apply to open a Westpac New Zealand bank account with us before you arrive, simply go to:htt p : / / w w w.we st p a c . co . n z /o l co nte nt /olcontent.nsf/Content/Open+an+account and complete the online application form, or speak with one of our team about how Westpac can help you with your move.

Westpac New ZealandLevel 1, Takatai Square, Auckland, New ZealandOpening Hours: Monday to Friday 9:00am to 4:30pmNZ toll free: 0808 2341 208Call free from the UK: 0808 2341 208Call free from Australia: 1 800 681 217Call free from South Africa: 0800 983 942Fax: +64 (9) 348 9128Email: migrantbanking@westpac.co.nz

Or speak with one of our team in the UK

Westpac LondonGround Floor, Camomile Court,23 Camomile Street, London EC3A 7LLOpening Hours: Monday to Friday 9:30am to 4:00pm and first Saturday of each month 10:00am to 2:00pm (or by appointment)Main Tel: +44 (0)20 7621 7222Direct Dial: +44 (0)20 7621 7169Fax: +44 (0)20 7621 7131Email: ukmigrantbanking@westpac.com.au

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Did you know you can set up your bank account before you arrive?With Westpac Migrant and Expatriate Banking you can!

Migrant & Expatriate Banking Services from Westpac

For more informati on visit:http://www.westpac.co.nz/movingtonewzealand

Westpac migrant services - SponsorInformation Source: P.33

When moving overseas, whether for an exciti ng new career opportunity or a lifestyle change, it is very important to understand what you may need to do if you chose to transfer your assets overseas with you.

These assets may include the proceeds of a house or car sale, an investment portf olio or maturing investment instruments, an existi ng pension or other fi nancial considerati ons. Now did you know that you do not need to use a bank when transferring your domesti c currency to your new home country?

Once you have made the decision to move to another country - you have currency risk in one form or another. A good course of acti on is to contact a specialist non-bank FX provider and ask for advice; a non-bank provider will assist you in identi fying currency risks. They will have a suite of tailored products, alongside a pro- acti ve service with no hidden charges, to help you manage and miti gate that risk, helping you get the best possible start in your new home country!

Forex Limited is the established specialist FX brokerage and treasury advisory business in New Zealand, located in the Auckland and Wellington CBD. Simon has over 20 year’s global experience in fi nancial markets. As a migrant from the UK, Simon has a wealth of understanding and experience to bring to any migrant soluti on.

Simon DentonMigrant ServicesT: + 64(0) 9 309 5710E: s.denton@forexltd.co.nzW: www.forexltd.co.nz

What about my currency transfer?

Direct communication & http://www.forexltd.co.nzInformation Source:

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From a UK phone:NZ Landline (2p/min) - 0844 462 98 98

NZ Mobile (15p/min) - 0911 501 25 25Catalyst (free!) - 0808 234 3587

Fed up of huge phone bills from calling your friends and family here in New Zealand? Telediscount is a telecom company committed to offering both business and residential customers low cost calls. They are equipped to provide customers with a comfortable solution and low cost alternative to BT. With Telediscount you can call you friends and family in New Zealand for 2p per minute to a landline, and only 15p a minute to a mobile!

Telediscount is designed for anyone wishing to benefit from low cost phone calls, without having to register or pre-pay. Save on calls to mobiles and international calls and enjoy the benefits of a flexible telephone service.

There are no connection fees or rental charges, and the rates apply 24/7! Customers can call the access number from any UK landline or mobile phone.

The service is simple to use; dial the access number that corresponds with the country you want to call, followed by the country code and subscriber number.The call charges for using Telediscount’s access numbers will simply appear on your regular phone bill - you will not receive any bills from Telediscount. If you are ringing from a mobile you could be surcharged by your mobile operator. This depends on your mobile operator and which tariff plan you have. We advise you to get in touch with your mobile phone provider to double check if they surcharge on calls to our access numbers.

For example, if you make a 5 minute call to a New Zealand landline from a BT phone via access number 0844 462 95 95 which is charged at 2p/min (0911 501 25 25 to call a mobile phone - 15p/min); next time you get your BT bill you will see a call to our 0844 462 95 95 number, a duration of 5 minutes and a total charge of 5min x 2p = 10p.

Furthermore, before each call, the operator will confirm the current call charge per minute so you will know exactly what the call is going to cost, no unpleasant surprises!

Discounted telephone services

http://www.telediscount.co.ukInformation Source: P.35

Immigration advice and the associated NZ lawThere’s now a law in place in NZ to promote and protect the interests of people receiving immigration advice and to enhance the reputation of New Zealand as a migration destination. The Immigration Advisers Authority is responsible for the regulation of the immigration advice industry. Anyone giving New Zealand immigration advice must be licensed with IAA.For clarity – neither Catalyst Recruitment nor any of our staff members are Licensed Immigration Advisers and as such can not legally provide you with immigration advice.

What we can do...As you know – we have been responsible for assisting well over 300 families make the move to NZ. Part of our service is to make sure you make it through the immigration process. The only assistance we can give is to make you aware of the options most of the people we assist choose to get here! We thought that we might also let you know about the potential costs involved so you have a rough idea of what you might be up for! Obviously we are not in control of these charges and not only do they vary depending on your location and nationality, but they can change without us knowing.

Therefore to make your own accurate calculation:

1. Go to www.immigration.govt.nz

2. Select Find a visa from the centre of the page between ‘Apply Now’ and ‘About New Zealand’

3. Select Fees from the bar on the right hand side

4. Now either use the calculator or download the PDF

Visa Costs

After arriving on one of the temporary visas above – you will need at some point to secure a more permanent arrangement. Some people choose to do this direct, but it can take 4 to 6 months – so employers are less likely to wait for you!

Working Holiday VisaIf you are 30 or under and fit the criteria – you can virtually download a visa for £70 that provides you with a Visa for 12 months in NZ (no police check or medical required). We have seen many people get this visa allowing them to accept an 11 month contract and converting within the 12 months to a longer term visa and a permanent job.

Work - Talent VisaMost of our clients are Accredited Employers with immigration (list on the NZIS website). If your new employer is Accredited you can secure a Talent Visa.

Application - £155, Medicals £300pp (much cheaper in NZ - $300), Police checks £35pp (Example: Family of 5 will cost £1830, Couple £825)

Work Visa - Long Term Skill Shortages List (LTSSL)If one of our clients is not an Accredited Employer – your role will probably be on the LTSSL – in which case the application is slightly different, but the costs are the same as the Talent Visa (above)

Resident Visa - Skilled Migrant Category

Expression of Interest (online) - $440 (if required), Application Fee - $2050, Migrant Levy - $310pp Migrant Levy(Example: Family of 5 will cost $4040, Couple $3110)

N.B. Unless you have utilised the same medicals from previous use (bearing in mind they only have a 3 months lifespan) and police checks (which have 12 month lifespan) – you will need these again, Adding $370 per person.

A

B

C

A few options (assuming UK citizen based in UK)

Going Permanent (You will probably be in NZ at this stage – so these figures are in NZ$)

http://www.immigration.govt.nzInformation Source:

P.36

How does the electronic work visa work?The electronic work visa works in exactly the same way as a visa issued in a passport, except that instead of it being a label in the passport, it is a printed version which the applicant keeps with their passport.When your application is approved, the details are retained electronically the NZIS (New Zealand Immigration Service) database. This information is used to determine your eligibility to board a flight to come to, or return to New Zealand. The information is also used to determine your eligibility to enter New Zealand when you arrive here. It is, therefore, essential that you keep a printed copy of your electronic work visa with your passport and that when you fill out your online application, you enter your details accurately.

What do I show an employer in New Zealand?You will be able to show your employer a printout of your electronic work visa, which has information on the conditions of your employment in New Zealand. You can also log on to the Immigration New Zealand website and show the details of the work visa to your employer.You can call Immigration New Zealand to confirm the details too, or your employer can verify your entitlement to work by using Immigration New Zealand’s online Visaview service.

Applicants under the UK Working Holiday Scheme are

given a choice to apply for 12 or 23 months...

This is just an outline of the Working Holiday Visa - if this visa is for you then do check the Immigration website for more specific information. As always we at Catalyst can have a chat with you about the process, however we are not licesnced immigration advisors so we strongly advise that on any specific queries you contact NZ immigration department.

What is a Working Holiday Scheme?Working holiday schemes allow people aged 18-30 from other countries to work while they travel in New Zealand. Working holiday visa holders can take up temporary employment. If offered a permanent job, they can apply for a different work visa, and should wait for approval before starting work in the permanent job.

Working Holiday Visa (WHV)

To sign up and begin the process now go to:htt ps://www.immigrati on.govt.nz/secure/default.htm

What difference does it make if I apply for a 12-month stay?It depends where you are applying from. If you are applying in New Zealand, you need to complete a Medical and Chest X-ray Certificate (INZ 1007 form) regardless of how long you select.

