0:44:50 > 0:44:57.
0:45:02 > 0:45:04At some point, we all dream
0:45:04 > 0:45:07of a new start in life far away from our troubles.
0:45:07 > 0:45:11But can the reality of moving to the other side of the world
0:45:11 > 0:45:14live up to those dreams, especially when you know the pain that moving
0:45:14 > 0:45:18will cause you and the people you love?
0:45:18 > 0:45:21Rob Boraston is desperate for a new start Down Under
0:45:21 > 0:45:24but his partner David isn't so sure.
0:45:24 > 0:45:27It's a big risk for me. It's a big chance to take.
0:45:27 > 0:45:31- After a week experiencing the ups... - That's really nice.
0:45:31 > 0:45:35I'm so blown away. I'm not even properly breathing.
0:45:35 > 0:45:38- ..and downs of life in New Zealand. - It has to go uphill.
0:45:38 > 0:45:40It has to be so much better than this.
0:45:40 > 0:45:43They'll face the toughest decision of their lives.
0:45:43 > 0:45:49I really don't know how David and I are going to make this monumental decision.
0:45:49 > 0:45:53But will they choose the life they know or a new start on the other side of the world?
0:46:16 > 0:46:19For thousands of Brits every year, New Zealand offers
0:46:19 > 0:46:24the dream of an ideal life set amongst some epic surroundings.
0:46:24 > 0:46:28However, the dream doesn't always work out and for many immigrants,
0:46:28 > 0:46:31their journey can end right back where they started.
0:46:31 > 0:46:35But with nearly a quarter of its population born overseas,
0:46:35 > 0:46:37there's no shortage of new arrivals,
0:46:37 > 0:46:41and amongst the latest to touch down are two Brits,
0:46:41 > 0:46:45keen to find out if New Zealand could be the place for them.
0:46:45 > 0:46:50Rob Boraston and David Andrews have been together for 18 years.
0:46:50 > 0:46:54The week ahead could be the most important of their lives.
0:46:54 > 0:46:57After experiencing the reality of life in New Zealand,
0:46:57 > 0:46:59they face a huge decision.
0:46:59 > 0:47:02Whether to stay in the UK or to make the move for good.
0:47:02 > 0:47:06To get there means crossing 11,000 miles,
0:47:06 > 0:47:10three continents and facing 24 hours of in-flight movies.
0:47:10 > 0:47:15No wonder it can leave the best of us feeling a little jaded.
0:47:15 > 0:47:20Right now, I'm feeling incredibly tired but incredibly excited about what lies ahead
0:47:20 > 0:47:24and the chances and opportunities we've got in the next few days.
0:47:24 > 0:47:26It has hit home how far away it is.
0:47:26 > 0:47:30In the run-up to actually coming out, my emotions have been doing
0:47:30 > 0:47:33a whole up-and-down thing.
0:47:35 > 0:47:40Ahead of Rob and David is a big week sampling life in New Zealand.
0:47:40 > 0:47:43It couldn't be further away from the one they know.
0:47:43 > 0:47:47Back in the UK, home is in the town of Honiton in Devon,
0:47:47 > 0:47:50where they've lived for the past 13 years.
0:47:50 > 0:47:54Primary school teacher Rob, 42, lives with his 38-year-old partner,
0:47:54 > 0:47:56David, a senior support worker.
0:47:56 > 0:48:00They met 18 years ago at university and moved to Devon soon after.
0:48:00 > 0:48:05That's nothing compared with the move they're currently facing.
0:48:05 > 0:48:09This has largely come from my desire to do something different,
0:48:09 > 0:48:11to go and live somewhere different
0:48:11 > 0:48:14because it is easy to stay in the same place.
0:48:16 > 0:48:18After visiting three years ago with his mother,
0:48:18 > 0:48:22Rob fell in love with the idea of a move Down Under.
0:48:22 > 0:48:24Illness put all his plans on hold.
0:48:26 > 0:48:30Rob's illness and Rob being unwell has controlled everything
0:48:30 > 0:48:36that we've been able to do. It has been quite debilitating.
0:48:36 > 0:48:39I'd like to mention that it is ulcerative colitis that I've had
0:48:39 > 0:48:42because lots of people in the country do suffer with it
0:48:42 > 0:48:45and it's not really known about until you know somebody that's got it.
0:48:45 > 0:48:50You can't leave the house because you constantly need the toilet.
0:48:50 > 0:48:54Which is a bit embarrassing but that's what it's been like.
0:48:54 > 0:48:57Throughout his illness, Rob's been able to rely on one thing -
0:48:57 > 0:49:00the support of his partner, David.
0:49:00 > 0:49:03He's my partner but he's my best friend. As long as we're with each other,
0:49:03 > 0:49:07we'll be fine. It doesn't matter where we go, we'll be all right.
0:49:07 > 0:49:12It's taken three years of treatment and major surgery,
0:49:12 > 0:49:15but Rob is finally on the mend.
0:49:15 > 0:49:18In the last few weeks I've really felt that actually
0:49:18 > 0:49:20I feel well for the first time in years.
0:49:20 > 0:49:23Now is the perfect time for us to be doing this.
0:49:23 > 0:49:26I've got a clean bill of health from the hospital, so...
0:49:26 > 0:49:30However, while Rob may be ready for a new start, David has his doubts.
0:49:30 > 0:49:35It's a big risk for me, a big chance to take but it would be easier if
0:49:35 > 0:49:40we could go out there and I could think, "Oh, no, I don't like it."
0:49:40 > 0:49:42When you're trying to persuade somebody to move
0:49:42 > 0:49:46to the other side of the world, if they've never seen that country,
0:49:46 > 0:49:49you're on a bit of an uphill struggle trying to get them
0:49:49 > 0:49:52to actually visualise themselves being there.
0:49:52 > 0:49:54David's a real thinker and analyses and thinks
0:49:54 > 0:49:59about things in great detail to make sure that they are just right.
0:49:59 > 0:50:02Convincing David that New Zealand offers a better future could be
0:50:02 > 0:50:05a big challenge for Rob and he knows that it will come at a high price.
0:50:05 > 0:50:08Leaving my mum behind would be really hard.
