Name:	Peter and Nick
	Nationality:	Irish
	Profession:	Peter - Businessman Nick - IT
	Migrated to NZ:	2006

Irishman Peter owns and operates the first Butlers Chocolate Café franchise to be opened outside its native Ireland. It is already proving to be a major hit with Wellingtonians.

A successful businessman turned full-time politician for Cork County Council, Ireland’s largest local authority, Peter married IT executive Nick in Canada in 2003. After a memorable two week holiday in 1998, the couple moved to Wellington in February last year.

Their first impressions have been reconfirmed. One reason they chose New Zealand over other countries is because it is laid back and at ease with its identity. “A very broad identity, with splashes of colour from all over the world,” says Peter. They like how the country is inclusive and embraces diversity.

Higher Quality of Life

“New Zealand has definitely lived up to our expectations; in particular, we have found Wellington to be a great, but intimate city - with closely located and interlocking business, shopping and social areas - all within easy reach. The scenic setting of Wellington’s harbour and the beautiful countryside on its door step, i.e. Wairarapa and its great wineries (I must admit I like the odd glass/bottle of wine), is a great place to call home.”

Peter loves the Wellington region’s food and wine, and the service and innovation of its restaurants. He enjoys the combination of a higher quality of life, value for money and accessible outdoors activities.

No Regrets

A big fan of contemporary art, Peter is a regular at City Gallery Wellington. “It’s a wonderful idea. You don’t have to cram it all in on one visit. You can keep coming back for 10 minutes on your lunch break.” Peter also thinks that the Museum of Wellington City and Sea is a gem, he particularly likes its Maori folklore and stories.

Peter says New Zealand is a good place to do business. “It’s much easier than Europe; the level of regulation is much lower. The processes are streamlined. It’s an exciting place to do business. There are plenty of opportunities. Kiwis are receptive.” He is also impressed that workers enjoy good protection.

“I love it. No regrets.”

When the couple first arrived in May 2006 they did have some doubts about the “Irish” weather. “However 2007 has been great so far!” enthuses Nick. “I’m waiting for winter,” adds Peter, “You can see the sun.”

Peter describes walking down to town from his Brooklyn home on a cool, crisp morning. “The view of the harbour and the mountains. The water sparkling, the snow on the Rimutakas, it’s so beautiful. There’s nothing like it on earth.”

Related Links

• Wairarapa Region
• Museum of Wellington City and Sea website