Whitcher Wanted Down Under


Whitcher

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Welcome to Wanted Down Under,

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the show that catapults a British family right across

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the other side of the world, to help them make their biggest decision.

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Serious illness isn't stopping Katrina Whitcher pursuing her dreams.

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With husband Marston, daughter Rachel and D-for by her side,

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she's determined to start again in New Zealand.

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The Grim Reaper's had a few goes and he didn't take me.

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This is now my chance to get out there and show that I CAN do things.

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'Marston is ready for a new way of life.'

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Time is one thing that we have a limited amount of.

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I wish to spend my time doing something I enjoy.

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'But will daughter Rachel want to make the big move, too?'

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If I said no, would you still go?

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'Will Katrina's dream fall apart

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'or will they go where they're Wanted Down Under?'

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'In the economic downturn, life in New Zealand has a strong appeal.

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'Last year, 18,000 Brits grabbed the chance to transfer their skills.

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'Had they really thought through their big decision to emigrate?'

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We've helped another 20 families make the ultimate fact-finding trip.

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After just one week, they must vote.

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Do they stay in the UK

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or move to New Zealand?

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'The Whitcher family from Southampton

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'are looking for a healthier and easier way of life in New Zealand.

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'Mum Katrina is seriously ill.'

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I suffer from Crohn's disease.

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I also have osteoporosis.

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And my hips are beginning to be degenerative.

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And I was born with congenital heart disease.

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'Katrina refuses to let this hold her back, convinced that New Zealand will improve her situation.'

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I think it will benefit me healthwise,

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the heat for the arthritis.

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Also, it's away from everything that goes on here.

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'Marston is a truck driver and mechanic and is eager to escape.'

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I have a journey to work, an hour each way.

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That's ten hours a week just travelling to and from work.

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It's finding a slower pace of life.

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I don't wish to be richer or have a bigger a house.

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I just wish to have more time. More time.

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'The move would be a huge step for this close-knit family.'

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The concern I have is medical help Katrina would have in New Zealand,

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because the doctors here are fantastic.

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The Southampton hospital, the surgeons there are fantastic.

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So why go somewhere to put Katrina at risk?

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'It would mean leaving loved ones they deeply care about.

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'Katrina's father, Keith, has been her rock.'

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My dad and I are very, very close. I see him every day.

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He's the most important tie for being here.

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I would find it very difficult to actually leave him now.

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'It's not just relatives they must think about.'

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My GP, Dr Lewis, is absolutely fantastic.

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He always makes me smile.

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I don't think I'd have got through lots of things without him to be there for me as my GP.

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If I could take him with me I would!

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'11-year-old Rachel is looking forward to trying life down under.'

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Going for this week in New Zealand, I hope we just have a good time

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and notice the difference between things here and in New Zealand,

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and see what could really help us and help Mum.

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And hope that Dad finds a good job.

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'Nobody's prepared to go anywhere without D-fer.'

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It's quite expensive to take a dog to New Zealand.

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Rachel couldn't bear to be without him. We wouldn't go if he didn't go.

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'Marston's already anxious.'

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My biggest worry is getting it wrong,

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making the decision to emigrate, moving lock, stock and barrel,

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selling houses, packing in jobs, saying goodbye to family,

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and after two months finding out it's not working out as we wish.

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It's a really big decision and I don't want to make a mistake.

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We found three different lifestyles for our family to sample -

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one in the country, one in the city and one on the coast,

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each one with the offer of a job and a brand new way of life for them to enjoy on their budget.

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First, let's take a look at the country lifestyle.

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The countryside around Auckland promises fantastic outdoor living.

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Alongside wildlife, you can benefit from year-long mild weather.

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Although you're further away from the amenities of a city,

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you'll appreciate the lower property prices, with homes from £160,000.

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This could be an affordable option.

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Don Wright runs a friendly family-owned business

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and he has a vacancy for a truck mechanic.

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We do a wide range of work, from a routine service to engine overhauls.

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There's 20 guys in the workshop.

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I look at them as part of the family.

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Marston, here at Trucks and Trailers we're looking for good mechanics that are keen team players.

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Please check us out. Look forward to seeing you.

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That was the lifestyle they could enjoy in the country.

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Let's see what's possible in the city on their budget.

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Auckland offers the world class shopping and dining of a big city.

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Yet it's small enough to get around and see all the sights with ease.

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Property is much more expensive,

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with a typical family home in the suburbs costing upwards of £200,000.

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On an entry salary of £20,000, this could really stretch your budget,

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but you're a short drive from the bright lights of Auckland.

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Calvin runs this family-owned haulage company.

