We regret that after six years of dedication to this fabulous resource site, we are taking a break and not accepting any new links. If your organization is already listed on our site but just needs a correction, please leave a comment on any posts on our Expat Women Blog and we will aim to make corrections within one month. Thank you.
Expat Women Living in New Zealand
If you are (or plan to be) an expat living in New Zealand, please find below a list of expat clubs, schools, general links for women living in New Zealand, country information and more...
American Club Inc – Auckland http://www.americanclub.org.nz/
The American Club was established in Auckland in 1966. Since then it has continuously provided a social venue for persons sharing an interest in America. The club holds regular monthly meetings, including activities and events that mark Memorial Day, Independence Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, as well as local activities and sporting occasions. Through its 'Friendship Award' program it seeks to support friendship and understanding between the peoples of the United States and New Zealand.
American Womens Club Auckland http://www.awcauckland.com/
Our purpose is to make your life a little easier and perhaps happier while you live here. Members in the club can offer you a wealth of information. Many of our members have been here for years; some are war brides who married American GI's, others have married Kiwis and decided to move here.
Ionian Club of Auckland - Making newcomers welcome http://www.ionians.com.au
If you are new to Auckland, meet women who are, or have been, in the same situation by joining the Ionian Club, devoted to friendship and support. Members are from both New Zealand and overseas. There are regular outings and activities such as movies, restaurants, galleries, walks, book groups, card games, craft activities and much more.
Ionian Club of Auckland - Making Newcomers Welcome http://www.ionians.net
If you are new to Auckland, meet women who are, or have been, in the same situation by joining the Ionian Club, devoted to friendship and support. Members are from both New Zealand and overseas. There are regular outings and activities such as movies, restaurants, galleries, walks, book groups, card games, craft activities and much more. We look forward to hearing from you.
Kiwi Expat Association http://www.keanewzealand.com/index.html
KEA is a non-profit association, networking between expat New Zealanders in the Netherlands, and helping them build relationships and contacts in the Netherlands and back in New Zealand. Membership is currently FREE. KEA is also open to Dutch persons with a proven commercial, business or cultural interest in New Zealand.
General Links for New Zealand
Africans Immigrating to New Zealand http://www.sagoingtonz.co.nz
If you are looking into immigrating to New Zealand, you have found your new home.
Our aim is to help you get through your immigration & settling in process as smoothly as possible.
Lets Move 2 NZ www.letsmove2nz.co.uk
A friendly community website that is full of immigration information for people wanting to work or move to New Zealand.
My Destination is a global travel resource powered by a diverse community of local experts on the ground, providing unrivalled local knowledge and unique local deals.
Working In New Zealand http://www.workingin-newzealand.com
This site is designed to provide up to date information about job opportunities in New Zealand and Australia. It's especially for professional people returning home or people that want to move "Down Under".
Welly Rocks www.wellyrocks.com
For immigrants to Wellington, New Zealand. Social meetings at pubs or parks, and sometimes a speaker about something kiwi like rugby.
Looking for work in another country requires more than just the obvious CV translation. You will be confronted with issues
that probably didn't even cross your mind when you decided to go for an international career, but don't underestimate
the big impact they can have on the outcome of your adventure! Think for example about the different rules and
habits regarding immigration, job application procedures, the selection procedures and the management culture.
These tips were kindly provided by volunteer Expat Women Mentors in 2007. ExpatWomen.com shares these tips in an effort to help but takes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information.
Provided by Debbie S, a New Zealander, Auckland, New Zealand
1.
A vehicle is generally required for travel around Auckland and New Zealand.
2.
An awareness of personal safety.
3.
Ability to communicate in English is important.
4.
It can be difficult to make new friends; hobbies and clubs are a good way to socialize initially.
5.
Auckland is a multi–cultural city with diverse ethnicities and varying levels of integration and racial issues
Provided by Jessica D, an American, Kapiti Coast, New Zealand
1.
Use an online cost of living calculator (like the one at emigratenz.org) to help get a sense of what your budget will be in NZ. (Remembering that Auckland is far more expensive than the rest of the country).
2.
If you have kids, look into the education system and check that there are good schools in the area in which you plan to live.
3.
New Zealand has a Ministry of Women's Affairs. You can research issues on the government website before you move that might be particularly important to you as a woman.
4.
Start watching the exchange rate as early as you can to get a feel for the currency. The rate at which you transfer saved funds to NZ will decide how much you have here.
5.
Once you've moved to NZ, get involved in local activities that interest you – volunteering, classes, etc... It will help you feel settled and make new friends.
Provided by Kirsty H, British, Auckland, New Zealand
1.
Bring your sense of humor with you!
2.
Don't come without obtaining a visa / permit if you want to live here for a while.
3.
Come with lots of money as Auckland is expensive to live in.
4.
Don't rush moving into flats – find the right crowd if possible.
5.
Get a car as it is the best way for you to get used to the surroundings.
Provided by Shannon K, American, Christchurch, New Zealand
1.
Be prepared for all weathers – sometimes you get four seasons in one day!
2.
Use the bus system. It's a great way to learn your surroundings.
3.
Don't be afraid to ask for help, Kiwis are friendly and always ready to help.
4.
Get out of town and explore. Christchurch is a home–base spot for doing weekend trips.
5.
Listen and be patient with yourself, other people and new circumstances. In other words, roll with it!
