Life on Waiheke Island: The Journey of Phoebe and Reuben
When Phoebe Merrick first stepped foot on Waiheke Island, she thought it was just a fleeting experience—two months of bliss before returning to the grind of college life. However, what began as a mere summer internship at a local winery in June 2023 blossomed into a life-altering adventure in what many call the "Hamptons of New Zealand."
A Beautiful Beginning
Two years later, Phoebe is still on the island, eagerly preparing to move in with her boyfriend, Reuben Sandoy, who has deep ties to this stunning locale. Their love story began when they met during Phoebe’s internship, and by autumn, Reuben had flown to Virginia to meet her family. It wasn’t long before they decided to embark on a life together across the globe.
Living the Dream: An Overview
At 22 years old, Phoebe works remotely as a freelance marketing and social media manager, while her boyfriend Reuben, 29, runs a plumbing business on the island. Together, they earn approximately $132,000 USD annually. But how do they navigate the costs of life in a tourist hotspot like Waiheke?
Life on Waiheke Island
Waiheke, the second-largest island in the Hauraki Gulf, is a mere 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland. Known for its wineries and breathtaking beaches, the island initially supports a permanent population of around 9,000 people, a number that swells to 45,000 in summer. Ultimately, what drew Phoebe to this idyllic island is the same quality that has anchored Reuben here: the alluring scenery and a laid-back lifestyle.
While Reuben thrives in the close-knit community, Phoebe experienced a culture shock adapting to life without modern conveniences like Amazon deliveries. “I felt like a millionaire when I first came over,” she shares, highlighting the strength of the American dollar against the New Zealand dollar.
Spending Insights
So, how do Phoebe and Reuben allocate their yearly income? Here’s a detailed look at their monthly expenditures:
- Savings: $4,689
- Food: $854 (groceries and dining)
- Transportation: $504 (gas, rideshares, ferry tickets)
- Discretionary Spending: $297 (shopping, events)
- Health Insurance: $59
- Phone: $26
Living on such a beautiful island is not without its challenges; expenses can quickly accumulate due to the need to import many goods. “Restaurants often cater to high-end tastes, so casual dining can be a splurge,” Phoebe explains. The couple finds joy in indulging in culinary delights, often hosting dinner parties with friends or enjoying meals featuring gourmet ingredients.
Finding a Home in Paradise
Reuben has been eyeing homeownership since the couple began their relationship. However, navigating the high-stakes real estate market has proven challenging. They took the plunge in late May, purchasing a house for $1.055 million NZD (about $621,000 USD), with plans for extensive renovations. “We’re excited to create a space we can truly call our own,” Phoebe says.
Balancing Work and Life
Reuben works up to 50 hours a week, earning around $91,000 USD annually, tackling home repairs across the island. On the other hand, Phoebe delights in her flexible workload of around 40 hours weekly, making $41,000 USD by managing social media for local clients.
The couple thrives in a work culture that prioritizes work-life balance. “In New Zealand, taking mental health days and time off is valued,” Phoebe adds, contrasting it with the hustle culture she experienced back in the U.S. This aspect allows them to spend more quality time together, whether on the beach or exploring the island.
Conclusion: A New Chapter
As Phoebe and Reuben embark on this exciting new chapter, they are committed to making the most of their island life—forging a home amid natural beauty and a supportive community. Their journey exemplifies the reality of balancing dreams and finances in one of the world’s most stunning locales.
Are you considering a move to an enchanting locale like Waiheke? Explore our resources here to learn more about budgeting, home buying, and adapting to new environments!
