0:00:02 > 0:00:05Moving to the other side of the world is a huge decision,
0:00:05 > 0:00:09made even tougher if you're leaving loved ones behind.
0:00:09 > 0:00:14The Parker-Smeeth family are desperate for a better life in New Zealand.
0:00:14 > 0:00:19We'd like to move, just to get away from the daily rat-race.
0:00:19 > 0:00:23You know, you work to pay your bills here and we're hoping to work to live a lifestyle.
0:00:23 > 0:00:28- And happiness might be just within their grasp.- This is it, this is family time, isn't it?
0:00:28 > 0:00:31This is what we wanted for the family,
0:00:31 > 0:00:33to be able to play and be children.
0:00:33 > 0:00:38With so much to leave behind, it's going to be torturous.
0:00:38 > 0:00:41You know, it's a long way to go, so yeah, it's more than likely
0:00:41 > 0:00:46that when we do say our goodbyes, that it will be the final goodbye.
0:01:09 > 0:01:11Situated in the South Pacific, New Zealand is almost the same
0:01:11 > 0:01:16size as the British Isles, but has a population of just 4.3 million.
0:01:16 > 0:01:20That's 15 times less than the UK.
0:01:20 > 0:01:24The resulting open spaces and calmer pace of life make New Zealand
0:01:24 > 0:01:28an attractive proposition for those in search of a better life.
0:01:31 > 0:01:33Meet the Parker-Smeeth family.
0:01:33 > 0:01:3526 year-old mum, Natalie,
0:01:35 > 0:01:38her husband, Roy, 35,
0:01:38 > 0:01:42Jenson, who's four, and Isla, who's two.
0:01:42 > 0:01:45They live in the town of Nelson in Lancashire.
0:01:45 > 0:01:47It's Natalie's home town.
0:01:47 > 0:01:51Roy and Natalie both have to work full-time to pay the bills.
0:01:51 > 0:01:54Roy works long hours as an HGV driver.
0:01:54 > 0:02:00Natalie works as a graphic designer as well as doing the childcare and running the family home.
0:02:00 > 0:02:04The usual rat-race to me begins at 4 o'clock in the morning.
0:02:04 > 0:02:09I get up for work and I'm out till at least three or four in the afternoon,
0:02:09 > 0:02:11where you usually go out, run about.
0:02:11 > 0:02:16I do the school run, take the children to nursery, school,
0:02:16 > 0:02:19then on to the office, work at the office.
0:02:19 > 0:02:22Pick Jenson up, pick Isla up, pay the bills in between, come home.
0:02:22 > 0:02:26- That's all we seem to do, don't we? - Yeah.
0:02:26 > 0:02:32They're desperately hoping that a new life in New Zealand will be better for the whole family.
0:02:32 > 0:02:36We'd like to move, just to get away from the daily rat-race.
0:02:36 > 0:02:43You know, you work to pay your bills here and we're hoping to work to live out there, and live a lifestyle.
0:02:43 > 0:02:45- And spend a bit more... - ..that we can't afford to do here.
0:02:45 > 0:02:49- Spend a bit more family time as well.- Yeah.
0:02:50 > 0:02:53- Good girl.- Good driving, Jenson.
0:02:53 > 0:02:57The desire for a brighter future for their children is driving their plans for the move.
0:02:57 > 0:03:01Roy and Natalie want to be able to spend more quality time with the kids.
0:03:01 > 0:03:07The plan is when we actually get to New Zealand, hopefully we'll be able to get out and do more,
0:03:07 > 0:03:13play football, play rugby maybe, and take the kids out, you know, not be stuck in the house. That's the hope.
0:03:13 > 0:03:15- Hello.- Hiya, are you all right?
0:03:15 > 0:03:18How are you doing?
0:03:18 > 0:03:21Working full-time means they rely on the support of Natalie's
0:03:21 > 0:03:24close family, but they might not have to give all this up.
0:03:24 > 0:03:31After visiting New Zealand, Natalie's parents are also thinking of making the move. But if the
0:03:31 > 0:03:35Parker Smeeths do move down under, with mum and dad following on later,
0:03:35 > 0:03:39Natalie would still be leaving a lot behind.
0:03:39 > 0:03:42Her younger sister is also her best friend.
0:03:42 > 0:03:46They see each other four times a week and being apart will be very hard.
0:03:46 > 0:03:48'We're incredibly close.
0:03:48 > 0:03:51'I would miss her so much.'
0:03:51 > 0:03:54If Leona wasn't there, it would be like a part of us is missing.
0:03:58 > 0:04:00- Hello.- Hello, Natalie.
0:04:00 > 0:04:03Natalie's grandfather is also a big part of her world.
0:04:03 > 0:04:07She's struggling with the thought of leaving him behind.
0:04:07 > 0:04:11I try not to talk to him about it, because
0:04:11 > 0:04:15I think Granddad's also in a little bit of denial.
0:04:15 > 0:04:22Obviously, it's a long journey to get to New Zealand and I don't know if he'd be well enough to go.
0:04:22 > 0:04:24You know, it's a long way to go.
0:04:24 > 0:04:27So, yeah, it's more than likely
0:04:27 > 0:04:32that when we do say our goodbyes, that it will be the final goodbye.
0:04:32 > 0:04:34I can't bear to think about it.
0:04:34 > 0:04:41With so much to lose by moving Down Under, New Zealand will have to be very special to make up for it.
0:04:41 > 0:04:42We do have a lot to leave behind.
0:04:42 > 0:04:44But it's potentially
0:04:44 > 0:04:51for a better future for our children and for a better lifestyle for us.
0:04:51 > 0:04:57We need to do this. We need to try it, to satisfy our own curiosity.
0:04:57 > 0:04:58So Natalie and Roy are
0:04:58 > 0:05:04looking for a new outdoor life and more space in New Zealand.
0:05:04 > 0:05:10But work opportunities for Natalie as a graphic designer could be few and far between.
0:05:10 > 0:05:16They're going to have to be very careful exactly where they choose to settle.
0:05:16 > 0:05:20New Zealand has two main islands, North and South.
0:05:20 > 0:05:23They could sample Christchurch.
0:05:23 > 0:05:27The city's renowned for its schools, so the children's education would be catered for.
0:05:27 > 0:05:30It's also famed for its parks and open spaces which would provide
0:05:30 > 0:05:37the outdoor lifestyle they want, but with a population of 350,000,
0:05:37 > 0:05:42Christchurch might seem too large compared to the Parker-Smeeths' small home town.
0:05:42 > 0:05:44Another option might be Wellington.
0:05:44 > 0:05:49With a similar population to Christchurch, it's the capital city of New Zealand.
0:05:49 > 0:05:53There are plenty of graphic design agencies on offer for Natalie to find work, but house prices are
0:05:53 > 0:05:59higher than Christchurch and this may be an issue on the family's limited property budget.
0:05:59 > 0:06:02Auckland is New Zealand's largest city.
0:06:02 > 0:06:06It's a busy cosmopolitan hub, so there would be plenty of work,
0:06:06 > 0:06:12but its size and speed of life may be daunting for the family, and it's not cheap.
0:06:12 > 0:06:16Three good options for the Parker-Smeeths there.
0:06:16 > 0:06:22Which one is going to give them the best chance to experience what New Zealand has to offer?
0:06:22 > 0:06:26We decided that Christchurch would be most suitable for their trial week.
0:06:26 > 0:06:29It's large enough for good work prospects for Natalie and Roy,
0:06:29 > 0:06:35offers property they could afford and it has a relaxed pace of life.
0:06:35 > 0:06:37Will they agree on property?
0:06:37 > 0:06:41I could see myself living in an area like this. But not in this house.
0:06:41 > 0:06:44I'm the complete opposite, then.
0:06:44 > 0:06:47Finding a job may not be that straightforward.
0:06:47 > 0:06:50We spent a lot of time here on readability.
0:06:50 > 0:06:53If anyone gave me something like that, I'd throw it back in their face.
0:06:53 > 0:06:59There'll be tears before their final decision, to stay in the UK or move Down Under?
0:06:59 > 0:07:01Our vote goes to...
0:07:04 > 0:07:11The journey to New Zealand takes the Parker-Smeeth family a phenomenal 32 hours.
0:07:11 > 0:07:14How are they feeling after that epic journey?
0:07:14 > 0:07:19The flight was difficult. I've never been on a flight as long as that in my life.
0:07:19 > 0:07:22But it's worth it to get here in the end.
0:07:22 > 0:07:24I'm looking forward to the week ahead.
0:07:24 > 0:07:30I loved the games, I loved the TV programmes.
0:07:30 > 0:07:33Looks like Jenson found the flight a bit easier!
0:07:33 > 0:07:37And, finally, they're off to their temporary home for the week.
0:07:37 > 0:07:41The house is in the suburb of Kashmir which overlooks the city.
0:07:41 > 0:07:45It has four bedrooms, three bathrooms and a swimming pool.
0:07:45 > 0:07:48There are plenty of balcony areas to enjoy the great views.
0:07:48 > 0:07:53Worth over £450,000, this rented property is not somewhere they could
0:07:53 > 0:07:59afford to buy, but it will be a good base from which to help them make their life-changing decision.
0:07:59 > 0:08:01Look at this.
0:08:01 > 0:08:06- Ooh, look. - I think they like what they see. - Nice kitchen.
0:08:06 > 0:08:10With a little TV and a little balcony.
0:08:10 > 0:08:12Wow, this is fantastic.
0:08:13 > 0:08:18So while the children settle down in front of the TV, mum and dad take in that great view.
0:08:18 > 0:08:21Gobsmacked, absolutely. It is, it's stunning.
0:08:21 > 0:08:23It's absolutely stunning.
0:08:23 > 0:08:26They're smitten but it's not a realistic option for now.
0:08:26 > 0:08:29This house has got to be completely out of our price range.
0:08:29 > 0:08:33But it's definitely something to work for, isn't it? You're always thinking of something like...
0:08:33 > 0:08:35Probably not as big as this, but
0:08:35 > 0:08:38it's definitely something that you could look forward to.
0:08:38 > 0:08:40- Yeah, it's lovely.- Beautiful.
0:08:46 > 0:08:48Back home in the UK, the Parker-Smeeths live in this
0:08:48 > 0:08:53new build estate in Lancashire in a three bedroomed semi-detached house.
0:08:53 > 0:08:56They bought it for £130,000
0:08:56 > 0:09:03in the winter of 2004, and it's on the market for just over £150,000.
0:09:03 > 0:09:07The Parker-Smeeths want more space for their growing family
0:09:07 > 0:09:09than they currently have back home.
0:09:09 > 0:09:12Assuming that they were to get the price they want from
0:09:12 > 0:09:14the sale of their house in the UK,
0:09:14 > 0:09:18Christchurch offers plenty of areas that would suit their needs.
0:09:18 > 0:09:20Living in the city can be expensive.
0:09:20 > 0:09:26This house in the suburb of Kashmir has stunning views but it's worth £1 million.
0:09:26 > 0:09:29However, there are cheaper suburbs in the city
0:09:29 > 0:09:33and Natalie and Roy would only have a short commute to work.
0:09:33 > 0:09:38If they wanted more space, however, a larger house in the country might be better for them.
0:09:38 > 0:09:41Rural West Ayrton is a 45-minute drive from central Christchurch.
0:09:41 > 0:09:47It would be a longer commute for Natalie but there are properties like this four-bedroomed house.
0:09:47 > 0:09:53Valued at £255,000, it also benefits from being in a decent school zone,
0:09:53 > 0:09:57so the children would have good education options when older.
0:09:57 > 0:10:03If the Parker-Smeeths want coastal life, then the seaside suburb of Sumner could be for them.
0:10:03 > 0:10:09This artists' bungalow with park-like grounds would be an ideal spot for Natalie to be creative.
0:10:09 > 0:10:16At £230,000, it's over the Parker-Smeeths' budget but cheaper homes are available in the area.
0:10:16 > 0:10:23However, school options in this suburb aren't as good as those in the city.
0:10:23 > 0:10:27Christchurch has some fantastic areas to live in.
0:10:27 > 0:10:32But, on Natalie and Roy's limited budget, they're going to have to buy wisely.
0:10:32 > 0:10:36To find a home within their price range and without a long commute
0:10:36 > 0:10:41to work, they're going to look at the more affordable city suburbs.
0:10:41 > 0:10:45The first house they're going to see is just 20 minutes from
0:10:45 > 0:10:49the city centre, so it's good for Natalie's possible commute.
0:10:49 > 0:10:54This bungalow has three bedrooms and one bathroom, so enough space for all the family.
0:10:54 > 0:11:00It's on the market for just over 140,000, so within their budget,
0:11:00 > 0:11:03if their home in the UK fetches what they hope.
0:11:04 > 0:11:06Oh, this is nice.
0:11:10 > 0:11:14- Oh, yeah.- They liked the entrance, but which room is up first?
0:11:14 > 0:11:18- This is a little bedroom, this could be Isla's room, couldn't it? Do you like it?- Yeah.
0:11:18 > 0:11:21- May I have some sweeties?- It's definitely a good start, isn't it?