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We run a variety of trucks - Continental trucks, American trucks.

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We have a variety of work and an opportunity to use the skills that you have or to retrain.

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Marston, if you came to Auckland, we'd be pleased to see you.

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Their new lifestyle could shape up pretty well in the city,

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but what about a new life on the coast?

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Auckland is nicknamed the City of Sails

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because of the residents' passion for the sea.

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You can try relaxing chartered cruises or dolphin-watching trips.

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There's something for everyone.

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On a peninsula stretching into the Hauraki Gulf is Bucklands Beach.

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Cliff-top properties sell for over a million dollars,

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but just a few blocks away, family homes are available from £175,000.

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A salary of around £20,000 could be yours at this civil engineering firm

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managed by Kevin Fisher.

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You could work on anything from one of our milling machines,

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one of our traffic management units, to this fantastic long-haul unit.

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-I'm Scott.

-I'm Neil.

-From Lincolnshire.

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-I've been here for three years. Neil for...

-Seven months.

-If you're up for the challenge, it's a good life.

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We look forward to catching up with you, mate.

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'There were three options for the Whitcher family to try out.

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'The country, where fresh air and cheaper homes are up for grabs.

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'The city, where the bright lights are dimmed by high prices.

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'And on the coast, the place to be in the City of Sails.'

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So, three very different possibilities for our family to try.

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Which one did we think would suit them best?

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The Whitcher family sampled the coast option for their trial week.

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Would they find the healthier and happier life they were searching for?

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'They're relieved to finally touch down in Auckland.

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'The 22-hour flight has left them exhausted.'

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Oh, long and tiring!

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But OK, really. Lots of food, but not lots of sleep.

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'Marston's looking forward to the week ahead.'

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It's the unknown. We don't know what's going to happen next.

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It's exciting not knowing, so it's going to be a good week.

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'At the airport, they encounter a traditional Maori greeting.'

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SING/CHANT MAORI GREETING

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'It seems to help with the jetlag.'

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Even though it wasn't for us, it was nice to be part of it.

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It was absolutely brilliant. I've never seen Maori singing live.

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'It's a perfect start to their trial week.

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'Let's hope they feel as welcome in the rest of New Zealand.

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'With its stunning harbours, islands and beaches,

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'Auckland is THE place for waterfront living.

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'On the North Island, it's New Zealand's most populous region, with over a million people.

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'The Whitchers are staying in a wheelchair-friendly apartment in Newmarket,

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'a suburb southeast of Auckland city.

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'Manager David welcomes them in and shows them around.

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'It's different from their UK home.

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-'The master bedroom is off the sitting room, making it accessible.'

-I love it!

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'This is city living with loads of outside space.'

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-I don't want to go home.

-The balcony is the same size as our garden!

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'The bedroom has a stylish en suite.

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'And Rachel hasn't been left out.

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'There's a comfortable twin bedroom for her to relax in next door.'

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-Oh, wow!

-I get the same as you get, Mum.

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'Compared to the UK, the apartment offers exciting possibilities.'

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Our future may hold more of an apartment than a house,

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when Rachel's travelling the world and it's just Katrina and myself.

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Whether we emigrate to New Zealand or stay in the UK,

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this is exactly the sort of property we'll end up with.

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-This is fantastic.

-Yeah. Ideal.

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'After a swift unpack,

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'Marston and Rachel can't wait to take a first look at Auckland,

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'but the journey has taken its toll on Katrina.'

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Katrina this afternoon was physically sick.

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That's not an uncommon occurrence.

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It happens now and again. It's something we live with.

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Getting here caused maybe a small flare-up of Crohn's.

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Hopefully, after a good night's sleep, she'll be OK tomorrow.

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'The Whitchers live in a three-bedroom semi-detached house on the outskirts of Southampton.

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'If they brave the UK housing market and sell up,

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'they hope to have £200,000.

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'Their dream home would provide better facilities for Katrina,

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'ideally, a three-bedroom bungalow with a large kitchen and a garden.

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'How far will their money go?

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'We found three properties to get an idea of what they could afford,

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'if they make the big decision to emigrate.

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'Property one is a three-bedroom bungalow in Botany Downs, a suburb southeast of the city

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'and just a five-minute drive from the beach.

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'It's on the market for NZ479,000,

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'within budget at around £190,000.

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'After a good rest, Katrina's ready to tackle house hunting head-on.

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'Local estate agent Chris welcomes them in for a look around.

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'Immediately, the spacious living area makes a good impression.'

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-It's very nice.

-It's VERY nice.

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-When you come here, you're straight into the house.

