Comments on: Is New Zealand all hype? http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/ Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:30:00 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 By: Dexter Morgan http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4984 Dexter Morgan Sun, 04 Apr 2010 17:00:25 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4984 I would like to hear more about other countries as well as NZ. I too am looking for a place to "run to"-- (if such a place exists). On side-note, I think even a complete moron can see that the climate of the Earth is changing. I think what everyone is debating is human-caused climate change. If you Google "ClimateGate", you will find all sorts of links to the fact that much of the "human-caused global climate change" data was "cooked". What happened was an insider leaked the location of the emails and "cooked data" to a hacker, who then copied the emails, "cooked data" (and the "real data" before "cooking") and even the "cooked" super-computer program; and then he placed all of this (about 64MB) on the WikiLeaks.org site for all to see. The main scientist that was coordinating all of this "bad science" (University of East Anglia in England) even tried to commit suicide over this (because he ruined his reputation). But, that doesn't mean that climate change is not happening-- it just means that *WE HUMANS* probably have little to do with it. The whole ClimateGate thing was done so that a "global warming" (or carbon) tax could be foisted on the entire world, setting the stage for a handful of people to get rich off of the "carbon trading"-- (Al Gore, et. al.). Imagine that-- they managed to convince the "dumbed down" public, that a gas that all higher animals breath out (and plants breath in) is somehow a "bad gas" and we need to control it. In fact, studies have shown that you can increase the CO2 concentration in the atmosphere up to about 3 times what it is now, and all that will happen is plants (and the algae in the ocean) will simply grow faster-- ie., it is a self-regulating system. And they did all of this for the oldest reason on Earth-- greed for riches and lust for power. The *REAL* reason for global climate change, appears to be that our sun is acting very strangely-- the 11-year sunspot cycle has been affected. I *do* know that the sun has had many "solar ejecta" (giant flames shooting out) incidents-- and one of them would have seared the Earth (which we narrowly missed). This has NASA worried so much that they designed a special probe to investigate this phenomena, and this satellite was launched not long ago. I have yet to see any of the data- they are keeping very tight-lipped about it. I don't have a PhD in climatology, I am just a lowly systems engineer-- so please correct me if I am wrong; and (while you are at it) please explain why the ClimateGate conspiracy was the Right Thing to do. I would like to hear more about other countries as well as NZ. I too am looking for a place to “run to”– (if such a place exists).

On side-note, I think even a complete moron can see that the climate of the Earth is changing. I think what everyone is debating is human-caused climate change. If you Google “ClimateGate”, you will find all sorts of links to the fact that much of the “human-caused global climate change” data was “cooked”. What happened was an insider leaked the location of the emails and “cooked data” to a hacker, who then copied the emails, “cooked data” (and the “real data” before “cooking”) and even the “cooked” super-computer program; and then he placed all of this (about 64MB) on the WikiLeaks.org site for all to see. The main scientist that was coordinating all of this “bad science” (University of East Anglia in England) even tried to commit suicide over this (because he ruined his reputation). But, that doesn’t mean that climate change is not happening– it just means that *WE HUMANS* probably have little to do with it. The whole ClimateGate thing was done so that a “global warming” (or carbon) tax could be foisted on the entire world, setting the stage for a handful of people to get rich off of the “carbon trading”– (Al Gore, et. al.). Imagine that– they managed to convince the “dumbed down” public, that a gas that all higher animals breath out (and plants breath in) is somehow a “bad gas” and we need to control it. In fact, studies have shown that you can increase the CO2 concentration in the atmosphere up to about 3 times what it is now, and all that will happen is plants (and the algae in the ocean) will simply grow faster– ie., it is a self-regulating system. And they did all of this for the oldest reason on Earth– greed for riches and lust for power.

The *REAL* reason for global climate change, appears to be that our sun is acting very strangely– the 11-year sunspot cycle has been affected. I *do* know that the sun has had many “solar ejecta” (giant flames shooting out) incidents– and one of them would have seared the Earth (which we narrowly missed). This has NASA worried so much that they designed a special probe to investigate this phenomena, and this satellite was launched not long ago. I have yet to see any of the data- they are keeping very tight-lipped about it.

I don’t have a PhD in climatology, I am just a lowly systems engineer– so please correct me if I am wrong; and (while you are at it) please explain why the ClimateGate conspiracy was the Right Thing to do.