0:50:08 > 0:50:12I think she's worried that she wouldn't see us again.
0:50:12 > 0:50:16Not having her there for Sunday lunch
0:50:16 > 0:50:20or going for a walk along the beach would be really hard.
0:50:20 > 0:50:25She's a brilliant support, she always has been. Always will be.
0:50:28 > 0:50:31It's guaranteed to be a tough choice
0:50:31 > 0:50:35but Rob and David both know what could be on offer.
0:50:35 > 0:50:39This is an amazing opportunity for us to do something for us.
0:50:39 > 0:50:42We could end up in ten years' time thinking,
0:50:42 > 0:50:44"Oh well, we did have this opportunity,
0:50:44 > 0:50:47"we could have done it but we didn't do it."
0:50:47 > 0:50:51- I don't want that to happen. - It's a really scary prospect.
0:50:51 > 0:50:57Both Rob and David know just how much is riding on their decision.
0:50:57 > 0:51:01Rob's desperate for a new start after years of ill-health
0:51:01 > 0:51:03but knows the pain a move would cause.
0:51:03 > 0:51:07With David's doubts, New Zealand will have to convince them both
0:51:07 > 0:51:10that making the move would be worth it.
0:51:11 > 0:51:13Rob and David want to find out
0:51:13 > 0:51:17if New Zealand's capital city of Wellington could be
0:51:17 > 0:51:21the ideal location for their new start.
0:51:23 > 0:51:26Home for the week is the rural area of Lower Hutt,
0:51:26 > 0:51:2820 minutes north-east of the city centre.
0:51:28 > 0:51:33With plenty of countryside close by and the city within reach,
0:51:33 > 0:51:36it should be an ideal setting for the week ahead.
0:51:41 > 0:51:44- Looks interesting.- It does look interesting. Nice location.
0:51:44 > 0:51:46A very nice location.
0:51:46 > 0:51:50This one-bedroom workman's cottage is typical of accommodation
0:51:50 > 0:51:55in rural New Zealand but what will they make of their new home.
0:51:55 > 0:52:02- OK. Its compact and bijou. - Looks like a sort of 1920s beach hut.
0:52:02 > 0:52:04It is a bit like a beach hut.
0:52:04 > 0:52:06It just feels a little bit shabby.
0:52:06 > 0:52:13I think, Rob's expectations of where we're going to stay were higher.
0:52:13 > 0:52:16It's a bit dated and it's just not what we're used to
0:52:16 > 0:52:18but there's certainly nothing wrong with it.
0:52:18 > 0:52:23To be honest, there's part of me that I could just go and check into a hotel.
0:52:23 > 0:52:27I reckon, by the end of the week, we'll probably really like it. We probably will.
0:52:27 > 0:52:30Taking the house as a starting point for our experience
0:52:30 > 0:52:33of New Zealand, I think it can only get better.
0:52:33 > 0:52:36It has to go uphill, it has to be so much better than this
0:52:36 > 0:52:37and I'm sure it will be.
0:52:37 > 0:52:39Despite the picturesque setting,
0:52:39 > 0:52:43their first impressions of New Zealand aren't good.
0:52:44 > 0:52:46It is quite small.
0:52:54 > 0:52:58Back in the UK, Rob and David live in a three-bedroom detached home
0:52:58 > 0:53:00on the outskirts of Honiton in Devon.
0:53:00 > 0:53:04They believe it's worth around £230,000 and they are
0:53:04 > 0:53:08looking for something of similar value in New Zealand.
0:53:08 > 0:53:11But if they're going to give up a home they love and have worked
0:53:11 > 0:53:15hard to restore, then property Down Under will have to impress.
0:53:15 > 0:53:19Our dream house would be somewhere that is fairly rural, doesn't need
0:53:19 > 0:53:23to have lots of land because land means lots of maintenance.
0:53:23 > 0:53:27Having neighbours close enough but not right on top of us would be fantastic.
0:53:27 > 0:53:32Just an interesting property. Just something maybe a bit different.
0:53:32 > 0:53:35A bit of character and a wood burner, quite important.
0:53:35 > 0:53:38Yeah, 1950s style house.
0:53:38 > 0:53:42Selling the house would be a necessity for us.
0:53:42 > 0:53:45I think you have to go to New Zealand thinking positive,
0:53:45 > 0:53:49that it will work and going and putting down roots
0:53:49 > 0:53:52and buying a house would be part of that process.
0:53:55 > 0:53:59We are giving Rob and David a taste of Wellington's housing market.
0:53:59 > 0:54:03We'll show them three typical options based upon what they want
0:54:03 > 0:54:06from their ideal home, what they can afford
0:54:06 > 0:54:09and the real cost of property Down Under.
0:54:09 > 0:54:12After seeing for themselves what's on offer,
0:54:12 > 0:54:15we'll reveal the price of each of the houses.
0:54:15 > 0:54:19The search begins in the small town of Silverstream,
0:54:19 > 0:54:2120 minutes' drive north-east of the city.
0:54:21 > 0:54:24It's a rural area popular with walkers
0:54:24 > 0:54:28and should be ideal for Rob and David's love of the outdoors.
0:54:31 > 0:54:35This house is a four-bedroom detached property
0:54:35 > 0:54:38on a large plot of land overlooking the bush.
0:54:38 > 0:54:40Will it get things off to a good start?
0:54:42 > 0:54:46- It's nice and warm in here. - Nice wood burner.- Definitely.
0:54:46 > 0:54:49It's nice, quite open plan, isn't it?
0:54:49 > 0:54:53It actually feels like you're just sitting in the garden in here.
0:54:53 > 0:54:58A kettle, right, we got the kitchen here. Dining area. The sitting area.
0:54:58 > 0:55:02- I think it's a really nice space. It's a lovely room. - It is really nice.
0:55:02 > 0:55:05I really like this house, I could imagine living here.
0:55:05 > 0:55:09- It's quite a good size. - It is a good size.- And the bathroom.
0:55:09 > 0:55:13- This is really nice. - A good-sized bathroom.
0:55:13 > 0:55:16It's a really good size with a huge shower.
0:55:16 > 0:55:18- It all looks quite new, doesn't it?- It does.
