Pros & Cons of Living in New Zealand | A Thousand Words

[@soonny002]

New Zealand is a perfect place for introverts like me. I don't like too much traffic, too many buildings, or too many people, and living here makes perfect sense. Other than the cost and the lack variety, this place is as good as it gets. You can get around the cost by saving for things you really want and you can still get lots of stuff imported internationally (with a price of course). I think this encourages people to save and spend wisely too. There are enough local products to be content with.

[@daylight5603]

how about earth quakes. Have you ever experienced it?

[@MsBonzodog]

Circe I was born in the UK but moved to NZ when I was 4. So, effectively grew up in my early years in a place that was so clean I ran around all the time in no shoes with wide open space. Moved back to the UK in my twenties and hate how densely populated it is (I moved to a North Norfolk coastal village to get away from the pollution/crowding and am a lot happier).

[@MsBonzodog]

German Kiwi we were in Auckland German Kiwi. We lived in Beach Haven. This was back in the 60s so I guess things have changed a lot. :)

[@eastwesttimes1397]

I want to move to new Zealand, can you help?

[@ChristophLichtinger]

You’re quite right :)))

[@bukster1]

If you think New Zealand shops need more variety, so should have tried living here is the 70's. There was one brand of pretty much everything. Today is a wealth of choice compared to then.

[@JohnyMcNeal]

As in most European countries except for the spoiled ones man

[@Saucyakld]

bukster1 When my parents shifted to Auckland in 1960 it was dismal to shop. No foreign goods allowed. If you wanted a fridge or cooker or washing machine the only brand you could buy was Fisher & Paykel, protected by the government. School was like being pre war, dreadful! I done SC while in standard 3. But look at us now, each day I marvel at the innovation of kiwis. I always felt the luckiest person in the world that my Dad got called to do a job here for 18 months and we never left.

[@willgeorge5644]

My impression is the opposite, when I first arrived I went into a hardware shop in Auckland (mitre 10) I was amazed to see a row of 26 different circular saws, in Sa a shop may have 1 or 2, maybe different now. everything was like that.

[@jesaminetehuia9098]

We only stock the best.

[@simondelaney5694]

bukster1 whitebait, watties baked beans and tomato sauce, vegemite, moro’s and K-bars. What more could you want.

[@CelebrianUndomiel]

I moved to New Zealand eight months ago and honestly it’s done me wonders. I feel so much less stressed.

[@AThousandWords]

So glad it's been a good move for you.

[@PauloFerreira-wp2it]

Most beautiful country in the world. I love NZ and the KIWI people. Greetings from Brazil

[@AThousandWords]

Greetings! Thanks for watching.

[@sl3068]

As a kiwi I agree and hii

[@lorenzomagazzeni5425]

I wonder why so many Kiwis move to Australia

[@gorgias5532]

@@lorenzomagazzeni5425 bcos Australia is NZ's one and only next door neighbour.

[@brenohighland1168]

try tazmania very compareable

[@ashleyb3078]

Thank you, thank you, thank you So much for this video. I've watched with tears in my eyes. Even the negatives are positives to my wife and I. We live in cape town south Africa, but our hearts have been in New Zealand for many years. We love New Zealand So much and the people there are just Awesome!! Nearly there.

[@melissakiwigal]

As a New Zealander living overseas I resonated with everything that you said - both the pros and cons are so true!! Looking forward to moving back to raise my son

[@iceotonic23]

Melissa Kitto did you end up moving back?

[@yurf6842]

Hi, Where are you living? I'm from Mexico. Beautiful place, traditions, great food. Unfurtunately, is not the safest place right now. When I was a child, it used to be quiet enough, but not anymore. Looking for a safer place to raise my child, too.

[@Mennito.31]

Having lived nearly 33 years in NZ, I would say it is a very accurate balance of positive and negative. I would disagree on the variety of products available say, in supermarkets: there is plenty to choose from. However, you sometimes need to shop in three different places to get what you want as not all places stock all goods, or not all the time.

[@leofee]

It might be more of a comparison-thing to other places in the world. I'm from Germany and when I stayed in New Zealand during high school, I definitely noticed that things like shampoos, cleaning products, places to shop for clothing etc are not as varied as in European countries and most certainly the US. Overall I agree with you though, it still satisfies all needs and ultimately is part of the charm of New Zealand!

[@reinmusique]

I'm also from South Africa! When I am done with my degree I am moving to NZ. I have family there and can't wait!!

[@AThousandWords]

All the best!

[@stefaniewicke9574]

Hi, I expirienced all the same. I would love to come back to NZ. I really miss all the friendly and warm people and of course the stunning nature. Best wishes over to NZ from the other end of the world (Germany )

[@yanglinluo]

I was planning to come here to finish uni and then go back home. 18 years later, I’m still here and made New Zealand 🇳🇿 my new home ❤️

[@snakes331]

Number 11 most of us New Zealanders think the rest of the world is a bit of a joke.