]]> By: Andrew http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4746 Andrew Wed, 17 Mar 2010 23:54:13 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4746 Hi Simon et al. Interesting to hear all the comments on NZ, and today’s update from Mark about recent NZ immigration changes. I’ve grown up and lived here for most of the last half century. Much of what has been said by Simon, Mark, and others is true – the physical beauty, friendly folk, and so on. But there are some aspects that aren’t apparent to newcomers. 1. Weather. NZ is surrounded by ocean – so it gets lots of moisture in its atmosphere. That means lots of rain (that’s why it’s so green), and mould in the cupboards. The high humidity also means mould spores in the carpets, and high levels of house dust mite in the carpets, since they like the moist conditions. Consequently, NZ has the highest rate of asthma in the world. The ocean means in never gets really cold (snow in the south though), or really warm. Shorts and light tops all year? Forget it – try another country. Also pretty windy in most places – because the country lies across the prevailing westerly winds circling the globe at this latitude. Especially bad in Wellington, but our roofs are well tied on. You’re more likely to lose yours in other parts of the country. NZ is also suffering its own effects from climate change. (I just finished a PhD on a related topic. If you don’t believe climate change is real and dangerous, you’ve been duped. Something for our kids to worry about? Ha! Coming good and hard in OUR lifetimes.) . Recent winters have seen cold conditions (like, keep the fire lit) right into December, when historically we’d be at the beach. For NZ, climate change means droughts, on the east coast and (this year) in the north. Like, the far north is due to run right out of water in the taps this week. And floods all over, but especially the west. So be very careful if you’re buying land – it may get washed away (the soil, that is), or parched. Yes, lots of rain – but that’s an average. Sometimes (like this summer) it just rains all the time – in most places. Climate change means rainfall is coming, more and more often, in huge damaging downpours. Because NZ is so reliant on primary produce to keep its economy going, this is a major problem going forward – the economy may suffer more than most as climate change bites harder with floods and droughts. We have seen $billions of losses to the economy over recent years because of drought. 2. Racial tension. The warnings are well sounded. Unlike many other countries, the indigenous Maori population don’t take a subservient role easily. They’re definitely a stroppy race. And smart – they’re learning white man’s business skills pretty fast, so they’re not going away as a societal force anytime soon. There is a very real chance of an explosion, if the situation is not handled carefully. 3. Societal tension. The current right wing government is business-friendly. They are also pretty down on the poor. No surprises here. The problem with that approach is that, because of NZ’s egalitarian history, the poor (like Maori), don’t know how to be quiet about their lot. Again, a real chance for an explosion. 4. Small mindedness. NZ society, while friendly at first, has a very punitive attitude to all sorts of things. Especially anyone who does well. The ‘tall poppy’ syndrome is very real. Anyone who ‘shines’ too much is likely to get cut down. 5. Guns. No hand guns. Leave-em behind. Rifles for shooting goats are OK. People are friendly here ‘cause no-one is worried about getting shot. Knives are the weapon of choice for thugs. 6. Property prices. Yes, you can get cheap land in the back blocks. But its cheap because it hasn’t got much going for it. Any property in nice places (like the Marlborough Sounds) went up to city price levels about 7 years ago. I know – I did quite nicely from it, thanks. I got in, I got out with the cash. I wish I still had at least a house there, because now it’s expensive to get back in. Quaint small towns – true. But dull as ditchwater. If you want to make all your own fun , OK, but you won’t find much intellectual or social companionship there. 7. Earthquakes and volcanoes. If you’re visiting, the risk is minimal. If you spend time, your chances of feeling the earth move are significant. Wellington, for example, is overdue for a really big quake. It sits astride the Pacific and Australian tectonic plates, just at the point where the plates can’t decide who’s on top – so they are locked together like two pairs of spread legs at right angles. That just means the pressure builds up more before it lets go. When it does, the capital city will be right out of action for many months. Auckland, on the other hand, is built on a belt of volcanoes. Silly huh? In the middle of the North Island is Taupo – home to the biggest eruption in human times – and it is definitely active – which is why there’s a tourist attraction there. I want to get out. I enjoy Simons writings, because they’re entertaining and because I am looking for somewhere good to go. I have a lovely house on a piece of land overlooking the sea, near the capital city. Lots of beauty – the view, the bush (forest) full of native birds, great neighbours (mostly English, not kiwis), the city nearby when I want the buzz. So why do I want to get out? Because of all the above. Beautiful mountains ain’t everything. Beauty is how you look, not what you look at. Mostly, I’ll be looking for something that will do OK as the Greater Depression (thanks Doug Casey) and climate change take hold of the planet. NZ’s indebtedness (yes, we’re as bad as some of those sad European cases), social tensions, and economic reliance on primary produce mean I don’t think NZ will do too well as things get tough. But good luck to us all. Hi Simon et al.
Interesting to hear all the comments on NZ, and today’s update from Mark about recent NZ immigration changes. I’ve grown up and lived here for most of the last half century. Much of what has been said by Simon, Mark, and others is true – the physical beauty, friendly folk, and so on. But there are some aspects that aren’t apparent to newcomers.
1. Weather. NZ is surrounded by ocean – so it gets lots of moisture in its atmosphere. That means lots of rain (that’s why it’s so green), and mould in the cupboards. The high humidity also means mould spores in the carpets, and high levels of house dust mite in the carpets, since they like the moist conditions. Consequently, NZ has the highest rate of asthma in the world. The ocean means in never gets really cold (snow in the south though), or really warm. Shorts and light tops all year? Forget it – try another country. Also pretty windy in most places – because the country lies across the prevailing westerly winds circling the globe at this latitude. Especially bad in Wellington, but our roofs are well tied on. You’re more likely to lose yours in other parts of the country. NZ is also suffering its own effects from climate change. (I just finished a PhD on a related topic. If you don’t believe climate change is real and dangerous, you’ve been duped. Something for our kids to worry about? Ha! Coming good and hard in OUR lifetimes.) . Recent winters have seen cold conditions (like, keep the fire lit) right into December, when historically we’d be at the beach. For NZ, climate change means droughts, on the east coast and (this year) in the north. Like, the far north is due to run right out of water in the taps this week. And floods all over, but especially the west. So be very careful if you’re buying land – it may get washed away (the soil, that is), or parched. Yes, lots of rain – but that’s an average. Sometimes (like this summer) it just rains all the time – in most places. Climate change means rainfall is coming, more and more often, in huge damaging downpours. Because NZ is so reliant on primary produce to keep its economy going, this is a major problem going forward – the economy may suffer more than most as climate change bites harder with floods and droughts. We have seen $billions of losses to the economy over recent years because of drought.
2. Racial tension. The warnings are well sounded. Unlike many other countries, the indigenous Maori population don’t take a subservient role easily. They’re definitely a stroppy race. And smart – they’re learning white man’s business skills pretty fast, so they’re not going away as a societal force anytime soon. There is a very real chance of an explosion, if the situation is not handled carefully.
3. Societal tension. The current right wing government is business-friendly. They are also pretty down on the poor. No surprises here. The problem with that approach is that, because of NZ’s egalitarian history, the poor (like Maori), don’t know how to be quiet about their lot. Again, a real chance for an explosion.
4. Small mindedness. NZ society, while friendly at first, has a very punitive attitude to all sorts of things. Especially anyone who does well. The ‘tall poppy’ syndrome is very real. Anyone who ‘shines’ too much is likely to get cut down.
5. Guns. No hand guns. Leave-em behind. Rifles for shooting goats are OK. People are friendly here ‘cause no-one is worried about getting shot. Knives are the weapon of choice for thugs.
6. Property prices. Yes, you can get cheap land in the back blocks. But its cheap because it hasn’t got much going for it. Any property in nice places (like the Marlborough Sounds) went up to city price levels about 7 years ago. I know – I did quite nicely from it, thanks. I got in, I got out with the cash. I wish I still had at least a house there, because now it’s expensive to get back in. Quaint small towns – true. But dull as ditchwater. If you want to make all your own fun , OK, but you won’t find much intellectual or social companionship there.
7. Earthquakes and volcanoes. If you’re visiting, the risk is minimal. If you spend time, your chances of feeling the earth move are significant. Wellington, for example, is overdue for a really big quake. It sits astride the Pacific and Australian tectonic plates, just at the point where the plates can’t decide who’s on top – so they are locked together like two pairs of spread legs at right angles. That just means the pressure builds up more before it lets go. When it does, the capital city will be right out of action for many months. Auckland, on the other hand, is built on a belt of volcanoes. Silly huh? In the middle of the North Island is Taupo – home to the biggest eruption in human times – and it is definitely active – which is why there’s a tourist attraction there.

I want to get out. I enjoy Simons writings, because they’re entertaining and because I am looking for somewhere good to go. I have a lovely house on a piece of land overlooking the sea, near the capital city. Lots of beauty – the view, the bush (forest) full of native birds, great neighbours (mostly English, not kiwis), the city nearby when I want the buzz. So why do I want to get out? Because of all the above. Beautiful mountains ain’t everything. Beauty is how you look, not what you look at. Mostly, I’ll be looking for something that will do OK as the Greater Depression (thanks Doug Casey) and climate change take hold of the planet. NZ’s indebtedness (yes, we’re as bad as some of those sad European cases), social tensions, and economic reliance on primary produce mean I don’t think NZ will do too well as things get tough. But good luck to us all.

]]> By: Seth http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4739 Seth Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:22:57 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4739 Simon; as a black person, retirement outside the US poses many problems in terms of acceptance than perhaps I am not assessing correctly. I know what my experience has been here, and occasionally it has been worse in some other countries where laws and or people aren't as open as we have become. If one does not want to go to Brazil or Panama, what is left? Simon; as a black person, retirement outside the US poses many problems in terms of acceptance than perhaps I am not assessing correctly. I know what my experience has been here, and occasionally it has been worse in some other countries where laws and or people aren’t as open as we have become. If one does not want to go to Brazil or Panama, what is left?

]]> By: Mike http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4737 Mike Wed, 17 Mar 2010 02:47:51 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4737 I don't know why everybody say NZ people are friendly- they are not. I don’t know why everybody say NZ people are friendly- they are not.

]]> By: Nate http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4700 Nate Sat, 13 Mar 2010 23:01:10 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4700 What is the medical system like over there? I have been interested in applying for some of the hospitals for a awhile and I would appreciate your take on the overall quality and level of care they have both in the hospital as well as prehospital. Thanks What is the medical system like over there? I have been interested in applying for some of the hospitals for a awhile and I would appreciate your take on the overall quality and level of care they have both in the hospital as well as prehospital. Thanks

