Editorial: Go to Oz, just don't rubbish us at home

Rotorua residents are leaving our city in droves for Australia - apparently lured by higher wages and a better way of life.

In the year ending June, 1050 people left Rotorua - that's about 200 more than the previous year.

It's not just a Rotorua problem. Tauranga has lost 1691 locals (up from 1423 residents the year before) and the Western Bay district has lost 528 people (up from 424 the previous year).

Throughout New Zealand, close to 40,000 Kiwis left for Aussie in a year. It's not a new problem, but clearly it's a growing one.

So what has Australia got that we haven't? Better wages, cheaper food and warmer weather. Yes, I can see why it's tempting.

But New Zealand has plenty of positives too. We have seasons - not just one long, muggy, hot, sticky day after the next - nicer fish and chips and a better rugby team.

The debate about whether living in Australia is better is a hot topic. Different people have different views.

For me, I'm happy here. I'm a proud Kiwi and think our country is pretty awesome, even if we are going through some tough times.

Australia wasn't as badly hit by the recession as New Zealand but there's talk their tough times are not far away. Maybe the grass won't be so green in a few months' time?

But if you are unhappy and want to move to Australia. Fine. Have a great time. Just do me one favour. When you come back to visit your family and friends, don't rubbish our country and go on about how amazing Australia is.

Like The Daily Post says at the top of its front page every day, we live here because we love it.

What do you think?

Email editor@dailypost.co.nz, text DP then your message to 021 241 4568, or write to editor, PO Box 1442, Rotorua.