Expat Advice: Working in Napier, New Zealand

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Napier

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

This province is pretty small. New Zealand itself is small. The NZ economy is agriculturally based, although technical services are becoming a growth industry.

What type of work do you do and how did you find your job?

Business Services, bookkeeping, office manangement. I started doing just reception work, using a computer in 1988. In 1990, started work in an accountant's office and was trained in monthly returns and book keeping. Now I use computer programs to prepare accounts to trial balance stage for the accountants, and do all monthly returns for GST, PAYE. I also do desk top publishing creating newsletters, booklets etc. I'm planning on moving to Norway in July 2002.

How did you obtain your work permit? What advice would you have for others about work permits?

The rules have changed since I got my work permit. They used to accept immigrants based on a skills shortage list, but now there is a points system. Familiarise yourself with the points system and work out what you total will be and your chances of obtaining a work/residency permit.

What advice would you offer others about finding jobs and working abroad?

Keep an open mind. Don't be defensive about your patriotic feeling. America isn't loved by everyone and America isn't the only country that is a wonderful place to live.