Afternoon All
I’ve not really posted on ENZ before, and over the years have fluctuated between being an avid reader/not logging for long periods. It’s a great source of information for me and has been invaluable when needed so thanks very much for the site and the constant dialogue, it’s much appreciated as a source of information. I do log into the ‘other’ popular NZ website, and may well post my questions there for maximum coverage, so apologies if anyone sees this twice!
As background, I have PR (married to a Kiwi), we have three kids who have Kiwi/UK passports, and a 4th who my wife ‘inherited’ when she took me on who has PR like me (plus two slightly crazy dogs).
We’re finally making the move in 18 months time and reality has set in. Whilst it’s easier for me as I have PR, plus family in NZ, and have visited about 5 time for at least 4 weeks each time,I’m very much aware that being on holiday there is very different from living/working there.
Our aim is to move to a suburb of Christchurch and buy a section to build a family house (nothing flash). I’m aware of the auction prices (provided by friendly local estate agent by email), achieved by a number of properties recently and whilst am aware of the housing issues in the area, believe it could be better value to build.
Anyway, my question is, can someone point me in the direction of information websites where I can do background reading about what is actually happening in the re-build (behind the headlines perhaps), as most headlines are negative and focussed on failures rather than potential good news? I’ve come across a few sites which provide some info but really am looking for more detail about;
• schools (after the mergers/changes)
• land zoning (including the recent flooding!)
• what is actually being built in the CBD, what will the city actually look like and what plans are set in stone against those that are down the wish list (probably even further down the list after the recent headlines re budget black holes!).
Not thought about jobs yet, but am in risk management (financial services) so must also start thinking about this aspect of the move.
Anyway, thanks in advance for any pointers. We’re over at Xmas for 4 weeks and I’m looking foward to driving around Christchurch and seeing what’s happened since our last visit.
J