[@ShyMicky]

snakes331 I think New Zealand is a joke lol

[@snakes331]

So when you getting here?

[@ShyMicky]

Reuban Davis Kiwiland actually and I'm constantly surrounded by idiots

[@gabrielaguevaraoviedo5889]

How come? I'm planning on moving there and I would really like to know how is it there, but not the publicity the real real thing !1

[@BonnienClydeMiller]

snakes331 do you have a constitution that allows you to own a gun? Can you have a gun for personal and home defence?

[@williamjones9144]

I really need to make this move. I just don't know where to start. Im not the sharpest tool in the box and i know that it is going to be very overwhelming. I was born in NZ and my parents moved to UK when i was two years old. Im 30 in two weeks. Constantly look at photos and way of life in this beautiful country. I have three children, myself and partner are engaged. I don't really have any skills on paper but like to think of myself as a home mechanic (and stay at home dad). My partner is a care worker. I know theres a way to get there and make the dream a reality, its just really hard to find everything needed and do the move! I take my hat off to anyone and everyone thats done it. You only live once!

[@5204564]

Love your straight up and honest review of New Zealand totally agree glad to have you in our little melting pot of the world.

[@mdrokey9500]

My com

[@2Treesandahorse]

You broke the first rule of sand fly club.

[@lestza2627]

So..... I have to fight.... right?

[@yourhighness9191]

I laughed way too hard at this 🤣

[@saibabax]

And the second

[@lestza2627]

@@saibabax LOL

[@professionalrookie8771]

The sand fly the second worse predator of NZ behind the mosquito lol I find the aftermath of a mosquito bite worse but the initial bite of the sand fly worse

[@MsBonzodog]

I lived there in the sixties as a little girl. Back then I think there were, max one million people living there. The only time we put our shoes on was the walk to school. As soon as you got there everyone took their shoes off and you added yours to the line outside the school library. Learning to swim was fun (not). I drowned in a hotel swimming pool so as soon as they could my folks got me swimming lessons. The pool was at a local school and consisted of a large concrete basin enclosed by mesh fencing. And it was freezing. That said the place is stunningly, stunningly beautiful, clean and safe. I wish I could go back there.

[@paulbotha4381]

I love how accurate this lady is with south Africa , I was born in Auckland but moved to SA before even turning 1 , and the fact that she said people here will take the fruit and the table it was on is spot on. I mean I try to recycle everything I can and went to purchase a bin for plastic bottles to give to the homeless who collect it and sell it off to recycle plants , they stole my bin with the bottles. Brilliant 😂

[@Midnight1i1y]

Ha! I came in expecting to roll my eyes at the cons, but your cons were actually understandable and relatable. This video has made me so homesick, I'm so glad you love NZ!

[@papashog]

The positive side outweighs the negatives ❤️❤️ I love when she said everyone is welcome!

[@carindaolivier2269]

I cannot tell you how much your videos means to us - i think i have watched them 3 time over, and as I am watching them I'm making notes like a crazy person :) Thank you so much for sharing, you give great advice!

[@robbleeker4777]

I have been living on the South Island....Living costs are much lower, compared to the North Island... The place I was living...there was a bus driving around, which was free....but it's only available around particular times of the day..and most definitely not on a 24 hr bases....I mean....I'm in Manilla now and public transport is far more advanced here.You don't even need a car to get around here...I can remember they had a pizza hut delivery service in place but that was quite literally, the only delivery service available (back than)...I reckon that starting an UBER service would be golden in NZ

[@MNZGA57]

God bless you with continuing happiness in NZ.

[@AThousandWords]

Thank you :)

[@AntoinetteEmily]

Love your honestly and agree with it all! I miss soooo many things about NZ but there's going to be so many things that drive me crazy when I move back. Think i'm gonna suffer from reverse culture shock.

[@AThousandWords]

+Mama's Studio I think that happens no matter where you move to, even if it's technically back home again. It's the switch from what you're used to.

[@ScottStokelyDG]

Awesome. Thank you for taking the time to make this!

[@finleycastello6512]

Scott Stokely, thank you for taking the time to make this positive comment

[@villagelady1009]

Some of the cons you mention also apply to many places within the US. For example: I have to travel one hour just to get groceries or do simple business things because my village has none of that. Housing in some areas is too expensive for people who work there; e.g. $2000/month for 3 bedrooms in our small town, one hour's drive from most employment. Shipping - even an hour's drive away - is $10 US. I'll trade sandflies for the gnats, mosquitos, black biting flies, deer flies, cow flies, horse flies, and other biting insects that we have here - year round. Public transport - even in some cities - is timeconsuming and often not timely (7 hours on numerous buses to take that same one hour trip). There is no grocery delivery where I live. Central heating is not necessary in milder climates or if the building is well sealed. It averages $9,000 to install here. Many older buildings do not have it. We also have earthquakes, usually not as frequently or as severely as those there. We also have hurricanes and wildfires and floods and tornados. The pros you mention are all ones I've experienced, too, and some can be found in here as well. Come live in small town southeast US for a while and it may give you another perspective.

