“We sold everything, packed six suitcases, and moved to the other side of the world—with three dogs.”
When Rachael Durrance and her partner, Cole, decided to move to New Zealand from the USA, they didn’t just move countries—they completely reinvented their lifestyle.
From selling their home to embracing nomadic living in a camper van, their story is one of adventure, adaptability, and the pursuit of a simpler, more fulfilling life.
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From Washington State to Aotearoa
Originally from Washington State, Rachael and Cole had always dreamed of moving to New Zealand—but their timeline accelerated when political and social uncertainties in the US made them rethink their plans.
“We were going to come in five years, but things in the US felt unstable. We decided: why wait?”
Instead of sticking to their original plan (finishing her accounting degree in the US first), Rachael applied for a student visa and enrolled at Massey University in Auckland, switching her major to construction quantity surveying.
Meanwhile, Cole secured a New Zealand partner visa, landing a job in prosthetics and orthotics—a field with a skill shortage in NZ.
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The Ultimate Downsizing Challenge
With a goal of long-term travel and minimalism, they sold their house, furniture, and nearly all their belongings, arriving in NZ with:
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6 suitcases
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2 duffel bags
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2 backpacks
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3 dachshunds (their “children,” as they call them)
The dogs’ move was the most complex (and expensive) part—costing $20,000+ and requiring six months of prep—but worth it.
“They’re living their best adventure lives now,” Rachael laughs.
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Camper Van New Zealand Life: Freedom & Flexibility
Rather than renting an apartment, they invested $55,000 NZD in a self-contained camper van—equipped with a shower, kitchen, and solar power.
“Why buy furniture just to sell it again? This way, we travel and save on rent.”
Their setup:
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Weekdays: Parked near Albany (Auckland), where Rachael attends uni and Cole works.
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Weekends: Exploring NZ’s North Island, from beaches to hidden gems.
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Winter prep: Upgrading their van’s heater and battery for rainy months ahead.
Why New Zealand Felt Like Home
For Rachael and Cole, NZ offered more than just scenic beauty—it provided a sense of belonging and safety.
“In the US, I always sought out queer spaces to feel accepted. Here, I’ve never once felt judged for my identity, tattoos, or bright hair. People are just… welcoming.”
They’ve also loved the cultural diversity: “In my classes, I’ve met people from France, India, China—it’s way more multicultural than where we lived in the US.”
Advice for Aspiring Movers
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Expect setbacks—but keep going. Cole’s visa was denied at first; one dog almost couldn’t fly. “Breathe, pivot, and push forward.”
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Prioritise what matters. For them, work-life balance and experiences outweighed high salaries.
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Embrace the unknown. “We’d never even visited NZ before moving. Sometimes you just have to leap.”
What’s Next?
Rachael graduates in three years, and they hope to transition to residency. Until then? More adventures—“Maybe we’ll find a stationary spot for weekdays, but weekends are for exploring.”
Listen to the Full Episode: NZ Ahead Podcast
“New Zealand feels like where we were meant to be. Even on rainy days in the camper, I wouldn’t trade this life.” —Rachael*
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Do you Love New Zealand?
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