]]> By: Fran http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4699 Fran Sat, 13 Mar 2010 22:40:44 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4699 Hi Guys, I discovered you today and as a 2nd generation New Zealander from Scotish, English, European stock, I was curious and interested to find out more about the buttons that push Americans in their view of the outside world. There are many points I agree with i.e. the taxation issue keeps most of us here poor. Cutting out personal tax etc and having a one off reasonable G.S.T. would be a good start. Lets face it the wealthy however they obtained their wealth have exploited many avenues which see them living scot free at the expense of ordinary folk in this country. At least with G.S.T covering all items available for sale and purchase the score would be more even. Unfortunately the heavy investment in New Zealand real estate by some outsiders and others internally with no capital gains tax pushing the issue many young people in this country cannot afford to house themselves decently. There are plenty of horror stories relating to this rather scandalous state in this country. It's rather ironical that I find people from the U.S. and elsewhere wanting to leave the country of there birth for the very same reasons that I wish to leave New Zealand. I have traveled to some far away places both as a mariner and an architect seeking all the time that better place to live indeed investing in land overseas and being prepared to do whatever to make a new life in a less complicated society. Family of course, filial duty and on top of that my health find me still glued to these shores a very unwilling participant, and in no small measure because of the influence of American big business, especially the pharmaceutical industry. Need I say more. I would warn Americans that in certain circles of New Zealand society declaring your self a Canadian is not unheard of. For us it is not so easy to "pick the accent "so to speak. Canadians are more acceptable having endeavored to be of assistance in our darkest moments. I have to say that every time I find Americans moving in to so called 3rd world countries and influencing the above mentioned subjects I cringe. Sorry if I am offending your sensibilities, but you would do well to mark my word. Hi Guys,
I discovered you today and as a 2nd generation New Zealander from
Scotish, English, European stock, I was curious and interested to find
out more about the buttons that push Americans in their view of the
outside world. There are many points I agree with i.e. the taxation issue
keeps most of us here poor. Cutting out personal tax etc and having a
one off reasonable G.S.T. would be a good start. Lets face it the wealthy however they obtained their wealth have exploited many avenues which see them living scot free at the expense of ordinary folk
in this country.
At least with G.S.T covering all items available for sale and purchase
the score would be more even. Unfortunately the heavy investment in
New Zealand real estate by some outsiders and others internally with
no capital gains tax pushing the issue many young people in this country
cannot afford to house themselves decently. There are plenty of horror
stories relating to this rather scandalous state in this country.
It’s rather ironical that I find people from the U.S. and elsewhere wanting to leave the country of there birth for the very same reasons
that I wish to leave New Zealand. I have traveled to some far away places both as a mariner and an architect seeking all the time that
better place to live indeed investing in land overseas and being prepared
to do whatever to make a new life in a less complicated society.
Family of course, filial duty and on top of that my health find me still
glued to these shores a very unwilling participant, and in no small measure because of the influence of American big business, especially
the pharmaceutical industry. Need I say more.
I would warn Americans that in certain circles of New Zealand society
declaring your self a Canadian is not unheard of. For us it is not
so easy to “pick the accent “so to speak. Canadians are more
acceptable having endeavored to be of assistance in our darkest
moments. I have to say that every time I find Americans moving in to
so called 3rd world countries and influencing the above mentioned
subjects I cringe. Sorry if I am offending your sensibilities, but you would
do well to mark my word.

]]> By: Steve http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4696 Steve Sat, 13 Mar 2010 17:14:58 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4696 Razz, New Zealand is also a place I looked into.Thought the cost of living and less feel of Island life would not be for me , but I do luv the larger country, more diversity etc. Any info you can give me is much appreciated as this is a major life change. I am considerng going to Belieze this fall for a month. I heard it is close to paradise and for $2,000.00 per month can live there very well. This I can afford the rest of my life with what I have, I amy want to work when I move , but only if iwant to. Relaxing and enjoying a peace filled day is my biggest goal. I have been to Juarez, Cancun, Cozumel, Puerta Vallarta, Zihuatanajo.That is as far south. I really like the island feel-life.etc. Sick of what the U.S. has turned into, the bush administration did me in. My financials will not last in U.S.. I have also heard Panama is great…Brazil, etc. I want the move to be as easy as possible,that is why i like the english speaking Belieze. Do you know from your experience other places where this dream can be fulfilled? Do you know much about Belieze? Reallly appeciate this ability to communicate with you and others of the same mind-set. All the best, and hope to hear back from you. Thank You, Sincerely, Steve Razz,
New Zealand is also a place I looked into.Thought the cost of living and less feel of Island life would not be for me , but I do luv the larger country, more diversity etc. Any info you can give me is much appreciated as this is a major life change.
I am considerng going to Belieze this fall for a month. I heard it is close to paradise and for $2,000.00 per month can live there very well.
This I can afford the rest of my life with what I have, I amy want to work when I move , but only if iwant to. Relaxing and enjoying a peace filled day is my biggest goal.
I have been to Juarez, Cancun, Cozumel, Puerta Vallarta, Zihuatanajo.That is as far south. I really like the island feel-life.etc.
Sick of what the U.S. has turned into, the bush administration did me in. My financials will not last in U.S.. I have also heard Panama is great…Brazil, etc.
I want the move to be as easy as possible,that is why i like the english speaking Belieze.
Do you know from your experience other places where this dream can be fulfilled? Do you know much about Belieze? Reallly appeciate this ability to communicate with you and others of the same mind-set.
All the best, and hope to hear back from you.
Thank You,
Sincerely,
Steve

]]> By: Spencer http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4681 Spencer Sat, 13 Mar 2010 08:36:08 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4681 Dan, Could you be more specific about what you mean by "MVD is a little rough" ? I'm headed there for a look-see in 2 weeks. Thanks, Spencer Dan, Could you be more specific about what you mean by “MVD is a little rough” ? I’m headed there for a look-see in 2 weeks. Thanks, Spencer

]]> By: Spencer http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4680 Spencer Sat, 13 Mar 2010 08:33:25 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4680 Dwight, I've been researching Uruguay for the past 2 years, and will be going there (1st time) in 2 weeks. Contact me mid-April, and I'll gladly share my observations. Spencer Dwight, I’ve been researching Uruguay for the past 2 years, and will be going there (1st time) in 2 weeks. Contact me mid-April, and I’ll gladly share my observations. Spencer

]]> By: Joe http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4676 Joe Fri, 12 Mar 2010 22:57:19 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4676 I would like to know how the New Zealand economy is likely to fare as the US and other western developed countries go into the "greater depression", which is near. How would the New Zealand economy do? They have 10 sheep and about one cow per person. Great agriculture. Export wool, mutton and beef. What happens when there are few who can afford to buy these exports? (Or will China and Asia be enough?) I have been to New Zealand for three weeks (during the New Zealand winter) and greatly liked the "feel" of the place. There is space, beauty and regions with many different climates, so there is something for all tastes. Joe I would like to know how the New Zealand economy is likely to fare as the US and other western developed countries go into the “greater depression”, which is near. How would the New Zealand economy do? They have 10 sheep and about one cow per person. Great agriculture. Export wool, mutton and beef. What happens when there are few who can afford to buy these exports? (Or will China and Asia be enough?)

I have been to New Zealand for three weeks (during the New Zealand winter) and greatly liked the “feel” of the place. There is space, beauty and regions with many different climates, so there is something for all tastes.

Joe

]]> By: Alex http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4659 Alex Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:47:32 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4659 I have been thinking about NZ for years now, and would love to hear more about the country, in as much detail as Mark (and/or Simon) would care to offer. I have been thinking about NZ for years now, and would love to hear more about the country, in as much detail as Mark (and/or Simon) would care to offer.

]]> By: Mark http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4658 Mark Thu, 11 Mar 2010 06:08:11 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4658 Alex, I'd love to hear more about Andorra... ask Simon to shoot you my email. always like to chat with fellow sovereigns! Alex,

I’d love to hear more about Andorra… ask Simon to shoot you my email. always like to chat with fellow sovereigns!

]]> By: Jillaine http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4655 Jillaine Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:22:31 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4655 Hey Simon and Mark, As always, it's a pleasure reading on the latest adventure! When I was in NZ last year, totally fell in love with the place. Not only was it a very laid back and chilled mentality, but hospitality of Kiwi's was surpassed. I did however find things to be more expensive then the norm (but then again, you're on a pretty small island and most things are imported so what do you expect). Even with the extra cost factors I am looking to make it back down in a couple years to buy that little get away place. So ANY info you find (Mark or Simon) would LOVE to hear about it! Again, total pleasure guys! Lot's of love from Canada, Jillaine P.S. Simon, hope you're feeling better! :-) Hey Simon and Mark,

As always, it’s a pleasure reading on the latest adventure!

When I was in NZ last year, totally fell in love with the place. Not only was it a very laid back and chilled mentality, but hospitality of Kiwi’s was surpassed.

I did however find things to be more expensive then the norm (but then again, you’re on a pretty small island and most things are imported so what do you expect).

Even with the extra cost factors I am looking to make it back down in a couple years to buy that little get away place. So ANY info you find (Mark or Simon) would LOVE to hear about it!

Again, total pleasure guys!

Lot’s of love from Canada,
Jillaine

P.S. Simon, hope you’re feeling better! :-)

]]> By: Laura http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4651 Laura Wed, 10 Mar 2010 20:36:31 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4651 It sounded wonderful to me, and I had similar expectations before I started reading, but the "involuntary tax resident" sounds scary. It sounded wonderful to me, and I had similar expectations before I started reading, but the “involuntary tax resident” sounds scary.

