How has the cost of living in New Zealand impacted the decisions of young individuals to move overseas, according to the information provided?

Pros

• Liberal Democracy: New Zealand is a liberal democracy with a transparent government and a free-market economy.
• Low Population Density: The country has a sparse population outside the major cities, resulting in minimal traffic congestion.
• Efforts Against Racism: While informal racism exists, New Zealand actively works to address and mitigate it, with no institutional racism.
• Stunning Natural Beauty: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, New Zealand offers breathtaking landscapes, numerous national parks, and ski resorts in places like Tongariro, Queenstown, and Arrowtown, as well as geothermal hot springs in Rotorua.
• Rugby Passion: Rugby is a significant part of New Zealand’s culture, often regarded as an unofficial religion.
• Quality Agriculture: New Zealand is known for its high-quality agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, and livestock, though they can be pricey.
• Progressive Values: With a center-left orientation, New Zealand legalized gay marriage in 2013 with minimal controversy. It is a welcoming place for the LGBTQ+ community and liberal or secular progressives.
• Low Gun Violence: Gun violence is rare, and while crime does occur, the police are reliable and corruption is not tolerated.

Cons

• High Cost of Living: The cost of living can be high, with significant expenses related to housing due to a shortage.
• Environmental Issues: Urbanization and dairy farming have led to increased pollution in rivers and waterways.
• Cold Climate: Especially in the South Island, the weather can be quite cold. Those from warmer climates might find the cold challenging initially and should invest in appropriate clothing.
• Geographical Isolation: New Zealand’s remoteness from much of the world makes travel expensive, with the nearest neighbors being New Caledonia and Australia.
• Job Market Limitations: Due to its geographic isolation and smaller population, there are fewer job opportunities and lower salaries compared to places like Australia and the United States. Additionally, many factory jobs have been outsourced to developing countries.