0:55:18 > 0:55:21Looks like someone's put this in quite recently. Master bedroom.
0:55:21 > 0:55:24- A nice big room. - It's a nice big room.
0:55:24 > 0:55:27And we've got a door that goes out on to the verandah.
0:55:27 > 0:55:30That's really nice, isn't it? It's good.
0:55:33 > 0:55:35Outside there's a large garden.
0:55:35 > 0:55:38Rob and David didn't want land but could this appeal to them?
0:55:40 > 0:55:44- Wow, check that out. This is quite a nice little area, isn't it?- It is.
0:55:44 > 0:55:46That view is stunning.
0:55:46 > 0:55:49Having such a large garden could be a big plus
0:55:49 > 0:55:51but there could be a downside too.
0:55:51 > 0:55:57- All these planks, is it because... - It's rotten.
0:55:57 > 0:56:02It is, they really need replacing. For sure, would be a lot of money.
0:56:02 > 0:56:05And a lot of work to do the whole of all that decking.
0:56:05 > 0:56:09It looks as if Rob and David are impressed with the house,
0:56:09 > 0:56:12if not the amount of work that needs doing to it.
0:56:12 > 0:56:15But can they afford it with their £230,000 budget?
0:56:15 > 0:56:19I think the location is going to put the price up, really.
0:56:19 > 0:56:22I don't think we'll be able to afford it anyway.
0:56:22 > 0:56:26- I think it's probably over... - the overall budget.
0:56:28 > 0:56:32- Ah, £219,000.- Or 410,000.
0:56:33 > 0:56:37- I don't think I'd be prepared to pay that for this house. - Neither would I.
0:56:37 > 0:56:40You're going to need to spend a lot of money
0:56:40 > 0:56:43on these windows, flooring, general work outside.
0:56:43 > 0:56:46You're paying for the land and the location and that is amazing.
0:56:46 > 0:56:50However, it would be too much for us to take on board.
0:56:50 > 0:56:53Moving to New Zealand is one thing but moving to New Zealand
0:56:53 > 0:56:56and taking on a big project like this
0:56:56 > 0:57:00- is just a little bit beyond what we would be able to do.- Definitely.
0:57:00 > 0:57:06At £11,000 under budget, it is an affordable option, but this house
0:57:06 > 0:57:11hasn't convinced Rob and only added to David's doubts about moving.
0:57:13 > 0:57:16Could the second house fare any better?
0:57:16 > 0:57:20It's in the sought-after area of Eastbourne, just across the harbour
0:57:20 > 0:57:24from the city centre with beaches, cafes and shops all close by.
0:57:28 > 0:57:31This three-bedroom timber-built house should offer plenty of space
0:57:31 > 0:57:36and a smaller garden, but can it win over Rob and David?
0:57:37 > 0:57:40- This looks really good. - It does. Absolutely.
0:57:41 > 0:57:45I bet it's going to have some spectacular views.
0:57:45 > 0:57:49Well, that's a much better start.
0:57:49 > 0:57:53Oh, wow. Wow, this is lovely.
0:57:53 > 0:57:56- Just the windows! - That's fantastic, isn't it?
0:57:56 > 0:57:59What an amazing, amazing location.
0:57:59 > 0:58:03- That's another of those wood burners. - That will belt out some heat.
0:58:03 > 0:58:07That's really, really nice. Kitchen with dining and living.
0:58:07 > 0:58:12- You wouldn't have to change anything, would you?- You wouldn't need to change a thing in here.
0:58:12 > 0:58:14It is just like, "When can we move in?"
0:58:14 > 0:58:17It's just gutting because you kind of think,
0:58:17 > 0:58:20you'll love it but I can't imagine we would be able to afford
0:58:20 > 0:58:22something like this.
0:58:22 > 0:58:26- Look at that, just the rock face there. Wow.- It's amazing, isn't it?
0:58:26 > 0:58:30- Just look at that. - It's incredible, isn't it?
0:58:30 > 0:58:35That's priceless, a view like that. This is just perfect.
0:58:35 > 0:58:38- Yeah, gobsmacked. - The views have won Rob over
0:58:38 > 0:58:42and David's response is just what he was hoping for.
0:58:42 > 0:58:46Oh my goodness. Oh, wow!
0:58:46 > 0:58:51Sea view. This is an unbelievable property.
0:58:51 > 0:58:54I don't know what to say really. It's just phenomenal, isn't it, really?
0:58:54 > 0:58:57What a huge room as well and en-suite.
0:58:57 > 0:58:59With its stylish interiors,
0:58:59 > 0:59:02this house seems to be getting better and better.
0:59:02 > 0:59:04The last house we bought
0:59:04 > 0:59:07we knew that we wanted to buy it as soon as we were outside it.
0:59:07 > 0:59:10I've got that same feeling with this house.
0:59:10 > 0:59:13I can see us in here, our furniture's in here.
0:59:13 > 0:59:18We could live here really, really happily. Definitely.
0:59:18 > 0:59:22It's one of those gut feeling houses that you just know is right.
0:59:22 > 0:59:25That's a pretty big turnaround and David's worries
0:59:25 > 0:59:27seem like a distant memory.
0:59:27 > 0:59:30But is this house too good to be true?
0:59:30 > 0:59:35Will their budget of £230,000 be able to keep up with their dreams?
0:59:35 > 0:59:37If it was within our price range
0:59:37 > 0:59:40and we could afford to buy it, then that's really
0:59:40 > 0:59:42going to put the pressure on us to make a decision.
0:59:42 > 0:59:47One of the things we had said is that to move to New Zealand,
0:59:47 > 0:59:50the house that we'd be looking at would have to be an improvement on
0:59:50 > 0:59:54- what we're at the moment and this certainly is. Are you ready?- Yeah.
0:59:54 > 0:59:59£246,000, which is just under the 250.
0:59:59 > 1:00:03- Quite expensive.- Yeah.
1:00:03 > 1:00:05I'm a bit disappointed because I just think
1:00:05 > 1:00:07that would be pushing ourselves too much.
1:00:07 > 1:00:12Yeah, but I'd definitely like to know how long it's been on the market,
1:00:12 > 1:00:16why they want to sell it. That's the sort of questions I would be asking
1:00:16 > 1:00:20because I'd be really serious about wanting to buy this house.
1:00:20 > 1:00:22If you can secure a house like this,
1:00:22 > 1:00:29it would be another factor for moving to New Zealand, definitely.
1:00:29 > 1:00:33David's enthusiasm is great news for Rob, but it comes at a price.
1:00:33 > 1:00:36If finding the right house is going to push their finances,
1:00:36 > 1:00:40will the final property offer them answers or more questions?
1:00:40 > 1:00:43It's in the Paraparaumu area of the Kapiti Coast
1:00:43 > 1:00:46on the outskirts of Wellington.
1:00:49 > 1:00:52Close to the beach, this ultra-modern four-bedroom house
1:00:52 > 1:00:56has plenty of room for visitors and is in an idyllic location.
1:00:56 > 1:01:01But can it offer Rob and David an ideal home and price?
1:01:06 > 1:01:11- Absolutely beautiful.- Beautiful, yeah. It really is.- It's stunning.
1:01:11 > 1:01:18- The views!- This is a dream home for us.- It would be, wouldn't it?
1:01:18 > 1:01:23I can't even speak. I literally can't even get the words to describe.
1:01:23 > 1:01:26That doesn't happen very often, that he's stuck for words.
1:01:26 > 1:01:28What a lovely room.
1:01:28 > 1:01:31I'm so blown away, I'm not even properly breathing.
1:01:31 > 1:01:34It's just incredible, actually.
1:01:35 > 1:01:40Isn't it? I wonder how much you get for a kidney.
1:01:40 > 1:01:43I think we'd need to sell all four.
1:01:43 > 1:01:46I think that means Rob and David like this house
1:01:46 > 1:01:48but we're only getting started.
1:01:48 > 1:01:50Wow.
1:01:53 > 1:01:56I just can't imagine waking up to that every morning.
1:01:56 > 1:01:59I almost don't want to see any more of it
1:01:59 > 1:02:04because it is a phenomenal house, this.
1:02:06 > 1:02:09- You all right?- Yeah.
1:02:11 > 1:02:14With so much riding on his decision,
1:02:14 > 1:02:16it's an overwhelming experience for David.
1:02:18 > 1:02:24- There's yet more to see downstairs. - Wow, look at that view.
1:02:30 > 1:02:34It just goes on. Even more. It's just beautiful.
1:02:34 > 1:02:37All this space would be perfect for having visitors from home,
1:02:37 > 1:02:41and a huge bathroom is the icing on the cake.
1:02:41 > 1:02:44With just the outside to view, the question is,
1:02:44 > 1:02:45is it all too good to be true?
1:02:45 > 1:02:48Check that out, that's just incredible, isn't it?
1:02:48 > 1:02:52If we could possibly afford something like this,
1:02:52 > 1:02:54I'd be absolutely blown away.
1:02:55 > 1:02:58This is what I aspire to live in.
1:02:58 > 1:03:01Rob and David have fallen in love with this house.
1:03:01 > 1:03:05It offers everything they are looking for in New Zealand and more.
1:03:05 > 1:03:09Will its price put a swift end to the dream?
1:03:09 > 1:03:13I don't think we could afford this house for a second.
1:03:13 > 1:03:17If we can, then we are moving to New Zealand. Without a shadow of a doubt.
1:03:17 > 1:03:20- Without a shadow of a doubt, we're coming.- OK.
1:03:21 > 1:03:23- £428,000.- Yeah.
1:03:25 > 1:03:29If I had £428,000, I would buy this house now.
1:03:29 > 1:03:32- I would sign the dotted line. - Yeah.- Straight away.
1:03:32 > 1:03:37- I don't suppose they're open to silly offers.- Crazy offers.
1:03:37 > 1:03:39Crazy offers, yeah.
1:03:39 > 1:03:43The boys have found their perfect home and even David
1:03:43 > 1:03:48seems ready to move in today, but it's nearly £200,000 over budget.
1:03:50 > 1:03:53They've seen three very different options today.
1:03:53 > 1:03:56The first house was affordable but it left Rob cold
1:03:56 > 1:04:00and David with big doubts about New Zealand.
1:04:00 > 1:04:03The second wowed the boys with its good looks
1:04:03 > 1:04:06but the price was far less attractive.
1:04:06 > 1:04:10The final property offered a genuine dream home
1:04:10 > 1:04:14but would mean going into huge debt.
1:04:16 > 1:04:19So, after a day of house hunting, have the boys
1:04:19 > 1:04:23seen enough to justify a move to the other side of the world?
1:04:24 > 1:04:29Based on the three properties we've seen today, our vote goes to...
1:04:33 > 1:04:35New Zealand!
1:04:35 > 1:04:39I'm quite surprised that David voted for New Zealand
1:04:39 > 1:04:41but after seeing the properties today,
1:04:41 > 1:04:45I sort of thought that maybe he would in the end.
1:04:45 > 1:04:49I felt that the standard of the properties was fantastic
1:04:49 > 1:04:52and really exceeded what we would be able to get in the UK
1:04:52 > 1:04:54for our money in the future.
1:05:01 > 1:05:06Finding a dream house was great news for Rob and David.
1:05:06 > 1:05:09However, the price tag was anything but.
1:05:09 > 1:05:12With the houses they liked above and beyond their budget,
1:05:12 > 1:05:17it puts the pressure on both of them to find good work opportunities.
1:05:18 > 1:05:22Back in Honiton, David is a support worker for adults
1:05:22 > 1:05:27with learning difficulties and Rob is a primary school teacher.
1:05:27 > 1:05:30David currently works 40 hours a week and his duties include
1:05:30 > 1:05:34helping his clients with all aspects of their daily life.
1:05:35 > 1:05:37Ideal scenario for me would be
1:05:37 > 1:05:42to continue working with people with a learning disability
1:05:42 > 1:05:46in a supported living environment,
1:05:46 > 1:05:51and to facilitate people around them to help them
1:05:51 > 1:05:56reach their aspirations and to reach their full potential as individuals.
1:05:56 > 1:05:59And after so long with illness,
1:05:59 > 1:06:02Rob wants to take full advantage of being healthy again.
1:06:02 > 1:06:05I'm full of energy and I'm ready to get out and start working again.
1:06:05 > 1:06:08It doesn't matter where I'll be teaching,
1:06:08 > 1:06:12it's just about getting back into work and doing what I love doing.
1:06:12 > 1:06:16Both of their jobs are on the skilled occupation list but Rob
1:06:16 > 1:06:20is the main visa applicant, so it's crucial that he can find work.
1:06:23 > 1:06:26See you later. Have fun!
1:06:26 > 1:06:30I am feeling a little bit happy to be going into the school today,
1:06:30 > 1:06:33purely because I've been in the same school for 14 years.
1:06:33 > 1:06:37It's the first school I've ever taught in other than that with
1:06:37 > 1:06:41people I don't know, kids I don't know, routines I don't know.
1:06:41 > 1:06:43But, a challenge.
1:06:43 > 1:06:47He's spending the morning at a local primary school
1:06:47 > 1:06:51on the outskirts of Wellington, where he's met by the principal.
1:06:51 > 1:06:56- Good morning, Rob. I'm Ian, the principal of Tawa School. Welcome. - Great to meet you.
1:06:56 > 1:06:59It's important that Rob makes a good impression
1:06:59 > 1:07:01so today he's taking a class
1:07:01 > 1:07:05to see if his skills could transfer to New Zealand.
1:07:05 > 1:07:09While Rob's settling in, David's also out and about.
1:07:09 > 1:07:11With his concerns about moving,
1:07:11 > 1:07:15it's vital he finds work he can enjoy and pays the right salary.
1:07:15 > 1:07:18I've worked with people with a learning disability now
1:07:18 > 1:07:23for the last 14 years, so it's kind of the path that I've taken
1:07:23 > 1:07:26and I need to and want to continue with that.
1:07:26 > 1:07:30He's arranged to meet the general manager of a local Adult Learning Centre.
1:07:30 > 1:07:34- G'day, David. Susan Gray.- Hi, I'm David Andrews. Nice to meet you.
1:07:34 > 1:07:37And it's straight to work, teaching a class.
1:07:39 > 1:07:42You like lions and tigers, do you?
1:07:42 > 1:07:47That's something that you could say just for a day trip or something.
1:07:47 > 1:07:51Might make you think of all sorts of other things.
1:07:51 > 1:07:52As David gets to work,
1:07:52 > 1:07:56Rob is taking his own class on a subject close to home.
1:07:56 > 1:07:59Jot down things you know or think you know about the UK.
1:07:59 > 1:08:01Anything at all.
1:08:01 > 1:08:04Can you tell just because there's lots of people that it's England?
1:08:04 > 1:08:08What does that tell you about New Zealand and the UK then?
1:08:10 > 1:08:14After spending the morning with his class, David's been asked
1:08:14 > 1:08:17to join Susan and a colleague to discuss some important news.
1:08:17 > 1:08:20- G'day again, David.- Hi.- How are you? - Good, thank you.- Good.
1:08:22 > 1:08:24David, we are likely to have
1:08:24 > 1:08:29a senior vacancy here after 22nd September.
1:08:29 > 1:08:33If you make the final decision to come here,
1:08:33 > 1:08:37whether you would be interested in looking at a job?
1:08:37 > 1:08:39I would be very interested.
1:08:39 > 1:08:44Could I ask what the annual salary would be for that position?
1:08:44 > 1:08:48- Salary is between about 45 and 50,000.- Right.
1:08:48 > 1:08:54There would be other things included like a car.
1:08:54 > 1:08:57That is better, actually, than what I'm earning now
1:08:57 > 1:09:03and I don't have a car with the position that I'm working to.
1:09:03 > 1:09:06It's a great result.
1:09:06 > 1:09:10With his experience David could earn at least £28,000 plus a car
1:09:10 > 1:09:13and there's more to come.
1:09:13 > 1:09:15Meeting David today was wonderful.
1:09:15 > 1:09:17I believe that if he wanted to come here,
1:09:17 > 1:09:22we would be in a position to offer him a permanent job.
1:09:22 > 1:09:24After just one day at work,
1:09:24 > 1:09:28David could have walked straight into a new career.
1:09:28 > 1:09:32I feel as if I've had an interview and almost been offered a job,
1:09:32 > 1:09:36or certainly been invited to apply for a senior position.
1:09:36 > 1:09:40What more could I ask for, to be honest, it's amazing. What an experience.
1:09:40 > 1:09:43So can Rob also come up with good work prospects?
1:09:43 > 1:09:46Come and put your post-it notes up here.
1:09:46 > 1:09:49Anybody think they know anything about the UK?
1:09:49 > 1:09:51Chloe...
1:09:51 > 1:09:53There's a place called Newcastle in England
1:09:53 > 1:09:56and people from Newcastle are called Geordies.
1:09:56 > 1:09:57Fantastic.
1:09:57 > 1:10:02The lessons have gone well but there's a few important questions to be answered
1:10:02 > 1:10:04before Rob can make up his mind.
1:10:04 > 1:10:10Could you tell me something about what kind of salary I might expect to receive in New Zealand?
1:10:10 > 1:10:15For an experienced teacher, you go straight to the top of the classroom teacher's scale,
1:10:15 > 1:10:18which is about 67,000. You're welcome to have that piece of paper.
1:10:18 > 1:10:23Based on that, that's only fractionally less than I'm earning in the UK anyway.
1:10:23 > 1:10:25I thought it was going to be a lot less than that,
1:10:25 > 1:10:29I thought I was looking at 10,000 less.
1:10:29 > 1:10:33Despite earning a smaller salary than he's on at home, is still a good result from Rob.
1:10:33 > 1:10:36But the crucial question is, is there work to go with it?
1:10:36 > 1:10:40Our schools have a lot in common, so we're about to advertise jobs
1:10:40 > 1:10:44and Rob would be very welcome to apply and I'm sure he'd be seriously considered.
1:10:44 > 1:10:47The whole of our future and our future in New Zealand
1:10:47 > 1:10:51was hanging on there being a job and a job offer.
1:10:51 > 1:10:53Now that's actually looking like it might be in place,
1:10:53 > 1:10:57or there's a potential for that, it is looking more real.
1:10:57 > 1:11:01This could be happening. We could be changing our lives completely.
1:11:02 > 1:11:06It's been a day of real promise for Rob and David
1:11:06 > 1:11:09but moving will mean leaving behind jobs they both love.
1:11:09 > 1:11:13Will they be persuaded by what they have what they could have?
1:11:13 > 1:11:16Based on our work experiences today, we're going to vote for...
1:11:22 > 1:11:23BOTH: New Zealand.
1:11:26 > 1:11:28Our job prospects seem really good.
1:11:28 > 1:11:31We set out to start a new challenge, to start a new life
1:11:31 > 1:11:35and if that can become a reality, we have to go for it.
1:11:38 > 1:11:41I've been as good as offered a job opportunity,
1:11:41 > 1:11:47erm... which exceeds, really, the role that I have in the UK.
1:11:52 > 1:11:58Well, it's hard to imagine Rob and David's work experience going any better.
1:11:58 > 1:12:02But, with so much promise, affording the move now hinges
1:12:02 > 1:12:05on how much they can raise from the sale of their UK home.
1:12:07 > 1:12:09With house prices in New Zealand coming as a surprise
1:12:09 > 1:12:12it's vital they get a good price for their UK home.
1:12:14 > 1:12:17The boys are hoping for £230,000,
1:12:17 > 1:12:19but will two local estate agents agree?
1:12:20 > 1:12:22Nice neutral colours, that's good.
1:12:23 > 1:12:25- Our house looks really smart, doesn't it?- It does.
1:12:25 > 1:12:28A nice modern kitchen. Nice and neutral.
1:12:28 > 1:12:31Built-in oven, hob and hood.
1:12:31 > 1:12:32No problems there.
1:12:32 > 1:12:39A good spacious room, the fireplace is a nice feature. Nice, light and airy.
1:12:39 > 1:12:44A decent sized dining room, off the kitchen, which helps giving nice access to the garden.
1:12:44 > 1:12:48They've done a good job of the kitchen. Fully fitted appliances. It's a lovely kitchen, actually.
1:12:50 > 1:12:52Nice of him to say so.
1:12:53 > 1:12:57Excellent ensuite, they've finished it to a really high standard.
1:13:00 > 1:13:04That's a nice single. Good child's room. Could be used as a study.
1:13:06 > 1:13:10I would suggest that, in its current state and the market,
1:13:10 > 1:13:14this house would be valued somewhere in the region of 240,000.
1:13:14 > 1:13:19For a quick sale, I'd suggest something in the region of about 225,000 to 230,000.
1:13:19 > 1:13:23In the current market, I'd recommend an asking price of 240,000.
1:13:23 > 1:13:27For a quick sale, if they're wanting to reduce it accordingly,
1:13:27 > 1:13:30I would say an asking price of £225,000.
1:13:30 > 1:13:32- Wow!- That's really good.
1:13:32 > 1:13:36- I'm really pleased, it's more than I thought it was going to be.- Yes.
1:13:36 > 1:13:39We've increased the value of the property.
1:13:39 > 1:13:42A valuation like that gives us a bit more scope,
1:13:42 > 1:13:47a bit more to play with in terms of the kind of house we can start looking at.
1:13:47 > 1:13:48Absolutely, it does.
1:13:48 > 1:13:52But their house is only part of the package.
1:13:52 > 1:13:55We prepared a breakdown of their costs of living in New Zealand
1:13:55 > 1:13:59and, based on their calculations, they'll find out if the sums add up.
1:14:02 > 1:14:09- My monthly salary for New Zealand would be around about £3,000.- OK.
1:14:09 > 1:14:12- And mine?- 1,983.
1:14:13 > 1:14:16- That's more than you're earning in the UK.- For a lot less hours.
1:14:16 > 1:14:19- Now we need to start looking at mortgage repayments.- OK.
1:14:19 > 1:14:25So, in the UK, our mortgage is £1,200 a month.
1:14:25 > 1:14:30In New Zealand, an equivalent mortgage,
1:14:30 > 1:14:33£1,018. Water...
1:14:33 > 1:14:37In the UK, we pay £69 per month.
1:14:37 > 1:14:41Water usage is free in Wellington.
1:14:41 > 1:14:44So, we're looking at a weekly shopping list...
1:14:44 > 1:14:48So, what's the bottom line? Are they going to be better or worse off?
1:14:48 > 1:14:53- Plus 1,833.- 2,289.19.
1:14:53 > 1:14:58So, in New Zealand, we will be £41 a month better off.
1:14:58 > 1:15:05- We're not actually gaining but we're not losing.- Yeah.- Financially.
1:15:05 > 1:15:10New Zealand has come out on top but not by much.
1:15:10 > 1:15:14So, is a move going to be worth the sacrifice if there's no real financial gain?
1:15:14 > 1:15:17Based on the cost of living comparisons between the UK
1:15:17 > 1:15:21and New Zealand, we are going to choose...
1:15:28 > 1:15:31BOTH: New Zealand.
1:15:31 > 1:15:33- But I'm quite surprised.- Me too.
1:15:33 > 1:15:36- I thought we'd be choosing the UK. - Absolutely, yeah.
1:15:36 > 1:15:39I thought we would have done as well.
1:15:39 > 1:15:413-0.
1:15:45 > 1:15:49With the figures looking good, and David feeling more positive
1:15:49 > 1:15:54about life in Wellington, Rob's dream has taken a big step forward.
1:15:54 > 1:15:57But this move has never been about money.
1:15:57 > 1:16:01It's about the two of them starting a new chapter together.
1:16:01 > 1:16:03Today, they're heading out
1:16:03 > 1:16:06to enjoy some of the rewards of the New Zealand lifestyle.
1:16:06 > 1:16:09Their both keen to learn more about wine.
1:16:09 > 1:16:15Martinborough, east of Wellington, should be a great location to give them some thinking time.
1:16:16 > 1:16:18There are more than 25 vineyards in the area
1:16:18 > 1:16:22and, along with a driver, the first stop is at one of the oldest.
1:16:22 > 1:16:28- It's a nice place. - It does. Very nice.
