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The first rush of New Zealanders driven home by the pandemic has passed - but there are indications that more may return in the coming months as work dries up and savings run out.
Mark says he and his partner decided to return from Sydney after he was forced to take a 20 percent pay cut. As New Zealanders, they're not eligible for any benefits in Australia and they felt vulnerable.
Philip wasn't planning to leave Berlin permanently and didn't get a chance to tie up his affairs there - but he isn't complaining.
Just because you feel safe in New Zealand however, it doesn't guarantee a comfortable ride.
After several years in London, architect Andrew returned to Wellington in December last year.
Covid-19 didn't force him to leave the UK but has massively affected his plan to start again in New Zealand.
He's picked up remote work from a previous employer in London and has stopped looking locally for now.
Massey University sociology professor Paul Spoonley told RNZ reporter Ruth Hill that the return of New Zealanders home will be the theme of 2020.