0:11:21 > 0:11:24- May I have some sweeties? - Jenson seems impressed, and
0:11:24 > 0:11:28- that's Isla's room out of the way, but what about the grown-ups?- Oh, this is a nice big room, isn't it?
0:11:28 > 0:11:31I could see ourselves in this room.
0:11:31 > 0:11:35- I think the only thing that's probably missing is the en-suite? - Yeah.
0:11:35 > 0:11:39If they are used to an en-suite, a bathroom could be key to a move.
0:11:41 > 0:11:43I think it needs changing a bit.
0:11:43 > 0:11:48It definitely needs separate shower and bath somewhere.
0:11:48 > 0:11:52Their limited budget means updating the bathroom will be tough.
0:11:52 > 0:11:54Oh, I like this space.
0:11:54 > 0:11:56Oh, this is nice, this is lovely.
0:11:56 > 0:11:59- I do like this. - I don't like the colour.
0:11:59 > 0:12:01So there's two rooms that need doing.
0:12:01 > 0:12:05With that amount of work, this house is sounding unaffordable.
0:12:07 > 0:12:10There is a bit of a... A couple of nails might be needed down there.
0:12:10 > 0:12:14- It is creaky, isn't it? - That could mean more repairs.
0:12:14 > 0:12:16This is a nice little living area.
0:12:16 > 0:12:22But our living room goes on to the dining room and it's got the kitchen at the side and they've only got that
0:12:22 > 0:12:27small table there for dining, so it's kind of missing a dining area.
0:12:27 > 0:12:30This house is proving to be a real letdown,
0:12:30 > 0:12:37but there is an added extra to this property and could mean they'd have a bedroom each for Jenson and Isla.
0:12:39 > 0:12:41- It's like a little lad's pad.- This is nice, this, another little...
0:12:41 > 0:12:43Converted the summer house, haven't they?
0:12:43 > 0:12:45I don't know how warm it would be, though.
0:12:45 > 0:12:47It's big enough, plenty of room.
0:12:47 > 0:12:49Again, plenty of light.
0:12:49 > 0:12:52Well, yeah.
0:12:55 > 0:12:57I like it. I think it looks nice.
0:12:57 > 0:13:00Obviously, a little modernisation on the windows again.
0:13:00 > 0:13:03Well, yeah, they'd need proper re-fitting, those.
0:13:04 > 0:13:08Natalie is not impressed, but Roy likes what he's seen.
0:13:08 > 0:13:14With all they could be leaving behind in the UK, finding the right family home will be key.
0:13:14 > 0:13:17It's about what I expected to get for our budget.
0:13:17 > 0:13:22- Yeah. It's a good start, this. - Could you see us living here?
0:13:22 > 0:13:27I could see me living in a house like that, it's just getting use to the area, the surrounding area.
0:13:27 > 0:13:33I could see myself living in an area like this, but not in this house.
0:13:33 > 0:13:39- The complete opposite, then? - They can't agree on what was wrong, but it's certainly not for them.
0:13:39 > 0:13:43Is their New Zealand dream coming apart already?
0:13:43 > 0:13:47The second property's on the market for nearly £150,000,
0:13:47 > 0:13:51a little bit more expensive than the first one.
0:13:51 > 0:13:56This house has three bedrooms and one bathroom with a garage and a workshop.
0:13:56 > 0:14:04Located on a quiet cul-de-sac with access to good schools, this one needs to make a better impression.
0:14:04 > 0:14:07- Straight into the living room. - Straight in.- This is lovely.
0:14:07 > 0:14:13- A really nice space.- We found rocking chairs.- Yeah.
0:14:13 > 0:14:17Jenson and Isla like it so far, although chairs aren't the first thing Natalie wants to see.
0:14:17 > 0:14:22I would prefer not to have the front door opening straight into the living room
0:14:22 > 0:14:25- but it's not a big thing, is it? - It's not a big thing, no.
0:14:25 > 0:14:28Being more expensive, they can't afford to make any changes to this house
0:14:28 > 0:14:33so the kitchen has to need less work than the first property.
0:14:33 > 0:14:37- Oh, this is nice.- That's really nice.
0:14:37 > 0:14:39- Nice colours, as well.- Very cool.
0:14:39 > 0:14:43It opens up into a dining area which is more suited to us, isn't it?
0:14:43 > 0:14:49- Yeah, definitely.- That's more like it but will Natalie need convincing on the bedrooms?
0:14:49 > 0:14:51- Mm.- The windows are big enough.
0:14:51 > 0:14:54It's just a little bit dull, isn't it?
0:14:54 > 0:14:57But we can sort that out with decoration.
0:14:57 > 0:14:59Dull?
0:14:59 > 0:15:02That's not good. The master bedroom will have to be an improvement.
0:15:02 > 0:15:04Oh, this is a nice room.
0:15:04 > 0:15:09- This is much better, isn't it? Definitely.- It's much brighter.
0:15:09 > 0:15:12That's much better news on the parents' room
0:15:12 > 0:15:15but there's a nasty surprise when it comes to the third bedroom.
0:15:15 > 0:15:19It looks like it's being used as an office at the moment and not like a single bedroom.
0:15:19 > 0:15:22I'm not 100% sure on the idea of the back door there.
0:15:22 > 0:15:26You're like using the bedroom here to go straight out, aren't you?
0:15:26 > 0:15:28Yeah, there's no other access to the garden.
0:15:28 > 0:15:31It's a bit of a downer because it's actually a nice house,
0:15:31 > 0:15:33overall, isn't it?
0:15:33 > 0:15:37The office that leads to the garden would need to be a bedroom for the Parker-Smeeths.
0:15:37 > 0:15:41It's a real blow and that might knock this house off the list.
0:15:41 > 0:15:47I think just the layout lets itself down. The third bedroom's the only access to the garden.
0:15:47 > 0:15:51It definitely needs a separate back door or else I couldn't call that back bedroom a third bedroom.
0:15:51 > 0:15:54And that costs money they don't have.
0:15:54 > 0:15:59To be honest, I didn't really like the front door opening straight into the living room either.
0:15:59 > 0:16:02- Imagine when it is raining, on a carpet.- Yeah, true.
0:16:02 > 0:16:05So, yeah, I'm a bit disappointed with the house because it looks lovely
0:16:05 > 0:16:07from the outside and it's lovely at the back.
0:16:07 > 0:16:09It's just internal, it's not suitable for us, is it?
0:16:09 > 0:16:12No, it seems to have let itself down there.
0:16:12 > 0:16:17It looks like that property really didn't match up to their expectations for their new home.
0:16:17 > 0:16:20It all rests on the last one now.
