Since his first visit in 1991, Russell Johnson had been frequenting New Zealand on a regular basis and in April 2007, he and his partner Sharon decided to relocate there for good.
When asked why they chose New Zealand, Russell explains: "I had been over there several times before and knew what to expect. I had been to Waiheke Island (off the coast of Auckland) previously and thought it was beautiful. I took Sharon, over there and she fell in love with the place so that’s where we decided to settle.
"It’s a nice quiet retreat from Auckland, there is a real community feel with plenty of wide open spaces and all the vegetation in the country makes for great scenery."
Russell sums up the obvious differences between the UK and New Zealand. "It’s not overcrowded, there’s less traffic, clean air, a good consistent climate and the people are nice and approachable."
The general lifestyle is also a big change from England: "The outdoor lifestyle is fantastic; we can go trekking, climbing, surfing, go for a run on the beach or be in the bush. The wildlife and different forms of vegetation are wide and varied."
"It is, culturally, not that far removed from the UK. We can still have a similar social life as there are some great restaurants and clubs in Auckland."
When asked about living conditions Russell mentions the great value for money: "Everything’s cheaper in New Zealand, from property and utility bills to food or petrol. The house we bought was cheap compared the UK property market. It is beautifully designed and well built. We have all the space we need and amazing surroundings."
Russell had some points of advice for Brits looking to New Zealand as their new home. "I’d recommend you do your research and learn about the property market."
Although Russell misses friends, family and things like the English summer time, he was quick tell us the things he doesn’t miss such as British winters, crowded trains and traffic on the roads.
Before emigrating Russell went to the Opportunities New Zealand Expo in London, which he described as a useful experience: "I made some good contacts there like the removal company we used who were excellent, and also meeting Moneycorp who were great."
Russell and Sharon used Moneycorp to transfer funds from the UK to New Zealand – most notably for the purchase of their house. Russell’s feedback of the service was positive. "Moneycorp’s service was really good and the process went smoothly. I was nervous about transferring large sums of money but Moneycorp kept me informed and up to date; the service was absolutely brilliant."
sponsored by: 