Hold onto your seat because we’re about to dive into a topic I’ve been expertly dodging – like a ninja dodges throwing stars. After a quick stats check (because who doesn’t love a bit of statistical thrill?), brace yourself for the rollercoaster of fascinating findings. It’s time to spill the tea, or rather, the data about navigating life in New Zealand! Let the adventure begin.
Do you know in the last year, there has been an influx of migrants to New Zealand?
Well, buckle up, because it looks like New Zealand is the new “kiwi-land” for Nigerians! Who would’ve thought? Maybe it’s the lure of hobbit adventures or the promise of sheep-filled landscapes. I mean, who can resist the call of a land where the sheep-to-human ratio is just right?
I can imagine the scene at the Kiwi airport now: “G’day mate, welcome to New Zealand! No worries, we’ve got enough scenic views to go around. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot Frodo on his morning jog!”
Forget the Emerald Isle; it’s all about the Kiwi charm. They heard there’s more to life than jollof rice – like chasing sheep and perfecting the art of saying “Kia Ora” without pulling a muscle. Move over, Middle Earth; it’s time for a Naija-Kiwi mashup!
But seriously, it’s always fascinating to see people exploring new horizons and adding a bit of spice to their life journey. Who knows, maybe they just heard about the amazing kiwi fruit and thought, “Yep, that’s the place for me!” Cheers to a multicultural New Zealand – where even the sheep are considering taking up Nigerian dance moves!
This topic was suggested by one of my YouTube channel subscribers
Every country is different, with their own laws, rules, and ways people normally do things, so for most people, adjusting to life in a new country is a challenge and a steep learning curve. I would know because I have had to do that, twice! Sharing my story will help you understand your experiences, and you will find that you relate to some things, which will make you not feel like you are alone.
You’ve just arrived in New Zealand. Congratulations! Now you’re wondering, “I’m in. What next?“
How do you Navigate life in New Zealand
The answer to this question can be found in the settling in New Zealand playlist on my youtube channel..
Useful Tips to Settle in New Zealand EASILY
You may find that some of the video titles mention students. Worry not, the suggestions in the videos apply to everyone, student or not. I covered topics from dealing with homesickness to finding accommodation and jobs and even opening a New Zealand bank account.
New Zealand will teach you social skills, well living abroad does that to anyone willy nilly. Except those unwilling to learn or unlearn. In that case, you find that they always pack up and leave. But Sassy, you haven’t answered the question.
How do you Navigate life in New Zealand
The way you do that depends largely on the circumstances surrounding how you entered New Zealand in the first place. So now I ask you, what brought you to New Zealand?
There are common themes every immigrant will experience and should prepare for. There are some things you need to do before you leave your country and after you arrive in your new country, in this case, New Zealand. This is assuming that you have your visa.
Using an average African immigrant as an example,
Prepare for a meteorological rollercoaster because as soon as you step off the plane, you’ll realize that “chilly” is just another way of saying “Welcome to New Zealand!” If you hail from Africa, let’s just say you might mistake the local weather for a personal vendetta. Oh, and remember the warm jacket? Yeah, that’s your new best friend, consider it a cuddly bear hug that you can wear.
Now, don’t be fooled, someone might tell you we enjoy three months of summer here, but that’s just a local myth, like a unicorn or a tan. Winter might trigger your snow-filled fantasies, but if you’re nesting in the North Island, prepare for a snow-starved reality. Those dreams will melt faster than ice cream in the Sahara.
But don’t lose heart! Those friendly mountains are just a hop, skip, and a jump away, basically inviting you to frolic in the winter wonderland. Or if you fancy a bit of a voyage, set sail to the South Island – it’s pretty much our in-house version of Antarctica, minus the penguins and the research stations.
Hold on to your hat, because culture shock is about to hit you like a glitter bomb! Brace yourself, darling, because no matter how unshakable you think you are or how open-minded you fancy yourself, you’re in for a wild ride.
Now, let’s talk about Kiwis. These folks are so laid back; they make sloths look hyperactive. You’ll see it in the way they walk, in their fashion choices, and even in how they run their businesses. It’s like a perpetual Sunday afternoon nap, but with more sheep involved. Sure, there are a few outliers, but overall, it’s a country that’s mastered the art of chilling.
Click here to know why the word sheep is mentioned more than five times in this post.
I made you count. Don’t lie!!
Oh, Auckland and its homeless population – it’s like a real-life game of Where’s Waldo, but with a sobering social commentary. If you’re from the USA, it’s not exactly breaking news. Here and there, you’ll find some folks who’ve made a life choice to embrace the street, turning homelessness into a side hustle. It’s like a business venture – move over Wall Street, we’ve got Street Street!
Now, let’s dive into healthcare – the land of hobbits and healing. Their healthcare system is pretty good, but it seems the nurses might be moonlighting as wizards because the pay isn’t exactly magical. There’s been a bit of a nurse migration to bigger countries, leaving Kiwi hospitals with a shortage of magical healers. Depending on your visa, you might be the chosen one for free healthcare. Watch this video, consult the oracle, or just ask around – there’s help if you know where to look!
My Experience with New Zealand’s Healthcare System as a Nigerian
Mental health and depression – the buzzwords of the century! And no, this is not to rain on the parade of those with legitimate medical conditions. Now, as an African, you’re considered a superhero of resilience – probably because we’ve all aced the survival levels back home. But here’s the kicker: in New Zealand, you might find yourself missing the sun more than your mom’s cooking. Winter gloominess is a thing, blame it on the sun’s vacation. Solution? Load up on vitamin D, do a dance to summon the sun, and manage your time like a boss. Talk to loved ones, get your beauty sleep, and remember, you’re a resilient sun-seeking warrior in a land of hobbits and sheep!
So, early bird explorer! Welcome to the thrilling rollercoaster of starting a new chapter in NZ. It’s like The Lord of the Rings, but with more paperwork. In your early days.. you need to consider these things
- Money –
First things first, let’s talk moolah. Activate that bank account like you’re unlocking a secret level and grab that tax number like it’s the hottest trend. Money – you’re about to become BFFs. Read about cost of living in New Zealand here - Healthcare is a priority, so enroll with a doc, find a dentist, and maybe even consider a will. Not that we’re predicting gloom and doom, but hey, it’s always good to be prepared for the unexpected. Life’s an adventure, after all!
- Planning to work? Perfect! Craft a CV Kiwi style, write a cover letter that makes them go, “Wow, we need this person in our lives,” and start hunting for jobs. If work feels like a bad Tinder date – mismatched expectations and all – speak up! Your job won’t ghost you, promise. Immigrant power, activate!. We immigrants tend to think, “OMG… I should even be grateful they gave me that job,” so we tend not to speak up because of fear of losing the job. Nah, if you don’t speak up there, they will think you don’t mind so speak when you feel uncomfortable. Same with students. Of course, your approach matters.
- Transportation – don’t worry, we’ve got more than hobbit feet here. Buses, trains, and ferries are your chariots. Research them like you’re planning a grand tour.
- Emergency time! Earthquakes, tsunamis, and more – it’s like Mother Nature’s own action movie. Dial 111 in emergencies; it’s the free pass to summon heroes (aka police, fire service, and ambulance). Just don’t prank call them; they’re not your personal hotline bling.
- Community vibes! Hit up the local library or i-site. Get involved, because making friends is like collecting Pokémon cards – the more, the merrier.
- Phones and networks – it’s not a Marvel movie, but choosing your mobile provider is still crucial. Spark, OneNZ, 2 degrees – pick your superhero wisely.
I think that covers most things. Navigating NZ’s early days is a journey. Reach out, because I’m basically the human GPS of resources. Lower those expectations, my friend, and embrace the adventure. Fear of what people will say? Let it go – their opinions are not the boss of you. Imposter syndrome? Kick it to the curb – you’re the superhero of your story.
2024 is your year! Plan, pray, and take action. Don’t be the hermit of opportunity; network, submit that CV, and be social – even if it’s just with the neighbor’s cat. This year, endeavor to understand the key role you play in your suffering. Don’t be a stumbling block to yourself. Your future self will thank you for unleashing the powerhouse within. Go on, make 2024 the year you show life who’s boss! 🚀✨
