Feeling the pinch? That's the question on many New Zealanders' minds, leading droves to seek greener pastures across the Tasman Sea. Lucy Griggs, a 24-year-old social media manager, offers a candid glimpse into why she, and thousands like her, are making the move to Australia.
Griggs' story, shared with 1News' Polly Wenlock, reflects a larger trend: a significant net migration loss of 46,400 Kiwis in the year ending September 2025, according to Stats NZ data. This exodus was fueled by a record number of departures, with 72,700 New Zealanders heading abroad, primarily to Australia.
"Why did I move? Why wouldn't I move?" Griggs asks rhetorically. She landed in Brisbane in March and hasn't looked back, citing better opportunities, a more positive culture, and, crucially, a more manageable cost of living.
"In New Zealand I lived paycheck to paycheck, I was trying to save for the future but not able to enjoy the present." She explains. Griggs continues, "Being at the stage of life I was, I realised there was no way I'd be able to own my own house in New Zealand. I believed there would be more opportunity for me to both save and splurge a little more in Australia."
It's about getting fair value for her hard work. "I don’t get paid 'better' here in Australia - I get paid what I should. I can now afford to save and enjoy the small luxuries in life."
But here's where it gets controversial: life in Australia isn't all sunshine and rainbows. Griggs acknowledges the challenges, especially in the job market.
"I think it is harder to find a job here. Something I heard a lot before I moved was, 'There are so many more jobs in Australia,' and, yes, there are — but there are also so many more people in Australia, especially because more and more Kiwis are moving here." She notes, "If you apply for an entry-level job on Seek, there will be 500 other applicants for that same role."
So, how does one stand out in such a crowded field? Griggs recommends a personal touch. "I've managed to find jobs by networking and going in-store with a resume. My first job here was a supermarket job, which I got by applying in person, same with my current retail position."
Griggs humorously observes, "I know a lot of people who have moved here. At first, I thought I was quirky, cool, and original for moving here… now there are so many Kiwis here, you're more original for staying home."
'I'm not paying for mould poisoning anymore'
One of the most striking differences between life in New Zealand and Australia, according to Griggs, lies in housing and groceries.
"Rent is still expensive in Brisbane, but I pay the same here for an air-conditioned, clean share-space with two others as I would for a mouldy, damp, cold flat in Wellington. I’m not paying to get mould poisoning anymore." she says.
And this is the part most people miss: The cost of food is significantly lower. "Groceries are definitely cheaper here. The biggest reaction I see from Kiwis coming over and going into a supermarket is 'Wow! I can’t believe fruit is so cheap!'"
Griggs illustrates this with a simple example: "A punnet of strawberries, which might set you back $5 in NZ is $2 here — that was the biggest shock of my life, 'Oh I can afford strawberries! They’re no longer a luxury fruit for me'."
It's the ability to enjoy everyday life that truly sets Australia apart, even though she admits, "I'm not the best with budgeting."
"But I can afford to go out and socialise here. I also don't feel judged for not using my money 'wisely'. It feels like everyone here does it - goes out for casual drinks and dinners."
'Chasing opportunities is standard practice here'
For Griggs, a young creative, the Australian culture fosters a sense of community and ambition.
"Just existing here is motivating. The second I moved here, I saw people around me starting up their own companies, incentives."
She believes Australia's entrepreneurial spirit gives it a significant edge for those seeking to break into creative or new fields. "That [entrepreneurship] was something that felt so unachievable back home, it felt like you needed a wealthy background, or a $50,000 loan and no one would support you till you'd made it."
"Here it's all about connections, sharing tips and clients, everyone supports each other, which feels so positive."
Griggs identifies this as a key cultural difference that surprised her.
"When I first moved here I felt a bit insecure because of the attitude difference. New Zealand has a real 'be humble' culture where we're told not to brag till we've made it. It felt incredibly hard to find motivation or opportunities after I finished university in New Zealand."
"Australians seem so confident in everything they do, it even shows in how they dress: everyone is in athletic wear, everyone is very fit, some of it isn’t real. It was a bit intimidating in that sense."
However, once she adjusted, Griggs embraced the Australian attitude. "I felt no shame pursuing a career as social media manager and starting a professional Instagram and portfolio. I felt no fear of being judged."
The Australian attitude is, "'Oh you want to do that? OK so do it!'"
What could bring her back to NZ?
While Griggs is thriving in Australia, she does have some longing for her homeland.
"The scenery, nature, native bird song, are what make New Zealand home to me. I miss nature, the rivers and hiking. If I was to move back I’d probably move to the South Island for the scenery."
And a humorous observation to conclude: "The good news is since I've been in Australia I haven't seen any snakes and have only run into two baby huntsman spiders. They were still massive but nothing as bad as I was warned."
Ultimately, it’s not a personal rejection of New Zealand. "I loved the experience of being raised in New Zealand and I would want the same for my kids if I were to start my own family. Could I afford it? Maybe not."
What do you think? Do you agree with Griggs' assessment of the differences between New Zealand and Australia? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Have you made a similar move, or are you considering one? We'd love to hear your perspective!
