"Kia ora, my name is Rachel and I am a Psychiatrist from the United States.
I arrived into NZ with my husband and young son in March 2014, a process which took us about four months.
The easiest part of the process was applying for a work visa after I already had a job offer, however the most challenging part of the process was deciding what to bring in 9 suitcases! If you have the opportunity, ship your own belongings here (furnishings and house items were more expensive than we expected).
My first impressions of New Zealand were how clean and fresh the air was, the scenery was really green and vibrant and the people were easy-going and friendly.
I love practicing in a nationalised health care system, learning about traditional Maori culture and language, and raising children in a safe and friendly environment is great!
I do miss being nearer to my family, however it has been a wonderful experience so far and I'm so very glad we made the decision to move to New Zealand."