]]> By: Pat Erickson http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4648 Pat Erickson Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:19:00 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4648 Been there, done that, comments are always welcome, keep them coming. In the multitude of counslers....Thanks, Pat Been there, done that, comments are always welcome, keep them coming. In the multitude of counslers….Thanks, Pat

]]> By: Nick http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4647 Nick Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:44:23 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4647 Gun laws are stricter than in the USA. You will need to get a NZ firearms license to the necessary level (you need a different license for handguns and can not carry them on you ever). You will then have to import your firearms, some of which may be banned in NZ like certain military style automatic weapons, rocket launchers, land mines, you get the picture. Basically, any firearm resonably used for hunting game is permitted so I guess that would inclide a sniper rifle... I know what you mean. I doubt I could take more then a year of internet marketing either ;-P Gun laws are stricter than in the USA. You will need to get a NZ firearms license to the necessary level (you need a different license for handguns and can not carry them on you ever). You will then have to import your firearms, some of which may be banned in NZ like certain military style automatic weapons, rocket launchers, land mines, you get the picture.

Basically, any firearm resonably used for hunting game is permitted so I guess that would inclide a sniper rifle…

I know what you mean. I doubt I could take more then a year of internet marketing either ;-P

]]> By: Nick http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4646 Nick Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:38:41 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4646 Oh, and yes, you can buy and own land as long as it's not a huge tract that cuts access by the public to the natural assets of the country. then you need special permission. Google "shania twain nz" for an example. Oh, and yes, you can buy and own land as long as it’s not a huge tract that cuts access by the public to the natural assets of the country. then you need special permission. Google “shania twain nz” for an example.

]]> By: Nick http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4645 Nick Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:36:07 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4645 The easiest way to get a visa is to enroll at a teaching institution and become a student. You can stay as long as you are studying. The easiest way to get a visa is to enroll at a teaching institution and become a student. You can stay as long as you are studying.

]]> By: Nick http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4644 Nick Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:33:12 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4644 I would personally like to see a zero income tax and a 25% GST similar to what Mr Douglas wanted. Why? Because a sales tax taxes consumption, not labor. It does not hinder your ability to invest, it is fairly proportional (the rich consume more), the compliance costs are less (easier to administer) and it immediately levies an indirect tax on all black markets (drug money is taxed as soon as it enteres the system as an example) I would personally like to see a zero income tax and a 25% GST similar to what Mr Douglas wanted.
Why?
Because a sales tax taxes consumption, not labor. It does not hinder your ability to invest, it is fairly proportional (the rich consume more), the compliance costs are less (easier to administer) and it immediately levies an indirect tax on all black markets (drug money is taxed as soon as it enteres the system as an example)

]]> By: Nick http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4642 Nick Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:27:16 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4642 Hi Karl, I lived pretty much my entire life just North of Takapuna Beach and as a fellow entrepreneur, yes I agree with your assessment. That said, there is (currently) no capital gains tax on NZ or Australian shares or real estate. The GST (like VAT) is a flat rate - ie it is levied on everything, which means that at least doing the tax return is easy compared with elsewhere. All costs advertized are also by law inclusive of this tax so there are no hidden surprises like in Canada. Retirees are "asset tested" to assess how much of a pension they are elegable for (The less you have, the more you get) so it makes sense to hold your wealth in a trust or some other vehicle. I am one of those young(ish) professional types and yes, Australia does offer higher wages, but it is also has a higher cost of living. Immigrants from different countries tend to settle in pockets. South Africans for instance concentrate about 15km North of Takapuna Beach. Auckland is very humid in the summer and damp in the winter. It can be overcast for long periods as well. This is not like the whole country which is actually very long and narrow so you get a wide range of climates. Houses tend to be under insulated and not have central air like in north America. No double paned glass, furnaces etc. I am living in Northern Canada now and I find the winter warmer hear because of the dry air and warm homes. Food in NZ is plentiful, varied and cost effective compared to North America. There is much Asian influence in the cuisine there and I find the NA diet much more restrictive - I am yet to find a cheese worth eating in Canada :-( Immigration has tightened a lot. Australia is tougher so the natural thing to do if one wanted to live in Australia was to move to NZ first, get residency there and then use this to gain Australian resisency. There are many "schemes" in place to do this and also collect various forms of social security while waiting to the time to pass. I personally know people in the government there who are ware of the schemes and the people involved but are powerless to take action due to the strict privacy laws in place. Censorship is not nearly as bad as the UK or the USA. The media reports from all over the world however, due to certain attributes of the NZ population, there is a lot of social engineering going on behind the scenes. the population is small so the ifrastructure is also small. This means technology is very quickly assimilated into the system. I have found the banking and point of sale technology to be ahead of North America by quite a way. If they chose to, the government could roll out big brother very rapidly. NZ is also a very competitive environment business wise. The population, being small, means that there are less consumers. It also means that you can very quickly make a very bad name for yourself if you conduct business improperly. It also means that you can also build a great reputation quickly if you are honest, honorable and trustworthy. Business networking is not as it is in North America although there is an elite network of sorts. You do need to prove yourself first and most elite business people are approachable, open and easy to talk with. People prefer telephone or direct contact and if you are seeking work, always follow up with a phone call, or call first before submitting an online application. Hi Karl,
I lived pretty much my entire life just North of Takapuna Beach and as a fellow entrepreneur, yes I agree with your assessment.

That said, there is (currently) no capital gains tax on NZ or Australian shares or real estate. The GST (like VAT) is a flat rate – ie it is levied on everything, which means that at least doing the tax return is easy compared with elsewhere. All costs advertized are also by law inclusive of this tax so there are no hidden surprises like in Canada.

Retirees are “asset tested” to assess how much of a pension they are elegable for (The less you have, the more you get) so it makes sense to hold your wealth in a trust or some other vehicle.

I am one of those young(ish) professional types and yes, Australia does offer higher wages, but it is also has a higher cost of living.

Immigrants from different countries tend to settle in pockets. South Africans for instance concentrate about 15km North of Takapuna Beach. Auckland is very humid in the summer and damp in the winter. It can be overcast for long periods as well. This is not like the whole country which is actually very long and narrow so you get a wide range of climates.

Houses tend to be under insulated and not have central air like in north America. No double paned glass, furnaces etc. I am living in Northern Canada now and I find the winter warmer hear because of the dry air and warm homes.

Food in NZ is plentiful, varied and cost effective compared to North America. There is much Asian influence in the cuisine there and I find the NA diet much more restrictive – I am yet to find a cheese worth eating in Canada :-(

Immigration has tightened a lot. Australia is tougher so the natural thing to do if one wanted to live in Australia was to move to NZ first, get residency there and then use this to gain Australian resisency. There are many “schemes” in place to do this and also collect various forms of social security while waiting to the time to pass. I personally know people in the government there who are ware of the schemes and the people involved but are powerless to take action due to the strict privacy laws in place.

Censorship is not nearly as bad as the UK or the USA. The media reports from all over the world however, due to certain attributes of the NZ population, there is a lot of social engineering going on behind the scenes.

the population is small so the ifrastructure is also small. This means technology is very quickly assimilated into the system. I have found the banking and point of sale technology to be ahead of North America by quite a way. If they chose to, the government could roll out big brother very rapidly.

NZ is also a very competitive environment business wise. The population, being small, means that there are less consumers. It also means that you can very quickly make a very bad name for yourself if you conduct business improperly. It also means that you can also build a great reputation quickly if you are honest, honorable and trustworthy. Business networking is not as it is in North America although there is an elite network of sorts. You do need to prove yourself first and most elite business people are approachable, open and easy to talk with. People prefer telephone or direct contact and if you are seeking work, always follow up with a phone call, or call first before submitting an online application.

