Travel blogs seem to tell us about the success stories and how to be the “best” at something.
But, what about the times that we fail? The times we have no idea what we’re doing? The times where we’re stressed and confused and lonely and just don’t have the right answer?
Though I’ve felt this way countless times on the road, I like so many others, am inclined to share my successes and forego my failures and struggles.
Not Anymore.
This is my attempt to honestly share the trials and tribulations of traversing the globe to help you feel less alone in your own struggles.
What Is a Working Holiday Visa?
Working Holiday Visas permit young people, usually between the ages of 18-30 or 35, to work abroad in the select countries that offer the visa. Visas typically last one year, however, some countries are permitted to stay longer. Check here to see the specific requirements for your country.
There are all sorts of jobs you can find on your Working Holiday Visa. Visa holders can choose from hospitality roles, farm work, construction, managerial roles, and more. Find current job listings here.
My Situation
I moved to New Zealand on a Working Holiday Visa in February of 2023 and stayed for four months. After traveling from North to South for a month scoping out potential cities to start my job search, I decided to live in Queenstown and found a role in a fine dining restaurant.
Top Mistakes I Made On My Working Holiday Visa
1. Filing My IRD Number Incorrectly
Incorrectly filing for my IRD Number was the biggest mistake I made on my Working Holiday Visa. Your IRD Number ensures that you are taxed properly. Without this number you will be taxed the “no declaration rate”, which is 45%!
I knew this going in, and I still made a mistake!
Instead of giving my employer my IRD Number, I accidentally filed a different number with the same amount of digits from the form. Because no one noticed until I had already been working for a few weeks, I lost out on so much money and had to jump through hoops to try to get some of it back.
My Advice?
You can never be too careful when it comes to filing your IRD. Double check the form, ask your employer to cross check, and pay close attention to your first paycheck.
Find out how to apply for your IRD Number here.
2. Not Considering Cost Of Living
Cost of living is a major factor that I did not closely consider.
I chose to live and work in Queenstown, and I don’t regret that decision AT ALL. I still think Queenstown was the best choice I could have made for myself.
However… the cost of living is significantly higher than other locations around New Zealand. Hostels, groceries, and going out culture can quickly add up.
Choosing to live in a popular city like Queenstown, Wellington, or Auckland does mean there is more opportunity for work and that there are usually more things to do in your free time. With that comes higher prices and more temptation to spend money.
While I don’t regret my decision, I was not saving much money, if any money at all. If you are coming into your WHV with the goal of saving, location should be at the top of mind.
3. Not Considering The Housing Crisis
Queenstown was and still is in the midst of a housing crisis. The city has been experiencing a surge in population growth and is struggling to accommodate the rapid growth.
On Facebook groups, like “Queenstown Rooms For Rent“, listings go up and minutes later, there are dozens, if not hundreds of reply’s.
Luckily, I wasn’t staying in Queenstown for an extended period of time and I was content with staying in hostels to avoid this mad rush for housing.
However… for someone looking to stay for several months to a year, it can be a real struggle to find accommodation. I knew people who were living out of tents and cars and most of my friends were living in hostels.
Tip: Look for long term hostel options if you can’t find other accommodation (cheaper than renting hostels day by day and you won’t have to switch between hostels)
Though you can make it work, know that finding accommodation in popular locations is not the easiest route and that you may need to have a backup plan in mind.
4. Not Applying For Jobs In Person
During the job search process, I sent in dozens of online applications and emails.
Reflecting back, I realize now how many people were doing the same. My applications were likely getting lost in a sea of other applicants.
My Advice?
Try to go in person to deliver applications or ask about job openings. Doing so helps employers put a face to the name and shows initiative that will set you apart from the other applicants.
Many stores and restaurants will have hiring signs hanging on their doors. Take a walk around town and stop into the ones you’re interested in and inquire. They may tell you to apply online, but you’ll have the advantage of having shown that additional interest that many other applicants haven’t.
5. Not Exploring The Country Before Choosing a Homebase
(This is actually something that I did do) and I am SO glad I did.
Before flying to New Zealand, I was so excited to find a job that I started randomly applying to all sorts of roles online. While it may feel comforting to have a job on arrival, I do not recommend this!
The month I spent traveling between the North and South Island was pivotal in helping me narrow down places where I would genuinely enjoy living and working. I knew that I wanted to be somewhere where there was plenty of opportunity to meet other young people and where there was ample public transportation that would allow me to travel without a car.
Looking back on some of those jobs I applied to before I had ever traveled to New Zealand… I think I would have hated them. While the jobs were in some truly beautiful places, visiting in person made me realize just how isolated I would have been.
My Advice?