[MotherBear]

I think I?d be inclined to get a good map of Auckland city complete with surrounding areas and work my way out of the city following the main artery roads. Look for the best access roads to the part of the city where your husband will be working and that will give you some indication of which residential areas the roads pass through, as they would be the ideal places to set up home. As you will no doubt be aware, the closer you are to the city centre, the more expensive the property rentals. Once you?ve identified several possible areas to live, have a look through the property agents? rentals (listed on the Master Website List) for some idea of prices in those areas. Personally, I would strongly advise anyone against signing up for a rental on the strength of what they see on the Internet sites without being able to first view the place for themselves. From what I hear, there are some right horrors out there, although the agents? pictures on the Net had made the properties look great.

Initially, I?d get something that looks OK when viewed, was convenient for the city and was within a comfortable price range. It would give you a base then to look around in your own time for something more suitable if you aren?t happy with your first choice. You can always move around until you?ve found just what you want in the area you want. Don?t expect to drop straight into the perfect place immediately and you won?t be disappointed then.

Ag28com (Waikatere city), Daisyspop (Pukekohe), Jamesthecarman, Midder (Gulf Harbour), Kara, Ady, Loz, Lainy all live around the Auckland area and it might be worth sending them a PM to ask about the various suburbs. James is in the process of relocating to Wellington at the moment, so might not be available. The last few members don?t often post now but might still look into the forum or get a notifier in their email box to say they?ve had a PM.