[quote:8581043a7f="mikesalmon"]Do you think it is easier/less stressful to "start a new life" in New Zealand being young and just out of college or coming over when you are married and have children? I am asking this because I am planning on coming to New Zealand from the US next year after I graduate. I always read about people having a hard time because they make a lot less money in NZ and it's hard to keep up with their old living standards. A recent graduate, though, really wouldn't be ass affected by this I would think. Also, most of the families who immigrate already have a decent sized savings account and are able to sell their house, thus having a lot more money when they arrive. A recent grad wouldn't definitely not have this ammount of money. I was just wondering what you all think about these scenarios. Thanks in advance for your opinions!

Mike[/quote:8581043a7f]

I think it's easier young.

That's why I did it. Not tied down to a mortgage, "ball and chain" ;-), career, etc.

Most Kiwis go on what's called an "OE" or Overseas Experience after graduating from University.....and this is exactly what you will be doing. (assuming it's a temporary move....at least to start with, you could very well decide to stay). They go for 2-4 years to another country to "expand their horizons" or whatever you want to call it.

20% of NZ'ers live overseas. (1 million out of the country, 4 million in). Only 2% of Americans do, so you can see why we don't exactly have a term for it....and most people don't even consider it. Where as most Kiwis go well beyond "considering" it.

If I do go back to the US and start a family, I fully intend on moving back to NZ when my kids reach school age.

Being that I've already done it when younger, it shouldn't be too bad when I'm older.

Hope this helped you man.



Oh, most of the time I answer "NOW!!" is the best time. If somehow time were warped and "now" you had kids and family, and in the future you were young and single......it would be better to go young and single. I'm not completely slanted in saying "go now!" :icon_wink: