New Zealand is losing its people to Australia at an alarming rate, and it’s not hard to see why. With the cost-of-living crisis hitting hard, many Kiwis are making the move across the ditch for better job opportunities and higher wages.
The Struggle is Real
Meet Poreva Kirikava, a 33-year-old dad of three who recently made the move from Papamoa in Tauranga to Sydney with his family. The youth worker was overwhelmed with emotion during his first grocery shop at Aldi, breaking down in tears when he realized he could afford to feed his family without breaking the bank.
A $1,000 Difference
Kirikava spent $380 on his Aldi shop, which he estimated would have cost him a staggering $1,000 in New Zealand. The difference was like a weight off his shoulders. “It was unbelievable,” he said. “I freaked out because in New Zealand, a normal shop was $200 to $300 for a family of five, and that’s just the first few days, not to mention running out of milk and butter and bread.”
@kingpeekayDay 1 in Australia.
A Lifestyle of Financial Insecurity
Kirikava described the cost of living in New Zealand as “unbearable.” Despite being considered “well-off” by others’ standards, he constantly felt financial insecurity. There were weeks when he didn’t know if his family would have enough food. “That was the struggle of living in New Zealand,” he said. “As beautiful as it is, it came down to taking in the lifestyle and all New Zealand has to offer but not being able to feed your kids.”
The Shock of Affordable Prices
Kirikava was astonished by the prices of basics like meat, fruit, and veggies in Australia. Meat was $1 or $2 cheaper, and a five-pack of noodles was “dirt cheap” at $1.69. Even the cost of salt, pepper, and spices took him by surprise, with $2.40 chicken nuggets leaving him feeling “buzzing.”
Better Wages, Better Life
Kirikava’s decision to move to Australia was largely driven by the promise of better wages. As a youth worker, he’s earning $17 more per hour than he was in New Zealand. This means he can work less and spend more time with his kids. “I was on $30 something in New Zealand [as a casual youth worker] and now I’m on $46 to $47 depending on the date and time that I work,” he said.
A ‘Tug of War’ No More
Having to choose between providing for his family and being present for his sons was a constant struggle in New Zealand. But now, with higher wages and lower taxes, Kirikava has found a better work-life balance. “It means I don’t have to work as much, and I can see my kids grow up,” he said.
The Cost of Living Comparison
While the cost of rent is comparable between the two countries, Kirikava expects to save significantly on electricity bills, which were previously $100 per week in New Zealand. In Australia, his extended family pays $400 to $600 per quarter.
A Fresh Start
Kirikava’s story is a stark reminder of the challenges many Kiwis face in New Zealand. But it’s also a testament to the promise of a better life in Australia. As he settles into his new home, Kirikava is grateful for the opportunity to provide for his family without sacrificing his own well-being.