Canada "feels like home"

Nicola Hoofman and her 6-year-old daughter Saskia had one final Christmas on the beach in Auckland, New Zealand before moving to British Columbia for a new life and Canadian adventures.

German-born Nicola moved to New Zealand at 21, but says she missed the snow and distinct change of seasons that Germany provided. Having been interested in Canada for years, she decided to emigrate again, this time with her daughter.

The pair gained entry to Canada on a work permit. Nicola initially worked in administration at a ski resort while they adjusted to Canadian life, and Saskia enrolled at the local elementary school. After being offered a job and permanent visa, Nicola now works full-time at an international language school, teaching German and English.

They’ve now been happily settled for four years and have no plans to move again. “British Columbia felt like home immediately,” Nicola says. “And I’ve now married a wonderful Canadian man so it looks like we’re here to stay.”