-It's inviting. What do you think, Rachel?

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It's nice. It's more... It's more airy than ours.

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'The kitchen, next to the living area, has a light contemporary feel.'

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-Oh, wow! This is really bright.

-Do you know what I like?

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There's no wall cupboards. It's all low.

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You don't have trouble stretching.

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It's not big, but the space looks really well used.

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'The three bedrooms are just along the hall and there are no stairs to negotiate.'

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-Ah!

-This is nice, isn't it?

-This is lovely!

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-A window out onto the grass.

-You've got an en suite.

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Wow! So it's an en suite shower?

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O-oh!

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-This is just... It's awesome.

-It's very good, isn't it?

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Also, being on one level

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and having windows, if I'm having a rough day

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and I'm up here, at least I can see what's going on in the garden.

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'The property benefits from a second bathroom, which is high on the family's wish list.'

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A bath and a shower, Rachel!

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That bath is quite low so you could get in it.

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-Definitely able to get into that.

-A proper bathroom.

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Not fancy. It does what it's meant to do. It's nicely done.

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'Bedroom two doesn't compare quite so well to home.'

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It's a little bit smaller than yours. Still a nice size room.

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'Marston spots a welcome feature.'

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-What's different than your room?

-Shut up!

-It's tidy!

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'New Zealand homes have open-plan living down to an art, and are good at double garages.'

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-This, I could do my kit car here.

-You could do your kit car.

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-You could LIVE in here!

-To be honest.

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On a practical level, it would make your life easier.

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You could have that corner. Mine's over with the laundry,

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yours is over there, OK?

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'Looks like he's got a fight on his hands!

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'What about the all-important outside space?'

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Wow!

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This is nice!

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'The garden's half the size of their UK one.'

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It's not overlooked at all. It's private, even though it's small.

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'After a look around, what do the family make of property number one?'

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First impressions are very good, but I did find the house quite cold.

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I like this area for the barbecue.

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I think we'd consider this house.

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'They like the house, especially the garage, but the garden is small.

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'Will property two help them make up their minds?'

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If this is the bottom end of the market, what's the top end like?

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-Let's go and find out.

-Onwards and upwards.

-Definitely.

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'Property two is also in Botany Downs.

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'This three-bedroom colonial style home is finished to a high standard.

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'So it comes with a price tag of NZ600,000,

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'around £235,000, well beyond the family's budget of £200,000.

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'If Marston finds well-paid work and UK house prices recover, this is a property they could aim for.

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'Only a few steps in, their hearts are ruling their heads.'

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-Oh, my giddy ancestors!

-It's big, isn't it?

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I can't believe how big. I can't believe we could afford this.

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'The layout is open plan and the kitchen takes their breath away.'

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Oh, wow! Look at that!

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Don't know where to start, do we? It's beautifully decorated.

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And it's a practical kitchen.

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'The living area opens onto a veranda and a beautiful garden.'

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-Wow! Look at this.

-Wow! Look!

-It's lovely!

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That is... Oh!

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'A four-legged friend makes them feel right at home.'

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-Hello, gorgeous.

-Does the dog come with the price?

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'And there's a cheeky surprise at the bottom of the garden.

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'Back inside, the master bedroom certainly has the wow factor.'

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-Oh, wow! Wonderful, isn't it?

-Huge!

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'The girls are getting carried away, but at NZ600,000,

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'around £235,000, Marston knows this property is beyond their reach.'

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It's quite expensive. It is more than we could afford, depending on the exchange rate.

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'He should know better than to look in the garage.'

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-Look at the size of this!

-Oh, wow!

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Look at that, a wooden garage door!

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This is very nice.

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'Has property two made a good impression?'

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-There's a nice feel about the house.

-You can put yourself into the house.

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The garage really surprised me, just how big it was.

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I couldn't believe it was that big.

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'They've fallen in love with it, but what about the price?'

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-Can we afford it?

-Everything would have to be in our favour.

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-Please, Daddy!

-I think this one ticks quite a few boxes.

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Quite a few? It ticks all boxes, except for...

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Apart from paying for it boxes!

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'Rachel and Katrina have made up their minds, but Marston's standing his ground.

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'Maybe property three will help them reach a decision -

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'a three-bedroom, two-bathroom home,

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'converted to provide wheelchair access.

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'Also in the suburb of Botany Downs, it's on the market for NZ529,000,

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'just over budget at around £210,000.

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'Katrina's using her wheelchair to test how accessible it really is.

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'Local agent Tony is there to show them around.'

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Come on in.

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'The main entrance for Katrina is via the garage, but it's not putting them off.'

