KEY POINTS:
Invercargill Mayor Tim Shadbolt may be enjoying the big smoke of Auckland but he's planning to lure hundreds of skilled Jafas back down south with him.
The former Mayor of Waitemata City announced his plan 192m above the ground on the Sky Tower's SkyWalk while flying a Southland flag.
Mr Shadbolt will headline Southland's presence at the New Zealand Herald Your Career Expo this weekend.
Having lived in both centres, Mr Shadbolt said he was confident "stressed Aucklanders" would enjoy a more relaxed and family-friendly life in the south.
"Southland has so much to offer Auckland families, in particular: plenty of job opportunities, affordable homes, fantastic sports facilities and outdoor activities and, most importantly of all, time to enjoy it with loved ones."
Hundreds of exhibitors from around the country and South Australia will have stalls at the expo, looking for skilled Aucklanders to fill thousands of job vacancies.
Almost 2000 people have registered to attend the show, with more than 60 per cent having university qualifications.
Expo organiser Michael Scott said despite the economy slowing down, there were still many opportunities for people to advance their careers, either through new jobs or new training and education.
"This will be the largest gathering of careers professionals in the country. Jobs are on offer and free career planning sessions will be held throughout the weekend."
Exhibitors will provide career counselling and answer questions from potential future employees.
* The New Zealand Herald Your Career Expo - organised by APN Events, a new initiative of APN News & Media which publishes the Herald - is on at the ASB Showgrounds at Greenlane on Saturday and Sunday.
