Don't stay in a group from the old country.

Even one bullet me familys, dad, cuz and others to be Australia. Don't level your father along. As my sister and her husband will take everythings and put dad on the streets. Now I regret it's I should move my husband country as we plan. We pay more $100,000 lawyer to see if be in Australia. Immigration easy take money for the visa but didn't help us at all. I know they will send him back. And they send spy around me as she said November will be finished the lawyer will be and will lock me up in mental health to say they right and all I work for.

NEW ZEALAND IS THE BEST COUNTRY TO IMMIGRATE TO AND EASIER THAN MOST OTHER COUNTRIES WHERE ELSE DO YOU HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH ASK THE GOVERNMENT FOR HELP

Well you don't need to worry about your English...Alba means "Scotland" by the way...when I first arrived in Australia there was a knock on the door and a small group of serious looking well dressed Italians were standing there...they welcomed me to Australia..and in fairly heavily accented English told me that if I needed any help with speaking English they were always there to help...while I've lived elsewhere..English is my first language..and I've never even been to Italy...I often wonder how they found me...but they were really nice....I hope you have lots of good days in your new country..its always really hard at first...I've been there.. but people are usually good I find...hang in there Alba.... everything is going to be great.... you'll see! Edited 07-Jun-24 23:22pm

I guess it depends a lot on the reason why you immigrated and where you are coming from. Having said that ... life is what YOU MAKE IT. A lot of people can see pictures of this wonderful country and think there will be no issues ... but to immigrate - there is always. Perhaps try joining some local groups. Best wishes to you. I say give yourself time. Everything takes time to adjust when there is a change.....

Enrol in ESL classes. They will help you master English. Google social groups that are organised by ex-patriots of your country. They are often a great source of advice and help by sharing their own experiences & how they navigated the bureaucracy of making a new life in foreign country.

Good luck! I hope it gets better for you!

My parents emigrated with me back in the day, but I was too young to be involved in whatever problems they had and made friends at school once I got there.

Have migrated 3 times in my lifetime & just persevered learned English & enjoyed staying in countries where I lived

Come to Western Australia .Plenty of work sadly shortage of housing for rent.If you are young it is easy to make friends .Share accommodation you CAN make it work .Good luck !!

You are not useless ,English is your second language so you are a lot smarter than many people as you speak more than one language for a start. Living in a new country can be stressful but you can do it, you've made it this far so just take things one day at a time. You will get through all that bureaucracy and make this your home. There is help if you need it at Immigration /Settlement services .Welcome to New Zealand.

No, immigration is not romantic, that’s for sure. If it weren’t for my children I wouldn’t stay and go through what I had to go through. And think of the people locked in camps. Children. Oh, God. Consider yourself lucky to be free! Good luck! Feeling useless?! The feeling will pass. You’re not useless. Your experiences will be your assets. Unique but in a way connected to countless others.

You're lucky to be living in one of the worlds best and most beautiful countries. It's worth the effort.

I have lived in 2 other countries, but not as an immigrant. Both were English speaking but I found we don't all speak the same English. I had no family in either country and I had a baby while I was in the first country but that helped me to make friends. Your best bet is to make friends, not always easy, but if you have a religion you could attend a service or 2, and get a routine because that is the best way to become familiar with other people. You could try a hobby or google the history of New Zealand to get to understand more about the country, that always helps to make you feel more at home. Are you in Aukland, if so the museum has a section for Māori history which I found terrific as it gives the dates of the arrival of different peoples. It gave me a feeling of admiration that they navigated their way all around the pacific ocean without anything to guide them. If nothing else it could give you a topic for conversation. All the best.

I moved from the South Island to the North Island of New Zealand and no what it’s like to be a second class citizen/immigrant

I say read several of the comments folks have made and follow some of the great ideas that have been suggusted. I wish you great success. Yes it is hard to move along but wotth it.