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That was very easy!

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-It's certainly easy access for a wheelchair.

-Yeah. Very.

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'Once inside, the living space looks generous.'

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Gosh! Isn't this big?

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'There are wheelchair-friendly features, like guards for the walls.

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'Tony demonstrates another.'

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Katrina, just so you see, the doors are sliding doors.

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That's a really good idea.

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'Are the doorways wide enough?'

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Whoa! That's perfect! Yeah!

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The widest part of the wheelchair is your knuckles.

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If the door's narrow, you scrape your knuckles, so you need extra width to get through.

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'The kitchen's next to the living area and is a practical design.'

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It's a very wide, open kitchen.

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The owner does work in here in a wheelchair.

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'Suddenly, a new life down under is taking shape.'

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If I was here on my own and I needed the chair,

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then I could do it myself.

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So it would keep my independence, which is very important.

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'The property has two bathrooms. The first has a nice added extra.'

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-It's a spa bath.

-Spa bath.

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Spa bath!

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Get the joints moving, big time!

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'The door is not so helpful.'

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Oh, no. THAT is a knuckle one!

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'The master bedroom feels like a breath of fresh air.'

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-Walk-in wardrobe.

-Wow!

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And a full disabled en suite.

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-Oh! I was going to say!

-This really does make the difference.

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Wow! Look at this! It's huge!

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Oh! I like the shower thing.

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That is perfect. The sink's the right height.

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There's grab bars as well.

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Oh, and it's big enough to turn around in! Whee!

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'The combination of space and easy access is going down a treat.'

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I really like this place.

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It's absolutely fantastic and would literally suit me down to the ground.

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'There's plenty of space in the garden, but Marston spots a couple of serious problems.'

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It is nice.

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It'd be better without the houses, in my view.

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-There's quite a lot of houses here.

-That's all right.

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The garden's on a slope. That should be steps, I think.

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That'll be slippery in the winter.

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-'How has property three gone down?'

-It's a lot of house for the money.

0:22:030:22:07

It's stuff that's already done.

0:22:070:22:09

It makes it feel more of a home. You can get around the house.

0:22:090:22:13

-Very.

-Rather than an alien environment where you struggle.

0:22:130:22:18

To see that, that's good.

0:22:180:22:20

'The Whitchers viewed three homes on the coast.

0:22:200:22:23

'Property one was the most affordable at roughly £190,000,

0:22:230:22:29

'but the garden was small.

0:22:290:22:31

'The second house was a dream come true, but at around £235,000

0:22:310:22:36

'it was beyond their reach.

0:22:360:22:39

'And the third property was JUST over budget at about £210,000,

0:22:390:22:44

'but would be ideal for Katrina.

0:22:440:22:47

'So, at the end of the day, do the family prefer homes in the UK or down under?

0:22:500:22:56

'The pros and cons have left them in disagreement.'

0:22:560:22:59

Overall, property one for me.

0:22:590:23:01

It was a very nice sized house. I liked a lot of the details.

0:23:010:23:06

Property two for me is better.

0:23:060:23:09

Lovely house. Loved the house. Lovely garden. I loved the view.

0:23:090:23:14

I loved just everything.

0:23:140:23:16

Property three is fantastic for me.

0:23:160:23:20

It's got everything I could need to stay independent

0:23:200:23:25

and still do my housewife duties,

0:23:250:23:28

and it's got a lovely homely feel.

0:23:280:23:31

'Where does that leave their vote? UK or New Zealand?'

0:23:310:23:35

ALL: New Zealand!

0:23:370:23:40

'The open-plan style is perfect for the Whitchers. All they need to do is to work out how to pay for it!'

0:23:400:23:47

When it came to property there were serious discussions -

0:23:500:23:54

I was with Katrina - but they got there in the end.

0:23:540:23:58

It's vital that Marston brings home the bacon.

0:23:580:24:02

His skills are in demand, but can he find the right job?

0:24:020:24:05

'In Southampton, Marston's a truck driver and mechanic, on a salary of £35,000.

0:24:050:24:12

'It's essential for him to find comparable work.'

0:24:120:24:15

I need to be able to live decently.

0:24:150:24:18

It depends on wages and costs of living in New Zealand.

0:24:180:24:23

I'm not going to move to the other side of the world to be broke.

0:24:230:24:26

'He's joining a civil engineering firm to get a taste of working life.

0:24:260:24:31

'If they like him, there's a job as a mechanic on offer.'

0:24:310:24:36

Morning, Marston. Nice to meet you.