0:16:21 > 0:16:24House number three is a four-bedroomed, two-bathroomed
0:16:24 > 0:16:27double garage property with a decent-sized back yard.
0:16:27 > 0:16:32It falls within a top school zone so it's good for the children's prospects.
0:16:32 > 0:16:35The extra space and good catchment area is reflected in its guide price
0:16:35 > 0:16:40of £175,000 so would be a huge push for them financially.
0:16:40 > 0:16:44Let's hope it appeals to them more than the first two.
0:16:44 > 0:16:48Oh, it's a little bit darker in here, in't it, than it looks out in the hall?
0:16:48 > 0:16:53This house benefits from having four proper bedrooms and gives them the extra space they're after.
0:16:53 > 0:16:58Oh, what's in this room, Jenson and Isla? Oh, this is a nice room.
0:16:58 > 0:17:00This is much better.
0:17:00 > 0:17:03No, we're not getting the stuff out.
0:17:03 > 0:17:05What you've got there, is two decent sized rooms here and you've got
0:17:05 > 0:17:08a massive room here, haven't you? So you could also have people stopping.
0:17:08 > 0:17:11You could you make this into...
0:17:11 > 0:17:14I would probably have this as a guest room and the two smaller rooms as the children's bedrooms.
0:17:14 > 0:17:18- Yeah, that's what I would do. - With family being so important to Natalie,
0:17:18 > 0:17:23a room for loved ones to stay during visits might be a deciding factor.
0:17:23 > 0:17:25Oh, this is Mummy and Daddy's room.
0:17:25 > 0:17:28- Oh, wow.- Lovely.
0:17:28 > 0:17:30- And you've got a TV!- Oh, wow, yeah!
0:17:30 > 0:17:34- You've got a TV. - That looks great, doesn't it?
0:17:34 > 0:17:39- Lovely, isn't it? A lovely big open front, also at the back. - I really like it.
0:17:39 > 0:17:44Could Natalie be coming round to the idea of living in New Zealand?
0:17:47 > 0:17:50- This is a nice kitchen. - Yeah, well nice.- Isn't it?
0:17:50 > 0:17:52Yeah, I love the little country kitchen look.
0:17:52 > 0:17:55You have a lovely view as well of the garden.
0:17:55 > 0:17:57You can watch the kids whilst cooking.
0:17:57 > 0:17:59Things are really looking up.
0:17:59 > 0:18:03- Everything is covered here, isn't it?- Yeah.- You've got the dining area from the kitchen.
0:18:03 > 0:18:07- And then into the living room. - Look at that for an open space.
0:18:07 > 0:18:08Yeah, lovely.
0:18:08 > 0:18:10You could spend a long time in here, couldn't you?
0:18:10 > 0:18:12You could see the kids growing up here, couldn't you?
0:18:12 > 0:18:16Yeah, I think there's enough space in this house.
0:18:16 > 0:18:20- This is definitely the most impressive house that we've seen today.- Yeah, obviously...
0:18:20 > 0:18:21I know it's more money.
0:18:21 > 0:18:25But you can tell the difference - you are getting more for your money.
0:18:25 > 0:18:29- But it's definitely worth it. It's worth that little extra, isn't it?- Yeah, definitely.
0:18:29 > 0:18:35We've finally got a winner but it would be a real struggle financially to afford a house like this.
0:18:35 > 0:18:40They're going to need to have a serious rethink about what sort of property they'd be able to afford.
0:18:40 > 0:18:43The first property didn't really sway them.
0:18:43 > 0:18:47The area or house was the problem, depending on who you spoke to.
0:18:47 > 0:18:50Number two was a huge letdown.
0:18:50 > 0:18:53Bedroom three was a route to the garden.
0:18:53 > 0:18:57The last house was their favourite. They could really see themselves moving in.
0:18:57 > 0:19:01Unfortunately, it was out of their budget right now but if they get a really good price for
0:19:01 > 0:19:08their UK home and increase their salaries in New Zealand, it might be within reach.
0:19:08 > 0:19:13Based on the properties we've seen today, our vote goes to...
0:19:13 > 0:19:16New Zealand!
0:19:16 > 0:19:18- New Zealand!- New Zealand!
0:19:18 > 0:19:20HE LAUGHS
0:19:20 > 0:19:24Roy and Natalie have been swayed by that last property.
0:19:24 > 0:19:30But, if they're going to be able to afford it, they'll both need to find good jobs.
0:19:30 > 0:19:33Their New Zealand dream rests on their work prospects.
0:19:39 > 0:19:44At home, Roy and Natalie both work full time.
0:19:44 > 0:19:48Roy works as an HGV driver while Natalie has set up her own graphic design business.
0:19:48 > 0:19:53Having built up the company, it's not something that will be easy for her to give up.
0:19:53 > 0:19:56Letting go completely would be quite difficult because I've
0:19:56 > 0:20:00worked quite hard to get going and keep it afloat, really.
0:20:00 > 0:20:06But if that's something that I have to do to bring an income in for my family, then so be it.
0:20:06 > 0:20:11You have to work in New Zealand for two years before you can run your own business.
0:20:11 > 0:20:15So it's going to be vital for her to find someone who'll employ her.
0:20:15 > 0:20:19The family can only move to New Zealand if Natalie
0:20:19 > 0:20:22gets a job offer because she is the main visa applicant.
0:20:24 > 0:20:28Because I'm so happy in my job at home, I love doing what I do and running my own business,
0:20:28 > 0:20:35so to leave that for something that wouldn't be 100% fulfilling, it just seems quite pointless, really.
0:20:35 > 0:20:39So it is important for me to find the right job.
0:20:39 > 0:20:42It'll also need to pay well to fund the life they want to lead.
0:20:42 > 0:20:47I couldn't take a drop in salary anyway because
0:20:47 > 0:20:53at the minute, at home, I just bring in enough to keep us going.
0:20:53 > 0:20:59Natalie arrives at a graphic design company. She needs to grasp this opportunity and impress the boss.
0:20:59 > 0:21:02- Natalie, is it? - It is.- OK, welcome to New Zealand.
0:21:02 > 0:21:06- Let's go.- Natalie's spending the day at a graphic design company.
0:21:06 > 0:21:10She needs to grasp this opportunity and impress the boss.
0:21:10 > 0:21:15Mr Derham wastes no time in checking out Natalie's design skills.
0:21:15 > 0:21:20Now one of the tasks we're going to give you today is a large format print.
0:21:20 > 0:21:24What you're going to do is to mock-up a photographic display
0:21:24 > 0:21:27that has three square photographs on the wide panel.
0:21:27 > 0:21:30This is Natalie's chance to prove herself.