]]> By: Alex http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4641 Alex Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:49:05 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4641 Hi Mark and Simon, Let me start with a quote from Mark. "I believe the only ‘fair’ taxation is no taxation, but you won’t find that here, or anywhere." Living both in Luxumbourg and the Netherlands and working as an free lancer for a trust company, I can tell you there are still options for living without paying a dime of tax. Ever considered Andorra as a place for residency? Sure, you have to know the way and you need some good friends. (but as a sovereign man I'm alway's willing to share...) Can tell you a lot of good stories about Luxembourg and Andorra. On request I'll share it with the rest of the audience. By the way, Mark’s assessment of New Zealand is very much correct. New Zealand is a great lifestyle location and I love it! Hope to spend some years over there soon. Keep up the good work Simon! enjoy (almost) each article Best, Alex Luxembourg, Andorra Hi Mark and Simon,

Let me start with a quote from Mark. “I believe the only ‘fair’ taxation is no taxation, but you won’t find that here, or anywhere.”

Living both in Luxumbourg and the Netherlands and working as an free lancer for a trust company, I can tell you there are still options for living without paying a dime of tax. Ever considered Andorra as a place for residency? Sure, you have to know the way and you need some good friends. (but as a sovereign man I’m alway’s willing to share…)

Can tell you a lot of good stories about Luxembourg and Andorra. On request I’ll share it with the rest of the audience.

By the way, Mark’s assessment of New Zealand is very much correct. New Zealand is a great lifestyle location and I love it! Hope to spend some years over there soon.

Keep up the good work Simon! enjoy (almost) each article

Best,

Alex
Luxembourg, Andorra

]]> By: "Mateo" http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4640 "Mateo" Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:20:58 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4640 NZ looks like a great place to visit and certainly stay for an extended period of time but as planting a permanent flag of some sorts there I think it may be a little risky due to the higher prices and possible health care issues. Great guest article though and I enjoyed the insight from a friend of Simon's. Thanks for the opportunity to let us read it, much appreciated! NZ looks like a great place to visit and certainly stay for an extended period of time but as planting a permanent flag of some sorts there I think it may be a little risky due to the higher prices and possible health care issues.
Great guest article though and I enjoyed the insight from a friend of Simon’s. Thanks for the opportunity to let us read it, much appreciated!

]]> By: JC http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4639 JC Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:31:25 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4639 Simon, I enjoyed Mark's column about New Zealand yesterday and since I have just married a beautiful Kiwi lady, I'm curious to learn more about what parts of NZ where Mark has found "Abundant and reasonably priced lifestyle type properties". Keep up the good work! JC Simon,

I enjoyed Mark’s column about New Zealand yesterday and since I have just married a beautiful Kiwi lady, I’m curious to learn more about what parts of NZ where Mark has found “Abundant and reasonably priced lifestyle type properties”.

Keep up the good work!

JC

]]> By: Mark http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4635 Mark Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:22:27 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4635 Roberto, the North and South Islands have very different demographics. the Issue you mention (drugs/gangs) exists in Auckland and elsewhere on the North Island, but from what I've observed you can easily position yourself away from that element. We'll talk about this issue in the future. Roberto,

the North and South Islands have very different demographics. the Issue you mention (drugs/gangs) exists in Auckland and elsewhere on the North Island, but from what I’ve observed you can easily position yourself away from that element. We’ll talk about this issue in the future.

]]> By: Mark http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4633 Mark Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:34:40 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4633 Robert is correct, however even with $10M it isn't cut and dry. Almost every Kiwi I spoke to has a story of an expat who tried to 'buy' their way into NZ. It isn't a guarantee... more on that later. Robert is correct, however even with $10M it isn’t cut and dry. Almost every Kiwi I spoke to has a story of an expat who tried to ‘buy’ their way into NZ. It isn’t a guarantee… more on that later.

]]> By: Sunny http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4632 Sunny Wed, 10 Mar 2010 06:37:16 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4632 Wishing you a speedy recovery Simon! Thanks Mark for the funny comment about the topless Peruvian sunbathers. :) Wishing you a speedy recovery Simon! Thanks Mark for the funny comment about the topless Peruvian sunbathers. :)

]]> By: Dan Simon http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4631 Dan Simon Wed, 10 Mar 2010 05:29:54 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4631 Kate, If you expatriate the key is not so much where you live, but where you hold your assets and in what currencies; if you expect USD collapse and rampant inflation. We've been looking at establishing a 2nd residence outside the US. Panama is quite stable politically. Ecuador (Correira) has gone far left since last summer and my Ecuadorian professional friends are looking to come to the US. Fantastic climate, people and scenery, but would require caution. Both have USD as their currency. Take a look at Oaxaca province in Mexico. Dan Kate, If you expatriate the key is not so much where you live, but where you hold your assets and in what currencies; if you expect USD collapse and rampant inflation. We’ve been looking at establishing a 2nd residence outside the US. Panama is quite stable politically. Ecuador (Correira) has gone far left since last summer and my Ecuadorian professional friends are looking to come to the US. Fantastic climate, people and scenery, but would require caution. Both have USD as their currency. Take a look at Oaxaca province in Mexico.
Dan

]]> By: Dan Simon http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4630 Dan Simon Wed, 10 Mar 2010 05:11:56 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4630 Dwight, I was in BA, Montevideo and Punta del Este in September. Punta is a nice beach resort. Mostly Argentines and Europeans there. Reasonable health care, friendly people. MVD is a little rough. But you're a short flight or 2 hour ferry ride over to BA- which is a great city. Both Argentina and Uruguay governments lean hard to the left. Climate wise-- you do have winter down there, but a fairly mild one. I've got some good real estate contacts in Uruguay if you decide to visit. Dan Dwight, I was in BA, Montevideo and Punta del Este in September. Punta is a nice beach resort. Mostly Argentines and Europeans there. Reasonable health care, friendly people. MVD is a little rough. But you’re a short flight or 2 hour ferry ride over to BA- which is a great city. Both Argentina and Uruguay governments lean hard to the left. Climate wise– you do have winter down there, but a fairly mild one. I’ve got some good real estate contacts in Uruguay if you decide to visit.
Dan

]]> By: Octavia http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4626 Octavia Wed, 10 Mar 2010 03:02:24 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4626 Hi Mark and Simon, I love your articles its a must read for people seeking an easier life. But this one is close to my heart. And I would love to here more on New Zealand. My partner and I have been traveling since 2006 and we spent out first time there last year visiting my brother,and looking to spend up to 6 months living there part-time. From a residency point of view, my brother had a job over there so the company helped him in, 3 years on he is now running a small business himself and seems to be doing very well. He has made a lot of friends by joining a snooker club, motorbike club, and travels all over NZ with his custom mini, so his advice if you move there get active in things you love and you will meet wonderful people like yourself. Why I can ask many questions from my brother, we live a different lifestyle living 3 months here and there, so there are many aspects of life to consider. Currently we are in Thailand for the next year learning to speak thai and I can see us living between Asia and New Zealand. Mark I understand Obama is making life more difficult I'm sure it won't be long before the British follow suit :( Hi Mark and Simon,
I love your articles its a must read for people seeking an easier life. But this one is close to my heart. And I would love to here more on New Zealand.

My partner and I have been traveling since 2006 and we spent out first time there last year visiting my brother,and looking to spend up to 6 months living there part-time. From a residency point of view, my brother had a job over there so the company helped him in, 3 years on he is now running a small business himself and seems to be doing very well. He has made a lot of friends by joining a snooker club, motorbike club, and travels all over NZ with his custom mini, so his advice if you move there get active in things you love and you will meet wonderful people like yourself. Why I can ask many questions from my brother, we live a different lifestyle living 3 months here and there, so there are many aspects of life to consider.
Currently we are in Thailand for the next year learning to speak thai and I can see us living between Asia and New Zealand.
Mark I understand Obama is making life more difficult I’m sure it won’t be long before the British follow suit :(

