[firing1]

Hi all,
we've been in NZ for four years now and at times have really struggled with money. However we have got a beautiful house and a great lifestyle and wouldn't swap it for anything. The comparison of wages with the UK is one of the biggest issues I have come across and it seems most people go through this when they first move out or look at NZ. The reality is it's all about perception and budgeting. The best advice I was given was to stop converting everything back into pounds. (although it took me a year to do this).Also make your own opportunities, I started here on a low wage but vowed to do better and that's what I have done without having to give my weekends up on overtime as well. Salaries can vary widely as well even for the same role so look around. Money is essential to live but our main goal was lifestyle and we have that now and feel very lucky. Most Kiwi's do not live in poverty and i've seen people look at the wages compared to the UK and ask themselves how do they manage to have the nice house and car and boat? They budget, they work and they enjoy life. Oh and you'll be pleased to know that you can get cheap sunscreen out here.

Paul