Travel - Expat Network

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The Safest Places For Expats To Live In New Zealand

New Zealand is one of the safest places in the world but even here some places are safer than others. Here International Citizens set out the factors that impact New Zealand and which places are safest. Originally published by International Citizens Insurance and published with their agreement If you’re looking for a safe place...

Make Miles Count: Essential Tips For An Unforgettable Road Trip

Are you itching to hit the open road on an adventure of a lifetime? Road trips offer freedom and flexibility, allowing travellers to chart their own course across scenic landscapes with lasting memories. But how can you maximise the kilometres you travel? Making wise choices along the way will help you have a good time...

Downtime In New Zealand

If you move to New Zealand there is no shortage of places to visit when you get a spare moment and even if you are not living there these highlights make it well worth the trip. Milford Sound Milford Sound is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular sites in New Zealand. The dark blue of...

Moving Abroad Checklist

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.