Hi, my name is Amanda, I am a registered nurse and I came to New Zealand in February from the UK. The process to come to New Zealand took me approximately eleven months.
The easiest part of the process was getting a job offer and having lots of relevant information and internet links provided by Accent health recruitment.
The most challenging part of the process was obtaining all the required paperwork in order to gain registration with the New Zealand Nursing Council.
My first impressions of New Zealand were how friendly and helpful people are and how New Zealand offers a lifestyle geared towards the outdoors. The best parts of New Zealand which I have discovered so far are the relaxed friendly community and the beautiful scenery nearby and how easy it is to travel around Canterbury.
I miss my family and friends the most....... and pickled cabbage.... yes really!
My advice if you are planning to come to New Zealand is firstly to get your professional registration as a priority. The cost of living is higher than in the UK in my opinion, so if you have decent hiking boots and outdoor gear I would recommend bringing it with you rather than buying it when you get here.
I have found the transition from the UK to New Zealand relatively easy. My initial few days in the country were definitely made so much easier thanks to the support and help from Accent, I felt as though I had someone to turn to if I needed advice.
From a professional perspective I feel that standards and practice are very similar. I feel that in New Zealand you are encouraged to develop skills and are supported to work towards extended practice. I had a good period of time in a supernumerary capacity to adapt to my new working environment. I feel that working in New Zealand will help me develop both personally and professionally and I am looking forward to enjoying the country and all it has to offer.
Current Time in Wellington, New Zealand
