Coordinator Internal Affairs – Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

In what year did you move to NZ?
2004

What was the main reason for moving to NZ?
I fell in love with New Zealand while on holiday in 2003 and wanted to stay. It did help that my parents had already moved here a few years earlier.

What do you enjoy most about living in NZ?
Space!! and the beautiful nature, it can still amaze me even after 9 years. And I just like the general attitude New Zealanders have.

What is the biggest ‘culture shock’ you encountered once in NZ?
You can go to the supermarket in your gummies and nobody cares..

Do you feel a strong bond with your Dutch heritage?
I didn’t used to but now I work at the Embassy I feel a stronger bond.

If so, how does that express itself in every day life (ie do you speak Dutch at home, have Dutch social ties, etc)?
I speak Dutch at work every day and with my mum who lives in Nelson. I try to teach my children about their Dutch heritage and the language.