]]> By: domlanic http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4625 domlanic Wed, 10 Mar 2010 03:00:54 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4625 Another comment- NZ has much the same residency for taxation laws as any other developed nation; all income including that earned offshore must be declared and you must declare residency SOMEWHERE... then the matter of dual taxation and international tax treaties complicates things. Cost of living is not as good as in earlier years but the Kiwi dollar is weak right now so it might be a good time to go there. Climate in North island is good, a bit cool in winter (we once had severe frost in Auckland!) and humid/warm in summer; plenty of rain and many shades of green. Building laws are relaxed, you have freedom to build your dream within reason but remember the country is seismically active (Shaky Isles). Maori history & culture is fascinating and they have a great sense of humour (Aotearoa = Land of the Long White Cloud = Land of the Wrong White Crowd!). Remember also that Rugby Union is the national religion... its a bit like American Football but without all that wimpy body armour and tights; players play the whole game (no 'Offense' or 'Defense') and they have to be FIT!! Not like the huge lumps that lumber around for the 10 seconds of movement that happens in each 'play' of gridiron! Enough teasing for now; I admit I have little idea of how US football works; it is so complicated as to mystify the uninitiated! Another comment- NZ has much the same residency for taxation laws as any other developed nation; all income including that earned offshore must be declared and you must declare residency SOMEWHERE… then the matter of dual taxation and international tax treaties complicates things. Cost of living is not as good as in earlier years but the Kiwi dollar is weak right now so it might be a good time to go there.
Climate in North island is good, a bit cool in winter (we once had severe frost in Auckland!) and humid/warm in summer; plenty of rain and many shades of green. Building laws are relaxed, you have freedom to build your dream within reason but remember the country is seismically active (Shaky Isles). Maori history & culture is fascinating and they have a great sense of humour (Aotearoa = Land of the Long White Cloud = Land of the Wrong White Crowd!).
Remember also that Rugby Union is the national religion… its a bit like American Football but without all that wimpy body armour and tights; players play the whole game (no ‘Offense’ or ‘Defense’) and they have to be FIT!! Not like the huge lumps that lumber around for the 10 seconds of movement that happens in each ‘play’ of gridiron! Enough teasing for now; I admit I have little idea of how US football works; it is so complicated as to mystify the uninitiated!

]]> By: Kate http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4624 Kate Wed, 10 Mar 2010 02:51:18 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4624 I am an American seeking expat status in a "safe" country in the not-too-distant future. I love the idea of NZ, but do you think there's risk from China? I'm concerned about Panama because of their connections to the US. Although I love the idea of some parts of Ecuador, if the US collapses I'm not sure it would be wise to be in a 3rd world country. Seriously, Simon, help! Can you provide a top 5 list based on your experience and knowledge? I am an American seeking expat status in a “safe” country in the not-too-distant future. I love the idea of NZ, but do you think there’s risk from China? I’m concerned about Panama because of their connections to the US. Although I love the idea of some parts of Ecuador, if the US collapses I’m not sure it would be wise to be in a 3rd world country. Seriously, Simon, help! Can you provide a top 5 list based on your experience and knowledge?

]]> By: domlanic http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4623 domlanic Wed, 10 Mar 2010 02:37:57 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4623 I migrated to NZ in 1980, left for Australia in 1988; those were boom years of the 'Think Big' era when NZ politicians had delusions of grandeur trying to industrialize NZ via refinery & steel mill developments. IDIOTIC! With only 2.5 million population the economy could not support such dreams & those projects were sold off to China... meanwhile Roger Douglas (the "World's Greatest Treasurer") wrecked the economy by instant deregulation, meaning thousands were bankrupted & 88,000 skilled people left in a 'brain drain' to Oz in 1988. (We were paying 24% interest on a home mortgage!!) So, beware of small economies and the rapid rate of change, which could ruin the unwary... Same old story, really; beautiful country run by bloody idiots! Also, with agriculture/fisheries as the only staples of its national wealth, NZ is a bit limited some respects; my time there was a liberating experience after UK, and I have nothing but good memories, even allowing for being forced out by Mr Douglas!! I migrated to NZ in 1980, left for Australia in 1988; those were boom years of the ‘Think Big’ era when NZ politicians had delusions of grandeur trying to industrialize NZ via refinery & steel mill developments. IDIOTIC! With only 2.5 million population the economy could not support such dreams & those projects were sold off to China… meanwhile Roger Douglas (the “World’s Greatest Treasurer”) wrecked the economy by instant deregulation, meaning thousands were bankrupted & 88,000 skilled people left in a ‘brain drain’ to Oz in 1988.
(We were paying 24% interest on a home mortgage!!) So, beware of small economies and the rapid rate of change, which could ruin the unwary…
Same old story, really; beautiful country run by bloody idiots! Also, with agriculture/fisheries as the only staples of its national wealth, NZ is a bit limited some respects; my time there was a liberating experience after UK, and I have nothing but good memories, even allowing for being forced out by Mr Douglas!!

]]> By: Larry http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4622 Larry Wed, 10 Mar 2010 01:59:20 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4622 what area of nz are you living in?? what area of nz are you living in??

]]> By: JJ http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4621 JJ Wed, 10 Mar 2010 01:43:22 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4621 Would like to hear more about cost of living and also some info about the different areas, so we know more specifically where to go. I've been living on Phuket for a year now, but here is not enough unspoiled nature. The only nature is the beaches, but I would like some nice places to hike. I think new zealand will be next stop looking at those pictures. JJ Would like to hear more about cost of living and also some info about the different areas, so we know more specifically where to go.

I’ve been living on Phuket for a year now, but here is not enough unspoiled nature. The only nature is the beaches, but I would like some nice places to hike. I think new zealand will be next stop looking at those pictures.

JJ

]]> By: James Salvail http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4620 James Salvail Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:49:46 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4620 Simon, Thanks for the article about New Zealand. I would like to move there, but the strict policies for residency make it a problem. I would like to know more about residency policies, and under what conditions a non-permanent resident can live there, especially if they are over 55. Can a non-permanent resident buy a house or own land? Is NZ a good place to have an offshore bank account? Thanks again! Simon,

Thanks for the article about New Zealand. I would like to move there, but the strict policies for residency make it a problem. I would like to know more about residency policies, and under what conditions a non-permanent resident can live there, especially if they are over 55. Can a non-permanent resident buy a house or own land? Is NZ a good place to have an offshore bank account? Thanks again!

]]> By: Bill Goode http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4619 Bill Goode Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:47:01 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4619 Hello Mark, I have thought about New Zealand a great deal for many of the reasons you give. I feel as you do about taxes. The thing I wonder about is the complexity of filing taxes. In the USA one can't get through the tax forms any more without an accountant. How complex are New Zealand taxes? Thanks for your insight. Hello Mark,
I have thought about New Zealand a great deal for many of the reasons you give. I feel as you do about taxes. The thing I wonder about is the complexity of filing taxes. In the USA one can’t get through the tax forms any more without an accountant. How complex are New Zealand taxes?
Thanks for your insight.

]]> By: Bruce M. Petty http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4618 Bruce M. Petty Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:34:36 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4618 My wife is French, orginally, and I was born in the Big Avocado--California. We moved to New Plymouth on North Island six years ago. We flew direct from Saudi Arabia, where we survived one war, several car bombings and a number of shoot-outs. We broke all the rules by flying in on one one-way ticdkets, announcing on our arrival that we were staying, handing the people at customs a letter announcing that my wife had a job offer at a hospital in Hamilton. Like I said, You ain't supposed to do it that way, but we did; and we are still here. Getting residency for us and our three children was no problem, and now we are citizens. We have five acres that would have cost us millions if we had bought it in the Big Avocado (We paid $280,000, and that was with a three-bedroom house and a sleep out. On top of that we have a septic tank and creek.) After five years, at the same hospital, my wife now works half-time. I write books, do docos and give an occasional lecture. Everything you read above is true. No way are we going back to Silicon Valley, mate. My wife is French, orginally, and I was born in the Big Avocado–California. We moved to New Plymouth on North Island six years ago. We flew direct from Saudi Arabia, where we survived one war, several car bombings and a number of shoot-outs. We broke all the rules by flying in on one one-way ticdkets, announcing on our arrival that we were staying, handing the people at customs a letter announcing that my wife had a job offer at a hospital in Hamilton. Like I said, You ain’t supposed to do it that way, but we did; and we are still here. Getting residency for us and our three children was no problem, and now we are citizens. We have five acres that would have cost us millions if we had bought it in the Big Avocado (We paid $280,000, and that was with a three-bedroom house and a sleep out. On top of that we have a septic tank and creek.) After five years, at the same hospital, my wife now works half-time. I write books, do docos and give an occasional lecture. Everything you read above is true. No way are we going back to Silicon Valley, mate.