I, like every single person who has ever, or died, lived in Australia, be it 6 weeks, 6months or 10s of 1000s of years eiither is or are descended from Immigrants. That has been proven beyond any possible doubt. At one time those settlers who arrived after 1788 and in South Australia as Free Settlers tried their hardest to rid the country of anyone who was not White, Anglo-Saxon, preferably members of the Protestant Christian sect. They even passed laws making it impossible for "People of Colour" to enter which made Australia one of the Most Racist Countries on Earth. That White Australia Policy was killed off by one of Australia's Greatest Prime Ministers, Malcolm Fraser. Australia is still Racist and it has added Anti-Male Policies in which Men are responsible for everything that has and does go wrong. That, of course is a complete nonsense, but try telling that to the post-modern lot!

Can't comment. Have only left Australia for overseas holidays and the paperwork on that was enough to convince me to go home again soon!

If you take a holiday back to your home country you should feel a lot better?

I agree completely with what Danielle said, just follow her advise and everything will work out ok, take care of yourself Alba, we are all special in our own way

Just walk over the border. Canada. If you try to go legally it will take forever. 😂 what a world!

Yes

Australia seems to be importing the people nobody wants, even their own country. They come here for a better life but want to change Australia to the shit-hole they came from.

Stay away from Politicians and Bureaucrats they always make life impossible.

Also you could try a library either council or state run. There maybe some one there that could help you. Maybe there is a social group where you can join or if not you could start one for others to join. I guess it is up to you how much you want to participate.

More and more countries are "crying foul" at immigration policies. Across the globe the number of people that are in danger from war, famine, draught and poverty is growing at a staggering rate. Popular governments are failing both their own people and immigrants. It may be hard for some of the right wingers to admit that not all immigrants are terrorists. Generally they work hard, keep their heads down, pay their taxes and don't cause anybody any trouble. My advice, for what it's worth, is to find a local group of people from your original country to help you navigate a completely unwelcoming social situation. Look to the local social work department for leads and ideas. They get paid to help people just like you. Please be patient. It won't be long before you'll be getting along just fine.Edited 07-Jun-24 13:38pm

Alba you're not useless. Yes it is hard. I was born in Australia,but my mother and both lots of grandparents came from Europe. Australia also has a very strict process for immigration and it takes a long time.As far as finding help or meeting people from a similar background or your ethnicity I would suggest an online search first. I am not from N.Z so unsure as to what services are offered there. I know in Australia we have a variety of different ethnicity and cultures with some communitys cluster together that have meeting places,churches and offer guidance and friendship to the newcomers. Other than that go to your local council or contact a community service center to help direct you to groups and services that may assist you. Good luck and all else fails you can always talk to your fellow Rewardians online.

I came to Australia with a Bachelors and Masters Degrees from world class universities in my country. I had a professional job in my country with 19 years experience. It was very difficult for me to get a good paying job and after eight months of idleness, I took a job as a shop assistant.

I married at 18 and immigrated to NZ (1974) then in 1980 came to Australia, been here since.

Have you tried a local charity? If they can't help you they maybe able to help you find some one that can help you. I can imagine it would be extremely difficult especially if English is not your first language.Good luck and I do hope you manage what you are trying to accomplish.

It was easy for us we had relatives here

very rarely is it romantic but usually done out of necessity to seek a better life style

All the best in your endeavours

If you wrote the above by yourself it looks to me as though you have been working hard on your English and you deserve a big congratulation. I think it is important to mix with a wide group from varying cultures rather than sticking with your own, such as here on Rewardia but in real life. Most importantly rid yourself of any thoughts, such as has been reported in the Sydney Morning Herald many many years ago after survey conducted over many years where the result showed th

I really feel for you and I know how hard it is, as my partner is an Immigrant. Ten years of very hard work and forever trying to prove himself. Endless paper work and money! Finally he is a NZ permanent resident, but still not a Citizen, that will be more paperwork and money, when the time comes. Keep battling on, never give up, even when it seems too hard.

Endless patience Alba. Take a deep breath, you can do it. Sing, draw, laugh and take walks in between times of frustration. Don't waste a moment.

