Following on from last month's article we are looking into some of the success stories from candidates who have come from the United Kingdom and South Africa to live and work in New Zealand.

Gary Stier, Planner
The Warehouse, Auckland Support Office

"It has been great to be able to make use of my skills and experience in merchandise planning to play a key role in increasing profitability. This was achieved by improving the way in which stock is planned and managed by reducing stock-outs and mark-downs."

Gary and his wife for some time wanted to immigrate to either New Zealand or Australia. So when they spotted an add in their weekend paper from Rag Trade Recruitment, looking for PLANNER'S in New Zealand they immediately jumped at the fantastic opportunity.

Gary met with Gaye Harford in Johannesburg for his initial interview and within 5 months he was on his way to New Zealand. They have settled well into the New Zealand lifestyle. Gary has also found it easy to settle into the great culture at The Warehouse, where they value people, integrity, performance and professionalism. He works with a great team, and looks forward to growing within the company.

"Ragtrade went out of their way in making my arrival in NZ pleasant and comfortable. Plus helped with showing me options in accommodation to consider."

Ragani Naidoo, Garment Technician
Bendon, South Auckland

With fantastic garment technology skills and experience in off-shore production Ragani was an excellent candidate to meet the needs of the apparel industries skill shortage.

To begin the relocation process Ragani made preceding visits to New Zealand in order to get a feel for the environment and living situations as well as expose herself to the fashion industry and be available to interview with potential employers.
During this time she actually had a number of companies vying for her skills and after a couple of job offers she accepted an exciting role with the iconic New Zealand fashion company, Bendon.

Ragani's passion for using her patternmaking, QA and production experience to produce quality garments is valued at Bendon and will give her exciting career growth opportunities with them. Ragani's independence, confidence and positive attitude combined with her commitment to finding the right role ensured her relocation process was smooth and successful.

Ragani is continuously amazed by the hospitality of the people, the great lifestyle and beauty of the country.

When I sit back & think about my move, my only regret is that I should have done it 10yrs ago, but I wouldn't have been able to do it without the support and advice that Ragtrade Recruitment gave me!

Samantha Tobin, Quality Assurance Technician
The Warehouse, Auckland

Samantha and her husband had always been fascinated with the idea of living and working in New Zealand. They were ready for a new adventure and decided to take a chance and visit Auckland. When they arrived they loved the City of Sails instantly. "The City is vibrant and beautiful - filled with parks, loads of open public spaces and interesting people of varying cultures and walks of life. It seemed that the City was filled with promise and we wanted to be part of it!"

Back in South Africa Samantha started her search on the internet and came across Ragtrade Recruitment. She submitted her CV and hoped for a positive outcome. The possibilities in the Clothing industry at that time seemed really good and the skills shortage worked in her favour.

"Ragtrade Recruitment played a pivotal part in my relocation from Cape Town, South Africa to Auckland, New Zealand. They provided a valuable support network and helped me through every step in my Visa application process and my job search. Thanks to them, I was placed with a great team at The Warehouse and am looking forward to growing from strength to strength in this vibrant and growing industry."