Posted By Emma Righton-Corrick, Dip2OSH, Dip.RSA, CMIOSH, MIIRSM, MInstLM Having thought about it and discussed it, my husband and I did the visa assessment online, both of us passed, and suddenly (due to Rob being and electrician) The bureau contacted Rob the following day and there may be a very real opportunity to emigrate. So, suddenly I find that I am in need of possible employment in New Zealand. Although IOSH dont have a New Zealand branch, perhaps someone might have contacts who I might be able to approach? Thanks in anticipation Emma

Posted By Jim T Great news....but be warned! the grass is not always greener.... My family and I moved lock stock and barrel to Tauranga (North Island) and managed to hold out for 2 years before we admitted that "the land of the long white form" was not for us. Plus points Good beaches Lovely views Not too many people Not very politically correct Minus points Houses built to the standard of a UK shed Low wages High prices High levels of violent and drug crime (surprised me too!) Iffy education if you have kids Freezing in the winter Very sexist and racist population I'm not saying don't get excited, just make sure that you do your homework first. Steer clear of the online "I love NZ forums" as the majority are run by folk either involved in Real Estate, Relocation companies or have a vested interest in getting folk to spend money moving to NZ. Regardless....Good luck! From my observations in NZ Health & Safety is more of a mildly amussing suggestion rather than something to be taken seriously! LOL Jim

Posted By Emma Righton-Corrick, Dip2OSH, Dip.RSA, CMIOSH, MIIRSM, MInstLM Thanks guys its always great to get everyone's point of view to "keep it real" and not rose tint it. I will look on the groups forum, but if anyone has any more insight or contacts, would be most appreciative. My areas of strength are in Agriculture, Manufacturing and Construction with a little bit of Social Care thrown in for good measure. Cheers guys

Posted By Jim T Just so you know...........the NZ forum of britishexpats is moderated by a 2 English women who are Real Estate agents and a couple more who sell high end goods. They jump down the throat of anyone who dares to say that NZ isn't perfect! LOL Jim ;-)

Posted By rjhills My friend has been there recently, and praises NZ very highly. He advised me that there is a very laid back attitude, their health service is better than GB, ditto schools. No info as to drugs problem, but speed of life approximates to 1960s GB!

Posted By Cliffy Hello Emma, Been following the threads with interest. Could you please contact me outside of the forum for a chat? my address is alanc@impac.co.nz Cheers Cliffy

Posted By Emma Righton-Corrick, Dip2OSH, Dip.RSA, CMIOSH, MIIRSM, MInstLM Nutty As soon as I get over there will post, and thanks to everyone for the info - now all I need is a job!

Posted By Emma Righton-Corrick, Dip2OSH, Dip.RSA, CMIOSH, MIIRSM, MInstLM Yes I saw the article in the SHP, and found it very informative, however having been in contact with a number of agencies, its not as bad as the article makes out, yes they are the lowest out of UK, Australia and NZ, and as you say the lifestyle will be a major plus. I guess life is what you make it and it doesnt always have to be about dosh, as long as I get enough to keep a roof over my head, food in my belly and something for a rainy day, I think I shall be fairly happy. Anything more will be a brucy bonus!

Posted By TBC From what I've heard and read on here it might be an idea to ditch the long handle and go for plain: emmA (following the accent with upspeak) Good Luck!

Posted By Jude Taylor Hi Emma It is amusing to read people's responses. I'm a kiwi and if you move to "gods own country" you will have a wonderful experience. Lets put things in perspective. NZ has a population of 4 million and 1 million who live overseas and are raising the iq's and breeding stock of a number of countries!! Ironically I live in Oz but NZ OSH has moved forward in leaps and bounds. You have a great mix of experience and will get a good job there. As for living in NZ yes we have a relaxed lifestyle - limited stress unlike the UK. Enjoy the scenery and opportunities - no bugs or weird wildlife. Very few traffic jams. Go for it!! try it for a couple of years to start but its cool!! I have lived in the UK - you guys don't know what you are missing!! Come downunder!! email direct if you want more info. JT

Posted By CFT Jude Your posts 'almost' make it seem quite inviting. If only I had the courage and was a bit younger;-) CFT

Posted By EmmaRC Hi Jude et all Thanks for the feedback really appreciate it, will private message you. A lot of the feedback we have had is that generally the 25% of people that come back to the UK are those whos partners have not integrated and have been home sick. Cheers