Ballerina on pointe in capital Besides family and friends, what do you miss most about home?
moved from Canberra to Wellington and is a dancer with the Royal New Zealand Ballet.
What inspired your move, and how long have you been here?
I moved to Wellington to further my dance training at the New Zealand School of Dance. I chose to study at this school as its training really appealed to me and it has an amazing reputation of being one of the most prestigious full-time dance schools in the southern hemisphere. I’ve been living in Wellington for almost three years now.
What do you do here?
I’m a professional ballet dancer with the Royal New Zealand Ballet. I joined the national ballet company in January as a Todd Scholar.
What surprised you most when you first arrived?
The wind was a surprising … people talked about it but I wasn’t quite prepared. I was surprised by how compact the city is and how easy it is to get around on foot.
What are the greatest advantages to living here?
Wellington is such an exciting, compact and beautiful city, full of character. It’s so easy to get around and explore. Wellington has some amazing scenery especially along the waterfront (my favourite spot on a sunny day).
Disadvantages?
The weather is a disadvantage – particularly the wind, however, when Wellington is sunny and windless it’s absolutely stunning and there are so many places to enjoy the day.
How expensive do you find it compared to back home?
I find the groceries are a little more expensive than back home but haven’t noticed too much of a difference.
What do you do in your spare time?
I love swimming at the Freyberg pool on the waterfront. The Sunday markets are a fantastic way to get fresh fruit and veg. I also love walking along the harbour, enjoying the amazing scenery. There are also always so many exciting events on around Wellington whether it’s an outdoor cinema or live music.
How do you find the shopping?
I really like the shopping, especially along Lambton Quay.
What are your favourite New Zealand foods?
I first tried feijoas last year and loved them. Also Afghan biscuits are a delicious treat which I hadn’t tried until I moved to New Zealand.
How do you get around?
I usually walk everywhere as it’s so easy to get around on foot, however when I need to use the bus it’s really easy, they are very regular.
Favourite after-dark activity?
Wellington is absolutely stunning at night – so a nice walk along the waterfront with a delicious gelato from Gelissimo Gelateria after a fun dinner out with my friends is always a great after-dark activity.
What are the top three things you recommend for visitors?
I would recommend they go up the Cable Car to the botanical gardens and explore that beautiful area of Wellington. Te Papa museum is a great place to visit particularly on a cold day as there are always great exhibitions on and a great way to escape the wind. Walking up Mount Victoria is a must to enjoy the amazing view looking over the city and harbour. I miss being so close to the beach and enjoying a family getaway to the coast, going swimming and fishing.
How easy is it for you to go home?
Just recently Singapore Airlines has started flying direct between Canberra and Wellington which makes it so easy to go home – less than four hours. So I’m looking forward to my first direct flight home at the end of the year.
If you could change one thing about New Zealand, what would it be?
I wouldn’t change anything, New Zealand is an amazing country.