When you are here under a UK WHV:• You must not take up permanent employment (unless you apply for and are granted an ordinary work visa

while you’re here)• You must not work for a period exceeding 12 months• You can enrol in one or more courses of training or study of up to six months’ duration in total during your visit.

http://www.immigration.govt.nzInformation Source: P.37

Final tasksFinal tasksWhat to do When to do it*Sell your car 2 weeks to goWind down the goodbye parties togive you breathing space 1 week to goFinalise packing 1 week to go Organise transport to the airport 1 week to goCancel your car insurance andnewspaper delivery 1 week to goChange money into New Zealand dollars 1 week to goArrange little treats for your children to keepthem entertained on the flight 1 week to goConfirm transport to the airport 2 days to goDouble check your hand luggagehas everything you need, including yourtravel documents 1 day to go

Moving to New Zealand checklist

What to do When to do it*Start your visa application process 10 months to goStart job hunting and contacting companiesin New Zealand 8 months to goPut your house on the market 8 months to goInform schools that your children willbe moving 6 months to goBook your flights to New Zealand 6 months to goDecide whether to transfer your pensionto New Zealand 6 months to goGet quotes from freight companies formoving your belongings 6 months to goGo for your medicals and apply forpolice checks for visas 6 months to goResearch schools in New Zealand 4 months to goOpen a New Zealand bank account 4 months to goRequest credit references from your bank 4 months to goResearch cost of living and taxes inNew Zealand 3 months to goSell any unwanted furniture or belongings 3 months to goGive formal notice to your current employer 3 months to go

Phase twoPhase twoFFiirrsstt sstteeppssFirst stepsWhat to do When to do it*Plan a visit to investigate your new country.If this isn’t possible, do as much researchahead of your move as you can 18 months to goInvestigate housing options 18 months to goTell your friends and family 18 months to goAssess your finances and plan how youcan best repay debt/save for the move 18 months to goCheck what type of visa(s) you and yourfamily will need 18 months to goAttend an OpportunitiesNew Zealand Expo 12 months to goCheck your passports to make sure they arevalid for at least another two years 12 months to goMake a folder with all your personal documents, including driver’s licences, birth,marriage and adoption certificates,references for employment, evidenceof qualifications, etc 12 months to goResearch the requirements formoving your pet 12 months to go

AAllmmoosstt tthheerreeAlmost thereWhat to do When to do it*Book temporary accommodationin New Zealand 2 months to goRegister your children at their new schoolsin New Zealand 2 months to goBook your pet's kennel accommodationin New Zealand 2 months to goGive notice to your landlord 2 months to goHire a car for your first weeks inNew Zealand 2 months to goStart packing any non-essential items 1 month to goGive a forwarding address to all yourcontacts, including your bank, passportoffice, DVLA and accountants 1 month to goCancel accounts for TV, internet, phoneand insurance 1 month to goPay off any outstanding debts 1 month to goArrange for your post to be redirected 1 month to goTransfer your funds with a foreignexchange specialist 1 month to goConfirm bookings with travel agents andfreight companies 1 month to goCancel direct debits coming fromyour account 1 month to goAsk for a copy of your no claims bonus formfrom your insurance company 1 month to go

* The timeframe should only be used as a reference and will likely vary according to your personal circumstances.

Final tasksFinal tasksWhat to do When to do it*Sell your car 2 weeks to goWind down the goodbye parties togive you breathing space 1 week to goFinalise packing 1 week to go Organise transport to the airport 1 week to goCancel your car insurance andnewspaper delivery 1 week to goChange money into New Zealand dollars 1 week to goArrange little treats for your children to keepthem entertained on the flight 1 week to goConfirm transport to the airport 2 days to goDouble check your hand luggagehas everything you need, including yourtravel documents 1 day to go

Moving to New Zealand checklist

What to do When to do it*Start your visa application process 10 months to goStart job hunting and contacting companiesin New Zealand 8 months to goPut your house on the market 8 months to goInform schools that your children willbe moving 6 months to goBook your flights to New Zealand 6 months to goDecide whether to transfer your pensionto New Zealand 6 months to goGet quotes from freight companies formoving your belongings 6 months to goGo for your medicals and apply forpolice checks for visas 6 months to goResearch schools in New Zealand 4 months to goOpen a New Zealand bank account 4 months to goRequest credit references from your bank 4 months to goResearch cost of living and taxes inNew Zealand 3 months to goSell any unwanted furniture or belongings 3 months to goGive formal notice to your current employer 3 months to go

Phase twoPhase twoFFiirrsstt sstteeppssFirst stepsWhat to do When to do it*Plan a visit to investigate your new country.If this isn’t possible, do as much researchahead of your move as you can 18 months to goInvestigate housing options 18 months to goTell your friends and family 18 months to goAssess your finances and plan how youcan best repay debt/save for the move 18 months to goCheck what type of visa(s) you and yourfamily will need 18 months to goAttend an OpportunitiesNew Zealand Expo 12 months to goCheck your passports to make sure they arevalid for at least another two years 12 months to goMake a folder with all your personal documents, including driver’s licences, birth,marriage and adoption certificates,references for employment, evidenceof qualifications, etc 12 months to goResearch the requirements formoving your pet 12 months to go

AAllmmoosstt tthheerreeAlmost thereWhat to do When to do it*Book temporary accommodationin New Zealand 2 months to goRegister your children at their new schoolsin New Zealand 2 months to goBook your pet's kennel accommodationin New Zealand 2 months to goGive notice to your landlord 2 months to goHire a car for your first weeks inNew Zealand 2 months to goStart packing any non-essential items 1 month to goGive a forwarding address to all yourcontacts, including your bank, passportoffice, DVLA and accountants 1 month to goCancel accounts for TV, internet, phoneand insurance 1 month to goPay off any outstanding debts 1 month to goArrange for your post to be redirected 1 month to goTransfer your funds with a foreignexchange specialist 1 month to goConfirm bookings with travel agents andfreight companies 1 month to goCancel direct debits coming fromyour account 1 month to goAsk for a copy of your no claims bonus formfrom your insurance company 1 month to go

* The timeframe should only be used as a reference and will likely vary according to your personal circumstances.

New Zealand migration checklist

http://www.workingin-newzealand.comInformation Source:

P.38

Useful Internet Links

NewsNew Zealand Herald http://www.nzherald.co.nzStuff - NZ News & Information http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/

AccommodationReal Estate Instiitute http://www.realestate.co.nz/rental/search/districts/282TradeMe http://tinyurl.com/christchurchrental

ImmigrationNZ Immigration service http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/work/Licensed Immigration Advisors http://www.workingin-newzealand.com

TaxInland Revenue http://www.ird.govt.nz/Tax Calculator http://tinyurl.com/NZ-Tax-calculator

EducationMinistry of Education http://www.minedu.govt.nzNew Zealand Teachers Council http://www.teacherscouncil.govt.nzEducation Review Office http://www.ero.govt.nzEducation New Zealand (ENZ) http://www.educationnz.org.nzStudy in New Zealand http://www.newzealandeducated.com

ImportingCustoms & Revenue http://www.customs.govt.nzNZ Transport Authority http://www.nzta.govt.nzBiosecurity http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz

Professional BodiesICE - Institute of Civil Engineers http://www.ice.org.uk/nearyou/Asia-Pacific/New-ZealandRICS http://www.rics.org/oceania

Other useful servicesProperty lawyer (NZ wide) http://www.alexanderdorrington.co.nzProperty lawyer (Christchurch) http://www.mmlaw.co.nzAccountant http://www.pjmca.co.nzTrust Law & Estate Planning http://www.jones-law.co.nzBank http://tinyurl.com/westpac-in-NZForeign Exchange http://www.forexltd.co.nz

Christchurch Tourism WebsitesChristchurch - The Garden City http://www.christchurch.org.nz/Christchurch & Canterbury http://www.christchurchnz.com/nz.aspxNZ Tourism Guide - Christchurch http://www.tourism.net.nz/region/christchurchCanterbury Tourism http://www.canterburytourism.co.nz

Life In Christchurch

A survey of Catalyst placed candidates living and working in the Canterbury region

www.catalystrecruitment.co.nzhttp://www.catalystjobs.co.nzhttp://catalystrecruit.wordpress.com/

Assistant Project Manager (Residential)with 8 years experience

When did you move to Christchurch?I made the move from Wellington to Christchurch in January / February 2011, prior to the February earthquake.

What was it like before the earthquakes?A vibrant city, it had a great city centre and a social atmosphere.

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accommodation?Not too bad, there is stuff available, and it all depends what sort of level/quality of housing you’re looking for. As time goes on there are more and more properties being repaired and new homes are starting to be built.

How long does it take you to travel to work?5 minutes – I used to travel about 30 minutes to work back in Wel-lington.

What is it like living in Christchurch?I’m always very busy here; there’s so much work to be done! Since the February earthquake it’s made it harder to meet people – the social environment is starting to come back but it’s taking time.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?I’m a New Zealander so I had obviously been to Christchurch before. It was exactly what I expected when I made the move.

What hadn’t you been expecting?The February 2011 earthquake and subsequent associated problems, it really took everyone off guard, and the effect has been massive. The lack of a CBD now is quite crippling on the city.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?There is, the local communities are talking a lot more as one voice and getting together more often. In times like this communication is the key – things are looking very positive now.

