Why Alex chose Ōtautahi Christchurch

Beijing, Wellington, Christchurch.

Originally from China, and having immigrated to Wellington, Alex came to Christchurch for job opportunities and a challenge. With a sense of adventure and a desire to try some where new, the software engineer soon found his dreams came true.

Why Christchurch

Originally from China, born in Beijing, my wife and I travelled the world. We've been to so many countries and so many cities across Europe but Christchurch really surprised us. I can talk about this all day because I'm a real foodie!

There's so many places to eat, to dine out and drink. They’re all from a different culture - you literally have every kind of cuisine, Korean food to Thai food, Italian and Indian. Christchurch is a place where you can find every bit of tasty if you want to!

What were your first impressions of Christchurch before you came down, and has that changed?

Lots of people were always talking about moving to Auckland or Wellington and told me “there's not much going on down in the South Island” or “there are not many jobs there”.

They were wrong.

There was a plenty of opportunity to settle down here and have the life you want. We quickly realized when we moved down here, owning a home in Christchurch is much more affordable than North Island.

Now I feel the whole city is reviving. The locals are super friendly, there’s a high level of hope to rebuild this lovely garden city. I have really enjoyed working here and I can see a lot of people actually moving to Christchurch, including the people I used to work with back in Wellington.

Do you think there are good job opportunities for people to grow their careers?

The tech and software industry is definitely expanding and growing Christchurch. Since I moved down to Christchurch, the company I'm working has gained more and more clients. There's a huge potential still expanding in this city as more startup companies join our high tech community.

I remember when we only had roughly 20 employees and planned a Christchurch expansion. In ten years, our Christchurch office has grown to 50 employees. A lot of them are actually from Asia, from the Philippines and China. We’ve got a lot of business opportunities from overseas, as well as working remotely from Christchurch.

What makes life so good here in Christchurch?

In my spare time I enjoy a lot of outdoor activities, especially running. I joined a run club - there’s loads in Christchurch - and that's the best way to actually get to know the locals and join a community. We also enjoy traveling around Christchurch, Akaroa is one of our favourite spots for a weekend away.

Life is beautiful down here, and we are looking to build our family here. we never regretted a single after our minute move down to Christchurch. I think that was the best decision were ever made.