Well I am lucky enough to know people throughout the country, I guess my preference would be Auckland as I have most friends there and prefer the climate but would equally be happy with Wellington. Queenstown would be cool too although living costs there seem very high compared to wages.
To be honest I'd happily go anywhere for an opportunity, even Stewart Island!
Just a query about police checks. I read they are only required for stays of 2 or more years so I assume I wouldn't need one unless I was offered something permanent or a two year contract?
Interesting about leaving the information about tourist visa off applications. I suppose when employers are looking through CVs initially they are scanning for reasons to bin CVs. Not having a correct visa would be a good reason I guess at that early stage.
With a big background of self employment I already feel up against it a little although I am not sure NZ employers will see it as negatively as in the UK.
Thanks for the info about tourist visas can legally look for work. I agree with you about the frontline taking a different view of things. I have probably entered NZ at least 5 times altogether and always get grilled and I wouldn't feel comfortable mentioning the job hunting bit. I am going there for tourist reasons anyway, love the tramping and will be doing more of that and visit a few places that I haven't been to.
Immigration always ask me whether I know people in NZ to which I normally say yes. I wonder what their agenda is when asking this question? Perhaps they suspect you are more likely to overstay if you do know people.