Alright, let's dive into why heaps of young Kiwis are packing their bags and heading over to Australia. As a student in my early twenties in my final year at Auckland University, I'm starting to think about my post-grad options. I've seen a bunch of my mates make the move, and it's a pretty hot topic around campus. So, here's my take on the whole situation, with a couple of positives and negatives thrown in for good measure.

First off, one of the biggest reasons young Kiwis are moving to Australia is the better job opportunities. It's no secret that the job market in New Zealand can be a bit tough, especially for fresh grads. Over in Australia, the economy is booming, and there are more jobs available, often with higher wages. For a lot of us, the idea of earning more money doing the same job is pretty appealing. Plus, with the cost of living being relatively cheaper in some Aussie cities, it feels like a win-win situation.

Another major drawcard is the lifestyle and climate. Let's be real, New Zealand winters can be pretty brutal, especially if you're not a fan of the cold. Australia, on the other hand, offers a much warmer climate, with places like Brisbane and Perth boasting sunny weather almost all year round

The laid-back Aussie lifestyle, with its beautiful beaches and vibrant city life, is a huge attraction for young Kiwis looking for a change of scenery and a bit more excitement in their day-to-day lives. But it's not all sunshine and rainbows. One of the downsides of moving to Australia is the distance from family and friends. Sure, it's just a hop across the ditch, but flights can be expensive, and it's not always easy to pop back home for a weekend visit. For a lot of us, the thought of missing out on family gatherings, birthdays, and just the everyday moments with our loved ones can be pretty tough. It's a big trade-off, and not everyone is ready to make that sacrifice.

Another negative point is the cultural differences. While Kiwis and Aussies share a lot in common, there are still some noticeable differences that can take a bit of getting used to. The Aussie sense of humour, for example, can be a bit more in-your-face compared to the more laid-back Kiwi style. Plus, there's the whole rivalry thing – being a Kiwi in Australia means you're bound to cop a bit of friendly banter, especially when it comes to sports. For some, this can be a fun part of the experience, but for others, it can feel a bit isolating.

In the end, the decision to move to Australia is a personal one, and it really depends on what you're looking for in life. For some, the promise of better job prospects and a sunnier lifestyle is enough to make the leap. For others, the thought of leaving behind family and adjusting to a new culture is a bit too daunting. Whatever the case, it's clear that the trend of young Kiwis moving to Australia isn't slowing down anytime soon.

So, there you have it – a bit of a rundown on why so many young Kiwis are making the move across the ditch. Whether you're considering it yourself or just curious about the trend, it's always good to weigh up the pros and cons before making such a big decision.

Channel Mag's youth contributors, Ellie Brown and Fantasia Nair bring a fresh monthly feature to our pages to inspire and advise our younger North Shore readers. If there are any topics you'd like to read about, contact Liz at liz@channelmag.co.nz, and our fledgling writers will research and write engaging articles specifically for our younger (at heart) readers.