[@elmondo033057]

I love living in the countryside in Kentucky, but you almost convinced me to move. I pray your country always stays pristine and honest; there has to be some sanity in the world...somewhere. I'm coming for a visit! Can't wait! Thanks so much for the great info!

[@HPeterJi]

"I don't like people"... cracked me up so hard. And yet, I know what you mean... LOL

[@TravelingwithJose]

So much useful information! Thank you 🙏🏼

[@buffalobill2874]

not every where had the sandflies don't worry

[@gucegkra6167]

All we need is a more advanced city

[@jesaminetehuia9098]

@E Rectus there you go again. I'm getting worried for you.

[@what9869]

We do have a poisonous spider - the katipo but no one has died from a bite since 1901. 👍

[@plyjhny]

New Zealand makes numerous varieties of cheese, which you can find in almost every supermarket. There is not 4, more like 40

[@plyjhny]

@@cececece5459 What does this have to with my comment? Also, cut it out with the anti-immigrant shit

[@doglover2269]

I had the opportunity to visit NZ in 2018 for 3 weeks, focused primarily on South Island, but did spend a couple of days in Auckland. We saw the most incredible beauty everywhere we went. We were surprised with the variety of food (more than just lamb) and how good the food was, lots of wonderful buffets. We were there maybe 25 years ago for the first time , and found the food and variety to be much improved in 2018. This time we worked with a NZ travel agent who specializes in car rental driving tours. We chose premium motel , she booked us in very nice places (they were mostly suites and apts) with amazing views from our room. We will never forget the experience. Queenstown was the highlight of our trip. The gondola ride to the top with restaurant buffet was outstanding! Trip of a lifetime.

[@23v0lv32]

amazing! I am landing from Canada soon for a 1year work visa. This was a great video to watch. thanks you

[@gemininz48]

We emigrated to NZ in 1981 so have been here for 35 years. It has progressed so much in the last 15 years that I felt the UK was backward when I visited there last May. Yes, there are good and bad points about NZ just like everywhere in the world, but overall it is a great place to live. I feel safe and pretty much out of harms way. I am in Auckland where house prices have gone silly but that's the way it is. Compared to 1981, prices of here now are REALLY CHEAP! Back then you couldn't buy a new car unless you had 5 mortgages - and that was if you could find one to buy. All in all, NZ is a great place and if ever I heard anyone complain about it I'd just say... go live in Syria and then give me your thoughts on NZ :)

[@AThousandWords]

Oh totally!!! Loved your take :)

[@peterpain6625]

New Zealands awesome way of "backwardness" was the best thing there for me. Little shops, markets, talking to genuine friendly and interesting people. Just been there on vaccation. Already missing it :)

[@collinsrful]

Syria vs NZ yes good comparison

[@shawndays1671]

Great video

[@vitriowibisono4631]

not fair comparison, syiria and nz.

[@carolinedubois6040]

I love it. Don't recommend NZ too much because it might become too peoplely😂😂😂. And that my friend is the reason for my coming back home. Change your mentality and make the best of what is available in NZ. Like you said were so far away from Europe but close enough to Australia and Asia and maybe it's a good thing. I too don't like too many people. Enjoy living at Naki. It's a great spot

[@SaffaInNewZealand]

Home sweet home...Wanted to say thank you, your videos have been a great source of information and entertainment. My wife and I will be emigrating to NZ at the end of June 2019 from SA. We've had enough and we are looking forward to being able to bring up our children in a safe and loving environment. Love your comment about the table also being taken lol so true! Keep up the good work LOVE IT!

[@AThousandWords]

All the best with your move!

[@davewilson4058]

I found her criticisms of New Zealand very fair and mostly accurate. Her positives too were generally within the margin of acceptable. all in all a good description of the New Zealand lifestyle. We came out from England at the age of 30 in 1965 to Gisborne, where we spent the first two years. We moved to Hamilton in 1967, where we have remained. We bought our one and only house which cost NZ$9,000 including the land, (1/5 of an Acre.) . Our 3 children grew up here, prospered and have done well in their lives. We are content and happy in our old age and that we chose to come so many years ago. We've travelled throughout the country over the many years and enjoyed seeing the sights. On our many OE's in Europe and Australia, we have enjoyed the experiences, but nothing felt better than coming home. The first glimpse of the New Zealand coastline from the plane was always a welcome sight. Living with the downsides described, we look at all the other countries on the news and think how lucky we are to be away from the smoggy, unbreathable air, crowds and unrest that seems to be the lot of so many densely populated countries.

