[Jo_b]

Hi, I've been lurking for a couple of days and have been totally blown away by how helpful everyone is here - so thanks!

Me and my boyfriend are heading from the UK (Hampshire) to Wellington in November.

We are taking the rather dodgy strategy of going on working holiday visas, and trying to convert them when we get there (I've got an informal job offer). If it doesn't work, then at least we had a go! I'm an optimist though - I'm sure we can blag it somehow!

The thing I'm most scared about is sending our two moggies - Pickle and Spooky. It's the most stressful thing about the whole process, and I'm really nervous about it - any reassurance from positive experiences would be great!

[Diny]

Hi Jo

We didn't bring any pets over here with us but I know lots of people who did and I haven't heard any horror stories, I'm sure they will be fine.

Not long until you get here, November will soon arrive. We're heading back to the UK for 8 weeks holiday at the end of Nov .... only 9 weeks today !!!

Take care and keep us posted.

Diny

[Bruckner]

We'll be bringing our dog over from the US next year so don't have any advice or reassurance just yet but wanted to say welcome to the forum!

Emily

[Moorf]

Just a query - are you able to bring over pets on a WHV? Wouldn't it look a bit "permanent" to immigration?

Just a thought...

[Jo_b]

Thanks for the welcome! In theory I could bring em for a 2 week holiday though that would obviously be a bit on the stressful side for the poor cats. And they arrive after my boyfriend but before me (he's the advance party, I'm the clearup team!) so won't actually have to pass through customs with us.

[Hannah]

Hi Jo
Just a quick 'formal' welcome, although you've already been really helpful with all my DIY shipping queries!!!
I did the same as you, as in coming out on a visitor visa and applying for residency once there. Returned to UK in May and now planning our permanent return trip. I'm sure it will go fine for you, job offer or no job offer. There's lots of work in NZ if you are willing to do it!
Good luck, and keep 'lurking' as you've been incredibly helpful so far and it will be interesting to follow your adventures.....
All the best,
hannah

[Jo_b]

Thanks everyone! I'm feeling more and more confident about this as time goes by!

[ellenmelon]

see you in welly! :)
you'll have to keep us updated as to how you find it there..im a kiwi but never lived in welly so it will be all new for me!
good luck with moving the kitties :)