]]> By: Chuck B http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4617 Chuck B Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:19:35 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4617 Simon, great to hear you are feeling better. Mark, your comment; "My ‘work’, if you can call it that, allows me to travel wherever a cell phone and laptop can find a signal." I would like to hear more tips on how to make the transition from corporate stiff, to being an international citizen with the ability to generate cashflow with a laptop and an internet connection. Simon, great to hear you are feeling better.
Mark, your comment; “My ‘work’, if you can call it that, allows me to travel wherever a cell phone and laptop can find a signal.” I would like to hear more tips on how to make the transition from corporate stiff, to being an international citizen with the ability to generate cashflow with a laptop and an internet connection.

]]> By: Alexander London http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4616 Alexander London Tue, 09 Mar 2010 23:12:31 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4616 Simon, Thank you for all the good information you send us each day! I have not been reading posts on your other daily reports, but it seems there is a lot of interest in New Zealand. I, too, am interested in the suniest, warmest part of N.Z. Is it Auckland? One big reason it is so desirable is the very restrictive immigration policy. So it is designed to protect the existing population, which is only right. They have refreshingly reasonable laws about accidents -- they are nobody's fault. Mosquitos? Racial tension? I have been looking on the Web, and it seems that houses and rents are less than in America. Would you kindly give some representative prices? Good Health! Alexander London Simon,
Thank you for all the good information you send us each day!
I have not been reading posts on your other daily reports, but it seems there is a lot of interest in New Zealand. I, too, am interested in the suniest, warmest part of N.Z. Is it Auckland? One big reason it is so desirable is the very restrictive immigration policy. So it is designed to protect the existing population, which is only right. They have refreshingly reasonable laws about accidents — they are nobody’s fault.
Mosquitos? Racial tension? I have been looking on the Web, and it seems that houses and rents are less than in America. Would you kindly give some representative prices?
Good Health! Alexander London

]]> By: WHIT http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4615 WHIT Tue, 09 Mar 2010 23:04:26 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4615 I was on a 2-week motorcycle tour of both islands in 2008. Beautiful country and friendly people. As I recall, very restrictive immigration policy. The older you are, the more $$$$$ you need. I wish we would learn a little from them. I got the impression that it is a nice place to visit, but rather overall expensive if you lived there. Would like to know more about just how long you can be there on a part-time basis, before the restrictions kick in. As an aside - I am sure a few of us are IL readers. I will be at their Panama seminar in April - would like to meet a few of you if you are there. Simon - if you are there you should have a big name tag or something. Tripped across you about a year ago and look forward to your posts. Not to wear out my welcome, but would like some comments about Chile. I was looking pretty heavily until the big shake-up a couple weeks ago. I was on a 2-week motorcycle tour of both islands in 2008. Beautiful country and friendly people. As I recall, very restrictive immigration policy. The older you are, the more $$$$$ you need. I wish we would learn a little from them. I got the impression that it is a nice place to visit, but rather overall expensive if you lived there.

Would like to know more about just how long you can be there on a part-time basis, before the restrictions kick in.

As an aside – I am sure a few of us are IL readers. I will be at their Panama seminar in April – would like to meet a few of you if you are there. Simon – if you are there you should have a big name tag or something. Tripped across you about a year ago and look forward to your posts.

Not to wear out my welcome, but would like some comments about Chile. I was looking pretty heavily until the big shake-up a couple weeks ago.

]]> By: Karl http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4613 Karl Tue, 09 Mar 2010 22:43:58 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4613 I'm a New Zealander, entrepreneur, and daily reader of Sovereign Man (Simon, love you work!). I have a small early stage trans-national managed services business (9 years old) with existing operations in New Zealand and South East Asia (very portable and "nearly" a perfect business, according to Richard Russell's [Dow Theory] definition of a perfect business). http://ww1.dowtheoryletters.com/DTLOL.nsf/htmlmedia/body_the_perfect_business.html Mark's assessment of New Zealand is 100% correct. New Zealand is a great lifestyle location but it's over taxed, in my opinion too. Currently, the top marginal personal income tax rate is 38% and consumption tax (GST) is 12.5%, and may be rising to 15% in the near future. Company and trust income tax rates are 30%. http://www.forbes.com/2007/05/03/forbes-misery-data-oped-cx_ja_0503data.html Currently, I am actively doing a "recce" of Singapore with the view to relocating my holding company and myself there, to get closer to Asia and to benefit from Singapore's more favourable tax environment, i.e. flat 20% personal (15% if you spend <180 days in country) and corporate tax rates and consumption tax (GST) of 5%. I am applying for an E1 entrepreneurs pass and am hopeful that it will lead to PR after a few years of successful business operation in Singapore. In my spare time, I hope to complete a master of applied finance degree there too, to improve my school boy level maths. :-) Unfortunately, the Singapore property market is a major bubble at the moment (very similar to Hong Hong) owing to China's new rich property (real estate) investors bidding up the local prices. Same on the Gold Coast in Australia too. http://www.economist.com/displaystory.cfm?story_id=14438245 So, I intend to wait until after the expected second wave down crash later this year "and some (2011-12)" before buying property in Singapore. Answers to a lot of the above immigration related questions can be found at the New Zealand Immigration Services website below. http://www.immigration.govt.nz/ For "warm blooded" Sovereign Man readers and budding New Zealand residents, far north is the way to go, i.e. Auckland city or further north. In my own case, I was born in sunny Nelson in the South Island but now live in a beautiful beach side suburb of Auckland city called Takapuna Beach, which has a gorgeous golden sand beach and is only 5 minutes from the Auckland city centre (off-peak, which is only time that any self respecting and self employed person should travel anywhere!). New urbanisim enthusiasts will appreciate the fact the everything in Takapuna Beach is within easy walking distance, i.e the beach, bars, restaurants, transport hubs, and the local bank branches (including ANZ and HSBC). http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?oe=UTF-8&ie=UTF8&q=takapuna+new+zealand&fb=1&gl=nz&ei=YsyWS8CABJ3cjAO55_zLCw&ved=0CBYQpQY&hl=en&view=map&geocode=FVOszv0dmclqCg&split=0&iwloc=A&sa=X Alas, I will really miss New Zealand and my much loved Takapuna Beach. However, Mark's right about the "over taxation problem" here, which is a real dis-incentive for tax savy global entrepreneurs, which is exactly why I'm heading off to Singapore in 2011. Safe travels! I’m a New Zealander, entrepreneur, and daily reader of Sovereign Man (Simon, love you work!). I have a small early stage trans-national managed services business (9 years old) with existing operations in New Zealand and South East Asia (very portable and “nearly” a perfect business, according to Richard Russell’s [Dow Theory] definition of a perfect business).

http://ww1.dowtheoryletters.com/DTLOL.nsf/htmlmedia/body_the_perfect_business.html

Mark’s assessment of New Zealand is 100% correct. New Zealand is a great lifestyle location but it’s over taxed, in my opinion too. Currently, the top marginal personal income tax rate is 38% and consumption tax (GST) is 12.5%, and may be rising to 15% in the near future. Company and trust income tax rates are 30%.

http://www.forbes.com/2007/05/03/forbes-misery-data-oped-cx_ja_0503data.html

Currently, I am actively doing a “recce” of Singapore with the view to relocating my holding company and myself there, to get closer to Asia and to benefit from Singapore’s more favourable tax environment, i.e. flat 20% personal (15% if you spend <180 days in country) and corporate tax rates and consumption tax (GST) of 5%. I am applying for an E1 entrepreneurs pass and am hopeful that it will lead to PR after a few years of successful business operation in Singapore. In my spare time, I hope to complete a master of applied finance degree there too, to improve my school boy level maths. :-)

Unfortunately, the Singapore property market is a major bubble at the moment (very similar to Hong Hong) owing to China's new rich property (real estate) investors bidding up the local prices. Same on the Gold Coast in Australia too.

http://www.economist.com/displaystory.cfm?story_id=14438245

So, I intend to wait until after the expected second wave down crash later this year "and some (2011-12)" before buying property in Singapore.

Answers to a lot of the above immigration related questions can be found at the New Zealand Immigration Services website below.

http://www.immigration.govt.nz/

For "warm blooded" Sovereign Man readers and budding New Zealand residents, far north is the way to go, i.e. Auckland city or further north.