[@sundeepmarshall8518]

Hey we saw your video 24 months ago. We are in NZ now for the last 18 months. Thanks for your tips , it was good for initial setup in Auckland. 😊👍🏻

[@AThousandWords]

Welcome, hope you are settling well! I'm so glad you found my videos helpful.

[@Chris-zg6uh]

I am making the move and in process of getting the visa. I'll be there February and so look forward to it. Having seen you video this only reassures my decision.. thankyou for the information. How about mosquitoes.? I won't miss those small bastards lol.

[@IDK-lb3wg]

I'm a south african and I'm choosing between Australia and new zealand this helped alot south africa is turning into a dump

[@ericscaillet2232]

Dump indeed

[@gamerbushama7402]

I would love to raise my future child and do my masters in New Zealand and hopefully achieve my goals there ❤️🇳🇿

[@primus7776]

Great video. My beautiful daughter and her partner have settled in Paekakariki near Wellington. I've been there twice, and road tripped across both Islands with them. Very informative, and inspiring.....You forgot to mention the Lord Of The Rings movie connection, but that's forgivable!

[@bryanjaeck4828]

Straight talk, it matches what people from NZ say. Gas is very expensive, but that is the price of living in a great country.

[@user-vz7ci4tw4s]

I totally love you! A woman after my own heart - speaking as a fellow-woman (FELLOW woman?) well, speaking as a woman anyway! I am born and bred in NZ (tho was overseas 27 years all up!) and upon returning to my home country in 2007, I noticed all the problems you pointed out with my country. I also noticed all the good things you said about my country.I especially loved you when you said that you like the fact that NZ has a small population because you don't like people. Ha ha! I love people, but I don't like living elbow to elbow with them either! Thanks for your honest and fair appraisal of NZ! So glad you and your family moved to NZ! God bless you all!

[@adhammokhtar8022]

thank you for your video and I really really appreciate taking of your time and prepared ths precious information about nz

[@kenbrownfield6584]

New Zealand is truly a great country and the people are wonderful.

[@campbellmorrison8540]

Great video, Im a kiwi and I agree totally, albeit I dont care about the shopping but a lovely view from somebody coming into our some what cloistered country. Yep sand flys are a pain and they dont even seem to like me much, mozi's are equally bad but at least they are not infected with some dreadful disease. Welcome, there are many more pros and cons waiting for you.

[@RVREVO]

Incidentally, there was a butcher in Browns Bay who sold Afrikaners delicacies. Not sure if he is still there. Most Dutch shops stock all sorts, if you do not mind a trip to Mercer or Orewa. If memory serves there were some specialty shops around. Several Countdowns tend to stock the overseas stuff as the next generation or two really like Appelstroop instead of marmite

[@karenwilkinson1315]

Emigrated to NZ in 2010 and was taken aback by many things but now married to a kiwi I would not be anywhere else in the world...love it in the Bay of Islands with my family and animals.

[@harikoahau]

No. 6 there is a massive bus system in Auckland and chch and Wellington aswell as a train service??

[@barryleveson5895]

Well, I would like to be truthful, and not negative about my and my wife's experience of living five years in New Zealand. My wife famously said to her shocked workmates: The one nice thing about New Zealand is the ice cream. She was wrong, Pohutukawa trees in bloom over Christmas are stunning. We are happy to have returned to South Africa, where we live we feel safe, and oh, the people black and white are wonderful, unlike New Zealand the country has a sense of humour. I note the comment by snakes331 below, and confirm as s/he says "...most of us New Zealanders think the rest of the world is a bit of a joke". Yes, that goes a long way to explain their problem. Prospective immigrants to New Zealand beware: the scenery looks beautiful when you arrive, but when you get to see the real New Zealand when your honeymoon is over, you don't notice the scenery anymore. It's not true the country is pure and pristine, the fiction of their advertising slogan '100% Pure New Zealand' is laughable. One quarter of the country's rivers are so badly polluted they are a risk to humans. This is so because, greedy farmers, with Frontera, NZ's biggest commercial concern behind them, instead of farming sheep turned to white gold: dairy farming, resulting in potassium and nitrates to sink into the ground and flow into the rivers. So much for the great ice cream!

[@chrisclark719]

Glad your gone. Saffas are whinning rude racist picks. We will get on fine without you

[@1WALTERNOTHLING]

"they will take the fruit and the table it was on" - LOL! So true!! #SuidAfrika

[@MajorrBison]

Walter Nothling South Africa could have been like Australia or New Zealand if the government is just doing things the way it’s suppose to be done.

