Dishin’ with the Diva

Culture Shock – Prices

New Zealand is a shockingly expensive place to live.

I understand, intellectually, that the Kiwi dollar isn’t as strong as the US dollar. (Though these days, it’s not as big a difference as it used to be.) And yes, this is an island country, so lots of things have to be imported. And yes again, it’s not as large an economy as in the States, so things are bound to be a bit more expensive. And yes one last time, the sales tax here is already factored into prices instead of tacked on at the checkout like it is in the US. I get all that.

But holy crap, things are expensive. From food to fuel to cell phones, I’m still reeling from how much things cost here. And it doesn’t help that I’m doing the same sort of work I’d be doing back home – granted at a less senior level – and making just over half as much as I did back home.

How expensive, you may ask. Let me start with a simple bottle of Coke. Typically, a 600 ml bottle (about the same size as a 20 oz back in the States) will cost between $3 and $3.50. A half dozen eggs – over $3. A mixed drink at a bar – $13 – $15, and that’s at an average place, not a “destination” bar. I could keep going, but I’m starting to get depressed.

I know prices are going up all over, especially on milk, eggs and cheese, but my poor little heart can hardly take it. My poor little wallet can hardly take it, either…

Working Holiday Visas

If you are interested in finding a way to work during longer holiday – legally – a working holiday visa may be an option for you, depending on your nationality, age and destination. It lets you enter the country for a maximum amount of time and find seasonal/temporary work to help fund your travels.

Most working holiday visa programs are geared towards students or recent graduates, so you’re left with few options if you’re over 30. Also, US citizens have fewer options than citizens of Commonwealth countries (the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, etc.).

After doing some research, I discovered that New Zealand does grant working holiday visas to applicants between 31 and 35, but you have to apply through an organization called BUNAC. The application process is surprisingly pain-free, and BUNAC’s fees seem to be quite reasonable.

If you even think you would like to take a working holiday, you should pursue that option as early in your life as possible; sadly, the older you are, the fewer your options. But if you really want one, don’t automatically assume you have no options just because you’re over 30 – if you do some research, you may find something you didn’t expect. And if you can’t get a working holiday visa, you may still be able to apply for a temporary work visa, or find other ways to stretch your travel budget for a longer vacation.