In this conversation, Ashley and Will discuss Will's experience moving from California to New Zealand 15 months ago with his wife, 2 kids under 5 and 3 dogs! He drafted a children's book for American kids moving to Aotearoa New Zealand. We discuss the adjustments faced by families relocating to a new country, although Will is chill and adapted quite well! They explore topics such as visa pathways, cultural differences, the impact on children, shopping experiences, and the unique aspects of living in New Zealand. The conversation highlights the importance of community, education, and the differences in lifestyle between the two countries.

In this engaging conversation, Ashley and Haseya explore the nuances of expat life in New Zealand, touching on Ashley's parenting, cultural differences, and the challenges of navigating a new country. They discuss driving culture and the unique experience of celebrating holidays like Halloween and Christmas in a summer setting. The conversation also delves into mental health support systems, political aspirations, and the impact of social media on cultural perceptions. Through their personal anecdotes and insights, they provide a perspective on what it means to live in NZ Aotearoa.

In this conversation, Ashley and Sara discuss Sara's journey of moving to New Zealand, her experiences living in Auckland versus rural areas, and the challenges of parenting in a new country. They explore cultural differences, the importance of community support, and the complexities of family dynamics as immigrants. The conversation also touches on reflections about home, belonging, and the balance of life as an expat.

In this conversation, Olivia shares her recent move to New Zealand Aotearoa discussing the challenges and joys of relocating to a new country. She moved here just over a month ago to Auckland and has settling in! She reflects on the cultural adjustments, the job market, and the importance of building community. Olivia also shares her personal growth she has encountered during this transition. The conversation emphasizes the significance of embracing change and celebrating small victories along the journey of adaptation.

In this conversation, Anika discusses her family's move from the lakes and mountains of New Hampshire to New Zealand, sharing insights into their experiences with the education system, cultural adjustments, and outdoor activities. The dialogue explores the differences in community life, food preferences, and the impact of work-life balance on family dynamics. Anika reflects on her aspirations for the future and the contrasts between her life in New Zealand and America, providing a comprehensive view of the teenage immigration experience.

This was a difficult interview because she is my daughter :) I know how she fees.

In this episode, Ashley interviews Edison (Chi-An), a Taiwanese man who moved to New Zealand for his MBA. They discuss cultural differences, the challenges of adapting to a new environment, and the opportunities available for international students. Edison shares his experiences with education, work, food, and social interactions, highlighting the contrasts between life in Taiwan and New Zealand. The conversation emphasizes personal growth, the importance of community, and the joys of exploring new cultures. And, Ashley's disgust in Boba tea.

In this engaging episode, Haseya, a Gen Z guest, shares his journey from California to New Zealand and the lessons learned along the way. Together, we explore the cultural contrasts between the U.S. and Aotearoa, the role of music and the realities of adapting to a new lifestyle. Haseya opens up about the deeper nuances of food culture, the power and pitfalls of social media, and the importance of building genuine community in a new country. This candid conversation also touches on family dynamics, reconnecting with purpose, and what the future holds.

In this conversation, Ashley and Melissa discuss Melissa's journey of moving to New Zealand from the Delaware, touching on various aspects such as her experiences with TikTok, the immigration process, healthcare differences, and raising children in New Zealand. They explore the cultural and legal contrasts between the two countries. The conversation also delves into the impact of consumerism and minimalism on lifestyle choices in New Zealand, as well as the natural disaster preparedness that comes with living in a country prone to such events. Ashley shares her experiences of parenting in a digital age, the contrasts between city and rural living, and the challenges of house hunting in Christchurch. She discusses homesteading in Akaroa, and the emotional journey of coping with homesickness and loneliness as an immigrant.The conversation also touches on the importance of finding community and understanding the mortgage landscape in New Zealand, providing valuable insights for anyone considering a move to the country.

Melissa's book can be found: https://www.amazon.com/You-Want-Move-Zealand-Comprehensive-ebook/dp/B0DNQQ5P55

Or her website www.usatonz.com

https://melcoxmusic.tunepipe.com/

Keywords

New Zealand, immigration, TikTok, healthcare, midwifery, consumerism, natural disasters, raising children, visa pathways, property management, parenting, digital age, city living, rural living, house hunting, Christchurch, home buying, Akaroa, homesickness, immigrant community, healthcare system, mortgage, moving to New Zealand

In this episode, Christine shares her global journey and what ultimately led her family to settle in New Zealand after years of living around the world with Dallas as their home base. Originally planning just a two-year stay, Christine and her husband found themselves drawn to the Kiwi lifestyle, choosing to stay permanently and raise their children as global citizens.

She opens up about the challenges of navigating a new culture, the differences between the U.S. and New Zealand education systems, and why adaptability is the most valuable asset when relocating. Christine offers practical advice through her on securing housing, building community, and embracing cultural differences. She helps other newcomers through her relocation support business in Wellington.

This episode is full of heartfelt insights and useful tips for anyone considering an international move or looking to raise kids with a global mindset.

Abby and Ashley met at their MBA program at UC. They sit down and talk about transitions from New England (New Hampshire and Vermont) and they both owned small food based businesses. Abby has been in NZ for less than a year and still figuring out community.