0:24:360:24:39

'The girls are spending some time together at Auckland Zoo,

0:24:390:24:43

'to mull over the biggest decision of their lives - whether or not to move to New Zealand.

0:24:430:24:49

'Boss Kevin wastes no time putting Marston to work.

0:24:490:24:53

'His first task is helping foreman Terry with an engine replacement.

0:24:530:24:58

'Marston's happy fixing engines anywhere,

0:25:040:25:07

'but he wants to get down to the nuts and bolts of the matter.'

0:25:070:25:10

-Are you paid hourly or a salary?

-We're on an hourly rate.

0:25:100:25:14

For a mechanic at the moment it's around about 27.50 an hour.

0:25:140:25:18

-Oh, right.

-Then it works up from there.

0:25:180:25:21

I've just done a quick calculation.

0:25:210:25:25

It's about £10 an hour, a bit less than what I'm on.

0:25:250:25:28

I'm trying to get a better home life.

0:25:280:25:31

It could be that I'm at home more here than I would be where I am.

0:25:310:25:36

'It's a trade-off between pay and hours,

0:25:360:25:40

'but will it be enough to convince Marston?

0:25:400:25:43

'Kevin's been keeping a close eye and he seems happy.'

0:25:430:25:47

Very good. He seems to fit in admirably.

0:25:470:25:50

He's very keen to get his hands on the tools.

0:25:500:25:54

But it's early days and Kevin has another task lined up for him.

0:25:540:25:59

I'm impressed with what I've seen you do here.

0:25:590:26:02

I'd like to take you for a spin in one of the trucks,

0:26:020:26:06

if you want to go wash your hands.

0:26:060:26:09

Cheers, Terry. Thanks very much. Good luck with this!

0:26:090:26:14

Whilst Dad's put through his paces,

0:26:140:26:16

Rachel and Katrina have a lot on their minds at Auckland Zoo.

0:26:160:26:20

Katrina's enjoying herself and her health seems to be improving.

0:26:250:26:29

My fingers and my knees aren't too bad today.

0:26:290:26:34

I'm sleeping a lot, lot better and my appetite's better.

0:26:340:26:38

All three things have got better since we've been here,

0:26:380:26:42

but it's finding out if it's a coincidence

0:26:420:26:46

or this is how being here makes me feel.

0:26:460:26:50

With time to think, doubts are surfacing in Rachel's mind.

0:26:500:26:55

It's a big step to take.

0:26:550:26:58

We'll give it a chance, but if we don't like it, we've burned all our bridges back home.

0:26:580:27:04

At the sea lion enclosure, it's time to speak her mind.

0:27:040:27:08

-I don't see myself here.

-Fine.

-I don't think it's right for me.

0:27:080:27:13

If I said no, would you still come?

0:27:130:27:16

Yes, I would. I hope Daddy would as well.

0:27:160:27:20

We've got to do our thing, same as you've got to do yours.

0:27:200:27:25

I never want you to think you can't do stuff because of me or Daddy.

0:27:250:27:32

Emotions are running high and a lot rides on Dad's experience at work.

0:27:320:27:38

Marston's second trial is a driving test.

0:27:380:27:42

He's very experienced, but he's handling a foreign vehicle under pressure.

0:27:420:27:47

To become an instructor,

0:27:490:27:50

I had to do an hour and a half driving an articulated vehicle around East London.

0:27:500:27:55

-This is worse!

-HE LAUGHS

0:27:570:27:59

-Just pull forward here and negotiate your way to the second bin.

-OK.

0:27:590:28:03

We'll see how things go from there. Cheers.

0:28:030:28:07

This is a tricky manoeuvre.

0:28:070:28:10

Can Marston stay focused with Kevin looking on?

0:28:100:28:14

Much more difficult with a trailer.

0:28:170:28:20

So how did he do?

0:28:310:28:33

-Was that OK?

-Well done.

0:28:330:28:35

It's pretty tight around the yard in places.

0:28:350:28:39

I like your style - nice and quiet and careful.

0:28:390:28:44

Having sailed through the test, does Marston think work down under is better than at home?

0:28:440:28:51

Very apprehensive at the beginning of the day.

0:28:510:28:54

Not sure how it would go and I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy the time here,

0:28:540:29:00

but the people have been absolutely fantastic.

0:29:000:29:04

Taking the wages into account, will he vote for the UK or New Zealand?

0:29:040:29:08

This is a REAL tough decision. At this moment in time,

0:29:080:29:12

and I really regret saying this, because I might upset a few people,

0:29:120:29:17

and they've been so friendly, but I'm going to have to choose UK.