What is the thing you miss most?The shopping and variety of places to go when I was living in Wellington. That being said there are big efforts going on to create new shops and bars out of shipping containers, and there are more businesses opening every week.

What’s been your most positive experience to date?The feeling of the people and how it makes me feel about what I’m doing here. The fact that my work is helping people who really need it is just great. I’m also never bored at work; there are always new challenges and scenarios.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?I suppose the community feel, the way in which they have rallied together. I also really liked the city and people when I first got here (before the devastating February earthquake).

How often do you experience aftershocks?Not very often at all now, it’s been at least a month now. That being said theres a big fear now its getting quieter that a big quake will hit again.

What are they like?They are all very different actually. Some you can hear coming (like a huge train in the distance) and some you can’t, they just hit with a bang! The interesting thing is that you can hear or feel which direction they are coming from. It’s hard to explain the actual feeling apart from violent shaking!

Is power and water always working?After the February earthquake it was quite hectic, a lot of outages and people without water. People were having showers with wet wipes! Now it’s all pretty much working throughout the city, I’d guess 95% operational – I’m not sure if everyone’s toilets get to the other end when they flush them yet…

What is public/private transport like?Seems to be good, there are a number of taxis and the main bus routes seem to be up and running again. I can’t comment too much, I don’t use public transport.

What is night life like?It’s on the outskirts, and its reasonably limited, but theres more and more to do each month. With summer just on the horizon a lot of new places are starting to open up to catch the holiday season.

What is the family unit?Just myself.

catalystrecruitment

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accommodation?Moving to Christchurch and finding a suitable property wasn’t too bad we used TradeMe and other estate agents to find our current place but are looking to buy and build which is not so easy and is very expensive at the moment as you can imagine.

How long does it take you to travel to work?It takes only 15mins to get to work from my house by car.

What is it like living in Christchurch?Living in Christchurch is like a tale of two cities. On one hand you have the obvious devastation where areas are badly damaged and other areas that are barley affected. You still have facilities available to you its just that the CBD is no longer the central focus.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?I guess it is what I expected as I had been to Christchurch before the earthquakes. It’s a busy new environment where you have to develop and learn as you go along but still a great place to live.

What hadn’t you been expecting?To be honest the one thing I hadn’t been expecting was the issue of time frames. Me and my partner have been planning a design and build project for our next family home however this has been set back dramatically due to delays in insurance pay outs and availability of land. Also the cost of building has gone up as you can imagine but it’s still not something I was expecting to have to deal with and it has affected us in a big way as we are caught in a period of not knowing/uncertainty.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?After the initial earthquakes there was definitely a feeling of community spirit. In our quiet cul-de-sac we have really go to know our neibourghs who have been really hospitable and friendly. There is a really good neighbourhood watch set up here so every gets to know everyone. At the end of the day you need to go out and meet people, which is easy to do here.

What is the thing you miss most?N/A

What’s been your most positive experience to date?I really enjoy work at the moment but my partner is originally from Christchurch so she really enjoys being back here.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?N/A

How often do you experience aftershocks?Aftershocks are a daily event but more recently over the past few weeks I haven’t felt any. The worst one I felt was the 6.2 in June…that was not a lot of fun! I was at home with my daughter and my main priority was to make sure she was safe.

What are they like?The 6.2 sounded like a roaring wind, it feels like a big truck is going past your house! I did feel helpless but you just have to ride it out.

Is power and water always working?Again it’s a tail of two cities some areas have had no problems with water and power and personally we haven’t had any issues but others did have power cuts and issues with clean water, although now things are pretty much back on track.

What is public/private transport like?I do not use the bus as I have my own car I have however got a taxi from my house to the airport which I thought was expensive ($25).

What is night life like?I have a young family so I don’t go out clubbing etc however there is a lot to do in the evenings here you just have to look for it. There are a range of restaurants bars etc but you don’t have the same choice as you would if the CBD was still standing.

What is the family unit?Me my partner and our three children.

How have they been aff ected?To be honest because the kids are young they haven’t been affected by the move. My son is doing really well at his new school and we actually found it relatively easy to get him into our first choice school. My partner is originally from Christchurch so she is really happy to be back and loves it!

Project Manager (Residential)with 19 years experience

www.catalystrecruitment.co.nzhttp://www.catalystjobs.co.nzhttp://catalystrecruit.wordpress.com/

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accommodation?It was reasonably easy to find suitable accommodation in Christchurch; I would suggest that you use TradeMe as one way to source properties; it’s how we found ours! You have the option to rent or buy as well, but a lot depends on where about you would like to live i.e. which suburb.

How long does it take you to travel to work?Thankfully it only takes me 10 to 15mins to travel to work each day, definitely a change from my commute in the UK. If you’re living further from the CBD on the outskirts you will find that you have to commute further (a few km) but this is to be expected. All in all I commute substantially less here than I did in the UK, plus you get views of the sea as well as the surrounding mountains as you drive into work and as you end the day.

What is it like living in Christchurch?Living in Christchurch is great, we came in spring and we are just coming into the good weather and things are warming up for the summer. We are spoilt with beaches round the corner from where we live as well as the surrounding mountains but we are yet to ski! I have enjoyed sailing, rock climbing and tramping all of which you can do pretty much on your door step.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?To be honest when I made the move to New Zealand I expected the earthquakes to be worse. Initially I experienced a 5.5 magnitude earthquake back when the rugby was on but since then the subsequent shocks have been much less severe and some are unnoticeable.

What hadn’t you been expecting?The one thing that stands out in my mind is the issue of contents insurance. We brought a lot/all of our belongings with us to NZ however many if not all insurers in Christchurch are unable to provide contents insurance at this time. If I had known this before making the move I would have made other arrangements such as insuring specific items individually before hand or looking into expat insurance options.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Since arriving in NZ my partner and I have attended non-stop BBQ’s! There are a huge amount of ex-pats here. The community in Christchurch is fantastic, their spirit is uplifting and they have a real can do, lets get it built attitude. Since starting my role I have been introduced to and met a number of fantastic people, in fact some of us have come together to have a collaborative Christmas.

What is the thing you miss most?I guess the obvious such as friends and family but to be honest with Skype you can still get that face to face time, something that I do almost daily!

What’s been your most positive experience to date?Opportunities to bring best practice are huge!

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?Definitely community spirit, my partner who came out here not knowing anyone is always being invited to BBQ’s, horse racing, dinners and has formed a really good group of friends.

How often do you experience aftershocks?When I first moved to Christchurch I experienced a number of relatively large aftershocks which I was slightly apprehensive about, since then on a day to day basis you don’t notice them.

What are they like?To be honest the small aftershocks are mostly unnoticeable. Bigger aftershocks on the other hand can be felt through your chair, desk and walls. To try and describe it I guess it feels like sailing on a rough sea with a big boom/rumble sound all occurring in a matter of seconds.

Is power and water always working?Power and water is not an issue we have never had any issues in that respect. Obviously more areas are susceptible to problems so make sure you do your research when looking for properties and suitable locations to live.

What is public/private transport like?Unfortunately I am yet to use the bus as I have a car but I do know that taxis are relatively expensive. Cars are some what cheep and fuel is also cheaper.

What is night life like?The night life in Christchurch is actually pretty good. There are a lot of different establishments you can go to ranging from bars, clubs and restaurants and a Casino; to more recent developments including trailer beer gardens, containers converted into bars and cafes (container city) as well as caravans selling the most fantastic Thai food. It’s actually amazing how they are getting on with things and we are seeing some really creative ideas from local business getting back into the market place.

What is the family unit?Me and my partner

How have they been aff ected?My partner has found it slightly difficult here in Christchurch due to it taking a while for her to find suitable working opportunities, however we are sure this is just a matter of time. One thing I would say is that you need to put yourself out there as a place is only as good as you make it so go out there and join new clubs and engage in a variety of things giving your self the opportunity to make friends and the right connections.

Project Delivery Manager (Civil)with 7 years experience

catalystrecruitment

When did you move to Christchurch?I came over in February just before the 2nd major earthquake – I was scheduled to start working with my current employer but when the 2nd earthquake hit the office was destroyed! As a result I had a bit of a delay before starting, so rather than sit in Christchurch for a month sleeping on spare couches I stayed with some friend in Nelson! I made the move back down in March/April and I am now busily working.

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accommodation?Pretty easy, people were flooding out of the city after the February earthquake so finding accommodation wasn’t hard. I live with 6 professionals, and strangely we only have 1 degree of separation between us – everyone I’m living with I either went to school with, University, or worked with at some point in my life. It’s a small world!

How long does it take you to travel to work?5 minutes, beats the 40 minutes I used to travel back home.

What is it like living in Christchurch?Pretty good, it feels like home now. There is a lot of work, and I’m always kept busy, but the city has certainly seen better days!

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?The lack of any city centre shocked me, and as a result it’s quite quiet here. Saying that there’s loads to do across the rest of the South Island.

What hadn’t you been expecting?It was my first time to the city, I didn’t have any expectations.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Definitely; people are teaming together to support each other, and I find myself getting on great with all my neighbours. I do a lot of house assessments and the people are very welcoming, and happy to see things getting on the way. I’m seeing very high spirits despite the damage.

