Loving life in Christchurch
Samantha Pearson has traded the bright lights of Las Vegas for a sky full of stars in Canterbury.
What inspired your move, and how long have you been here?
I moved to New Zealand for love and adventure. I have been living in Christchurch for eight months and am loving every second of it!
What do you do here?
I work as the communications coordinator for the public relations and strategy firm, Chambers.
What surprised you most when you arrived?
New Zealand had always seemed like some far away place that would be cool to visit but very unlikely, so I had never really given much thought to what life here would be like until I found myself flying around the world to move here. I was most surprised by the vast diversity in the landscape, specifically that I could surf at a beach and hike to a glacier all in the same day (I definitely couldn’t do that in my hometown of Las Vegas).
What are the greatest advantages to living here?
There are so many advantages to living in New Zealand, from the endless opportunities for adventures, the laidback lifestyle, and being spoiled with the most amazing coffee I have ever had. And brunches – Kiwi brunches are so good, and I am addicted to your eggs benny.
Disadvantages?
The biggest disadvantage is being so far away from the rest of the world, and being in a time zone that makes it challenging to stay in touch with friends and family back home. And specifically in regards to Christchurch, the earthquakes have not been so fun to adjust to.
How expensive do you find it compared to back home?
I don’t think that New Zealand is particularly expensive. Ironically, I think the most drastic difference in price compared to the US is fast food!
What do you do in your spare time? I try to explore as many new places as possible, and take about two trips a month. I also surf out at Sumner every day after work, and try to stay to watch the sunset behind the Southern Alps. My partner and I are also on a mission to find the best brunch spot in Christchurch, so every Sunday we go to a new cafe. What are your favourite NZ foods?
As stated before, I am a bit obsessed with New Zealand eggs bene and the brunch culture. I am also a huge fan of Afghan and Anzac cookies. And when I feel like indulging, the vegetarian burgers from a fish and chips shop never disappoint.
How do you get around?
Usually by car as it is the quickest. But it was a challenge learning to drive on the opposite side of the road!
How do you find the shopping?
Being from Las Vegas, I was absolutely spoiled with amazing shopping centres. So while New Zealand doesn’t compare to that, I have become fond of the numerous antique stores.
Favourite after-dark activity?
Watching the magnificent sunsets, and star-gazing. The bright lights of Vegas block out the stars, so it is always inspiring to see a sky full of stars. My favourite spot to do this is at Sumner Beach by Cave Rock.
What are three things you recommend for visitors?
One, have a ton of waterfall adventures. My favourite ones are at Shine Falls in Hawke’s Bay, or on the top of Temple Basin in Arthur’s Pass. Two, even if you’re not an experienced hiker, take advantage of all the great walks in New Zealand. It is the best free activity you can do here! My favourite one is Ben Lomond in Queenstown. Three, kayak to find the dolphins. The best spots to do this are in Akaroa or the Bay of Islands. Bonus pick because it is impossible to choose just three: If you are in Christchurch, explore Taylor’s Mistake to see the cutest beach houses, enjoy the best surf in Canterbury, and have a scenic sunset walk through Godley Head.
How easy is it for you to go home?
Flying home to Las Vegas isn’t so bad, as I can get a direct 12-hour flight to Los Angeles then an hourand-a-half flight to Vegas. Some people might think a 14-hour flight is a long one, but after my nearly 60-hour journey (thanks to an overbooked flight, emergency medical landing, and two missed connections) from Germany – my previous expat home – any flight out of New Zealand will always seem like a breeze.
If you could change one thing about New Zealand, what would it be?
Nothing – New Zealand is perfect just the way it is. But if I did have to choose, it would be great if NZ could invest in a more practical road system with wider lanes because some of them are pretty freaky at the moment.