Getting out and about for work in Central gave speech language therapist Michelle multicultural interaction, but it took a long time for Cromwell to feel like home. 

Michelle Calitz moved to Cromwell in 2017, together with her partner who works in IT.

The South African pair now feel settled and happy after what Michelle called a “very challenging” move to Cromwell. 

Michelle, who works as a speech and language therapist for the Ministry of Education, said it took two years to feel settled.

“There is a lot of prejudice around foreigners…cultural differences are the hardest part to get used to, you can’t put just one word to it and explain it.”

She said the South African community around Central was very welcoming and supportive and they had made good friends with other South Africans who are arriving or newly emigrated.

“Making connections in the local community, past that acquaintance level, is a bit difficult.

“We made a decision to leave [South Africa] and we’ve been very open to embrace a new way of life.”

She said while moving was hard there were more pros than cons to life in Central, and building new relationships was worth it.

“Getting out of your comfort zone has been [necessary].

“It's what we wanted, we are living a better life than what we would be living had we stayed in South Africa.”

They chose Cromwell due to its more affordable rental accommodation than Queenstown.

Michelle joined the Central Otago orchestra (she plays the flute) and also connected with the Cromwell Newcomers Network.

“Our families have come and visited, it's good for them to see we are settled and happy…now it feels like home, we just got into routines and things gradually became normal.”

Her advice for newcomers is to stick at it and you’ll eventually find your feet.

The Central App champions the locals and those that contribute to make Central a vibrant diverse place. 

Do you know an individual or group with a newcomer story to tell? Get in touch: [email protected]