What is the thing you miss most?Friends and family mostly, but also the cuisine – takes some getting used to. I really crave a good Chinese on a Sunday evening, but I can’t find one here!

What’s been your most positive experience to date?I’ve managed to settle in so quickly, and it feels like home now. Its also great that I have made so many friends, and know so many people here from my past too!

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?Not much.

How often do you experience aftershocks?Not sure, I haven’t felt a major one for a few months, but its hard to tell when doing house assessment work – whenever a large lorry drives by outside the damaged houses tend to shake a little and I couldn’t be sure if it’s an aftershock!

What are they like?Varies; I used to live right next to the Littleton fault line – aftershocks when I lived there were just a big BANG from the sheer force from the fault line. Aftershocks from the other fault line felt wavier with a feeling of the ground becoming liquid.

Is power and water always working?I’ve never had any problems. The roads are also almost fully patched up now.

What is public/private transport like?I don’t use the public transport so can’t comment. I would say Taxis are quite expensive. Because of the closed off city centre and other roads Taxis end out going from A to B to X to Y and finally Z – I’ve spent as much as $90-100 on a single taxi ride here.

What is night life like?Everything is located in the suburbs and outskirts of the city, in all honesty it’s pretty terrible for finding a good night out, and anything still around is quite expensive. Saying that the city centre looked good before so I’m looking forward to that area reopening – but when is the question?! I find to compensate I try and travel around the parts of the South Island at least one weekend a month – there’s a huge amount to do across the rest of the country, just not so much on your doorstep!

What is the family unit?Just myself.

Assistant Project Manager (Residential)with 2 years experience

www.catalystrecruitment.co.nzhttp://www.catalystjobs.co.nzhttp://catalystrecruit.wordpress.com/

When did you move to Christchurch?23 November 2011

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accommodation?My company found us accommodation for 3 weeks to begin with. We found a townhouse to rent after 2 weeks. With working and house hunting I was lucky enough that my partner was here to take some of the burden. If you come over alone it can be difficult. Viewing accommodation without a car is very difficult as well.

How long does it take you to travel to work?15 minutes by car / 45 by the bus

What is it like living in Christchurch?It is very odd living without a city centre.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?We did not expect so much of the city centre to be either out of bounds or shops closed.

What hadn’t you been expecting?N/A

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Other than the Kiwis being very pleasant we haven’t seen so much of a community spirit yet. As everyone uses cars its difficult to strike up a conversation with people.

What is the thing you miss most?The public transport.

What’s been your most positive experience to date?N/A

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?N/A

How often do you experience aftershocks?We’ve experienced only one and it was very small.

What are they like?It was as if someone else was wobbling the bed.

Is the power and water always working?Yes

What is public/private transport like?Public transport is quite poor. The bus is cheap and regular but does not have many routes. Car insurance is very cheap, as is petrol. Most people own a car which is why you see a lot of older vehicles.

What is night life like?There are a few nice bars but without the city centre we haven’t seen much of a nightlife so far.

What is your family unit?Me and my Partner.

How have they been aff ected?She is not working and has found making friends difficult so far, but we’ve only been here for 2 weeks!

Project Geotechnical Engineerwith 4 years experience

catalystrecruitment

When did you move to Christchurch?I made the move over in August 2011, and spent a month or so travelling the Canterbury region and south island before gaining my position.

How east was it to fi nd accommodation?There are quite a few properties around, but it takes a while. A lot of properties have a small amount of earthquake damage still, but I managed to find a good place on the East side of the city. I currently live with 2 Kiwi’s and another person from the UK.

How long does it take you to travel to work?It depends which office I work at that day. Usually between 5 and 15 minutes.

What is it like living in Christchurch?It’s alright, quite quiet down here. I like to get out and about a lot of bus trips out of the city, exploring more of the region and south island.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?Kind of what I expected. Some of the city seems quite surreal with large areas cordoned off. I lived in a hostel for a month when I arrived so people filled me in on a lot of info. The hostel living situation also helped me make a huge number of friends in a short time.

What hadn’t you been expecting?Not much.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?The work environment is very social. There are a lot of new people in the area helping with the rebuild works and everyone makes an effort to get together for drinks and other events on the evenings and weekends. Its good to see such a community in the workplace.

What is the thing you miss most?A good English bacon sandwich – the bacon here is good, but it’s not the same! Also UK beer!

What’s been your most positive experience to date?Getting my job in Christchurch! I enjoy the projects I work on, and the whole Christchurch rebuild is a good high profile work situation.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?The scenery - the Canterbury region is stunning, and the proximity of everything is just great. The beach is only 15 minutes away, and I also enjoy going down to the harbour for a cup of coffee.

How often do you experience aftershocks?I haven’t felt an aftershock for about a month and a half now, and to be honest I notice far more vibrations from the demolition works!

What are they like?Like the building is moving around you. The small ones tend to just make a few creaky noises throughout the buildings.

Is power and water always working?In most areas yes. The only areas really experiencing problems still are the areas they are trying to move everyone out of to demolish.

What is public/private transport like?They recently re-opened the bus exchange, so bus services are back up and running. There are Taxi services too but they are surprisingly hard to find in the evenings and weekends – generally the time you need them! The price of public transport has been affected by the closing of the city centre too – Taxi’s now have to drive all the way round the centre rather than through it.

What is night life like?Its all in the outskirts/suburbs now, scattered about in malls and small shopping districts. One thing I think is a great idea is how they are converting old shipping containers into shops, bars, and café’s – very resourceful, and they definitely won’t collapse in even the largest earthquake.

What is the family unit?Just me!

Assistant Project Manager (Commercial)with 1 year of experience

www.catalystrecruitment.co.nzhttp://www.catalystjobs.co.nzhttp://catalystrecruit.wordpress.com/

When did you move to Christchurch?We started the VISA process in 2010 before the earthquakes, but we had already visited Christchurch several times before, so the change of situation didn’t deter us. We arrived in New Zealand on the 21st September 2011.

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accomodation?Quite difficult - we were lucky we had friends of friends to stay with until we were able to find something that was right for us. Despite the concentration of destruction on the east side we ended out settling there as the house was close to the beach and forest. The damage here in the east is sporadic though, 1 street is knackered, and the next is fine!

How long does it take you to travel to work?About 25 minutes, and I couldn’t have been much further away from the office!

What is it like living in Christchurch?We now spend our evenings and weekends at the beach or nearby forest. The entire lifestyle is far more relaxed, and the people are a lot more chilled out.

We decided to rent accommodation in Christchurch as we didn’t want to deal with the hassle of exchanging insurance policies with current owners. On that note insurance is quite difficult to get (obviously with all the earthquakes!) – I was lucky that the joint venture I work for is working on behalf of one of the major NZ insurers who are issuing new policies for our staff at good rates! I also bought my car direct from a Honda dealer, so it came with an insurance package that was cheaper than anywhere else.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?We had been here a few times before so we knew what to expect. The lifestyle is just what we hoped, and people are much friendlier here than in the UK.

What hadn’t you been expecting?The sheer amount of damage is more extensive and widespread than I thought previously - not a huge amount of the small scale damage is really covered on the news such as individual homes and small shops.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Yer, a lot of spirit, especially amongst the more long term residents. Everyone is very understanding towards each other of the situation, I have only met one person who was negative about migrants working here. We actually joke in our office about how there are now more people from UK working here than Kiwi’s!

What is the thing you miss most?Friends and family a bit, as can be expected, but with Skype it’s not too much of a problem. I do miss good real ale, and found it difficult to find as a lot of the breweries here in Christchurch are centrally located and as a result have closed down from the earthquakes. That being said I have recently been chatting with a few of the chief brewers and believe my problem might now be solved!

What’s been your most positive experience to date?Having time! In the UK I had to leave for work at 5:30am, and never got back till 7pm. Here in Christchurch I go to work at 7:30am and return 5:30pm every day, and now have time to take a lunch break - I often find myself at a café for lunch with work friends.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?I was very prepared for what Christchurch offered; I wasn’t really surprised by anything!

How often do you experience aftershocks?Depends really; the last one I felt was a week and a half ago, but in that period there have been 10 or 11 recorded aftershocks.

What are they like?I usually feel them at night when I am in bed. It feels like someone is knocking or shaking my bed! You could previously feel the bigger ones in the day, and they feel like the floor is moving a few feet in each direction. Nowadays its more of a shudder or a gentle sway.

Is power and water always working?All works fine. There are occasional repairs, but most of the city is up and running now.

What is public/private transport like?There is a reasonable bus service, and the terminal has been relocated back to town now. We don’t use it much though, a car is pretty essential here, though we do cycle a lot too. We have noticed people who live nearer the centre tend to cycle around.

What is night life like?There is still tons to do; you just have to know where it is! I usually ask people at work or friends. The shopping malls across the city are slowly becoming satellite city centres, and are usually the best places to go with the city centre closed off.

What is the family unit?Just me and my wife.

How have they been aff ected?My wife is doing well. She is still looking for work and I think when she finds it she will settle in more so.

Project Manager (Commercial)with 14 years experience

catalystrecruitment

When did you move to Christchurch?We made the move at the end of November 2010, after the 1st September Earthquake, which didn’t put us off moving. My partner is a Cantabrian, and I had travelled here before so we knew the score.