[@thulimsimanga4281]

MajorrBison so true

[@michaelblandford5087]

I'm an adult student upskilling, and the amount of people I've met that have lived in multiple countries just blows my mind, then to her them talk so positively about nz compared to other countries is so interesting to listen to

[@jennifern8765]

I'm Australian and made my first trip to NZ just last month. I loved it and could definitely live there. I spoke to a few locals about their lives and some said that they found NZ wages very low. One guy was a seasonal worker on boats, mostly in tourism, and while he could get work in either Oz or NZ, he said that in NZ he was paid very little while in Oz could earn "real money". I don't know how wages or unemployment compare in other areas. I especially loved the greenness, the varied landscape, and the fact that the first settlers (the Maori) are so much better treated and represented than the Aboriginal people of Australia. I also love how innovative NZ is in many areas, e.g. the gov't support of agriculture in finding new varieties that will grow there and can become exports. And they seem to be less racist in general. And more forward-thinking. Healthcare is also good, at least as good as OZ, and much less paperwork. Aus and NZ have reciprocal health arrangements, but I know that a Kiwi visiting here would have to fill out forms, present a card, etc. to get health care. But when we visitied NZ, when my daughter fell off a bike and needed stitches, I phoned the local medical centre (on Stewart Island) and the nurse picked us up 10 minutes later in an ambulance, arranged for the bikes to be returned to the hire shop, took us back to the centre and stitched up my daughter all without ID being required! He did some paperwork and gave me a form to take home with details of what he'd done in case it was needed when the stitches were removed. But I didn't even have to produce my Medicare card! In most Aus states there would have been an ambulance charge, a long wait in an outpatients clinic, and paperwork. I don't know if Stewart Island is unusual, but I was impressed!

[@AThousandWords]

Thanks for your input, it was interesting to hear your experiences. That is so good that you were helped on Stewart Island, what a great nurse!

[@ExcretumTaurum]

On the wages front, it does depend on what you’re doing. Unskilled work is low paid but skilled / professional stuff is much more in line with what you’d expect in Aus.

[@sanelebuthelezi2631]

I’m so glad you’re South African!! 😇same here and I’m contemplating the move! This helped!! Thank you!

[@lelobuys1897]

We are in the same boat😏

[@kubysubramoney9221]

Did you make the move? I'm also thinking about it

[@sunnysmiles4590]

Cant say sandflies are a problem where I live (Central Hawkes Bay) but when it is wet and warm the mosquitos are everywhere

[@rhyyspope-wright3808]

Haha i live in Christchurch sandflies are such an annoyance here.

[@tkucey8689]

I enjoyed ths on every level. especially the "too people-y". I was thinking of going for a time and everything you described [excluding the transportation] sounds like where I already am on the west coast of Canada

[@garynarborough]

I enjoyed this video. I am an expat Kiwi living in the United kingdom where you came from previously. I came to the UK in my 50s. I am now divorced and revisited NZ last year and was quite shocked at how it has changed. All the negatives you mentioned are correct. All my family are in NZ and after really going into the pros and cons of returning home to live sadly the case doesn't stack up. I cannot get over how expensive it is to live there and from what I see it's not as safe as it once was. You may be ok in small town Taranaki but a lot of places aren't so lucky. I originally come from HB and can honestly say I don't in the least miss the quakes. Sadly I can't return. I'm fortunate to have dual nationality which has helped me here. I really enjoyed this video.

[@stevewise1656]

This vid is more helpful than any the Americans have posted. I’m an American considering moving my family to New Zealand and the others primarily show all the “fun” family things mom’s out doing with the kids while dad works. Thank you! My wife and I are actual adults who own a nice home etc. and you’re the only person I could relate to who’s answering the types of questions we need to know.

[@thomaslolx22]

I'm 15 and I've been already thinking of moving to New Zeeland later :)

[@цветок-ш7п]

lol same I live in the UK and I'm 15 but I'd love to live in NZ

[@thomaslolx22]

Faith Ike-Elechi hahaha cool

[@summerthompson7377]

it is spelt New Zealand

[@summerthompson7377]

+Raniera Malton thanks

[@jkp3218]

Come and live here guys, you are more than welcome! :)

[@cortion8590]

if you want to move to new Zealand but don't want earthquakes just go to Hamilton I'm not sure how long it's been they last had a earthquake

[@bremCZ]

About 3 months

[@greer545]

I would take earthquakes over Hamilton

[@ceejaemckay4097]

There was a 7.1 hast off the coast line of the bay of plenty in 2016 it was flat from Auckland Hamilton

[@jamesmonaco9659]

The distance issue reminds me of Texas! :-) A person can drive from east to west Texas and it can take a day. Plus I loved "The Almighty Johnsons".

[@user-vb6ky1mo9e]

James Monaco I was thinking this too Like, "pfft that's nothing."

[@ankitagautam7190]

Love the way how you are explaining everything and every single minute detail. Thank you for this video.

[@rekindlefitness]

Loved this video. Have been living in New Zealand for 22 years now and it's fantastic. Agree with all your points, didn't realize that the sandflies prefer foreign blood but that would explain why they eat me alive. New Zealand has troubles like every other country but they're much milder, and on balance, it's a wonderful place and culture.

