Impressed by the natural beauty, clean environment, and friendly people

My name is Jennice. I am originally from Fiji and moved to New Zealand with my husband and our two daughters in 2025 on a student visa. Moving to New Zealand was a major decision for our family, driven by our desire to provide better educational opportunities for our children and build a brighter future together.

What was the most challenging part of the process?

The most challenging part was balancing everything at once. As a wife, mother, and student, I had to manage my studies while helping my family adjust to a completely new environment. Settling our daughters into school, understanding a new education system, managing finances, and building a new support network were all significant challenges. There were moments of uncertainty, but as a family we remained focused on our goals and supported each other through the transition.

Who was your adviser and how was your experience?

My adviser was Anastasiya from New Zealand Shores. From our very first conversation, Anastasiya made us feel supported and reassured. The immigration process can be overwhelming, especially when your family’s future depends on it, but Anastasiya was always available to answer questions, explain requirements clearly, and guide us through every stage. Her professionalism, patience, and attention to detail gave us confidence throughout the journey. We are truly grateful for her support in helping us achieve this milestone.

What was your first impression of New Zealand?

Our first impression of New Zealand was how welcoming and family-oriented it felt. We were impressed by the natural beauty, clean environment, and friendly people. What stood out most was the sense of safety and the strong community spirit. Coming from Fiji, we appreciated the multicultural environment and the respect shown to different cultures and backgrounds. It felt like a place where our children could grow, learn, and thrive.

What do you miss from home? Do you have any tips for finding your favourite products in New Zealand?

What I miss most is being close to family and the warmth of the Fijian community. There is something special about spontaneous family gatherings, traditional food, and celebrations that can never be fully replaced. Thankfully, Auckland has a vibrant Pacific community, and we have been able to find many familiar products through local Pacific stores and markets. Attending cultural events, temple functions, and community gatherings has helped us stay connected to our roots while creating a new home here in New Zealand.

What advice would you give to other migrants?

Be prepared for both challenges and opportunities. Do your research, understand your visa pathway, and have a clear financial plan before you move. Most importantly, be open to learning and adapting. Building a new life takes time, but every small step contributes to your long-term success. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and connect with your local community.

One thing I wish I knew before moving

I wish I had fully understood how important it is to have a financial buffer during the first few months. While we planned carefully, there are always unexpected expenses when settling into a new country. Having additional savings reduced some of the initial stress and allowed us to focus more on settling in and enjoying the experience.

Any other comments about New Zealand or your move?

Looking back, moving to New Zealand has been one of the best decisions our family has made. The journey has not always been easy, but it has been worthwhile. During my time here, I successfully completed my MBA studies, gained valuable experience, and was granted a Post-Study Work Visa. Watching our daughters settle into their new schools, make friends, and grow in confidence has been incredibly rewarding. We are excited about the future and grateful for the opportunities New Zealand has provided. We now proudly call New Zealand our second home and look forward to contributing to the community that has welcomed us so warmly.