And how has it changed?Hard to tell, I haven’t been affected much by the situation as I live North of Christchurch now.

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accommodation?Very tricky! It took us a fair few months to find a good property to buy. I have real concerns for new people trying to find a decent home – when we were looking at properties and going to open homes there were at least 100 people viewing a property, so many you couldn’t get a grasp of the space – and you had to apply for the property within 30 minutes of seeing it otherwise it was taken! The problem is that all the local people who want to stay need places to live whilst their properties are being repaired. It is a difficult situation!

How long does it take you to travel to work?About 25 minutes.

What is it like living in Christchurch?Locals are trying to get over it, but there is a constant niggling fear in the background. My employer recently finished repairs to a major shopping mall and since it reopened barely anyone uses it, due to fear that it will collapse again in another earthquake.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?I was expecting some City Centre, which is now all closed off. Its strange living in a city which is just suburbs and small shopping districts. Having previously visited Christchurch with my partner I’d say there’s definitely less to do in the city than what I was expecting.

What hadn’t you been expecting?The extent of the earthquake aftermath, it’s been over a year now of earthquakes and aftershocks!

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?I suppose its there, it’s not something you see as a day to day, and is probably more typical of the general New Zealand attitude of helping people in need and lending a hand. Everyone’s getting on with things now, and having experienced 2 of the 3 major earthquakes I can say that I am part of the “Earthquake Club”, a band of brothers!

What is the thing you miss most?UK pubs, a decent Indian takeaway, and family and friends- you can improve everything in your life, and replicate your living standards anywhere in the world, but you can’t duplicate your friends and family, they are unique!

What’s been your most positive experience to date?Having a child since being in New Zealand (born in January), and getting through the Earthquake situation so far! Sometimes I question myself as to why I’m here, as you would expect in such a situation, but we are happy here.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?I had been here before, so nothing really surprised me.

How often do you experience aftershocks?Not too often now, and we don’t feel them where we live really. June was the last big shock, and that was scary.

What are they like?I’m 6’2” and I get thrown around like a ragdoll! It’s very hard to describe, I think it’s something you need to experience to understand. I find myself overwhelmed by a feeling of helplessness from the sheer power of the ground and the fact that there is nothing I can do. They are extremely loud too – it’s like a freight train running through your front room! I would say to anyone who hasn’t experience one that they are scary, especially for kids.

Is power and water always working?We have been unaffected.

What is public/private transport like?We drive everywhere, but the roads are pretty damaged – filled with pot holes and bumps, but it is slowly being patched up. There’s quite a bit of traffic on some roads around the coned off areas.

What is night life like?Quite dead – I don’t think Christchurch is too suitable for young and single people, as there aren’t any clubs or major facilities in the city. We still have malls and pubs, etc, but for a young up beat person they may find it a bit boring here now.

What is the family unit?My partner and I moved over originally, and in January this year (2011) we had a baby daughter!

How have they been aff ected?My daughter cries whenever there is an earthquake/aftershock, but she is only 7 months old so luckily she shouldn’t have a memory of it all, but we are somewhat concerned. Other families we know also say how terrified their kids are when aftershocks hit. I think if the major earthquakes continue in Christchurch we would look at moving, but we do really want to stay here, and fingers crossed the worst is over!

Project Manager (Residential)with 12 years experience

www.catalystrecruitment.co.nzhttp://www.catalystjobs.co.nzhttp://catalystrecruit.wordpress.com/

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accommodation?When I first moved to New Zealand I had temporary accommodation to start with provided by my employer but when I tried to find something more suitable it took a good 3 months to find what I was looking for. There are still properties available but as I am single it’s difficult to find what you’re looking for without knowing too much about each area etc.

How long does it take you to travel to work?My commute to work is relatively short approximately 10/15mins about the same distance I had to travel in the UK. I also have a view of the mountains as I drive into work, no views of the beach unfortunately but I live on the wrong side of town for that!

What is it like living in Christchurch?Living in Christchurch is a bit strange without a city centre but I have become used to it now and it won’t be like that forever. If you are into your shopping then you will find your options limited but on a general day to day outlook it’s not that different to the UK.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?I came to New Zealand with an open mind so if I’m being honest I didn’t have any expectations.

What hadn’t you been expecting?I guess looking back the only thing I wasn’t expecting was how long it took me to find a house, as I said previously I made the move to NZ as an individual and therefore was looking for quite specific critera before committing to a tenancy agreement.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Well everyone at work is certainly very friendly, because the earthquakes were some time ago now people are getting back on track and as such the bigger community events have been and gone but you will still get invited by local residents and neighbours and or work colleagues to BBQ’s, restaurants and other social events. What I would say is that it all depends on how much you put your self out there; personally I’m not too interested in going out to clubs and such but have really enjoyed going horse riding 3 times a week with my riding companion who I met in Christchurch.

What is the thing you miss most?Friends and family

What’s been your most positive experience to date?Making new friends, it is nice to meet and talk to other people in the same boat as myself.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?The weather actually, it’s been much dryer that I expected and with the summer just round the corner I think we will be having a lovely hot Christmas.

How often do you experience aftershocks?I haven’t really noticed any for a few weeks now but I have experienced a 5.5 whilst driving in my car a while ago when I first moved out here.

What are they like?I was asleep at home when I felt an aftershock that I can best describe, in fact I woke up to the noise and just after felt the shake through my bed! The bed wobbled and shook but to be honest it was over before it had started by the time I had woken up!

Is power and water always working?Yes

What is public/private transport like?I have my own scooter which makes life easier to get around so I don’t really used public transport but I have used the bus on occasion. I think the central bus station has only just been re established so traditional bus routes are only just getting back on track.

What is night life like?The night life in Christchurch is still there. Facilities such as restaurants bars and clubs as well as cafes etc are all still available. It is interesting to see local businesses getting creative for example containers have been converted into bars and restaurants, surprisingly really nice places.

What is the family unit?Just me.

How have they been aff ected?Moving to New Zealand has been a real positive experience. I have enjoyed making new friends and the outdoor life style really suits my interests and hobbies.

Senior Environmental Engineerwith 8 years experience

catalystrecruitment

When did you move to Christchurch?We arrived on the 24th September 2011, and spent a week here before starting our new jobs!

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accommodation?We took a week off to find accommodation when we first got here to really get on top of it. It took quite a while, and we were surprised to find that 80% of the rentals were short term (and we were after long term). We eventually found a nice wooden frame house in Sumner (the east side of the city), which I doubly verified as safe (being a Structural Engineer and experienced in surveying earthquake damaged buildings).

How long does it take you to travel to work?About 30 minutes in a straight line. The main problem we have is that my fiancé and I share a car, so I have to drive her to work first before heading off to my job. Unfortunately our work places are at almost opposite ends of the city so it’s not ideal.

What is it like living in Christchurch?It’s fine; I’m not 100% about it all, especially having a city without a centre! The city does still function, and the earthquake damage now doesn’t really affect day to day life.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?I had visited Christchurch before so I knew what I was going to. I think the main thing that surprises me is the speed of the rebuild and the lack of damage clean-up. As an example, everyday I see a heat pump hanging off the side of a nearby building, which has apparently been like that since day 1 of the earthquakes. I wish I could just push it back into place but insurance companies are operating such a legal perspective that people can’t clear up until all the damage has been recorded – I understand the situation but I think it’s a bit ridiculous, and operating far too much from a legal perspective. I’m confused why it’s taking so long though, when Japan has been able to accomplish far more in a shorter time and would be facing similar insurance problems to New Zealand.

What hadn’t you been expecting?I have worked in Earthquake zones for many years now; nothing really surprises me too much. The infrastructure isn’t as damaged here as what I had expected though.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Massively so; even in the airport the customs officers were so appreciative of us coming here to work on the rebuild. Everyone has been very welcoming and enthusiastic.

What is the thing you miss most?The variety and extent of the USA shopping in comparison to New Zealand – clothes, food, internet shopping, etc, isn’t as great in New Zealand.

What’s been your most positive experience to date?The lifestyle and recreational opportunities. It more than makes up for the shopping deficit. I love the dedicated mountain bike trails in Christchurch – that’s something we never had back in the USA.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?Not much.

How often do you experience aftershocks?There was one a few weeks back, just a quick rumble. We had a big one (5.5 ish) when we first arrived.

What are they like?Shocking; its like the floor being pulled out from underneath you. In my opinion there are not many other feelings that make you feel more insignificant than an earthquake – the sheer power of the sensation and the feeling of helplessness – on big earthquakes you can even fall over from the vibrations. One thing to note is that you usually hear an earthquake coming…

Is power and water always working?Services have been running 100% since getting here.

What is public/private transport like?The bus service is fine, starts around 6am and is pretty regular. The city doesn’t really have any other forms of transport. We do find that we really need another car though – you need 1 per person.

What is night life like?Everything is now on the outskirts and in malls as the city centre is closed down.

What is the family unit?Myself and my fiancé.

How have they been aff ected?My fiancé works as a Water Engineer, also securing a position in Christchurch. She works for a consultancy along side S.C.I.R.T. (Strong Christchurch Infrastructure Rebuild Team) and is annoyed at the disorganisation within the government run team – usually she prefers a very methodical stage approach which isn’t the case here yet. Saying that she is enjoying Christchurch living.

Senior Structural Engineerwith 8 years experience

www.catalystrecruitment.co.nzhttp://www.catalystjobs.co.nzhttp://catalystrecruit.wordpress.com/

How easy was it to fi nd accommodation?My partner secured a position with a consultancy in Christchurch and they provided us with an apartment for the first 2 weeks, and after that time we decided to rent the same place which everyone was happy with. The rental rate for the flat is going up in January so we will probably look for somewhere new then.

How long does it take you to travel to work?3 minutes! I work in the red zone and the accommodation is right next door!

What is it like living in Christchurch?I really like living in Christchurch, but I have to say there’s not much life here and the city is now very spread out with the lack of a city centre.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?Exactly what I expected, but then again I had been to Christchurch before in a previous visit to New Zealand.

What hadn’t you been expecting?Not a huge amount. I do find my pay doesn’t go too far and other migrant workers I speak to have similar concerns. I’m spending a lot more money here in Christchurch on accommodation and food than I was back in Ireland, which is something I didn’t realise or hear about before making the move.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Not really, maybe there is, but I don’t see many locals, just colleagues and other workers.

What is the thing you miss most?Nothing! I’m happy here!

What’s been your most positive experience to date?The laid back lifestyle is great. I’m also really enjoying my job here, and the ongoing training opportunities – I’m already being trained in new operations and demolition techniques!

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?I had been to Christchurch before so nothing really surprised me.

How often do you experience aftershocks?I haven’t actually experienced any! I work on the demolitions with rock breakers, so the vibrations from the equipment mask any aftershocks in the area.

What are they like?No idea!

Is power and water always working?It’s all been working 100% since we got here, and I haven’t experienced any outages.

What is public/private transport like?I can’t comment on the public transport as I’ve never used it. The roads are quite bumpy with a few pot holes but to be honest the roads back where I used to live in Ireland were worse!

What is night life like?We don’t go out much in the evenings (I’m a non-drinker), so we probably don’t meet as many locals as we could. Saying that we are outdoors all weekend, always taking the opportunity to get out and about.

What is the family unit?I came here with my partner.

How have they been aff ected?She finds it tougher than I do. She is currently working as a Civil Engineer but she finds it hard work as there is still so much disorganisation. I’m sure when a proper rebuild plan of action is in place things will settle and she will be a lot happier in her role and in the city.

Operatorwith 21 years experience

catalystrecruitment

How easy was it to fi nd accommodation?Obviously there was not a lot about at the early stages after the September quakes but I had 3 weeks before starting my new role so I had plenty of time to sort something out. The housing market in NZ is different to the UK as you cant just sign on the dotted line here, you have to send in your application then see if your are approved. Most of the process is done by estate agents. I did manage to secure a property that is located next to the beach which is great!

How long does it take you to travel to work?I commute approximately 15mins to work, it’s definitely less that 20mins and when the weather is nice I can cycle in which only takes 30mins. I live 10km from work.

What is it like living in Christchurch?Nothing really prepares you for it until you see it first hand but once you have become used to seeing broken buildings and a little bit of disorder you get used to it quite quickly. You are not ready till you are here! I guess it felt a bit like a war zone just not as extreme. The city does feel like a broken city and therefore doesn’t feel like a proper city, there is no central focus.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?I came over with an open mind but NZ is an easy country to live in. The attitude of the people is great and refreshing and with no language barriers makes the transition very easy.

What hadn’t you been expecting?It was on my first day in Christchurch and I guess the move just hit home, not in a negative way but looking at the result of the earthquakes it was a real eye opener and I hadn’t expected to feel like that.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Yes there is a feeling of community spirit, you will see a number of community groups organising events etc as well as the endless BBQ invitations. At the end of the day your experience with people living in Christchurch all depends on how much you get involved and to make the most of your time it’s all about making friends and doing things. I remember when I first arrived and I was really struggling to get my shopping home and was sympathetically offered a lift home by a very kind resident who had obviously seen me struggling with my bags!

What is the thing you miss most?Family and friends although we Skype regularly.

What’s been your most positive experience to date?Getting out and about in a new country. Everything is so close, beaches on your doorstep mountains just round the corner. If you like snowboarding and surfing then you cant go wrong!

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?N/A

How often do you experience aftershocks?The aftershocks have calmed down a lot since September last year. On my first day in Christchurch I felt a 3 magnitude aftershock which was an experience. I have also experienced a 5.5 which was definitely intimidating.

What are they like?With the 5.5 aftershock we heard it before we felt it and the whole house shook. If I’m being honest there is more issue of flooding at the moment rather than additional damage to properties from the aftershocks.

Is power and water always working?No issue with power. Water was being heavily treated but is now back to normal.

What is public/private transport like?No central bus station so it can be a bit confusing but I think they have sorted this out now and have a new system in place.

What is night life like?There are a few good pubs just 500 meters round the corner from my house but you will find they just don’t get as packed as pubs in the UK.

What is the family unit?Me and my partner

How have they been aff ected?Louisa is enjoying her time in Christchurch and has not been negatively affected by the move. She is currently looking for the right career opportunity to start in the New Year after enjoying the Christmas holidays.

Engineering Geologistwith 10 years experience

www.catalystrecruitment.co.nzhttp://www.catalystjobs.co.nzhttp://catalystrecruit.wordpress.com/

What was it like before the earthquakes?I moved to Christchurch in 2010 before the earthquakes, I have always preferred the South Island due to its better outside access. Christchurch CBD had all the shops bars restaurants and facilities you would need depending on what it was you were looking for and had a real UK feel to it. Without the CBD the vibe of the city does feel different but I come from London which is obviously a completely different scenario and I am used to places being busier.

And how has it changed?Obviously there is now no city centre so the city is not like it was and coming from London I miss city life.

How easy was it to fi nd accommodation?Really easy - TradeMe is what I used.

How long does it take you to travel to work?I now commute 20mins to work compared to back in the UK where I used to travel an hour when I worked in London.

What is it like living in Christchurch?Christchurch has a nice rural feel, it’s definitely not like living in a big city having come from London myself. If I was to describe it now the CDB is off limits, it’s like a city of suburbs with most if not all facilities still available to you.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?Moving to Christchurch is what I expected but I didn’t expect to be skiing every weekend!

What hadn’t you been expecting?Earthquakes! Moving house and losing a city.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Yes there is a real sense of community spirit. It’s funny how often you meet someone new in Christchurch and you find out you have mutual friends in common. Everybody talks in Christchurch and everyone is very friendly.

What is the thing you miss most?City life, festivals, friends and family

What’s been your most positive experience to date?Healthy lifestyle change since moving from London.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?The amount of sports available to get involved in.

How often do you experience aftershocks?Nowadays I experience an aftershock that I can actually feel about every fortnight. Six months ago they were much more regular and less discrete. You still get about 20 shocks a day in Christchurch but it’s very rare to feel them.

What are they like?The aftershocks don’t really frighten me, I have been lucky so far to be in relatively sturdy buildings whilst experiencing them. If I was to describe what they feel like I guess the closest thing to compare it to is a lorry driving past the office shaking your chair and items around you. Often you hear the rumble of the quake before you feel the tremble.

Is power and water always working?No issues, some areas did get shut down/turned off especially after the bigger earthquakes but more recently things have been back to normal and when the water or power does go off people are pretty used to it.

What is public/private transport like?Unfortunately I do not use the bus as everything is close proximity to each other. Taxis can be expensive but not extortionate.

What is night life like?You will see the usual cafes, bars and restaurants although not in the CBD. Additionally you will see converted container bars which are much nicer than you can imagine along with warehouse bars. Realistically it will be another 5 years before the CBD is a good place to go out in terms of its night life.

What is the family unit?I am Single.

How have they been aff ected?Personally the earthquakes haven’t been a major inconvenience both financially as well as looking at it from a real estate point of view. I only had to move from one rental property to another and as I had been in Christchurch prior to the earthquakes I had a good idea of where I should move to.

Quantity Surveyor (Commercial)with 12 years experience

catalystrecruitment

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accommodation?Finding accommodation in Christchurch was very easy, if fact I was able to secure a rental property whilst I was in the UK using local NZ estate agents and TradeMe, the whole process very straight forward.

How long does it take you to travel to work?Well since making the move I now cycle to work which takes about 20mins. I live about 5 km away from work making life nice and easy. On top of that I have the beach and mountain views to enjoy on my commute both into work and on my way home.

What is it like living in Christchurch?Life in Christchurch gets better by the day! The longer you spend here the better it gets. It’s all about being realistic and having realistic expectations. Saying that, the similarities to the UK are definitely there but personally I prefer Christchurch.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?Moving to Christchurch is exactly what I expected, you need to go in with an open mind but you also need to expect things to be different.