1:16:28 > 1:16:31This is our reserve.
1:16:31 > 1:16:35It's quite delicate and quite complex.
1:16:35 > 1:16:40Some really nice flavours in it.
1:16:41 > 1:16:46That's really nice. It's got like a... Almost a peppery aftertaste.
1:16:46 > 1:16:49That seems to be going down very well.
1:16:53 > 1:16:55That's lovely. I really like that.
1:16:57 > 1:17:01We certainly enjoy wine. We're not wine experts.
1:17:01 > 1:17:07Of course you're an expert. If you find a wine you enjoy, you're an expert.
1:17:11 > 1:17:15- We'll take those, please.- Great. I'm sure you'll enjoy those.
1:17:15 > 1:17:18Thank you very much.
1:17:18 > 1:17:20- Bye.- Bye-bye.
1:17:21 > 1:17:24As they drink in the New Zealand scenery,
1:17:24 > 1:17:28it's a chance to think back over everything that's been missing.
1:17:28 > 1:17:31Having spent so many years not being able to get out and do stuff,
1:17:31 > 1:17:34or planning to do stuff that ends up being cancelled.
1:17:34 > 1:17:39Being able to come here, being well and being able to do things,
1:17:39 > 1:17:42is life changing, isn't it?
1:17:42 > 1:17:46It's going to make a big difference to be able to think, "What shall we do?"
1:17:46 > 1:17:49Make a plan and actually be able to do it and not be concerned
1:17:49 > 1:17:51about whether or not you're going to be well enough.
1:17:51 > 1:17:55That's going to be a huge release for you.
1:17:55 > 1:17:57And that's good for both of us.
1:17:57 > 1:18:01After some tough times, this looks to be just what the doctor ordered.
1:18:01 > 1:18:05So, it's on to the next stop.
1:18:05 > 1:18:08I've been a keen New Zealand wine fan for quite a few years.
1:18:08 > 1:18:11To be able to come here and try the wines
1:18:11 > 1:18:14in the places where they're grown is amazing. It's fantastic!
1:18:14 > 1:18:19It adds to the experience of having a glass of wine, definitely!
1:18:19 > 1:18:25- It's nice to come and... - ..try before you buy.- Yeah.- Yeah.
1:18:25 > 1:18:27So, you've got a nice bit of diesel.
1:18:27 > 1:18:31I didn't want to say that and be offensive. Actually, it smells like fuel.
1:18:31 > 1:18:37- But... It's a good job it doesn't taste like it.- Very true, very true.
1:18:37 > 1:18:42A day sampling the lifestyle Down Under seems to have gone down very well.
1:18:42 > 1:18:44But has it done enough to win their vote?
1:18:44 > 1:18:49Based on the lifestyle options we could have in New Zealand or the UK,
1:18:49 > 1:18:52we are going to vote for...
1:19:00 > 1:19:03- New Zealand.- New Zealand.
1:19:03 > 1:19:07We live in a fantastic part of the UK
1:19:07 > 1:19:12but, you know, we want a lifestyle change.
1:19:12 > 1:19:15We want something different. This could be it.
1:19:15 > 1:19:18I voted for New Zealand in the lifestyle options today
1:19:18 > 1:19:23because our whole move is about new experiences.
1:19:23 > 1:19:27What we've done today has been completely new experiences for us.
1:19:27 > 1:19:29So, New Zealand.
1:19:29 > 1:19:33It's more good news for Rob and David's worries seem like they're a thing of the past.
1:19:33 > 1:19:36But, amongst all the positivity, there's also a reminder
1:19:36 > 1:19:40that this decision might not be as simple as it looks.
1:19:40 > 1:19:43Everything just seems to be falling into place.
1:19:43 > 1:19:48All these pieces of a puzzle are fitting together too neatly at the moment.
1:19:48 > 1:19:51It does make you think, is there something that will turn up
1:19:51 > 1:19:55that actually breaks that puzzle apart for us?
1:19:58 > 1:20:01It's easy to make a decision when everything's falling in your lap.
1:20:01 > 1:20:08But it's when you consider and you think about the people that we would be moving away from,
1:20:08 > 1:20:12that's what is going to make it a difficult decision.
1:20:12 > 1:20:17It makes me emotional thinking about friends and family because they're so important.
1:20:17 > 1:20:22They've always been there through all my illness. Everyone's been known to support me.
1:20:22 > 1:20:27When you go through that, it makes you realise how important people are.
1:20:27 > 1:20:30And, um,
1:20:30 > 1:20:33how much people do love you.
1:20:44 > 1:20:49Tasting the New Zealand experience was another big success.
1:20:49 > 1:20:54But it also reminded Rob and David of what they stand to lose by moving.
1:20:54 > 1:20:58Having been through illness together, saying goodbye to loved ones
1:20:58 > 1:21:02who have given them so much support, could be a painful experience.
1:21:05 > 1:21:07Ah, here we go!
1:21:07 > 1:21:10Hi, Rob and David.
1:21:10 > 1:21:12- Hi, Rob and Dave. - My, Robs and Dave.
1:21:12 > 1:21:17David is um, he's kind-hearted.
1:21:17 > 1:21:21A wicked sense of humour. He's so funny.
1:21:21 > 1:21:24Dave is like, he's got the same sort of sense of humour as me.
1:21:24 > 1:21:27We often say, when they made us, they broke the mould.
1:21:27 > 1:21:30- We're just stupid together. - Two of a kind.
1:21:30 > 1:21:33Rob is... How can I put it?
1:21:33 > 1:21:35He's always there when you need him.
1:21:35 > 1:21:38He's reliable. He's...
1:21:38 > 1:21:41As all brothers, he can be a pain at times.
1:21:41 > 1:21:45- Cheeky- BLEEP. - That's why we love him so much.
1:21:45 > 1:21:49Robert is kind and he's a very good teacher.
1:21:49 > 1:21:53- Sounds really Brummie.- And he gets on very well with other people.
1:21:53 > 1:21:56And so does Dave.
1:21:56 > 1:21:59I think it's the fact they're just such a big part of our lives.
1:21:59 > 1:22:02When they go, it would be like losing an arm or a leg.