In my own case, I was born in sunny Nelson in the South Island but now live in a beautiful beach side suburb of Auckland city called Takapuna Beach, which has a gorgeous golden sand beach and is only 5 minutes from the Auckland city centre (off-peak, which is only time that any self respecting and self employed person should travel anywhere!). New urbanisim enthusiasts will appreciate the fact the everything in Takapuna Beach is within easy walking distance, i.e the beach, bars, restaurants, transport hubs, and the local bank branches (including ANZ and HSBC).

http://maps.google.co.nz/maps?oe=UTF-8&ie=UTF8&q=takapuna+new+zealand&fb=1&gl=nz&ei=YsyWS8CABJ3cjAO55_zLCw&ved=0CBYQpQY&hl=en&view=map&geocode=FVOszv0dmclqCg&split=0&iwloc=A&sa=X

Alas, I will really miss New Zealand and my much loved Takapuna Beach. However, Mark's right about the "over taxation problem" here, which is a real dis-incentive for tax savy global entrepreneurs, which is exactly why I'm heading off to Singapore in 2011.

Safe travels!

]]> By: Roberto http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4612 Roberto Tue, 09 Mar 2010 22:31:34 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4612 Hi Mark We have got to get away from the UK soon owing to the current political climate and to be polite the "Unterclasse" that now pervade our country. NZ seems a good bet; for one thing although I enjoy the challenge of speaking a foreign language for a while, it does become wearing on a long term basis. However my question is this: Although I am not of a nervous disposition, I have heard recent worrying reports that the indigenous population of NZ are rampaging in a drug and alcohol induced gang culture frenzy, making life dangerous for normal folk. This was an article in a newspaper supplement magazine. Any comments? Best wishes Roberto Hi Mark
We have got to get away from the UK soon owing to the current political climate and to be polite the “Unterclasse” that now pervade our country. NZ seems a good bet; for one thing although I enjoy the challenge of speaking a foreign language for a while, it does become wearing on a long term basis. However my question is this:
Although I am not of a nervous disposition, I have heard recent worrying reports that the indigenous population of NZ are rampaging in a drug and alcohol induced gang culture frenzy, making life dangerous for normal folk.
This was an article in a newspaper supplement magazine.
Any comments?

Best wishes
Roberto

]]> By: Ken http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4611 Ken Tue, 09 Mar 2010 22:22:08 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4611 Hello Mark, Is there any work available. Thanks, Ken Hello Mark,
Is there any work available.
Thanks, Ken

]]> By: bob http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4608 bob Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:11:14 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4608 Simon, Yes New Zealand is a lovely country. I am looking at Malaysia, can you give me your thoughts on that country. They have the MM2H program which looks good Bob Simon,

Yes New Zealand is a lovely country. I am looking at Malaysia, can you give me your thoughts on that country. They have the MM2H program which looks good

Bob

]]> By: tglobal1 http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4607 tglobal1 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:09:46 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4607 Simon, THANKS for the info on New Zealand. I'm newly retired, 65,in good health and am financially sound. So I would like to know if it's possible for Americans to establish residency - either now, or if the NZ government has plans in the near future to ease up on American retirees. Simon, THANKS for the info on New Zealand. I’m newly retired, 65,in good health and am financially sound.
So I would like to know if it’s possible for Americans to establish residency – either now, or if the NZ government has plans in the near future to ease up on American retirees.

]]> By: steve campini http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4604 steve campini Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:38:45 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4604 Traveled several months throughout New Zealnd several years ago and loved it so much I put on offer on a beach side condo. However withdrew said offer when I discovered at my age, 57 at the time, I would be uneligible for permenant residency. Six month visa stay would be the limit. I would be interested toknow if this policy has changed. Traveled several months throughout New Zealnd several years ago and loved it so much I put on offer on a beach side condo. However withdrew said offer when I discovered at my age, 57 at the time, I would be uneligible for permenant residency. Six month visa stay would be the limit. I would be interested toknow if this policy has changed.

]]> By: Greg Tom http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4602 Greg Tom Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:25:44 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4602 Did you know that quite a few people live between NZ and Australia? Ie Buy property in NZ where there is NO stamp duty on property and NO CGT TAX........ Australia is a great place to create cash and NZ a great parking station-albeit one of the best looking on the planet and the wine is abundant......I think this part of the world is pretty cool Did you know that quite a few people live between NZ and Australia?
Ie Buy property in NZ where there is NO stamp duty on property and NO CGT TAX……..
Australia is a great place to create cash and NZ a great parking station-albeit one of the best looking on the planet and the wine is abundant……I think this part of the world is pretty cool

]]> By: Ying http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4601 Ying Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:25:36 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4601 This is an excellent thread post on the New Zealand topic - finally! NZ is one of my favorite countries to live in the world. I'd suggest that we should have more expats living in NZ, part-time or full-time, to write more "insiders tips" on NZ (tax, property, cost of living, residency, citizenship, etc.), the good, the bad, and the ugly. Perhaps Simon can invite other expats to write similar threads on Argentina, Uruguay, Thailand, Malaysia, Crotia...... NZ does not have a visa for retirees. No international social security agreement with the US, either. It has agreement with Canada. Australia, on the other hand, has retirees visa category, and has international social security agreement with both the US and Canada. NZ is a great place to live and enjoy life if you have enough money, but its job market is a totally different picture. Many young elite Kiwis have been migrating to Australia, UK, and the US to seek more opportunities and money. In many ways, except weather and country's size, I think NZ is very similar to Canada. I'm sure Kiwis would love to swap their citizenships with Americans. The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence! ;-) Can American/Canadian expats do "visa-run" in NZ, that is, stay in NZ for 3 months or so visa-free, go to Australia for a vacation and back to NZ for another 3-4 months visa-free, like Argentina/Uruguay? This is an excellent thread post on the New Zealand topic – finally! NZ is one of my favorite countries to live in the world. I’d suggest that we should have more expats living in NZ, part-time or full-time, to write more “insiders tips” on NZ (tax, property, cost of living, residency, citizenship, etc.), the good, the bad, and the ugly. Perhaps Simon can invite other expats to write similar threads on Argentina, Uruguay, Thailand, Malaysia, Crotia……

NZ does not have a visa for retirees. No international social security agreement with the US, either. It has agreement with Canada. Australia, on the other hand, has retirees visa category, and has international social security agreement with both the US and Canada. NZ is a great place to live and enjoy life if you have enough money, but its job market is a totally different picture. Many young elite Kiwis have been migrating to Australia, UK, and the US to seek more opportunities and money. In many ways, except weather and country’s size, I think NZ is very similar to Canada. I’m sure Kiwis would love to swap their citizenships with Americans. The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence! ;-)

Can American/Canadian expats do “visa-run” in NZ, that is, stay in NZ for 3 months or so visa-free, go to Australia for a vacation and back to NZ for another 3-4 months visa-free, like Argentina/Uruguay?

]]> By: Howie http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4600 Howie Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:20:08 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4600 a bit off subject, but I'd love to hear more of your organic hydroponics business in Thailand. Thanks Howie a bit off subject, but I’d love to hear more of your organic hydroponics business in Thailand.
Thanks
Howie

]]> By: Robert http://www.sovereignman.com/expat/is-new-zealand-all-hype/comment-page-1/#comment-4599 Robert Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:14:01 +0000 http://www.sovereignman.com/?p=1406#comment-4599 Love the extra outtakes like this Simon. We spent a month in an RV in both north and south islands. Got to see the people and towns most do not see. I have a brother that is just getting permanent residence status by working hard and being only 50. We found the govt to be very sensible, especially in keeping the attorneys from distorting everything. We are looking to establish a business or make an investment to gain our entry, so any and all information is more than welcome. Thank you again. Love the extra outtakes like this Simon. We spent a month in an RV in both north and south islands. Got to see the people and towns most do not see. I have a brother that is just getting permanent residence status by working hard and being only 50. We found the govt to be very sensible, especially in keeping the attorneys from distorting everything. We are looking to establish a business or make an investment to gain our entry, so any and all information is more than welcome. Thank you again.

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