Why I Convinced My Friend to Rethink Working in New Zealand: A Cautionary Tale

It’s not my intention to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm, but the reality of immigration is rarely a bed of roses. For middle-aged individuals, leaving behind their hard-earned accomplishments and the comfort of their home country to start anew in the Southern Hemisphere is a monumental challenge!

One of the most pressing concerns is whether they can secure a fulfilling job after leaving a stable career in their home country for New Zealand.

The truth is, the job market in New Zealand is quite small, with limited professional opportunities, and the competition is intense. The hiring hierarchy typically favors local Kiwis, followed by those with residency, and then everyone else.

Even in the highly sought-after IT sector, the bar is set high. A minimum of 3-5 years of experience at a major domestic company, coupled with an IELTS score of 6.5, is often required just to be considered. Professionals like doctors, lawyers, and accountants may also need to undergo re-certification exams. The choice is stark: either stay put in your home country or be prepared to return to school and possibly switch career paths.

Furthermore, while many people romanticize the idea of a “peaceful and distant” lifestyle, the common refrain of “beautiful landscapes, serene waters, and extreme boredom” is a familiar one.

Ultimately, immigration is neither a utopia nor a nightmare; it’s a different life choice that comes with its own set of gains and losses. Only the individual can truly weigh the pros and cons. For middle-class families over 35, who are juggling the responsibilities of caring for elderly parents and young children, the decision becomes even more critical. On one side lies the familiar and stable, and on the other, the allure of new opportunities and the unknown.