Moving to the UK from the US: Step-by-step moving to UK guide
If you’re considering moving to the UK, then you’ll want to read this moving to UK guide first! Find all you need to know about moving to the UK.
Adjusting to life as a Kiwi in the UK
###So you've made the move from New Zealand to the UK?
It's a well trodden path.
In fact, it's estimated nearly 60,000 New Zealanders are currently resident in the UK. Over 1,000 of them live in Acton, London - so you know where to go if you're feeling homesick.
While British and Kiwi cultures share a huge amount, there's also some unexpected differences.
Here are the top things to look out for when you're a Kiwi in the UK:
####Park nudity
**At the slightest chance of sunshine, Brits head to the park. And strip off.**Now Kiwis love to sunbathe, but at the beach. Obviously. The Brits are more than happy to get down to their swimwear in the park. It takes some getting used to.
As the classic ad above tells us, if you can't see the water - they're undies, not togs. Simple.
####Oh, you're Australian?
Your Australian mates never get mistaken for New Zealanders.
But, you can guarantee you'll get mistaken for an Aussie. At least once a day. And multiple times if you're out for a few drinks.
You'll get used to it. You'll also get used to saying:
"No, I don't know your random (Auntie/ Uncle/ Friend) who once lived in New Zealand. But thanks for asking."
####Where's the dairy?
Expect some funny looks.
Brits call their dairies any of the following:
- Corner shop
- Off licence
- Offy
- Grocers
- Newsagents
Shop also seems to apply to small supermarkets. But 'going to the shops' = clothes shops. Confusing.
####English Rugby Fans
You'll have to learn to love them.
But it's going to be hard. Despite having beaten the All Blacks only once in the last decade, they're a plucky bunch.
Get used to the following:
- They call Twickenham 'HQ'. (We don't know why either).
- Every year is 'their year'.
- They'll sing Sweet Chariot even when England aren't playing.
####Don't try and pay on the way out
Brits pay at the table when eating out.
Seems simple, but if you try and mess with the system it tends to look like you're doing a runner without paying. Which can be embarrassing.
Just ask for the bill and enjoy the wait.
####Alright, mate?
One of the biggest points of confusion for Kiwis in our London office. 'Why does everyone keep asking me if I'm alright?'
Well, they don't mean it literally. From cabbies to waiters to the Queen (probably) - it's just a British way of saying hello.
(And bizarrely, the video above is a great explainer of nailing the phrase).
####Opening a bank account? Good luck.
The biggest pet hate of all of those we asked.
"You can't open a bank account without an address. You can't get an address without a bank account."
Banks make you jump through plenty of hoops when getting setup in the UK. If you've just moved (or plan to), check out our one-stop guide to opening a bank account in the UK.
####Social media is your new best friend
It can hook you up with anything from a flatshare to a job.
Check out pages like Kiwis in London or search for groups on Facebook. They can be super useful for finding connections.
Or just finding the best pub to head to when the rugby is on.
####Don't get stung sending money home
You've bagged a great job in the UK, but you still have bills or a mortgage to pay in NZ.
Using the banks or PayPal to send money can cost you up to 5%. That's expensive.
Sending or receiving money from abroad? Wise is the fast, fair new way - this is how it works:
Download the App for iOS & Android.
*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
Money without borders
Find out more
How To Call UK From US in 5 Steps: Tips, Area Codes & More!
Everyone needs to call home every now and then. To find out how to call UK from US, take a look at this article – we'll show you all tips & area codes you need!
Having a baby in Dubai? You'll wanna know the costs
Are you pregnant? Congratulations - this is one of the most exciting periods of your life. But if you’re living abroad as an expat, visitor, or non-resident...
Having a baby in the UK? Hospital, midwife, delivery and IVF costs
If you’re expecting a new baby, you’re probably experiencing a range of emotions - excitement, apprehension, joy, and confusion. If you’re a visitor or expat...
Minimum wage in Dubai? What you need to know
Dubai is one of the most exciting and fastest-growing cities in the world, leading the globe in all kinds of innovation. In Dubai, bigger is better, and it...
What is the calling code for the United Kingdom? Making your phone call
If you’re looking to get in touch with someone in the UK, often your phone is the quickest way to do it. But you want to make sure you’re not calling the...