[@10AntsTapDancing]

Good that you appreciate my country. Have been told by a South African employer that we're lazy and have no drive. Needless to say don't work for them anymore. Would rather you played up the negatives to stop people coming here. NZ is changing in ways I don't like. You seem like the right kind of immigrants and have adapted to our way of life so I wish you the best :)

[@willgeorge5644]

I am South African born, and I think SA people are much more lazy, love the way kiwis work, at one company I worked at they did rowing before and after work, touch rugby at lunch time. people like electricians plumbers etc, do a better job in less time than in SA, problem is to get one! most jobs like this now seem to be taken by immigrants. Don't expect anyone in business to phone you back when they say they will though!

[@kerajaykainamu4522]

Lazy and have no drive is not necessarily a bad thing people care more about the qaulity of life they live they aren't greedy workaholics people are cruisy here they love to enjoy life not work work work. Thag is something that makes nz unique and we always places in the top 3 or top 10 of the happiest people in the world. Everyone is an immigrant here

[@jenniferh3827]

@JoyDivision1976 agreed. I saw no burkhas the whole time I was there. Seriously, keep your country free of them and you will reap the rewards.

[@Vidis88]

Why is it so? I,m a commercial diver, thinking about moving to NZ, tired of Sweden.

[@magnusnunnick2000]

Trust me u get used to the earthquakes i literally haven't felt in a year

[@daddyhotrock]

I emigrated from Holland in 1989. NZ has progressed enormously, especially in the areas of restaurants, cafes and shopping. Also the mentality is much more worldly now. I have gone back several times and it seems to me that in Europe things have not changed much. Traffic is a topic by itself. After driving in Paris, Munich, Amsterdam etc and returning to NZ, I immediately notice the stubborn drivers attitude. The flexibility and 'eyes in the back of your head' needed to get around the Arc de Triomphe or drive around in the centre of Rome is missing in NZ, even in Auckland. Although Auckland's traffic is horrendous, there still is a hostile attitude towards cyclists and in comparison, one is more dismissive towards public transport. So in this area, NZ is still very much backwards. In regards to the increasing multiculturalism, NZ is in comparison handling this very well. There is almost no animosity towards muslims, although jealousy issues towards asians exists (they are perceived as rich) and issues with maori claims drag on forever. Solving this issue once and for all - even at huge cost - would mean killing the goose that lays the golden eggs so these grievances will go on ad infinitum. There are also many Indians, Pacific Islanders and Koreans. Generally, everybody gets on better than in other parts of the world. Although the air is clean, the waterways are getting more and more polluted. Many Auckland beaches are now unsuitable for swimming. Even in 'dirty Europe' beaches are not this bad. Outside Auckland, beaches are mostly fine. As a result of overfishing, sharks are getting closer to the beaches and more incidents are reported. It is however, far less of a threat than it is in Australia. The scenery is at the top of the 'plusses'. After that, the people (yes they are friendly, welcoming and relatively tolerant). The climate is very pleasant. All in all, I agree with your sentiment. It is subjective to say that NZ is the 'best' country to live in but it is certainly one of the best.

[@hudsonquay]

I wish we could progress in the area of cycling infrastructure. Even 10% of the quality of Dutch infrastructure would be welcome.

[@ruttleytashnmarty8598]

Thank you for posting this video. I really appreciate your comments. Having moved home after 10 plus years abroad I struggled. NZ for me hasn't been the place you say but in saying that... you encourage me. I'm going to look for the greater good, simple good and plain good. Loved the video!

[@harryclegg2858]

I dont have double galzing, but ive got curtans and a wood burner. Easily heats the entire house.

[@emmahawkins1407]

The most poisonous spider is actually Redback spiders. However after living my whole life here I haven't ever come across either a Redback or Whitetail. Although I do live in Dunedin so i'm sure they're less common here. We also don't get many sandflies down here. I went up to Auckland a while back and almost got eaten alive so I can see where you're coming from 😂 😉

[@yemert]

Emma Hawkins actually the most poisonous spider is a daddy long legs because they eat white tails but their mouths are to small to bite humans

[@luceean]

GooseGameplays that's not correct, look it up..

[@xkaeos]

white tails aren't that common, I only get a couple in my house every year.

[@frnt2bak]

Brazilian wandering spider is most poisonous

[@lukealdridge2541]

We don't have redbacks but we do have katipos which are basically the equivalent of redbacks but even the katipos (at most) can deliver a sting and scar but that's pretty much it.

[@joeymanalang7968]

"They will take the fruit and the table that was on it" 😂😂😂

[@sailorscorpio27]

We don't have grocery delivery in the United States, at least not where I live in Texas! haha I do want to visit New Zealand before I die though, so beautiful

[@AThousandWords]

I wish we had delivery, but click-and-collect is the next best thing! You really should visit, you'd love it.