It certainly can be challenging immigrating, however reaching out as noted by others, starting with the citizen’s advice bureau, local libraries, and community centres. All the best…

It is not easy, but not impossible. I immigrated to Australia 28 years ago, with my husband and son (7 years old), with 3 luggage, no English, not knowing anybody, no place to stay, no work, no money. We went to our church, and we had a lot of help from everybody, learned English, did cleaning jobs at the beginning, my husband was a music teacher back in our country and me an economist. Our son went the primary school close to the house that we manage to rent, but for the first 3 months he did not speak to anybody because he did not know any english words. Now, after many bad days and many more wonderful days, we are happy for the big move that we did, and more happy to be the proud grand-parents of twins beautiful girls. So, don't worry, be happy, everything is coming slowly, slowly, enjoy the adoptive country and appreciate the new life that it is offering to you.

I would recommend finding others that have successfully gone through the process and seek their friendship and advice.

Not an immigrant, but have definitely seen the plight, and despite my perceived advantages have suffered and been disadvantage in a equal fashion

You are not useless. It is very hard and difficult. You speak beautifully and well done for reaching out. I came out as a 1 year old and saw my parents' struggle. No matter where you are from there is always a community group close by. Look for it. Go to the library or Council in your area or contact your local politician someone will definitely steer you in the right direction. Are you working/studying? Reach out and you will get help. I am in Australia but New Zealand I am sure has all these places. You sound strong so do not despair. Good Luck and be careful and do not use social media or dating sites for comfort.

I think your english is very good I have not immigrated to any other country but when I married my husband he was posted to germany and I learnt german so I counld go shopping and speak to the shop keepers and then when we travelled to other countrys they could understand me when I bought food or just needed something as Lachelle said just stay calm and learn as much as you can and it will all work out for the best good luck and stay positive

Try your local...Library (literacy - language programmes), Church (ties with the community), join a sports club, Citizen's Advice. If you have a local restaurant that specialises in your cuisine, go in and introduce yourself, they are the people that would know people of your culture to help settle you in. All the best and welcome to NZ, your English is great.

I have a few friends that are and just judge cause they preach religion but war in there country but they come here to escape that don’t people remember and religion isnjust heavier and more important in some cultures then others

Immigration is a big issue in Canada. There are so many people moving from overseas with a lack of English. Immigrants could always take certification courses or help from someone a tutor/teacher who enhance their ability to better grasp the language, let alone understand it more.

It almost seems like you would prefer to be here (where ever that is ) then in your country of birth. But at the same time would like for the people of your new country to speak your language and observe your customs and ways. No, we are different here and you are welcome to be here but you might have, before immigrating, known that speak a different language and have some different ways. Could you not contact the Department of Immigration and explain your problems? They should be able to at the least point you in the right direction to get help. There likely are thousands like you in your new country. I would also add that if English isn't your first language you have expressed yourself well in your question above.

Yes it is not easy I have lots of friends who are immigrant but there is always someone there to help them I will pray for you that you soon very soon someone will help even though I am an American there is someone who will help you stay positive.

No

Never immigrated but those that do have to go through the beauracracy so govt agencies can weed out the unwanted. It's a necessary part of immigration. There are groups all over new zealand who are ready to help new immigrants and help them get their lives set up. But you need to make the first step to find them and ask for help. Immigrants bring a rich and colorful alternative culture to other countries as well as sort after skills sometimes.

I never had a chance to travel ,I can't help you with one, but I do wish you the best of luck.

No experience here

Being born in North America, I have no idea what people go through when they move from another country, except what I see on television, and that is very sad. ;-( The Statue of Liberty says, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore.” We are the most diverse country in the world, I believe. ;-D

Came to New Zealand as a student and stayed here and I have not really had any difficulties and pretty much all my family are here now too and they haven't had any difficulties either. Iam really very sorry for your experiences.Edited 07-Jun-24 06:57am

I immigrated to America . It's a long story. but at least there was no language barrier... back in NZ now, wishing I wasn't because of Lux the Flux. but I will not go back to America under Trumpet ice cream.

