Expat Advice: Culture Shock in Wellington, New Zealand

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Wellington

Did you receive any cross-cultural training for your move abroad? If yes, was it before or after the move?

No, none at all. We were told about how friendly and hospitable the people are but that was the extent of it.

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SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

If they speak another language in your new country, do you speak the language? If yes, did you learn the language before you moved or while abroad? If no, are you planning to learn the language?

They speak english with a distinctly British accent.

Were you worried or concerned about culture shock before you moved abroad?

No

How significant was the culture shock you experienced when you moved abroad?

None was experienced.

Expats often talk about going through the "stages of culture shock." Examples include the honeymoon phase, the irritation-to-anger stage, the rejection of the culture stage, and the cultural adjustment phase. Do you feel like you went through these or any other stages as you settled into the new culture?

No

What, if any, were some of the changes you noticed in yourself that might have been caused by culture shock? These might include things such as anger, depression, anxiety, increased eating or drinking, frustration, homesickness, etc.

None

What are some things you appreciate most about the new culture?

The laid back, accept things as they are mood.

What are the most challenging aspects of the new culture?

Driving on the opposite side of the road.

Did you "commit" any embarrassing or humorous cultural blunders? If you did and you'd like to share them, please do tell!

I have to make myself not use any "slang" from home. It does not work here nor does some of the humor.

Do you have any advice or thoughts about culture shock you would like to share?

Dial back your expectations, remember that if you want it to be like home you will have to move back home. Most situations are temporary and as long as you learn from an experience it was not a mistake.