1:22:02 > 1:22:07Them not being there, not seeing them, I think it's just...
1:22:07 > 1:22:11- It's going to be strange not having them around and...- Yeah.
1:22:11 > 1:22:16Robert and I especially have been through an awful lot together.
1:22:16 > 1:22:21And Dave's had to put up with me in their lives as well.
1:22:21 > 1:22:25So he's been very good about it.
1:22:25 > 1:22:28Life is short. And these opportunities
1:22:28 > 1:22:32don't come by very often. So, go for it. Give it a go.
1:22:32 > 1:22:36You're a fantastic brother and you're a fantastic brother-in-law, Rob.
1:22:36 > 1:22:39I agree with you there.
1:22:39 > 1:22:43- All the best to both of you. - See you soon.- See you soon. Bye.
1:22:43 > 1:22:47I hope you have had a wonderful week
1:22:47 > 1:22:50and I will miss you
1:22:50 > 1:22:53really, really loads.
1:22:53 > 1:22:57Anyway, I must say bye for now. Love you loads.
1:22:57 > 1:23:00And, er, good luck.
1:23:05 > 1:23:11Er, yeah. I'm not going to be able to say anything actually.
1:23:11 > 1:23:17That is the deal-breaker. It's just so hard.
1:23:17 > 1:23:22When they're such an important part of your life, to suddenly...
1:23:22 > 1:23:26It is like cutting off an arm or your leg.
1:23:26 > 1:23:28Mmm. It almost feels like,
1:23:28 > 1:23:32actually, you know, everybody's been there for us.
1:23:32 > 1:23:35Rob's had this operation. He's getting well.
1:23:35 > 1:23:37We've had this opportunity and it's just like
1:23:37 > 1:23:41we're turning our back on everyone, it feels a bit like that.
1:23:41 > 1:23:46- That's really harsh.- It's a bit like a slap in the face to everyone. - It is, isn't it?
1:23:46 > 1:23:51You know that everybody wants the best for us and they want us to do what we want to do.
1:23:51 > 1:23:54It doesn't make it any easier.
1:23:56 > 1:23:59If it wasn't for that, I'd be on the plane tomorrow.
1:24:03 > 1:24:08The impact of seeing messages from home has taken Rob and David by surprise.
1:24:08 > 1:24:12If the emotional cost is too high a price to pay,
1:24:12 > 1:24:15it could mean giving up the dream for ever.
1:24:15 > 1:24:18Time for them to make their final decision.
1:24:26 > 1:24:31The waters have muddied again somewhat through hearing
1:24:31 > 1:24:35what our friends and family had to say.
1:24:35 > 1:24:39Trying to weigh up this decision is a really hard thing to do.
1:24:39 > 1:24:41I feel completely torn at the moment
1:24:41 > 1:24:46between what my heart's telling me and what my head's telling me.
1:24:48 > 1:24:53I've turned myself inside out, to be honest.
1:24:53 > 1:24:56It's been an emotional rollercoaster
1:24:56 > 1:25:01of up and down, up and down, yes, fantastic. Whoo, maybe not, maybe not. Agh, yeah!
1:25:01 > 1:25:05So, it's kind of like, um,
1:25:05 > 1:25:09trying to pin a jelly down, you know with this.
1:25:09 > 1:25:14It's a big decision. It's not one that anybody could make lightly.
1:25:15 > 1:25:18At this point in time, I really don't know
1:25:18 > 1:25:22how David and I are going to make this momentous decision.
1:25:22 > 1:25:25Um, and I think,
1:25:25 > 1:25:31at some point, we've got to come down on the side of hearts or heads.
1:25:31 > 1:25:37I know people are supposed to go with their hearts not their head.
1:25:38 > 1:25:40After looking certain,
1:25:40 > 1:25:43Rob and David's decision rests on a knife edge.
1:25:43 > 1:25:48So, will they choose a new life or is the pull of home simply too strong?
1:25:48 > 1:25:50It's time for the final vote.
1:25:50 > 1:25:52We've had an amazing week in New Zealand.
1:25:52 > 1:25:56We've seen some wonderful properties, met some fantastic people,
1:25:56 > 1:25:59and our final vote is going to be for...
1:26:08 > 1:26:10- New Zealand.- New Zealand.
1:26:15 > 1:26:18What made you say New Zealand then?
1:26:18 > 1:26:22I think if we don't take this opportunity now, we never will.
1:26:22 > 1:26:25- We will regret it in years to come.- Yeah.
1:26:25 > 1:26:28It's an opportunity. If we don't do it, same as you,
1:26:28 > 1:26:33if we don't do it, then we could well regret it for the rest of our lives.
1:26:33 > 1:26:36I didn't actually know what I was going to do until I started twirling.
1:26:36 > 1:26:38Neither did I.
1:26:38 > 1:26:40It was like, no, it has to be that.
1:26:40 > 1:26:43Yeah, OK.
1:26:43 > 1:26:47I had no idea what Rob was going to vote for.
1:26:47 > 1:26:50I just thought to myself, well, actually,
1:26:50 > 1:26:56if I say the UK now, then I'm shutting the door on something
1:26:56 > 1:27:00that I haven't really given full consideration and thought to.
1:27:07 > 1:27:09Now that we've made the decision,
1:27:09 > 1:27:13I definitely think that our path is set - that it's the right decision.
1:27:13 > 1:27:16I feel like a weight has now been lifted off my shoulders
1:27:16 > 1:27:19that I've been carrying around for the last couple of days.
1:27:22 > 1:27:26It would be a new chapter for both of us.
1:27:26 > 1:27:29In fact, it would be a new book. Not just a chapter.
1:27:29 > 1:27:32So, it's really quite exciting.
1:27:32 > 1:27:35Despite the emotional cost,
1:27:35 > 1:27:40Rob and David agree that New Zealand is where their future lies.
1:27:43 > 1:27:47It's been an incredible experience for Rob and David.
1:27:47 > 1:27:50They both know full well what they'd be giving up
1:27:50 > 1:27:52for life in New Zealand.
1:27:52 > 1:27:54But, the promise of a new start has convinced them
1:27:54 > 1:27:58that the dream could be real after all.
1:28:14 > 1:28:18Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd