[Desirida]

Hi all. Doing things a little bit back to front - after lurking for a while, inwardly digesting info, replying to a few posts etc - I suddenly find the Intro bit so thought I would do that now!
We are hubby and I (43) plus two children (9 and 7) planning to move to NZ but without any definite time scale at the mo. OH is Iprofessional T geek (his words not mine - I just agree!) and we are looking to get PR on that basis. I have been involved in teaching English as a Second Language for many years but don't have state teaching quals (only for adult ed). I am just trying to finish off a degree (late bloomer) and hope to then upgrade my teaching quals. Understand from some threads that, despite the appearance of great shortages in teaching, it is quite difficult to get a job?

Our children have mixed emotions so far. 9 year old daughter is already behaving like some of the teenagers mentioned on here - "not going, won't leave my friends - will stay here on my own!" Our son can't wait - sees it all as a huge adventure and already loves the idea of the outdoor lifestyle.

OH and I have both been to NZ albeit many, many years ago and are now considering a reccie beforehand because we can't decide on places - not sure on job situation etc. Went to an Expo recently and were told that all the IT jobs were in Auckland and Wellie but we are looking for a more "lifestyle" lifestyle and fancy ChCH or Nelson. Any pointers from people on this would be great.

Also not sure how difficult it is to find school places. In UK it can be almost impossible to get a place in some areas unless you register your child practically from birth!! How is it out there?

Thanks in advance and looking forward to reading more from you all.
Kate