0:29:170:29:21

At the zoo, Katrina and Rachel are on tenterhooks,

0:29:210:29:25

waiting to hear Marston's decision.

0:29:250:29:28

He joins them for a debrief at the end of the day.

0:29:280:29:32

-How was it?

-Yeah. It was good. I was made very welcome.

0:29:330:29:37

I didn't disgrace myself.

0:29:370:29:40

But from what I saw today,

0:29:400:29:43

compared with what I do at home,

0:29:430:29:45

I am going to have to choose the UK.

0:29:450:29:49

That's fine. We said it was up to you.

0:29:490:29:51

It's a huge blow for Katrina.

0:29:510:29:54

Disappointing, but, you know, you've got to do what you see fit.

0:29:540:29:59

We've just got to...accept it.

0:29:590:30:02

Rachel, Marston and Katrina are being pulled in different directions.

0:30:020:30:07

What will this mean for the family's future?

0:30:070:30:11

The Whitcher family from Southampton

0:30:140:30:16

are looking for a less stressful and healthier life in New Zealand.

0:30:160:30:22

From the moment they arrived, Katrina felt positive.

0:30:220:30:26

I really, really like this place!

0:30:260:30:29

But Marston wasn't convinced by his day at work.

0:30:290:30:32

The job is really good. I could work in the workshop or driving.

0:30:320:30:37

I could, but would I want to?

0:30:370:30:39

And Rachel is having serious doubts about a new life.

0:30:390:30:43

-I don't see myself here.

-Fine.

-I don't think it's right for me.

-That's OK.

0:30:430:30:49

Will messages from friends and family, especially Grandad Keith,

0:30:490:30:54

unite them for their final decision?

0:30:540:30:58

'The Whitchers are looking for a better lifestyle in New Zealand.

0:31:020:31:08

They need to make sure that it works on a practical level.

0:31:080:31:12

On the other side of the world, Katrina has a personal taxi.

0:31:120:31:16

In Southampton, I rely on my dad to take me out every time.

0:31:160:31:20

He will drive and we will go anywhere.

0:31:200:31:22

We don't go on the buses or the trains. It's always by car.

0:31:220:31:26

If she decides to make the move, Katrina needs to find her own way.

0:31:260:31:31

The family's on a mission to find out how accessible Auckland is by wheelchair.

0:31:310:31:39

In the central business district, they meet Vivienne Mailer, who's offered to be their guide.

0:31:390:31:44

Great to see you! Nice to see you!

0:31:440:31:47

Vivienne is an accessibility advisor,

0:31:470:31:50

helping to ensure that public transport is wheelchair friendly.

0:31:500:31:53

She's joining the family to put it to the test.

0:31:530:31:56

Their first task is getting on board a local train.

0:31:560:32:01

I haven't been on a train for a while so it'll be an adventure. Different.

0:32:030:32:09

Access to the train carriage is via a temporary metal ramp.

0:32:090:32:14

It looks a bit daunting.

0:32:140:32:16

KATRINA: Oh, well. Just give it a go!

0:32:160:32:19

Vivienne has used the ramp before, but for newcomer Katrina,

0:32:190:32:24

it's demanding.

0:32:240:32:26

No! I haven't got the strength in my arms.

0:32:260:32:31

Cor! First time I've had it off the wheels!

0:32:310:32:36

A lot steeper than I thought!

0:32:360:32:39

They made it, but Marston thinks the access is disappointing.

0:32:390:32:43

The system, just putting a metal ramp on the door, is a bit archaic.

0:32:430:32:46

With today's hydraulics and flip-out ramps, there should be a better way

0:32:460:32:52

of her boarding the train.

0:32:520:32:54

Getting on the train was difficult for Katrina,

0:32:540:32:57

and when they reach their stop, she has to make a hasty exit.

0:32:570:33:01

The train ride hasn't been a great success.

0:33:060:33:08

Let's hope that a ride on a bus will be safer and easier.

0:33:080:33:12

Once again, it's a simple ramp.

0:33:120:33:15

This one's not as steep as the train, is it?

0:33:150:33:19

You carry on.

0:33:190:33:21

We've just been on the train.

0:33:210:33:24

KATRINA: The ramp was OK.

0:33:240:33:25

Not as bad as the train one. Rachel managed to get me in OK.

0:33:250:33:29

They're safe on board and Katrina's positive about the experience.

0:33:290:33:35

Over here, I would have to think seriously about public transport.

0:33:350:33:40

At least I've been able,

0:33:400:33:42

with Vivienne's help, to see that a bus trip and a train trip

0:33:420:33:46

are sort of accessible to me to actually keep my independence up.

