Megan Wilson: Why I would consider moving back to Sydney

I lived in Coogee, Sydney for nearly two years working as a travel agent. Photo / Megan Wilson

The news that Kiwis are doubling their income in Australia probably won't come as a surprise to some people.

I think it's fair to say as a country with a much larger population and economy the job opportunities in Australia are far greater.

And with thousands of Kiwis returning home from overseas because of Covid-19, it seems that Australian businesses see New Zealand as a ''hunting ground for talent'' and are offering ''big bucks'' for that expertise.

When international tourism was still alive in 2017, I moved from Wellington to Sydney, transferring with my company in the same role as a travel agent.

I estimate my yearly income went up around $15,000 in my first year (as I earned a salary and commission).

And the lifestyle was fantastic.

There was always something exciting to do on the weekends – I'd go for coastal walks from Coogee to Bondi, visit the contemporary art museums on the waterfront and spend my evenings at different bars or restaurants in the inner suburbs of Surry Hills and Newtown.

I could walk to work, stopping by my yoga studio or the supermarket on my way home. And I could fully rely on public transport to take me to the CBD or other suburbs. So, I never had the expenses that come with owning a car.

I really noticed the difference in the price of groceries. I would spend about $60 per week on a standard shop whereas here, I spend about $100. And I was eating meat back then, which goes to show how much vegetarian food costs in New Zealand.

Reading that a former Kiwi journalist has nearly doubled her salary by moving to Sydney only adds to my desire to perhaps move back there one day.

But it's not just about the money – I loved having a fast-paced, urban lifestyle in a big city filled with new experiences paired with constant sunshine. The great friends I have there are also a major drawcard for me.

The only thing I ever complained about in Sydney was the traffic. But now that I live in Tauranga, I would gladly never grumble about the difficulty of getting around Sydney ever again.