As for migrants leaving NZ (and returning home), …. isn’t it the norm that NZ fails to satisfy longterm expectations … and yes you work hard to have holidays in fickle weather? So all fair cops really.

Our intended escape from Sydney is now probably somewhere in Noosa to Bundaberg area in Queensland where we should buy a rural property soon (Hervey Bay doing very well at present!).

In reality if NZ joined Australia right now we probably wouldn’t care (one way or the other) as anyone else here. But heck bring it on and see what happens.

It’s not that I’m in a rush, but it’s just so horrendously expensive in NZ that it’s unbelievable. I’m on a 3 year contract, but I’ll be glad when I leave and go to Sydney or Perth. Unfortunately, to me NZ is nothing more than a tourism destination now.

Mind you though, I had plans to settle here. Sadly the negatives outweigh the positives. Though I’m fairly certain the ADHB will be screaming its guts out when I tell them I’ll be…leaving.

They were already unhappy with the fact that I did not take up a permanent contract. But I didn’t want to chain a bowling ball to my foot.

Yes, some of the NZ scenery may be second to none, but if you can’t afford to go out and enjoy it, or find the time if you’re working your butt off to make ends meet…then tell me, what good is it?

And honestly, the weather isn’t one to remember either. In Auckland it’s just wondering when to rain, regardless of season. In Wellington icy winds can start whistling even though it’s summer (words of a witness ;) ).
The South Island is dry, but cold persists even when it should be summer. I only found Nelson to my liking, because of its sunny days, even though it was chilly.

If you’re retiring, then moving to NZ is your best option. Unless, of course, both countries unite (officially).

Referenda (say one in Australia – although not required by the constitution, and one in NZ) could easily fail, so it would be interesting to see how it could be achieved realistically if deemed to be a truly worthy idea.

There is no current debate to ascertain the merger’s worthiness as Rob points out. The reason I think is simple, Australia is not that interested in its daggy (though culturally similar … like Tasmania!! Who wants another one!!) neighbour and Kiwis can still move here anyway. Once here and sorted, NZ fades into the background or is just a holiday destination for most ex-Kiwi Aussies. Nostalgically they still support the ABs (heck I do at least), but don’t know much about contemporary NZ.

I don’t know if you could make NZ joining Australia an isssue, lets see if it happens sooner, later or never at all. I’m not making any bets anyway.

NZ would then have the same laws as Australia. And for one thing, all those lazy folks who are on welfare, draining the hard-working tax-payer’s money, will see that they must shape up or ship out.

I’m not relating to those who are disabled, injured or who have a condition which doesn’t allow them to work. It’s for those who are fit and who know it.

Maybe this is just our wishful thinking but I for one definitely think it’s time for both countries to join. A lot of people, however, are blinded by pride and would reject the idea in a heartbeat.
Still, one day the idea will be actualized. Just don’t ask me when :)

Taking over New Zealand would be great! Australia could export Barwon, Port Phillip, Goulburn, Long Bay and numerous other Prisons!!!

Hooro,

Henry