What hadn’t you been expecting?How easy my employer and other people living in the area made settling in for me.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Yes absolutely! You can make friends here in Christchurch really quickly; in fact we have made very good friends with people in very short time frames. An example of this would be when my partner met a lady in the park at an event and they have been friends ever since. Both my partner and I were off sick with the flu and our new found friend came over with food for us to help us get better. What a lovely thing to do - definitely made us feel welcome.

What is the thing you miss most?Nothing.

What’s been your most positive experience to date?I guess meeting people from all walks of life as people from all over the world are moving to Christchurch, it’s amazing to see Kiwi’s embracing the change and have been a real support.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?N/A

How often do you experience aftershocks?Over the last few weeks the aftershocks have been very discrete and to be honest I haven’t felt them. When I first arrived I did experience a 5.5 but as I was expecting to feel a few shakes and was prepared for it we didn’t get scared and had a safety plan in place.

What are they like?Walls and ceiling rattles you can sometimes here a rumbling too before the actual quake.

Is power and water always working?Power and water have been working fine. We did have an issue of over chlorination of the water but that has been sorted out for a while now and no longer needs to be treated. Power is very much like the UK, you might get the odd power cut but it’s once in a blue moon and often only for a short period.

What is public/private transport like?Really good in fact excellent! I have used the bus service and had no problems, I do however cycle almost everywhere so I don’t use public or private transport that often.

What is night life like?There is a lot to do at night it all depends on what you are looking for. If you are looking to join clubs and groups there are many you can get involved in. If we are talking about bars and restaurants etc then again there are various options available to you spread out over the city. Most places are located on the outer skirts of the city centre, so you would have no issue walking from place to place. You will see a few converted containers standing now as restaurants and bars which are actually pretty good places to go to. Once the city centre is back on its feet Christchurch will have its central focus back and things will fall back into place.

What is the family unit?Partner and 2 daughters.

How have they been aff ected?Coming from Jersey we had already taken the step from the main land so all of the family embraced the change and are having a fantastic time here. There is so much available to you in terms of activities and the surrounding environment, something the whole family is enjoying.

Project Manager (Residential)with 24 years experience

www.catalystrecruitment.co.nzhttp://www.catalystjobs.co.nzhttp://catalystrecruit.wordpress.com/

What was it like before the earthquakes?A fantastic place, I have loved it since arriving in January 2009.

And how has it changed?My life hasn’t changed much; my quality of life has not really been affected. I rent my property here so I didn’t experience any financial loss from the situation.

What is it like living in Christchurch?Coming from Rochdale, Manchester, I find my quality of life has improved dramatically. I can’t compare Christchurch to other locations in New Zealand as I have only lived here.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?I had never been to New Zealand before so I had no expectations!

What hadn’t you been expecting?Nothing! Nothing has caught me off guard.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Yes, definitively. People are really looking after each other, it’s very uplifting. Of particular notice is the Student Army, a collective of 15,000 young students from across the region that are helping communities and individuals recover from the disaster. My eldest son has been part of the group - assisting with clearing work and distribution of food and supplies – it’s a really good thing to see such community spirit.

What is the thing you miss most?A good Indian and Chinese takeaway!

What’s been your most positive experience to date?The peace of mind from the safe atmosphere in the city, especially for my kids. It is much safer than Rochdale, so much so that I let my kids walk unattended to school in the mornings.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?The quality of housing and living circumstances. The amount of space with the house gives us room to breathe! We also find our neighbourhood very quiet which is a massive bonus.

How often do you experience aftershocks?2 months ago we used to feel them at least 3-4 times per week, but now they are quiet infrequent, probably once per week.

What are they like?It is like sitting in an office chair and having someone shake the bottom of your chair in an attempt to lift it up whilst you’re on it. It’s not a pleasant experience, and nowadays because the aftershocks are less frequent they are scarier – we never know how severe the shock will be as there is always that fear that it could be another large, devastating earthquake.

Is power and water always working?It has hardly stopped working! Maybe 2 or 3 times for a few hours at a time over the last 12 months.

What is public/private transport like?There were a couple of weeks of less than adequate public transport. The city doesn’t have a major train network so buses have always been the most used form of public transport – it got fixed very quickly. Outside the CBD its been business as usual.

What is night life like?Quite badly effected. Obviously with the CBD closed down half the facilities are unavailable in the central location. Saying that there is still a lot to do in the city, its just in the suburbs and you have to know where to look to find it all.

What is the family unit?I have a wife and 2 sons (ages 13 and 17).

How have they been aff ected?Not massively. All of the schools, communities, and infrastructure around me are ok – I am hugely fortunate that we live on the West side of the city, as if I lived in the South East the situation would have been very different and I might have returned to the UK.

Associate Traffi c & Transport Engineerwith 20+ years experience

catalystrecruitment

What was it like before the earthquakes?I moved to Christchurch before the earthquakes and remember it as a thriving city before the earthquakes hit with a real central focus on the CBD. There were lots of places to go shopping and places to enjoy a drink or meal.

And how has it changed?Now the CBD is mainly closed off as the damage was worse in the city centre. Additionally depending on where you lived at the time of the quakes some resident’s homes and surrounding suburbs were damaged more so than others. Roads and infrastructure were damaged too and in the early days power and water would be off from day to day.

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accommodation?I bought my house before the earthquakes occurred so I had no issue finding a property with my partner. One thing I would say is that if you were to get a house now after the earthquakes you may find it difficult to get home insurance.

How long does it take you to travel to work?I cycle to work so I only travel approximately 20mins to work a day which is about 7km.

What is it like living in Christchurch?As I’m a bridge engineer I find living in Christchurch very interesting. Due to the damage it’s fascinating to see the work that needs to be done in order to get Christchurch back on its feet. Although the earthquakes have changed the look of Christchurch for now, living in Christchurch hasn’t changed that much and day to day living is great.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?I came to New Zealand with an open mind so I didn’t really have any expectations.

What hadn’t you been expecting?Well I certainly wasn’t expecting the earthquakes!

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Yes, immediately after the quakes people really came together and helped each other out whether it was clearing up streets or community events there was definitely a feeling of community spirit.

What is the thing you miss most?Internet is expensive and once you have used all your bandwidth you go back to dial up speed!

What’s been your most positive experience to date?Having the opportunity to work for my current employer and gain valuable work experience.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?The weather! It’s much sunnier here and even in winter when it’s cold you still get really clear sunny days.

How often do you experience aftershocks?I have not felt an aftershock in weeks! Back when the earthquakes first happened I would feel aftershocks daily but I soon got used to it.

What are they like?Working next to a train station it was hard to tell between an aftershock and a train going past, if that gives you an idea of what they felt like. Obviously the bigger aftershocks were much different as you would get a lot of shaking around and sometimes you would hear the sound of the aftershock before you felt it.

Is power and water always working?Yes

What is public/private transport like?Unfortunately I don’t use the bus I didn’t use it in the UK and haven’t used it here. I cycle to work so there is no need. I have got a few taxis which if I’m honest I think they are quite expensive.

What is night life like?In terms of the night life I don’t really get too involved in those kind of things but you will see restaurants, bars and clubs scattered on the outskirts of the CBD but might not be that easy to walk from bar to bar depending on where you are. I have seen converted containers that have had sections cut out of then for windows and have been painted really nicely to try and get local business back on track. I was actually quite surprised how nice they were.

What is the family unit?Me and my partner

How have they been aff ected?To be honest we haven’t really been affected by the earthquakes, we definitely feel very fortunate to have survived and that nobody we knew was hurt. I guess you’re never quite sure if another earthquake is going to hit but to a point you do get used to it after a while. One thing I do find interesting is how the rebuild has progressed and how long it’s taking to get underway.

Senior Bridge Engineerwith 10 years experience

www.catalystrecruitment.co.nzhttp://www.catalystjobs.co.nzhttp://catalystrecruit.wordpress.com/

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accommodation?When I was looking for accommodation I found loads of places I liked. It only took 3 weeks to find what I was looking for. This may have been easier due to the time of year; I made my move as all the students were leaving as it was the end of term. One thing I would mention is the issue I had finding a suitable property which would allow dogs (I have two) about 80% of rental properties don’t allow dogs, so I had to offer a bigger bond to secure the property I wanted. I live 1 mile back from the beach!

How long does it take you to travel to work?I commute 20 minuets a day to work and that’s even in rush hour.

What is it like living in Christchurch?Paradise! Fantastic people in my new job, great social life too. At the end of the day you need to put yourself out there to get a return but everyone here is very friendly and outgoing.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?It is exactly what I expected. You need to have an open mind and to be realistic as well as do your homework. You have to realise that isn’t not as simple as just settling into a new job it’s a whole new lifestyle to adapt to; and if you come over here with the wrong attitude and focus your move solely on the job then you will find it a hard environment to settle into.

What hadn’t you been expecting?Nothing - make sure you do your homework.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Yes absolutely! Only the other week I was invited to my bosses family home for a bbq it was by no means a work do more an open home situation/event to introduce a range of people to each other. It was a real great opportunity to meet new people and get some really good local advice.

What is the thing you miss most?Obviously I miss my children, I have two grown up boys but we do get to skype regularly. One thing I would say is that you need to be realistic and you need to expect to miss people and other things. If you don’t expect to feel that way you might not be that happy here. It’s like moving anywhere in the world, you need to ride it out.

