I am wondering if anyone has any knowledge of this type of situation...

I lived in NZ from 1997 until 2000 and had permanent residency while I was there, but let it expire. I was married then--to a New Zealander--and had our daughter in Nelson. When she was 2 my husband and I split up and I returned home with her. She has dual citizenship and, obviously, can return. I am worried that I can't. I would like to move back with her so she can be closer to her dad but I'm not sure if that is possible now that I've been away for so long. I understand that when she is 18 she can sponser me and I can eventually live there. But she is only 6 now and her dad would love for her to be back, and I would like to return.

Any ideas? I would be most grateful. Feel free to email me personally if you wish.

Cheers
Shawn