0:21:30 > 0:21:34While she gets started on her task, Roy is on the outskirts of
0:21:34 > 0:21:37Christchurch with his own work plans.
0:21:37 > 0:21:44Having dropped the children off at the nursery, he's meeting up with Angus, a local HGV driver.
0:21:44 > 0:21:46- Good afternoon.- G'day, I'm Angus. - Hi, Angus, I'm Roy.
0:21:46 > 0:21:49- I hear you're a truck driver in the UK.- I am, yes.
0:21:49 > 0:21:51- I'm heading for the port, do you want to come for a ride? - I'd like, to, yes.
0:21:51 > 0:21:53- Get that on, mate.- Cheers.
0:21:53 > 0:21:59As New Zealand has a large export industry a lot of the HGV works goes through the port.
0:21:59 > 0:22:05Roy needs to do some serious research into what he could expect from working in New Zealand.
0:22:05 > 0:22:07So what's making you think of coming to New Zealand, Roy?
0:22:07 > 0:22:11First of all, I've heard really good things about the educational system
0:22:11 > 0:22:16and also the cost of living seems to be a little bit lower.
0:22:16 > 0:22:22So I think we'd be able to scrape together and hopefully afford a bit of a better life.
0:22:22 > 0:22:25And Roy has some questions of his own.
0:22:25 > 0:22:29So, Angus, over in New Zealand in this part of Christchurch,
0:22:29 > 0:22:31what is the availability like for job opportunities?
0:22:31 > 0:22:34I think there's always plenty of truck driving jobs here, Roy.
0:22:34 > 0:22:37What type of pay would you be looking at starting at?
0:22:37 > 0:22:42The average truck driver in New Zealand is probably getting 45,000 to 55,000 a year,
0:22:42 > 0:22:47doing an average 40 or 50 hours a week.
0:22:47 > 0:22:54That's the same salary as home but for fewer hours. Good news for Roy.
0:22:54 > 0:22:59Back at the design agency, Natalie has completed her assignment for the day.
0:22:59 > 0:23:02She's used to working for herself at home but in New Zealand,
0:23:02 > 0:23:06she would need to get used to answering to a boss.
0:23:06 > 0:23:07Yeah, that's come out pretty well, hasn't it?
0:23:07 > 0:23:09Yeah.
0:23:09 > 0:23:11Why did you choose this picture in the middle?
0:23:11 > 0:23:13I just thought it was a lovely picture with the detail of the feathers and everything
0:23:13 > 0:23:20and also for the continuity of the green in the backgrounds with the vibrant colours.
0:23:20 > 0:23:22Yeah, it goes pretty well together, doesn't it?
0:23:22 > 0:23:24I think she'll be quite pleased with that.
0:23:24 > 0:23:27Natalie has other work to hand.
0:23:27 > 0:23:31I've brought some other examples of work that I've done to show you.
0:23:31 > 0:23:34The first, this was a book that we produced when we were at university.
0:23:34 > 0:23:40And it was a book that was based on the greatest graphic designers in the industry.
0:23:40 > 0:23:42Let's see if you can find me.
0:23:42 > 0:23:46Whilst Natalie looks for her work, Roy has arrived at Christchurch's port.
0:23:48 > 0:23:52It's the trade gateway to the South Island of New Zealand.
0:23:52 > 0:23:53Getting well-paid jobs they enjoy will
0:23:53 > 0:23:58be essential for Roy and Natalie, if they're going to make a move.
0:23:58 > 0:24:01- It decides what lifestyle they could live.
0:24:01 > 0:24:05Angus needs to get on with his journey, so Roy says goodbye.
0:24:05 > 0:24:06Thanks very much, Angus, I've really enjoyed today, thank you.
0:24:06 > 0:24:10No worries, Roy. All the best and we hope to see you back here again some time.
0:24:10 > 0:24:12Cheers, mate.
0:24:12 > 0:24:15What does Roy make of what he's seen?
0:24:15 > 0:24:17Originally, I thought the pay were going to be a little bit
0:24:17 > 0:24:22less but it's actually worked out to be around the same price as what I'm getting paid in the UK.
0:24:22 > 0:24:24It's good to know that there's always jobs available in this area
0:24:24 > 0:24:28so looking for work doesn't seem to be too bad.
0:24:28 > 0:24:30How's he feeling about New Zealand in general?
0:24:30 > 0:24:33The whole experience so far has been fantastic.
0:24:33 > 0:24:38The only thing I'm scared of, really, is not getting Natalie on board with me.
0:24:38 > 0:24:44I think she had a bit more expectation of what she could get for her money in the housing market.
0:24:44 > 0:24:51So if Natalie hasn't been won over by New Zealand, it's crucial that this day at work goes really well.
0:24:51 > 0:24:52So this is your page.
0:24:52 > 0:24:57It's quite interesting because we spend a lot of time here on readability
0:24:57 > 0:25:01- and if anyone gave me something like that, I would throw it back in their face.- Ah, yes.
0:25:01 > 0:25:03Because you can't read the capitals. Terrible.
0:25:03 > 0:25:06It's a competitive industry and Natalie would need to be sure that moving to New Zealand and uprooting
0:25:06 > 0:25:11the family is a viable option.
0:25:11 > 0:25:15- What's the availability for jobs like in the area?- I think it's pretty tight at the moment.
0:25:15 > 0:25:17We've just come through a recession.
0:25:17 > 0:25:18Some people have got laid off
0:25:18 > 0:25:21so they are looking to get back into it again.
0:25:21 > 0:25:23So I think it's quite tight here in Christchurch.
0:25:23 > 0:25:28So at your company here, how much could I expect to earn?
0:25:28 > 0:25:35- The range of salaries for the visual designers is probably between 30,000 and 37,000 a year.- Right.
0:25:35 > 0:25:40At the end of a testing day, Natalie has found out that her salary
0:25:40 > 0:25:43could start as low as £14,000.
0:25:43 > 0:25:46That's £6,000 less than she earns back home.
0:25:46 > 0:25:49That could put an end to all their plans.
0:25:49 > 0:25:53The salary was a little bit lower than what I was expecting.
0:25:53 > 0:25:57So, for that aspect it worried me a little bit.
0:25:57 > 0:25:59How will this affect their move?
0:25:59 > 0:26:04It was planned or discussed between us that Roy would probably stay home
0:26:04 > 0:26:10and look after Isla whilst Jenson was at school for the first couple of months until we got established
0:26:10 > 0:26:13and got ourselves on our feet and then he would look for a job.
0:26:13 > 0:26:18But obviously if I'm not earning as much money as we'd hoped, then he's going to get a job
0:26:18 > 0:26:21straight away and it's going to be incredibly stressful.
