[Roper]

Hi there. Anyone from South Africa or any other country settled in Christchurch? Keen to know hoe you find the weather, housing and what there is to do for youngsters of 19yrs?
We are on the verge of submitting an EOI with a job offer.
I read about poor quality goods in NZ and wonder why that is?

[mylesdw]

We joke that the region is called "Canterbury mainly fine" because when you hear the weather forecast that's nearly always what they say about it.

Best thing for your youngster of 19 years would probably be a job and there are plenty around, depending upon skills, qualifications and so on.

[red]

Hi Roper

We have only lived in Christchurch for a couple of months but I have to say I have found the choice and quality of goods to be fine. I was expecting much less choice and have been pleasantly surprised so far. I guess it depends on what you are used to, I come from NE England and used to shop at the metro centre (one of the largest malls in Europe!) but I am not disappointed by the shops here.:D

Been a while since I was 19, but I think there will be plenty to do for that age group. If they are into outdoor sports then they will certainly like it here.

Can't, comment on the weather too much as we have only been here for Autumn(Autumn has been good compared to UK this year)

Houses aren't warm IMHO. Double glazing is relatively new but things seem to be getting better. We are looking to build, mainly so we can insulate our home the way we want!


Good luck with the move, I'm sure someone who has been on Christchurch longer than me will be able to give you better answers!

[Roper]

Thanks for the helpful information. Most grateful. Time to decide now..... so jittery!!!

[mylesdw]

Winter is pretty much June/July/August during which we get some cold nights, morning frosts and some cold/wet/windy weather blowing up from the south-west. These bad spells never last more than a few days and between them come beautiful clear sunny days with blue skies and snow covered mountains in the distance. It is not uncommon for it to be -2'C at breakfast time and 20'C by midday.

Housing is of medium to low quality and I would certainly think twice about anything built before about 1990.

There are some real rubbishy goods around, mostly from China, but, of course, you pays your money and takes your choice...

[AndyR]

Im farily near your 19 year olds age group and from what my friends have told me there is plenty of activities to keep busy. Can you tell me about their hobbies etc? I can then ask my friends that spent gap years in the area.

Cheers

Andy