Our journey with Pacific Settlement Support Services (PSSS) began in Samoa, where they helped us transition to New Zealand. From the first day, they offered invaluable support, assisting us with banking, finding a house and understanding local requirements. We felt secure and not worried when we moved to NZ because we knew PSSS would look after us.

PSSS guided us through the process, helping us understand what was needed to rent a house in New Zealand. They took us everywhere, explained everything, and made sure we were settled. During the COVID-19 pandemic, PSSS provided food, furniture and clothes for my children, making us feel like part of their family.

Without them, adapting and settling in New Zealand would have been very difficult. One of the most significant challenges was ensuring my 21-year-old son could move with us. PSSS made it possible by getting a job offer for my son also, allowing us to stay together as a family.

Their ongoing support with financial advice and adapting to life in New Zealand has been a blessing. I am now reaching out to families who need help just like how PSS helped us. We are eternally grateful for their ongoing support and service that made it easier for me and my family.

When we decided to move to New Zealand, we had no idea about Pacific Settlement Support Services (PSSS) and thought we’d figure everything out ourselves. The process to get here was long and expensive. My job offer expired three times and our medical reports - we hadn’t even left Samoa. I worked in Australia as a seasonal worker and had to travel back and forth to Samoa for immigration needs.

Everything changed when we met Mandy and her PSSS team at a seminar in Samoa and then here in NZ. They supported us to find a place to live and secure work. Initially, I was supposed to work in New Plymouth, but PSSS found me a job in Auckland within two weeks, which was incredible considering our long wait in Samoa. PSSS also helped with essential tasks like obtaining IRD numbers and opening our bank accounts. They guided us every step of the way, making our transition much smoother. They even assisted us in finding schools for our children and consistently checked on us.

Without PSSS, the struggle would have been real. Their support and love made a huge difference. Now, we feel more independent and try to rely on PSSS less, knowing others need their help too. We are forever grateful for the opportunities PSSS has given us and hope our story helps others understand the incredible services they offer.

We were introduced to Pacific Settlement Support Services (PSSS) through a seminar in Samoa by Tegel. When we arrived in New Zealand, Mandy from PSSS invited us to another seminar, which was incredibly helpful as we knew very little about living in NZ. The seminars covered important topics like budgeting, finding a house, and understanding strict laws, such as not hitting our children. Mandy provided advice on managing money and navigating life in NZ.

A significant support was transportation. I got a job offer in Henderson but lived in Manurewa so Mandy arranged for Uber rides to and from work for the first two weeks. This saved us money to buy a car, essential for our daily commute. PSSS’s support made a massive difference in our lives, offering detailed information and guidance that eased our transition to life in NZ. Without the help of PSSS, we would have struggled to understand and navigate our new environment.

My wife and I are deeply grateful for PSSS. They prepared us well for life in NZ and helped us adapt smoothly. We believe it’s crucial for people in Samoa, especially new migrants coming through the Quota system, to know about PSSS and their services.