0:26:21 > 0:26:24Natalie's lower salary is a massive setback
0:26:24 > 0:26:28but thankfully, getting work for Roy shouldn't be too much of a problem.
0:26:28 > 0:26:30But how will this affect the vote?
0:26:30 > 0:26:32Does she see herself working here in New Zealand?
0:26:32 > 0:26:36Or will it be back home?
0:26:36 > 0:26:41Based on my day at work today in New Zealand, my vote goes to...
0:26:42 > 0:26:47UK. Not just because I love my job at home and I work for myself and I
0:26:47 > 0:26:52can work around the school hours and I am my own boss but because I can earn a better income.
0:26:52 > 0:26:56- So that's why I've chosen the UK. - That's a real blow.
0:26:56 > 0:27:03It looks like Roy and Natalie's experiences of New Zealand are heading in opposite directions.
0:27:06 > 0:27:11So, their trial work days were a great contrast.
0:27:11 > 0:27:16The dream life of living in New Zealand is slipping away from Natalie.
0:27:16 > 0:27:20With her potentially low salary and the high cost of properties,
0:27:20 > 0:27:23can they actually afford to make the move at all?
0:27:23 > 0:27:27It's time for a reality check.
0:27:28 > 0:27:35Roy and Natalie bought this house in her home town of Nelson in Lancashire for £130,000 in 2004.
0:27:35 > 0:27:39It's been on the market for two years, valued at £157,000.
0:27:39 > 0:27:43We couldn't afford to put any deposit down on the house.
0:27:43 > 0:27:45We had to get a 100% mortgage.
0:27:45 > 0:27:47At that time it was a great idea.
0:27:47 > 0:27:51Everyone was advising us - you are going to make money, you never lose money on a house.
0:27:51 > 0:27:54The recession kicked in.
0:27:54 > 0:27:56The house prices fell through the floor.
0:27:56 > 0:28:02So my worry is, when we actually do sell the house, do we have any equity to take out with us?
0:28:02 > 0:28:07We sent a couple of estate agents round to revalue the property in the current market.
0:28:12 > 0:28:15It's a well-presented property. There's a modern gas fire there
0:28:15 > 0:28:19and contemporary decorations and carpets.
0:28:19 > 0:28:24It's a fully-fitted kitchen with a range of wall and base units, nice and contemporary again.
0:28:29 > 0:28:32This is a well-proportioned living room.
0:28:32 > 0:28:35It's very well presented. A lovely fireplace. A great family room.
0:28:39 > 0:28:42It is a well-enclosed garden, ideal to keep the family safe.
0:28:42 > 0:28:44It's west-facing, also very private.
0:28:44 > 0:28:49This is the master bedroom, there is an en suite shower room and also fitted furniture.
0:28:49 > 0:28:52- My favourite room. - This is the third bedroom.
0:28:52 > 0:28:54It's quite small.
0:28:54 > 0:28:57I think you'd probably struggle to get a bed in here.
0:28:57 > 0:29:02The property was put on the market at the peak of the market in 2007.
0:29:02 > 0:29:06Where, you know, prices were a lot higher.
0:29:06 > 0:29:09In today's market, the way things are going at the moment,
0:29:09 > 0:29:12I would say the value is in the region of about £120,000.
0:29:12 > 0:29:15If they wanted a quick sale, my advice would be to sell
0:29:15 > 0:29:18anywhere between £100,000 and £110,000.
0:29:20 > 0:29:22- For a quick sale.- Yeah.
0:29:23 > 0:29:27At best, their house was valued at £120,000.
0:29:27 > 0:29:31That's £10,000 below what they paid for it.
0:29:31 > 0:29:36- We're going to be well skint when we come, aren't we?- Yeah.
0:29:36 > 0:29:40So, the value of their home came as no surprise.
0:29:40 > 0:29:46It seems they won't be making any money to help fund the plans they have for New Zealand.
0:29:46 > 0:29:49It's time to see if the numbers add up.
0:29:52 > 0:29:55We've prepared some figures that compare their cost of living back home
0:29:55 > 0:29:58to what they might expect in New Zealand.
0:29:58 > 0:30:00Let's have a look.
0:30:00 > 0:30:02The first thing - can they afford a house?
0:30:02 > 0:30:04So, our home costs. Mortgage at home?
0:30:04 > 0:30:08OK, we start off with £600 on that side.
0:30:08 > 0:30:11So, buying a 350 grand home,
0:30:11 > 0:30:17- the mortgage payments are roughly £844 a month. - That's quite high, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:30:17 > 0:30:20New Zealand, home loan.
0:30:20 > 0:30:25You must be a permanent resident of New Zealand to borrow 200,000 on a home loan with no deposit.
0:30:25 > 0:30:28So we're looking at rent for the first few years.
0:30:28 > 0:30:31With no deposit, buying a house is out of the question.
0:30:31 > 0:30:36OK, so the rates are about £68 a month for a three to four bedroomed house.
0:30:36 > 0:30:40But you don't have to pay the rates if you're renting. Nursery fees.
0:30:40 > 0:30:45OK, so you're looking at £525 a month here in the UK.
0:30:45 > 0:30:51A massive difference here in Christchurch, it's 300.
0:30:51 > 0:30:56That's good. Let's have a look at the shopping costs.
0:30:56 > 0:30:58Cheese is cheaper.
0:30:58 > 0:31:00We eat a lot of cheese, don't we?
0:31:00 > 0:31:01Chicken, that's less expensive.
0:31:01 > 0:31:05If you look at the meat products, most of them are cheaper.
0:31:05 > 0:31:09Every single penny counts for Roy and Natalie now.
0:31:09 > 0:31:12They'll have to really scrutinise all their outgoings.
0:31:12 > 0:31:16We're actually £162.75...
0:31:16 > 0:31:18- Better off! - ..better off in New Zealand.
0:31:21 > 0:31:24They don't just have to worry about everyday costs.
0:31:24 > 0:31:30The emotional wrench of leaving friends and family back home has major financial implications, too.
0:31:30 > 0:31:36It's going to cost about £4,500 to get us all home from here.
0:31:36 > 0:31:42So, yeah, working it out, reasonably, it is going to be about every three to four years.
0:31:42 > 0:31:45As she already finds it hard to contemplate leaving her sister
0:31:45 > 0:31:49and granddad behind, this gives Natalie a huge dilemma.
0:31:49 > 0:31:54I don't know where my priorities would lie, whether to save up for
0:31:54 > 0:31:58a deposit on a house or whether to save up to go home.
0:31:58 > 0:32:03I think I'd be more swayed towards saving up to going home.
0:32:03 > 0:32:06If they spend their money on Natalie's flights, they might never
0:32:06 > 0:32:11get on the property ladder, but they could have a solution at hand.