Emigrated into Australia back in the early 70's, you just had to fit in then, integrate and become part of the Australian family. Unfortunately these days people immigrate into Australia but have no intention of becoming part of the family and continue to live like they are still in the country they came from. So frustrating but a lot of the time that's why they find things difficult.

The best things in life are never easy but require hard work and determination to succeed.

I have never immigrated, I am from America so I do know it can be very difficult for some to immigrate. It does seem however that your english is very good.

My husband is from Jamaica some things come easy some are harder learning our laws has been a struggle they have no red blinking lights on buses, no one really enforcerces dui laws. Being in a different country is difficult. But through patience and love and learning he is settling in and doing great. .Edited 07-Jun-24 06:11am

ask and you will find your answer, seek and you will find your path. PRAY AND GOD WILL SHOW YOU THE WAY

My friend immigrated from El Salvador in the 1980’s, he got his green card then found work here in Cincinnati,he had to wait and he married here so his siblings are automatically citizens. If you’re from New Zealand up to date I’m not but the USA is having troubles with Mexico and South America…as long as your drug free,I would go ahead and give it a go.Customs agents are available on the internet..do some searches and you will find your answer..Donovan moved to Tangiers a..he also had problems with it..now he likes them..RDD..Cincinnati

no

Go to Citizens' Advice Bureau (CAB). They should be able to help. Good luck.

Sorry I am not able to help.

I came to NZ in 1973 as a qualified plumber because I was needed I didn’t even need a passport. Things have change since then

Places like the Salvation Army in some countries help with those sorts of issues. I know they are very involved in Aust. One thing NZ Govt could be looking for your potential to get a job and be able to support yourself financially. In some countries illnesses and disabilities are taken into consideration. It may be compulsory to have Private Health Insurance.Edited 07-Jun-24 02:32am

You sound like someone who sets high expectations on yourself. My advice to you would be don’t be too hard on yourself. Carving a path is never easy, let alone doing it in a foreign country. Be patient, just settle in the new country first. Hang around other migrants and share your struggles. More often than not, the problems you encounter are not that uncommon among migrants. Cheers.

I'm an Australian born & bred but my Great Grandfather emigrated from South Italy & my other Grandfather emigrated from North Scotland. Life was much more difficult back then compared to now. Nowadays there are many more resources & immigrants nowadays receive much more help by the Australian & New Zealand governments in the way of accommodation etc. I think it's much easier nowadays to emigrate to another Country than before times. Good luck in your new life in Aotearoa.Edited 07-Jun-24 02:00am

AU/US I love the US more than AU. And cannot wait to move back.

I am an immigrant. When I immigrated to Canada, I could not understand any single word. Now I am okey. At least I can communicate in an effective way. Your English seems very good and you are young. I think you will do better in the future. But hey remember consistent, persistent matter.

Not an 'emigrant' - cannot offer you reliable practical suggestions. Furthermore, you might have already done this - go online and find National/Regional organizations - not the same as government agencies - that help/assist migrants in New Zealand! Edited 07-Jun-24 07:57am

Immigration departments and other government departments like to make people jump through virtual hoops. See if you can get some help from an immigration advocate in your ethnic community.

Perhaps join a church or a club that you have an interest in and develop a friendship base e.g. contacts that will help you. Mix with the locals. NZ's are beautiful friendly people. God bless you and keep reaching out.

My dad is an immigrant, it was very difficult for them but there are tons of resources now compared to 70 years ago.

Dependent on your nationality, usually there are people from countries who will smooth the path so to speak. Beurocracy hinders us all no matter if you are an immigrant, resident or citizen. They rarely help anyone and put up barriers left right and centre. Perhaps you can reach out to a charity like the Salvation Army. You are lucky you seem to be able to speak the language so this will help. Do not get frustrated. Just go day by day and get it done. Good luck.Edited 07-Jun-24 14:53pm

I am not an immigrant, so can't pass on any advice. However, I will tell you, that for English as your second language, you have a far better understanding than most who use English as their first language. Give yourself credit, I think you are doing far better than you think!!

keep your chin up