We had both locumed around the South Island [Justin as a dentist and Charlotte as medical GP]. Justin needed to buy his own dental practice. There were practices available elsewhere however the Ashburton practice was the best business investment so we moved here in 2000 along with our 3 month old daughter Veronica. News travels fast in a small town and I had already received offers for work as a GP locum before I arrived.
We knew we would be happy in small town NZ as that is where we both came from. Besides, Ashburton is only 50 minutes south of Christchurch.
We really haven't looked back. We now own a large property in central Ashburton and a dental practice. To cap it off, Charlotte has started her own business - a Medical Nutrition Clinic.
The development of Lake Hood and the Ashburton Rowing Club shortly after we arrived has also been a fantastic bonus as we both enjoyed many years of competitive rowing in the past.
With a family now, with good health, education, childcare and fantastic sport and recreation facilities - Ashburton is the best place for our family to be.
Charlotte Cox & Justin Wall