Are you considering moving to New Zealand for a teaching job? As with any move overseas, there are many things you need to prepare to ensure a smooth and successful transition. The beginning stages of moving may be a bit stressful, but the more informed and prepared you are, the easier it will be to adjust. The following tips will help you settle into life in New Zealand with ease.
Know What to Expect - What is it like to teach in NZ?
Moving to a new country for work is a huge decision. Before taking the leap, you should always have a clear idea about what to expect.
New Zealand has an internationally-admired education system. Over 130,000 overseas students visit annually, making education New Zealand’s fourth-largest export earner. You can find loads of amazing private and public schools throughout the country that offer wonderful teaching environments.
The New Zealand culture tends to be laid-back. This is reflected in the teaching style in the country’s higher education system. The universities in NZ tend to be much less intense and strict than perhaps what you’d find in the US or the UK. When you teach in New Zealand, you’ll be living in a country where you can enjoy the highest professional standards, combined with a fantastic outdoor lifestyle you’ll be hard pressed to find anywhere else.
Understand the Visa Requirements
Carefully examine the visa rules and requirements far in advance of deciding to move to a new country. In New Zealand, there are different types of visa applications that you may be eligible for. Work visas are for a temporary stay in New Zealand, although some can lead to residence. Resident visas, such as a skilled migrant residence can take up to 6 months to process.
Settle into Your Home
Before you arrive in New Zealand, you should plan to start your new life as settled as possible. You can use the services of a relocation company to help you organise financial accounts, school enrollments for the kids, accommodation upon your arrival or anything else you might need.
Finding a home is obviously a massive step in the process of moving overseas. Once you have a permanent place to live, make sure to get your broadband connection sorted as quickly as you can. After you have your internet and basic utilities set up, you will feel a little more settled and can start making your home feel like your own.
Get Connected
Moving to a new country can be scary, especially when you don’t know anybody. Luckily, there are loads of opportunities to get connected both in the workplace and in your local communities.
Once you’ve settled into your home, get to know your neighbours. Invite them over for a drink or afternoon tea and talk to them about their lives in New Zealand. You’ll quickly get a feel of what it’s like to live in the neighbourhood. It’s good to have a relationship with your neighbours, just to have that extra support. Don’t hesitate to get involved in any local community projects as well. This is a great way to get to know people, all while making a difference in the place you live.
If you’re feeling a little lost and alone on your move to New Zealand, just remember that you could always join an expat group for advice and support. Many people in NZ are experiencing the same thing as you and reaching out to them will make you feel a lot less lonely.
About the author
Allison Hail
Allison Hail is a freelance writer from Wellington, New Zealand who loves writing articles related to career and lifestyle. She believes never to take any opportunity for granted. In her experience, many chances for progress have happened outside her comfort zone! Read more of her published articles on Tumblr – Allison’s Perspective.