0:33:460:33:53

Thank you!

0:33:530:33:54

Their morning has given the family

0:33:540:33:57

an insight into how their life could be in Auckland.

0:33:570:34:01

The city also gives them the chance to indulge a shared passion,

0:34:010:34:06

with a trip to a plane museum.

0:34:060:34:09

Katrina's interest in planes was inspired by her dad, who's in her thoughts.

0:34:090:34:15

I miss my dad.

0:34:150:34:16

I know that he would just love to be in this museum.

0:34:160:34:20

He knows so much about the aircraft that are here

0:34:200:34:25

that I'm missing out on his commentary as we go round.

0:34:250:34:29

But missing Dad isn't changing her mind about New Zealand.

0:34:290:34:33

If I had my way, I would come immediately and bring him with us.

0:34:330:34:37

Katrina seems determined to move, but Marston and Rachel are unsure.

0:34:370:34:43

I'll try not to be rude but Auckland was just..."boring" came to mind.

0:34:430:34:48

It wasn't a thriving city.

0:34:480:34:50

At the moment I've not seen anything that makes me want to come here.

0:34:500:34:56

Nothing's really making me say, "Oh, I really want to come."

0:34:560:35:01

Their time has given the family a great introduction to the Auckland way of life.

0:35:010:35:08

It's time to vote - do they prefer the lifestyle in New Zealand

0:35:080:35:12

or back in the UK?

0:35:120:35:14

I think New Zealand has made lots of improvements.

0:35:140:35:18

Maybe in a few years, the place will be fantastic for wheelchairs.

0:35:180:35:22

They've got a long way to go, so for me...

0:35:220:35:26

the UK.

0:35:260:35:27

New Zealand have done a lot of work with their wheelchair access

0:35:270:35:30

but I think they've still got quite a lot to catch up with the UK,

0:35:300:35:34

so I vote UK.

0:35:340:35:37

In New Zealand, I've noticed that people are a lot nicer.

0:35:370:35:40

They will actually get out the way for me

0:35:400:35:43

and not expect ME to get out of THEIR way.

0:35:430:35:47

Back home, there would be grunts and groans.

0:35:470:35:51

At the moment, I think I'm going to have to go with...

0:35:510:35:54

New Zealand.

0:35:540:35:56

When it comes to a new life in New Zealand, Katrina, Marston and Rachel are still worlds apart.

0:35:560:36:01

The Whitchers have a lot to leave behind -

0:36:050:36:08

Katrina's dad, Marston's mum, Rachel's friends.

0:36:080:36:11

To help their life-changing decision, we showed them messages from their loved ones.

0:36:110:36:17

Daddy's here, and I am going to miss you.

0:36:220:36:25

You know that, but you'll go with my blessing.

0:36:250:36:28

Go and enjoy

0:36:280:36:30

and live the dream.

0:36:300:36:32

They asked me to say one bad thing and I can't say anything.

0:36:340:36:38

I think that he is able to cope because of the deep love

0:36:400:36:45

that he has for Katrina and for Rachel.

0:36:450:36:49

No matter what they do,

0:36:490:36:51

they will always do well together, whether it be here,

0:36:510:36:55

New Zealand or the moon!

0:36:550:36:57

KATRINA'S DAD: Katrina, of course, has been the apple of my eye.

0:36:570:37:03

The relationship that we have, I consider to be unique.

0:37:030:37:07

She always bounces back, always incredibly cheerful

0:37:070:37:11

and happy with her lot.

0:37:110:37:14

She's never been depressed and down with her condition.

0:37:140:37:17

She's always very positive about it

0:37:170:37:20

in what's the most severe case I've ever come across.

0:37:200:37:24

She told me about her mum and I was really surprised. I was like, "But you're always smiling!"

0:37:240:37:31

She must be really strong to be able to not be crying all the time and everything, cos I would.

0:37:310:37:38

I'd be really upset, but she's just so strong.

0:37:380:37:42

I'm amazed that Katrina wants to undergo the stress of moving.

0:37:430:37:48

Anyone fit and well would find it a stressful situation.

0:37:480:37:53

She's incredible to have even contemplated it.

0:37:530:37:57

I would really, really miss her, cos she's just...my best friend.

0:37:570:38:04

KATRINA'S DAD: If they were to go, it's a total loss situation.

0:38:050:38:10

She is the one member of the family

0:38:100:38:12

that is constantly in my thoughts and in my presence.

0:38:120:38:16

But they do have a life to get on with.

0:38:160:38:20

You know my feelings, young lady,

0:38:200:38:23

so go with the flow, go and enjoy and live the dream.

