What inspired you to become an au pair? Why did you go with Au Pair Link-New Zealand?
Rosalie: I have always loved kids. I am the second child and first daughter in a family of eight, so I grew up taking care of people.
As my last year of high school was coming to an end, I found myself wonder what my next step would be. I had taken some college classes, but wasn't sure what I wanted to major in, so I started looking at other things I could do while I thought about my future. Au pairing came up and I fell in love with the idea or traveling while making money at something I am good at.
As my last year of high school was coming to an end, I found myself wonder what my next step would be. I had taken some college classes, but wasn't sure what I wanted to major in, so I started looking at other things I could do while I thought about my future. Au pairing came up and I fell in love with the idea or traveling while making money at something I am good at.
Having always loved and wanted to go to Ireland, I started looking into going there. I was getting ready to apply for my visa, when I found out I couldn't legally au pair there. I made a list of places I could go and New Zealand seemed like the best choice.
I looked at a lot of different agencies and found Au Pair Link. After emailing back and forth with the amazing Charlotte Leece, I decided to go with them. She worked really hard to provide me with any info I asked for and was so friendly! I could not have found a better agency!
What has been the most challenging part of your experience?
Rosalie: The hardest part of this has defiantly been my experience with my first placement. If you get things right the first time, and I sincerely hope you do, there are other things that can make being over here difficult.
Things are more expensive over here, so be prepared for that. If you come over and find yourself missing food from back home (I did), know that there are specialty markets (Martha's Backyard is the American one) that usually ship throughout NZ. I really missed pumpkin when autumn rolled (spring here, autumn at home), so this bit of information came in quite handy.
I also experienced what my mom labeled "season lag." Summer came around but I wanted it to be winter or autumn. If you come over, read a good travel guide. It will help prepare you for some of the cultural differences and the fact the they call Bell Peppers, Capsicum
What has been the most rewarding part of your experience so far?
Rosalie: I would say that helping children as they grow and explore the world is pretty awesome. I also am pretty happy when I teach kids how to behave and treat others with respect, but the most rewarding thing for me has been looking back and seeing how much this experience is changing and growing me. I feel like a completely different, better person for the girl who left home.
Do you have a list of places in New Zealand you're excited to explore?
Rosalie: I am really excited to see everything! The Te Pap, Tongariro crossing, and Milford Sound are all on my list on Must Dos. I also want to see 90 mile beach, go sand sledding at Te Paki Stream, and check out Christchurch.
What tips do you have for someone considering becoming an au pair?
Rosalie: If you decide to go with an agency that isn't Au Pair Link, make sure they have a great support system. It is lifesaving knowing that I have all these people supporting me. And I really love all the adventures that they organize for us au pairs!
One more tip: write down stuff. Blog, journal, whatever. You will be so glad you did!
It is so interesting to read what you wrote and have a record of how you felt months ago. I mean it. Write a least once a week.