Most migrants underestimate how financially hard the first year in New Zealand can be. In this episode, we break down a REAL first-year budget using Brett's own numbers — so you know exactly what to expect, what to plan for, and how to avoid costly mistakes.

This is Episode 1 of the Soft Landing × Migrant Financial Services financial series — your complete guide to understanding the real costs of immigrating to New Zealand.

In this kickoff episode, Brett Corlett sits down with Ivandee Fitchet to answer the question almost every mover asks:

👉 "How much money do I really need to survive my first year in New Zealand?"

Together, they walk through Brett's actual numbers from his own immigration journey, breaking down: • What a real first-year NZ budget looks like • Rent, transport, food, setup, and hidden expenses • Why the first 12–24 months feel financially tight • Practical ways to plan, prepare, and manage the transition more confidently

This series exists because migrants deserve honest, lived-experience guidance — not guesswork or generic advice.

📌 Want personalised help or partner support? Share your details here: https://forms.gle/DhzeGRL4cLF1egs68

• New Zealand immigration budget

• NZ cost of living 2025

• NZ immigrant finances

• Migrant Financial Services

• Moving to New Zealand costs

• New Zealand family budget

• NZ first-year expenses

• Soft Landing NZ

• Brett Corlett podcast

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