The country was riding high on a wave of euphoria spurred on by one of its most successful Games, and it was hard not to get swept up in the excitement.
Fast-forward, and now we’re on the verge of an economic recession. Kiwis are leaving New Zealand for the Lucky Country in the hope their way of life can be improved.
I know many people who made the move, have landed on their feet and are loving it.
The grass isn't always greener - even on the Gold Coast. Photo / Supplied
Stats NZ migration data shows in the year to September, 10,200 more people left New Zealand for Australia than the number who made the reverse journey – the largest net outflow since early 2014.
Johnelle Parkinson works as a city parking operations supervisor for Brisbane City Council.
She earns $90,000, not including overtime, and works a nine-day fortnight with 7.25-hour days.
Perks include paid meal breaks, an employer superannuation contribution equivalent to 14 per cent of her weekly wage, a free health and wellness gym package, generous leave provisions, flexible working arrangements and a parking spot worth $560 a month.
What’s not to love?
On the face of it, it’s an attractive proposition. Career opportunities, higher incomes with perks and an amazing lifestyle.
But is the grass always greener? For me, it eventually wasn’t.
Upping sticks and moving across the ditch is a big move, and one that must be made in your and your family’s best interests.
Uprooting children from schools and transplanting them to a new school in a new country is no easy ask for them, especially if they are leaving extended family behind.
Whatever the reasons for leaving, the decision to go must not be made lightly.
This is also a wake-up call for Kiwi employers.
They are on notice to offer better perks and more competitive salary packages.
Profitable, successful businesses should use some of their capital to attract and retain good people.
We will keep losing talent to Australia if nothing changes.