0:32:11 > 0:32:15It'd really help us if Mum and Dad were here as well at the same time
0:32:15 > 0:32:19and then maybe the costs of moving would be shared,
0:32:19 > 0:32:23i.e. the containers, shipping all our things over, that would be a shared cost,
0:32:23 > 0:32:25and maybe getting a house big enough
0:32:25 > 0:32:28for all of us to stay in and share the rental costs as well.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31It's been a mixed day for Roy and Natalie.
0:32:31 > 0:32:37Renting a house is the only option right now but New Zealand would be a cheaper lifestyle overall.
0:32:37 > 0:32:40How do the finances affect their vote?
0:32:40 > 0:32:46Based on the cost of living in New Zealand, our vote goes to...
0:32:46 > 0:32:49- New Zealand.- New Zealand.
0:32:49 > 0:32:52I think we'll be able to live a better way of life out here.
0:32:52 > 0:32:55I think we'll have a little bit more spare money
0:32:55 > 0:32:58which will enable us to enjoy our time more with the children.
0:32:58 > 0:33:01Even though the financial news wasn't good for the Parker Smeeths,
0:33:01 > 0:33:05they seem to have convinced themselves they can afford it.
0:33:08 > 0:33:15The move to new Zealand has always been about more than just money for the Parker Smeeths.
0:33:15 > 0:33:21What's driving Roy and Natalie on is the thought of a better lifestyle for their children.
0:33:21 > 0:33:25But will they actually find it?
0:33:25 > 0:33:30The family are off to the seaside to see what life their children could enjoy in New Zealand.
0:33:30 > 0:33:34This is the sort of outdoor life they long for -
0:33:34 > 0:33:37something they never get to do in their hectic lives in Lancashire.
0:33:37 > 0:33:41- Oh, look! He's riding on a parachute!- Wow!
0:33:41 > 0:33:44Look at that.
0:33:46 > 0:33:47I know. It's great, that!
0:33:47 > 0:33:50This is it. This is family time, isn't it?
0:33:50 > 0:33:52This is what we wanted for family time.
0:33:52 > 0:33:55This is what you want, family time. A nice beach like this.
0:33:55 > 0:33:59Somewhere for the children to play. Just to be able to just play.
0:33:59 > 0:34:00And be children.
0:34:00 > 0:34:02Oh, look at that!
0:34:02 > 0:34:07This brief respite from the pressures of their trial week gives them a moment to reflect.
0:34:07 > 0:34:11If we move to New Zealand...
0:34:11 > 0:34:15we could come to the seaside all the time - would you like that?
0:34:15 > 0:34:19- Yeah!- Yeah?- Every day?- Nearly every day.- At weekends, for sure.
0:34:19 > 0:34:24But will they really have more time in New Zealand to enjoy the outdoor life?
0:34:24 > 0:34:28Turning this fantasy into reality is weighing on Natalie's mind.
0:34:28 > 0:34:30It's quite a big decision for us.
0:34:30 > 0:34:34Not just for our future, but for the children's future,
0:34:34 > 0:34:36and because it involves them,
0:34:36 > 0:34:40it has to be the right choice. Is it really worth it?
0:34:40 > 0:34:44Will we just be swapping one set of circumstances for another, with a bit nicer weather?
0:34:44 > 0:34:48So, I'm not sure just yet. Is it worth it? I don't know.
0:34:48 > 0:34:53A move to New Zealand is a massive decision.
0:34:53 > 0:34:56Moving from the beach to the park, it seems Roy and Natalie could be
0:34:56 > 0:34:59going in totally different directions.
0:34:59 > 0:35:02It's growing on me now as the week has gone on.
0:35:02 > 0:35:04Actually going to the beach with the kids
0:35:04 > 0:35:07and letting them enjoy themselves, it has been fantastic.
0:35:07 > 0:35:11I had quite high expectations about New Zealand.
0:35:11 > 0:35:17I thought that it was going to be kind of all-singing, all-dancing and it was
0:35:17 > 0:35:24going to absolutely blow me away, but from what we've seen so far, it's just been very much like home.
0:35:24 > 0:35:27Really, I suppose, hasn't it?
0:35:27 > 0:35:32Well, yeah, it has a little bit, but I'm not sure yet.
0:35:32 > 0:35:36There hasn't been anything extraordinary just yet, but maybe that's because
0:35:36 > 0:35:39we haven't had a chance to fully explore the country, I suppose,
0:35:39 > 0:35:41and see everything that's on offer.
0:35:41 > 0:35:44- We're very limited to what we can do in a week.- Yeah.
0:35:44 > 0:35:46So, so far, it hasn't wowed me.
0:35:46 > 0:35:50So, it looks like there is a split in the camp,
0:35:50 > 0:35:53with Roy more won over by New Zealand than Natalie.
0:35:53 > 0:35:57Where will they decide is the best place to bring up the family?
0:35:57 > 0:36:00After spending a little bit of time in New Zealand
0:36:00 > 0:36:06and experiencing the lifestyle, our vote goes to New Zealand.
0:36:06 > 0:36:08New Zealand!
0:36:11 > 0:36:17Natalie's time in New Zealand has left her with more questions than answers.
0:36:17 > 0:36:23Her work experience didn't go as she'd hoped and, having looked at the financial figures,
0:36:23 > 0:36:25they know the move will be costly.
0:36:25 > 0:36:29However, Roy has remained positive throughout.
0:36:29 > 0:36:34But perhaps the toughest test could be leaving behind friends and family.
0:36:34 > 0:36:37It could shatter their plans.
0:36:39 > 0:36:43We've recorded a series of messages from friends and family.
0:36:44 > 0:36:47- Hi, Natalie and Roy, Jenson and Isla. - Hello.
0:36:47 > 0:36:51- Hi, Roy, Natalie, Jenson and Isla. - Hi, Roy and Natalie.
0:36:51 > 0:36:56You're so easy to talk to that I'd miss having someone to lean on.
0:36:56 > 0:36:58I do lean on him quite a lot.
0:36:58 > 0:37:03Jenson is amazing. Jenson is just so polite, so well behaved.
0:37:03 > 0:37:05He's lovely.
0:37:05 > 0:37:09He's like the model child. It's actually scary how perfect he is.
0:37:09 > 0:37:12They are the centre of our universe.
0:37:12 > 0:37:14They are really good.
0:37:14 > 0:37:19They bring so much pleasure and they are so loving.
0:37:19 > 0:37:23Isla is so naughty, but that makes her so endearing.
0:37:23 > 0:37:27Superb lass. Yes, great lass.
0:37:27 > 0:37:30And I'm fortunate that she's my granddaughter.
