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US Immigrant looking for advice (self.newzealand)
submitted 3 weeks ago by mjsaber to c/newzealand@lemmy.nz
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Hi, apologies if this isn't allowed. I'm a US citizen looking to move to NZ. I have all the technical stuff taken care of, just waiting on my documents to be processed and approved.

Basically I am looking for groups I can reach out to to help me get build a social group, and hear what others think about different areas of the country. I am LGBTQ, so it seems like Auckland or Wellington will be my best bet. If I'm in a big city, I would prefer not to have a car.

I'm a nurse, and it looks like salaries are good but not great (between 70-90k/year is what I seem to be finding).

Is this reasonable? Is NZ easy to settle into? Any other expats that can offer advice? Am I going to be broke all the time (I also have a cat I am bringing unless I am physically unable to)?

I did some research prior to applying, but I find more and more opposing views on where the country is headed. I guess I am just looking for some folks that had a similar situation to see how it worked out for them. I had a fair bit of options in where I could go, but the culture in New Zealand just seemed like the best fit. Thanks for taking the time to read or reply.

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[-] Venat0r@lemmy.world 4 points 3 weeks ago* (last edited 3 weeks ago)

I'm a nurse

You'll be wanting to move again or instead to Australia as soon as you can 😅

If I'm in a big city, I would prefer not to have a car.

Definitely doable in Auckland/Wellington, as long as you can get a place near your work or near public transport that doesn't require changing busses/trains(you'll often miss the transfer due to the first bus/train being a bit late or second bus being a bit early). Public transport isn't great like most of Europe, but not as bad as most of the USA judging by watching not just bikes on YouTube. Can also get groceries delivered but it's a bit more expensive and don't trust them with fresh produce. Cycling can be a good option if there's a separated path to where you want to go , otherwise the psychopathic drivers will literally try to kill you at times...

[-] mjsaber 1 points 3 weeks ago

This is the second time I've heard Australia is the better option for nursing. Any reason for this? I went with New Zealand because the climate and culture seemed more my speed, but that won't matter much if I can't find a job.

[-] Venator@lemmy.nz 3 points 3 weeks ago* (last edited 3 weeks ago)

You'll be able to find a job, but the hours and pay are better for nurses in Australia than in NZ. The current government is busy doing a lot of austerity at the moment, so all the hospitals are understaffed, underpay and demand crazy hours(the previous government weren't doing a great job either, but current one is way worse).

this post was submitted on 27 Jul 2025
21 points (100.0% liked)

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