[@timbruse]

When I lived in NYC, EVERYTHING is/can be delivered, but I understand the stark difference between NZ and NYC :-)

[@icebergrose8955]

Come on down. We want normal Americans, not rich greedy corporate wankers.

[@nappybunny8221]

We normal Americans don't want rich, greedy corporate wankers, either!

[@marinalina6348]

Dont believe the hype, Kiwis only want money, so they are fake nice, and resent foreigners, serving sizes are stingy and expensive and they need to be constantly told how wonderful they are, noone uses manners so dont waste your breath saying please thank you or excuse me or even have a nice day, all you will get is a superior look. Pretty yes, but small minded. Laid back maybe to more uptight cultures, but not by North American standards.

[@amybeard2054]

I had the pleasure of living in Dunedin for six months and you are so right. Just a stunning country that I still miss every day.

[@andycommonsincanada]

We moved to British Columbia Canada 15 years ago and everything you have said is applicable to BC.

[@Minecraftconda8]

I plan on retiring to New Zealand and working in a bakery there

[@tompatton2086]

Than you won't be retired.

[@r8chlletters]

Lots of little earthquakes actually means the larger ones are less likely fyi. I would add a couple other pros-that New Zealand has the most incredibly beautiful natural landscapes in the world that you can trek (this would be my #1) and that it has an egalitarian society with a stable middle class and strong social programs (such as universal healthcare and inexpensive university) limiting poverty (which I would consider my #2). The people are friendly, that’s true, but with a British colonial sensibility that is not as warm as some people from other cultures might require from friendships (say Americans).

[@LexiPat]

south land has very very cold weather

[@kusaltharudeepa9273]

madam can you help me to migrate to your country as a worker

[@realplatypusman3424]

allie paterson we get used to it

[@bremCZ]

allie paterson It's cool in Southland and it snows in winter but it's not very very cold until you can throw a cup of boiling water in the air and watch it crystalise.

[@aprilzoel240]

allie paterson except Nelson honey

[@mohammedbdiallo502]

I had like to move there New zealand

[@adarshchandra4789]

Sorry to correct you but pukekohe does have public transportation almost everywhere there's public transportation now and grocery delivery there's a lot of options now and if you have a heatpump just get HRV search it up it will cheaper and works with your heatpump

[@FIGHTERPILOT2000]

Hi Jen, thanks for the video. We are planning to open up a business in NZ and coming to NZ next summer for 4 weeks to explore the Island. Your tips were great and honestly presented. Therefore merci.

[@AThousandWords]

Have a wonderful trip!

[@koenyboy2002]

I would love to live in New Zealand as soon as I'm graduated!

[@mickeybowmeister1944]

You're the first South African I've ever heard that comes close to sounding like a native Kiwi.

[@rajivmurkejee7498]

Whenever anyone raves on about how great living in NZ is I always wonder why so many NZers decide to live elsewhere particularly Australia

[@birdlover5]

Awesome feedback! I loved your perspective on New Zealand both; pros and cons. Never would have thought of some of the things you mentioned if I visited there. Very insightful.

[@stephenshaw8041]

Thank you so very much. I'm divorced, retired, love riding motorcycles and New Zealand is now on my bucket list for the end of this year. I'll get bug spray for the Sand Flys.

[@antoncuthbert7665]

I've lived in New Zealand for 16 years and none of these things this lady said have every been a problem...

[@jaydenmurphy7305]

Yep.

[@AZWallbreaker]

I've just returned from NZ. I LOVE the country so much that I'm thinking of retiring there. It's such a beautiful country with amazing people!

[@AThousandWords]

It really is! I feel so privileged to be able to live here.

[@angelasoutar4932]

You'll have to bring your own retirement pension/funding with you.

[@aresstanton7296]

If u get bittin by sandflies rub mint toothpaste in it it stops the ich

[@AThousandWords]

Thanks for the tip.

[@luluwalker8601]

Also, Dettol and baby oil work WONDERS!!!

[@puma1304]

I was before in Australia, and I really like the place, but I do not think I would like to go back there for living (except for Tassie), besides coming from Chile, NZ is almost like being at home (we are kind of whanau), everything is very similar: same plants, sun, mountains, climate, earthquakes, no poisonous animals... Small cities and few people is exactly what I want, so as the "lay back" attitude... The only big con is that Aotearoa is kind of off the beaten track, so tickets are costly if you want to reach out to the world... (not very good if you like to travel) But even so I would seriously consider moving to NZ, so Kia Ora, being far away is sometimes a big asset!

[@tzmythos]

NZ has been on my life plan for decades now, but I am still here in Australia. I do find the risk of earthquakes a little daunting, but I lived for 10 years or so in Los Angeles and went through a few earthquakes, so I think I can accept that risk. Your video is much appreciated, as I still - decades later - contemplate a new life over there, and I actually found your video encouraging. May you have a wonderful life over there.