What’s been your most positive experience to date?Walking into my new job! Not only was I starting an exciting new venture I was blown away by the support I received from my colleagues and team.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?N/A

How often do you experience aftershocks?I have experienced 5 aftershocks down here but they have been all minor.

What are they like?Some peoples nerves won’t take it, so if it worries you at this stage I would say don’t come. In my opinion the risk is the same as crossing the road but it’s something you need to come to terms with before you make the move. At work I feel safe because they have a good health and safety brief when you start and we all know how to find a safe way out.

Is power and water always working?Yes.

What is public/private transport like?There is a rail way but no public train. Saying that the bus service is fine and taxis are UK prices. One thing I would say is that you really need a car!

What is night life like?To be honest I’m not really that into going out and about at night (clubs etc) but there are fantastic bars and restaurants to go to.

What is the family unit?Just me at the moment my partner is joining me in the New Year.

How have they been aff ected?Our dogs are on the plane now… hopefully they haven’t been affected!

Project Manager (Commercial)with 33 years experience

catalystrecruitment

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accommodation?It was a little difficult finding accommodation due to the earthquake damage but on arrival I received some help from my new employer by providing temporary accommodation, giving me enough time to hunt around for a rental property suitable for me and my partner.

How long does it take you to travel to work?30mins, we live slightly further out from the CBD so the commute is naturally that little bit longer. Saying that when you’re driving through the mountains and surrounded by such beautiful countryside the commute becomes irrelevant.

What is it like living in Christchurch?Life in Christchurch is great however you need to keep your expectations in mind. Some forms of shopping are limited so you do need to look around to find what you want and sometimes its easier said than done, especially in a new place where you might not know where to look. Apart from that and the obvious damage from the earthquakes life in Christchurch is great! If you like the outdoors there is definitely plenty to do here.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?Based on my research conducted before moving to NZ I would say Christchurch is pretty much what I had expected, however I have an American accent and have found a few locals struggling to understand me even though I’m speaking English which can be frustrating. Certainly wasn’t expecting that!

What hadn’t you been expecting?Same as above.

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Since a lot of people have moved to Christchurch to get involved with the rebuild and redevelopment process it has made it very easy to makes friends. Obviously You need to put yourself out there to achieve the best results but everyone is really friendly inviting you to BBQ’s, wine tours and camping trips to name but a few things we have done with others since arriving in Christchurch.

What is the thing you miss most?Moving from Boston its funny how much you take for granted the ability to get to places quickly. For example in Boston they have really good/effective roading infrastructure something Christchurch doesn’t have…yet!

What’s been your most positive experience to date?Dealing with Catalyst and my new employer, when I arrived at the airport (late) there was a gentleman waiting for me at the gates; I really didn’t expect him to wait for me seeing as we were over an hour late getting off the flight.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?It’s so nice to wake up and see the ocean and beautiful beach views from your bedroom window, something I didn’t have in Boston.

How often do you experience aftershocks?I have to admit I haven’t experienced any recently but when I first got here I felt a 5.5 magnitude aftershock which was quite scary.

What are they like?You will feel a shaking sensation often following a rumble/trembling noise. The noise really gives you a sense of power, quite ominous really! Saying that the big aftershocks haven’t occurred for a while now and things seem to be quietening down on that front.

Is power and water always working?Yes.

What is public/private transport like?Bus service is ok but as it was set up from a temporary station it took them a while to re configure a route plan and on occasion you would have to go out of your way to find the right bus stop or go slightly obscure routes to get to your end destination. I’m pretty sure the bus services are running fine now and they are back on track.

What is night life like?There is still a lot to do and see in Christchurch of an evening. If you like going out to eat/drinks at restaurants and bars etc there are still plenty standing. Even some establishments that have been affected by the quakes have become a little creative and you will see containers converted into restaurants and bars. To be honest it still feels like a little city centre.

What is the family unit?Me and my partner.

How have they been aff ected?My partner has been my cheerleader if you get the expression! He has been really positive and optimistic which is a real strength for me. He has also been to NZ before so he has shown me loads of great things. I guess he is not as sensitive as me which makes it easier for him but all in all he loves the experience.

Senior Environmental Engineerwith 8 years experience

www.catalystrecruitment.co.nzhttp://www.catalystjobs.co.nzhttp://catalystrecruit.wordpress.com/

How easy was it to fi nd suitable accommodation?Not too bad really, we came to New Zealand a few weeks prior to starting my role giving me and my partner enough time to secure a rental property by the beach with beautiful sea views. It does depend on what you are looking for however the surrounding suburbs to the CBD have lots of properties available to rent and to buy. Looking at the CBD on the other hand properties are few and far between.

How long does it take you to travel to work?I generally travel approximately 17 minutes to work a day, passing views of the surrounding mountains which are definitely something you don’t get driving down the M6 in the UK.

What is it like living in Christchurch?Life in Christchurch is not hugely different to life in the UK in a lot of ways. The CBD is still looking pretty battered and bruised however all the facilities you need are still available in the surrounding suburbs. The lifestyle here is very relaxed, more relaxed than the UK both in a living and working sense. Christchurch offers a chilled out lifestyle with locals and other immigrants both friendly and very social.

Is it what you expected and if not in what way is it diff erent?I had been to New Zealand prior to the move so I haven’t found too many things to be that different to what I had expected. Prices are comparable to the UK. I spend about $100 on food a week with about $60/$70 on fuel. Mobiles and Sky services are however more expensive. Electronics, gas and insurance are cheaper but on the whole it’s very comparable to the UK 3 years ago.

What hadn’t you been expecting?No unexpected surprises as of yet!

Is there a particular feeling of community spirit? If so – can you give an example?Where we are living the community spirit can be seen through the general attitude of people living in the area. Everyone is very friendly however I have only been living in NZ for a short while so I am yet to really see what effect the earthquakes have had on this.

What is the thing you miss most?Well obviously I miss my Mum, Dad and Nan but to be honest I really miss Bachelors Cheese sauce and smash. My partner used to have Wispa (the Cadbury’s chocolate bar) Fridays at work in the UK which she misses too. I did track down and bought her a box of Wispa’s (not that easy to get hold of) as a special present but it cost me over $100!

What’s been your most positive experience to date?Getting a job with my current employer and my beautiful house, having come from unemployment to a job in NZ has given me the opportunity to get back into the industry and do what I love.

What were you most pleasantly surprised about?I really like the Kiwi approach to things everything here is much more straightforward for example banking offers really good customer support and you get results fast. This includes applying for mortgages etc, no messing you around.

How often do you experience aftershocks?Looking back I have experienced over 300 aftershocks, my first one was at the semi finals for the rugby world cup, it was frightening as its magnitude was 5.5 and I was sat next to a 6ft glass pain with a big crack in it!

What are they like?The after shocks have become smaller and more discrete in fact there was one today that I didn’t even feel at a magnitude of 2.8 centred only a few km away from the office. If I was to describe what they felt like I would say a small aftershock feels like a small truck is passing by the office and the bigger aftershocks feel the lots of trucks passing by the office (can be quite loud) and can be felt through the whole office in the floor, walls and through your chair.

Is power and water always working?No issue whatsoever if we are talking about running water and a good power supply. Since moving here I have had no problems with any utilities.

What is public/private transport like?Really great bus service only $2.50 depending on where your going but generally really good, my partner uses public transport the most out of the two of us and hasn’t had any complaints. One thing we would comment on is the price of taxis as they are really expensive.

What is night life like?The night life is just like anywhere else you will find in the UK. There are a range of bars, clubs and restaurants for all tastes. Where I live there are no clubs or bars (the nearest are only a short walk away) but with sea views on your doorstep who can complain.

What is the family unit?Our family unit consists of my partner Georgie and our two black labs.

How have they been aff ected?Both my partner and the dogs love the change, although it was very expensive getting the two dogs over here. My partner is not working at present, she was originally in teaching and as the New Zealand school term doesn’t start till the end of January/beginning of February (rather than September in the UK) she has to wait to start work in the New Year. Saying that she loves her newly found free time and is making the most of her surroundings and local facilities.

Project Manager (Residential)with 11 years experience

Offi ce hours:

25th September 2011 - 31st March 2012 NZ local 7:30am - 4:30pm1st April 2012 - 30th September 2012 NZ local 7:00am - 4:00pm

PLEASE NOTE: Time diff erences vary from 11 - 13 hours between UK and NZ - Please check www.ti meanddate.com to confi rm ti mes.

Andy HopkinsT: +64 9 307 6112M: +64 21 628 039E: ahopkins@catalystrecruitment.co.nz

Phil PonderT: +64 9 307 6113M: +64 21 489 367E: pponder@catalystrecruitment.co.nz

Mireille VerdonkschotT: +64 9 950 3508M: +64 21 831 408E: mverdon@catalystrecruitment.co.nz

Fran StevensonT: +64 9 950 3765E: fstevenson@catalystrecruitment.co.nz

www.catalystrecruitment.co.nz | www.catalystjobs.co.nz

UK Freephone - 0808 234 3587Irish Freephone - 1800 551 316

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Westpac New Zealand Limited