Out and about is a column where we talk to people who currently live abroad, or who have previously lived and worked there. This week we chat to Ilze Dreyer who lives in New Zealand.  

Hallo Ilze, it is lovely to talk to you! From where in South Africa are you and why did you decide to emigrate to New Zealand?

I am originally from Vryheid and my husband, Nico, is from Ellisras. Before we emigrated, we lived in Randburg.

We chose New Zealand mainly for the safety, the culture which is close to South African culture and all the South Africans who live here. The weather in the North Island is not bad on the contrary the weather in Auckland reminds us of the Western Cape.

Adjusting to a new world

What were the strangest things for you to get used to, and what was the biggest adjustment?

Getting used to:

• You see elderly people and children walking down the street in the dark.
• You receive a weekly and biweekly salary and pay rent weekly.
• You put fuel in yourself and pay – without any cashier.
• The streets and surroundings are very clean.

• There are beautiful, neat parks to walk in and relax.
• Kiwi’s live fully in spring and summer. They enjoy every moment of a beautiful sunny day, and it is so nice to see and experience!  
• Most houses do not have walls/fences between each other, and if there are, they are made of wood.

Biggest adjustment:

• You need to learn to understand and get used to the Kiwi culture.
• It is bad for your credit record to buy on credit here, where in South Africa it is the opposite (excluding buying a house and vehicle).
• The credibility of Kiwi’s – they trust that people will do the right thing.
• Windows and doors do not have burglar bars.
• How effectively processes work here.  
• The Kiwis are not as enthusiastic (like with rugby).

How did you establish yourself in the community – was it easy to find your feet and make new friends?

We are not very social, so it was not difficult for us to adapt.

It is difficult, in our opinion, to make friends – not all South Africans want to be your friend.  

We joined the church and is part of a small group (cell group).

Is shopping in New Zealand different compared to South Africa?

Yes, it is significantly different. You must get used to different products. Not all products that are available in South Africa are available here. There are practically no plastic bags available at grocery stores – mostly paper and cloths bags. You take your own bags to the store. You pack the vegetables and fruit yourself as very few come pre-packed. Vegetables and fruit are very expensive, and we only buy them when they are in season. You do the work yourself at the cashier, scan your item and pack it, as well as pay.

What do you miss most about South Africa, maybe something small that others won’t expect?

• We miss dropping off our vehicle at the car wash and picking it up later.
• The warm waters of Sodwana and going scuba diving there every year.
• Cheap takeaways as well as eating out regularly. Eating out is very expensive here.
• Cheap fruit.
• Our beloved waiter.

Are there South African products or stores available near you? And professional service providers who speak Afrikaans?

Yes, Auckland has quite a few South African shops – you can even buy biltong and milk tart! There is an international shelve in grocery stores with products such as Tennis Biscuits and Mrs Ball’s Chutney.

Our veterinarian, general practitioner, hairdresser and financial advisor are all Afrikaans. Our cell group at church is also Afrikaans. We even know an Afrikaans attorney and teacher.

If you had to give this chapter of emigration a title, what would it be and why?

The exchange of Third World problems with those of a First World country. Every country has its problems. Many people think they are going to leave their problems behind, but it is just another set of challenges that are waiting.

What would you say is the biggest change in yourself since you emigrated?

I learnt to be more patient. People are calmer here and will not be rushed. I had to get used to the fact that safety is normal. I still struggle with this sometimes.

Is there anything that you would like to share with us – something you wished you had known before you left, or advice for others who are considering taking the same path?

• Do your research before you decide to emigrate. Don’t just look at Instagram photos. It is a big task to do this homework. Ask the questions. There are many groups on Facebook where people will help you or steer you in the right direction.
• Emigration is not sunshine and roses – it is physically and emotionally exhausting.
• Make sure that you have the necessary funds to be able to emigrate. Many people take the first chance and come over. The visas are expensive as well as getting yourself settled.
• Prepare a detailed budget. Don’t just look at the salary amount. Accommodation is very expensive here and the cost of living is very high. Most people rent houses. Make peace with the fact that you may not be able to afford to buy a house, especially if you emigrate at a later age.
• If you are family-oriented, you will probably struggle to adapt here.  
• Your marriage/relationship with your husband/wife must be strong and grounded.
• Don’t go back to South Africa within the first two years – adapt here first. Many people go for a quick visit and then pack and go back soon after.
• If you can afford it, get a good emigration agent, especially with the rules changing so frequently these days.
• Remember: New Zealand is not South Africa. If you accept that, you will adapt more easily.
• Most of your friends and even family will forget about you as soon as you break the news that you are emigrating. The go on with their lives without you. It is a bitter pill to swallow.
• If you come to New Zealand hoping to make a lot of money, this is not the country for you. Yes, you earn in dollars, but expenses are very high.  
• Emigration sometimes feels like a mourning process – you say goodbye to what you know and step into the unknown.

Also read: Out and about: an email from Dubai