0:38:230:38:27

Get out of your mind that Dad needs looking after.

0:38:270:38:31

I'm old enough to look after myself.

0:38:310:38:34

If you're crying now, I'll kick your backside when I next see you.

0:38:340:38:38

That's a promise.

0:38:380:38:40

Bye-bye, folks!

0:38:400:38:43

I don't think I can go.

0:38:470:38:50

Is that because of your friends or...?

0:38:530:38:58

Everything?

0:38:580:39:00

Is it more Grandad than your friends? More Grandad?

0:39:000:39:05

Ultimately, he wants me not to suffer...with things.

0:39:050:39:10

-He said he doesn't want you to go.

-I know.

0:39:100:39:14

At the moment...

0:39:160:39:18

..I could do what I think would be right for Grandad.

0:39:200:39:25

But it might not be right for me.

0:39:250:39:28

What people said was really nice.

0:39:280:39:31

That wouldn't affect my decision. If I was going to up and go,

0:39:310:39:35

I would do it.

0:39:350:39:37

-Has it changed your mind?

-I don't know.

0:39:370:39:40

So, when you're 21 or 25 and you wish to emigrate...

0:39:400:39:44

-I'll move then. I'm not going now.

-It hasn't changed your long-term plan, but your short-term plan.

0:39:440:39:51

-It hasn't changed this one.

-All right.

0:39:510:39:55

There's no doubt that Katrina is sold on New Zealand,

0:40:010:40:06

but I can see that neither Marston nor Rachel are 100% convinced.

0:40:060:40:10

The trial week has been full of ups and downs for the Whitcher family.

0:40:100:40:15

Katrina came searching for new horizons and a healthier life.

0:40:150:40:19

She's already noticing an improvement.

0:40:190:40:22

This has opened up my eyes and given me a new lease of life.

0:40:220:40:27

I've been sleeping properly. My appetite's gone through the roof.

0:40:270:40:32

It's just perfect for me.

0:40:320:40:34

Daughter Rachel had concerns about starting a new life down under.

0:40:340:40:40

I couldn't see myself living here. I could see myself living somewhere out in the country.

0:40:400:40:46

She was happy to see a change in her mum, which benefitted everyone.

0:40:460:40:51

She's been able to do more than normal.

0:40:510:40:55

That's been a relief for me because...of looking after her...

0:40:550:40:59

it does worry you when she gets down and then she gets ill.

0:40:590:41:05

Marston's day at work didn't persuade him to make the move.

0:41:050:41:10

Overall, it would be a lot to give up to come here.

0:41:100:41:14

My pay is OK in the UK, so it'd be a fair pay cut coming over.

0:41:140:41:19

It'd be a big decision to give up my job.

0:41:190:41:22

He knows he must take everybody's feelings into account.

0:41:220:41:27

It's worked out a very positive week that we've been here.

0:41:270:41:32

We need to look at all our options.

0:41:320:41:34

What we do as a family is never say no. Everything's an option.

0:41:340:41:39

Everything's do-able if it's right.

0:41:390:41:42

Rachel and Marston have struggled with doubts about Auckland.

0:41:420:41:47

As the final vote approaches, will they pull together and decide

0:41:470:41:51

that a move down under is best for the family as a whole?

0:41:510:41:55

It's time to find out -

0:41:550:41:57

does their future together lie in Southampton

0:41:570:41:59

or over 11,000 miles away

0:41:590:42:01

on the other side of the world?

0:42:010:42:03

We've had a wonderful week. We've met some great people.

0:42:030:42:06

We've done some really great things. Everybody's been lovely and fantastic.

0:42:060:42:11

I think I'd like to come to New Zealand.

0:42:140:42:18

The guys at the company were brilliant. I could work there.

0:42:190:42:23

It's a hard decision to make.

0:42:230:42:26

I would like to live in New Zealand.

0:42:300:42:32

I guess it's all down to me, then.

0:42:320:42:35

I've had a brilliant week, looked at three gorgeous houses.

0:42:350:42:40

I'd like to live...

0:42:400:42:43

..in New Zealand.

0:42:450:42:47

ALL: Hooray!

0:42:470:42:49

-Come and have a hug!

-Ow, my head!

0:42:490:42:52

The whole week has been one big adventure for the Whitchers,

0:42:540:42:58

with Katrina loving everything about New Zealand.

0:42:580:43:02

There were some disappointments for Marston and Rachel,

0:43:020:43:05

but they felt it was in the whole family's interest

0:43:050:43:08

to move where they are wanted down under!

0:43:080:43:11

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0:43:300:43:33

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