Name:	Biying
	Nationality:	Chinese
	Profession:	IT
	Migrated to NZ:	2000

When Biying came to Wellington Girls College as an international student to learn English, her language level was very basic. Now fluent, she even sometimes dreams in English.

One of her first impressions of Wellington was that the people were very kind, friendly and relaxed. “I got lost and looked confused on the street, the people helped me on their own initiative. The teachers in my high-school and my homestay also gave me heaps of help as I only could speak a little English and got the jitters about the new environment.”

The natural environment is another plus. “I really appreciate the blue sky.”

Biying finds Wellington to be a refreshingly small, compact city that is easy to get around. She doesn’t drive, and is grateful for Wellington’s public transport system. She likes how Wellington is multicultural, safe, convenient and walker-friendly. She enjoys Wellington's variety of leisure options and being part of the city's sizeable Chinese community.

Work & Study

After her initial positive experience of Wellington, she stayed to do a business computing course at Massey University after college, and is now working as a computer technician for Atech.

When she was at Wellington Girls College, Biying came to the Wellington Central Library to study most days. “We can find lots of different books, lots of different cultures, all information.” Her friends also saw it as a gathering spot. Biying still goes there regularly with her cousins, who are currently at high school, and appreciates being able to borrow novels for free.

Good Experiences

Biying is pleased Wellington has embraced Yum Cha, a Chinese tradition of weekend dining. Her favourite Yum Cha restaurant is Regal; she especially likes the restaurant’s delicious chicken feet.

The local arts scene completes the experience for her, both as spectator and participant. “I play the piano in a Thai restaurant every weekend for fun.”

Biying encourages those considering coming to New Zealand for study to go for it. “It’s a good experience.”