Starting a new life in a new country

My name is Ali and I’m originally from Iran. I moved to New Zealand with my wife and two children.

Challenges

The most challenging part of the process was navigating the visa application process and ensuring that we met all of the necessary requirements. My adviser was Julia Cooke, and she was extremely helpful throughout the entire process. She provided clear guidance on the visa application process and helped us navigate the various steps involved. She was always responsive to our questions and concerns, and we felt very supported by her throughout the entire process. More than an Adviser, I consider her a friend who helped and supported us through one of the most difficult challenges of our life.

First impression

My first impression of New Zealand was that it was incredibly beautiful and welcoming. The scenery was breathtaking, and the people were very friendly and welcoming.
I miss some of the food and products that I was used to in Iran, but I have found that there are many great alternatives available in New Zealand. I have also discovered some new favourites that I never would have tried before moving here. My advice would be to be open to trying new things and to explore the local markets and grocery stores to find new products and flavours.

My advice

My advice to other migrants would be to do your research and to be prepared for the process to take some time. It is also important to be patient and to be flexible in your expectations, as things may not always go exactly as planned. Finally, it is important to be open to new experiences and to embrace the culture and lifestyle of your new home.
One thing I wish I knew before I moved was how quickly the weather can change in New Zealand. It is usual to see 4 seasons per day in Auckland. It is important to be prepared for all kinds of weather, especially if you plan to do outdoor activities.

Overall, our move to New Zealand has been a wonderful experience. We have enjoyed exploring the beautiful countryside, meeting new people, and learning about the local culture. We feel very grateful for the support that we received from NZ Shores throughout the process, and we would highly recommend their services to anyone considering migration to New Zealand.