If you’re a planner like me, reading up before you move to a new country is a must.
Novels written by local authors help you get under the skin of your new home, opening your eyes to the culture and customs. Non-fiction drawing on research and the experience of others helps guide you through the process of relocation, resettlement and re-establishment in your new home.
Here are our top 5 recommendations for your reading pleasure in the months leading up to your departure.
1. Third Culture Kids, by David C Pollock and Ruth Van Reken
If you’re moving with children, this is a must-read. It will open your eyes to how and why your children’s relocation experience differs from your own, and is packed with tips on parenting TCKs, how to work with schools and much more. With the right support and understanding, there’s so much for your kids to gain in terms of adaptability, empathy and cross-cultural skills.
2. Being a Distance Grandparent, by Helen Ellis
This Kiwi author and researcher has nailed how to operate a family long-distance. Being able to understand the perspective of all involved is key, so read this book yourself then pass it on to your family and plan how you can use Helen’s strategies to maintain relationships despite the distance between you. Don’t be put off by the title, the content is relevant no matter where you sit in the family.
3. Lonely Planet NZ
An oldie but a goodie. For many people, exploring New Zealand is a key objective for coming here. There are so many places within easy distance of the main cities and LP knows them all!. So well worth doing some armchair travel planning before you depart. Inevitably there will be a point when you feel a bit overwhelmed with all the admin of getting settled in NZ, culture shock and missing home - that’s the perfect time to pull out your LP and head off to one of the highlights you bookmarked months earlier.
4. A Land of Two Halves, by Joe Bennett
Joe’s an expat himself and has lived in NZ for many years, thereby earning the right to offer an informed outsider’s view of his adopted home. The book is a travelogue around NZ and also a keenly observed description of Kiwi life and people. Keen an open mind and see if you agree with his impressions once you get here.
5. Whale Rider, by Witi Ihimaera
The window into te ao Maori (the Maori world view) provided by this book is a gift to all readers, expat or Kiwi. It weaves culture, landscape and mythology into a captivating story. You will find Maori culture woven into working life, the school system and the overall values of Aotearoa, so I hope this novel will set you on a path of curiosity and learning.
Happy Reading!
Mobile Relocation connects you with what you need to thrive in New Zealand. Contact us today to talk about how we can carry your relocation burden.
Bridget is a New Zealander who has lived and worked as a diplomat in Singapore and India. After experiencing all facets of the relocation experience, she founded Mobile to work with private individuals moving to NZ and leading local and international businesses bringing in offshore talent. bridget@mobile-relocation.com
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