0:37:30 > 0:37:32The biggest thing I will miss
0:37:32 > 0:37:34is the best thing that she's ever given me
0:37:34 > 0:37:37and that's my niece and nephew - I'll just miss then so much.
0:37:37 > 0:37:41I've seen our daughters grow up.
0:37:41 > 0:37:44I then have seen my granddaughters grow up
0:37:44 > 0:37:49and we were both hoping to see Jenson and Isla grow up.
0:37:49 > 0:37:52But, of course, at some point there's a cut-off, isn't there?
0:37:52 > 0:37:56It's very hard for Natalie to leave her granddad.
0:37:56 > 0:37:58Because they are very, very close.
0:37:58 > 0:38:01I think it's difficult for her, because I've been such a big part
0:38:01 > 0:38:05in her children's lives that, for her to think about
0:38:05 > 0:38:08her not being a part - oh, I'm getting upset -
0:38:08 > 0:38:10her not being a part of my children's life,
0:38:10 > 0:38:14is quite... I think she will really, really struggle with that.
0:38:14 > 0:38:18He probably doesn't realise that I think the world of him
0:38:18 > 0:38:21and I'll miss him loads.
0:38:21 > 0:38:26And I don't think he realises that I think he's my closest brother.
0:38:26 > 0:38:29I thinks he just thinks I'm just miles away and I don't think much of him.
0:38:29 > 0:38:32My life would be a little bit empty without her.
0:38:32 > 0:38:33A little bit emptier.
0:38:33 > 0:38:37Because ultimately, she's my sister, but also she's my best friend.
0:38:37 > 0:38:42And I think, growing up, you don't think that, but when you get older, you realise
0:38:42 > 0:38:45the only person you can really trust in your life is your sister.
0:38:45 > 0:38:49But if she moves, she's got to do it for her...
0:38:49 > 0:38:55At the end of the day, you have to follow your dream and you just have to go for your own life.
0:38:55 > 0:39:00And yes, Mum and Dad will want to follow, obviously, but if it's not meant it to be,
0:39:00 > 0:39:03you still have to go for it, because you only get one chance.
0:39:03 > 0:39:06Don't forget that Uncle Ian and Auntie Leona love you very much
0:39:06 > 0:39:08and that we'll come and see you as soon as we can.
0:39:08 > 0:39:11I'll miss you loads when you're gone,
0:39:11 > 0:39:19and hopefully, we won't lose touch completely and we will still see each other as regularly as we can.
0:39:19 > 0:39:21Some people...
0:39:22 > 0:39:24..come into your life...
0:39:26 > 0:39:30..and quickly go. Some people stay a while
0:39:30 > 0:39:33and leave footprints
0:39:33 > 0:39:39on your heart. And you will never, ever be the same again.
0:39:43 > 0:39:47I knew he'd drop something in like that, Granddad.
0:39:47 > 0:39:51- We've always been close to everyone that we are with, haven't we?- Yeah.
0:39:51 > 0:39:56But you just don't realise how much people mean to you, I suppose.
0:39:56 > 0:40:01My little sister is like my best friend.
0:40:01 > 0:40:05We have a really special bond and I see her all the time.
0:40:05 > 0:40:09I probably see her four to five times a week out of seven.
0:40:09 > 0:40:11And I'll miss her so much.
0:40:11 > 0:40:13I will miss her so much.
0:40:13 > 0:40:15It's kind of pulled at my heart strings there.
0:40:15 > 0:40:17It's going to be quite difficult, actually.
0:40:19 > 0:40:22That was incredibly emotional for Natalie and Roy.
0:40:22 > 0:40:27Has it proved a step too far, and ended any dreams of moving to New Zealand?
0:40:27 > 0:40:31I think the decision now is going to be really difficult for Natalie.
0:40:31 > 0:40:37Because she's now seen the effects of what her sister and also her grandfather feel,
0:40:37 > 0:40:42and leaving them behind is going to be a very difficult choice to finally make.
0:40:42 > 0:40:47At the moment, it all seems up in the air.
0:40:47 > 0:40:49And not quite definite.
0:40:49 > 0:40:53Realising that we may not be able to get home for another three, maybe five years,
0:40:53 > 0:40:58it's kind of put a little dampener on the experience, really.
0:41:01 > 0:41:05The Parker Smeeths have reached the end of a rollercoaster week.
0:41:05 > 0:41:09- They started off by seeing a house that felt like home.- Lovely.
0:41:09 > 0:41:12You could see the kids growing up here, couldn't you?
0:41:12 > 0:41:16But after looking at their finances, that dream home was out of reach.
0:41:16 > 0:41:22And flights back to see those closest to them would be few and far between.
0:41:22 > 0:41:25Their experiences of work were opposites.
0:41:25 > 0:41:32Whilst Roy enjoyed his, Natalie discovered the harsh reality that she would earn a lot less.
0:41:32 > 0:41:35My vote goes to UK.
0:41:35 > 0:41:39A taste of New Zealand life showed what the family could do together.
0:41:39 > 0:41:42- This is family time, isn't it? - This is what we wanted for the family time.
0:41:42 > 0:41:44This is what you want, family time.
0:41:44 > 0:41:50But for Natalie, the anguish over the move has been caused by leaving her sister and granddad.
0:41:50 > 0:41:54Now, a move to New Zealand is in real doubt.
0:41:56 > 0:41:58But it's time for them to make the crucial decision.
0:41:58 > 0:42:01Will the pull of family back home be too great for Natalie and Roy?
0:42:01 > 0:42:08Or will they see beyond the inevitable financial difficulties and vote for New Zealand?
0:42:08 > 0:42:11We've done a lot and we've seen a lot,
0:42:11 > 0:42:16and we've decided that our final vote goes to...
0:42:18 > 0:42:19..New Zealand.
0:42:20 > 0:42:24It's been an emotional week for the Parker Smeeths.
0:42:24 > 0:42:30Their financial situation will make the move to New Zealand very hard
0:42:30 > 0:42:33but Natalie and Roy are determined
0:42:33 > 0:42:40to brave it for the sake of their children and the benefits a new life will bring them.
0:42:40 > 0:42:45I will get back to the UK as much as I can to see my granddad and my sister,
0:42:45 > 0:42:48but if that means it's every three, five years, then so be it,
0:42:48 > 0:42:50that's what it has to be.
0:42:50 > 0:42:53The Parker Smeeths are coming to New Zealand!
0:42:55 > 0:42:57Join us next time when we find out what happens
0:42:57 > 0:43:02when another British family decides whether they are wanted Down Under.
0:43:05 > 0:43:08Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:43:08 > 0:43:11E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk