Moving to New Zealand - Eagles to Kiwis

Ashley talks to Dave about his recent trip back to NZ after being in America for nearly 20 years.

Podcast Episode Description: In this episode, I sit down with Julie from Massachusetts, who moved to New Zealand just six months ago while her Kiwi husband remains in the U.S. to wrap up their life there. We talk about the realities of starting over—from navigating loneliness and building new networks to the challenges of finding work in a new country. Julie shares her first impressions of Kiwi food, her journey toward settling in, and what it’s really like to make such a big move solo. It’s an honest and heartfelt conversation about transition, resilience, and grit to start over.

In this episode, Ashley and Allison discuss their experiences as American expats living in New Zealand, touching on food, the challenges of navigating life during COVID-19, the complexities of the NZ mortgages and interest rates, NZ military vs USA military, and the importance of community and personal growth. They share insights on adjustments, working in NZ, financial challenges, and the emotional journey of living abroad. Ashley opens up about struggles of starting over.

Ashley and Allyson bond over their shared experience of being married to Kiwis, navigating the challenges of moving to New Zealand—including using shipping containers for their relocations—and adjusting to the high cost of living. Allyson is also the founder of the Americans in Christchurch group, creating a community for fellow expats in the city.

In this conversation, I chat with David from Washington DC – originally from Hawaii. He had a job offer before making the move in 2022. We delve into topics such as outdoor activities, the housing market, and the differences in living conditions between the two countries, providing insights into the expat experience in New Zealand. We discusses the integration of Māori culture in schools in a diverse environment. The conversation also touches on the practical aspects of moving, such as the cost of living and grocery shopping, and the dynamics of family life in a new country. David’s kids are much younger than mine. Key points include the natural beauty of the country and the differences in political discourse compared to the United States

This is our first episode! Unfiltered, unedited and real conversation!