When I asked about how long you've been together, I was thinking of this paragraph in the link I posted above.
Please note: If you have been living apart from your partner for any significant period during your relationship, you must also provide evidence of the length of any periods of separation, the reasons for them, and how your relationship was maintained during these periods.
Perhaps you could get away with claiming a few more months because you have been living apart for some time but still maintain close contact with one another, which can be proved by the phone bills and any cards or letters you exchange. There are valid reasons why you are now living apart and the situation is not to your liking, but has been forced upon you through your own 'carelessness'. I think, in this case, you need to prove that the relationship is still strong despite your being apart.
If you want to go for the WHV and wish to appear to be going for a working holiday (rather than to live there permanently at this point) I would think your explanation of wanting to tour around NZ would fit the bill. I would hope the thought of you filling the country with little kiwis might ring a little bell with her as the government is now complaining about the ageing population and they need more young people to 'restock' the place
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I would hope a full and honest account of your situation (lovers separated against their will), a note of regret about what happened in Oz (contrition) and a bit about your partner wanting to show off his country to you (national pride) thrown in for good measure should do it.
Sorry to hear about your sad loss in September.