[@joereihana5403]

lol i recconmend nz,but i dont wana recconmend to to much otherwise it will be to peoplely😂😂😂best comment ever.

[@SM-vh9zl]

was that english

[@sora43]

Exactly yes Nz is a great place but people are gonna ave to destroy the forest just for other people.

[@cateatinrat78]

Isn't moving to NZ complicated and expensive

[@Nitro46]

NZ truly is a Paradise ✨✨

[@secondchance6603]

Biggest threat to your life would be some of the drivers on the roads but apart from that it's a sweet place to be.

[@sudhirrajagopalan84]

NZ drivers are crap.

[@jasonnicholas5351]

Yeah nz drivers man I can't even begin to explain some of us are fine but others...... not so much and it's rather clear in the bigger citys like CHCH and Wellington

[@larissaprinsloo7859]

cant be worse than SA taxi's haha we win

[@Zephyr705]

Especially after watching this, I really feel like a New Zealander at heart. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!

[@chipblock2854]

New Zealand was a place I dreamt of retiring to for over 30 years. Then I did something stupid and was sentenced to five years in prison for a nonviolent crime. As a result, I can never live there or visit there. Back in 2003 I spent two weeks vacationing there. Such a great place and very friendly people. Now that it's been ten years after getting out maybe there is hope. I will contact the company you recommend. Thanks for a great video.

[@MermaidsMoonlight]

Wow 😳 that's what I'm afraid of low variety of goods and transportation.

[@bremCZ]

Ale Pink•Waves If you have a car you are fine. And the variety in NZ is the same or better than most countries. But the variety in the UK and USA is just silly so any country compared to them seems worse than it really is.

[@rhysb997]

The way she says it makes it seem a but over exaggerated, and as she said she lives in a small country town so if course there isn't transportation but there is a lot of transportation in other towns and city's. Also we do have variety of stuff probs not as much as other country's tho

[@aprilzoel240]

Ale Pink•Waves it’s not that bad

[@aprilzoel240]

Besides we have the best real fruit icecream

[@bernardtan1]

This video is not promoting NZ but just telling you what NZ is really like 👍

[@ItsWizki9d]

People in the UK are really laid back, its alright but it can be annoying

[@wellgeo223]

As an American who lived in NZ for 6 years... I can say she's pretty spot on about NZ.. at least from an outsiders perspective. Don't move to Auckland unless you're loaded with cash or don't mind spending a higher proportion of your income on housing. Its ridiculously expensive. Christchurch is nice. It's a fairly decent sized city with everything you could need and is in close proximity to a great number of outdoor activities. I miss the relaxed NZ lifestyle. Its hard to readjust to live back in the US.

[@roxiehamilton7498]

You had me at number six...cause I'm still living in South Africa. Ive decided to immigrate to NZ but don't know where to start. I'm determined to find out anyway🙂

[@burhanahmed997]

I wouldn't want to live in NZ, but I would retire there.

[@bremCZ]

Baako Chidubem You know youre still alive when you retire right?

[@lizwilliams34]

LOL Brem.

[@amourinaioane9633]

Baako Chidubem well you got to live there if you want to retire there lol.

[@angelasoutar4932]

You would find it quite difficult to get immigration permission unless you have younger family members who are residents or citizens and/or you have very good personal financial resources. These days there is a housing shortage also so be prepared to put up with low grade housing or location or build your own.

[@josephsharp5678]

That made absolutely no sense what you just said lol

[@ChocManus]

I enjoyed the video. I wish you would take it down. It is our secret country (for now) "I don't want to recommend it to everyone because then it will become too peoplely." - 350,000 views (That's like increasing our population by a whole 5%). As a New Zealander who has never left the country I was surprised by some of the things you said about other countries. I'll have to be careful when I travel to China particularly as I am so used to people being honest, kind and generous. One thing that has begun to happen in the past 10-15 years I will add is that when people look out for each other it can create a situation where a person might be required to talk to police over accusations of being a pedophile because they stopped their vehicle to talk to a kid checking if they are alright Not that it is a bad thing because if you are not doing anything wrong then eventually you will be cleared of any wrong doing. This also comes under the category of good safety in New Zealand.

[@AThousandWords]

Don't worry, the immigration requirements are pretty strict (and even stricter lately). I know what you mean, you have to be careful to protect yourself from accusations. For example, Grant would never drive our (female) babysitter home at the end of the evening, I would do it.

[@juliehomer]

You freaking live in NZ? That’s awesome!!!!

[@alexanderkharichev4016]

Gas heating gives humidity. Christchurch was like the only place unprepared. Great video.

[@JJMLJ]

I live in Canada and found the NZ postal service way cheaper and faster than over here. It's more expensive to post to the US from there than posting to the UK. You get used to the sandflies pretty quick, unlike the mosquitoes here.