Emily Moore (Consultant) caught up with Kiwi litigator Tim Wilkinson who made the move from Wellington to Melbourne in February this year after we placed him at Aptum Legal.
Tim discusses transitioning jurisdictions as a Kiwi lawyer in Victoria, how the friends he’s made since moving here are somehow still Kiwis, and how the inner-north bubble has made him feel right at home.
People say Melbourne is like a bigger Wellington. Is this true?
If you are talking specifically about the inner-north tram zone of Melbourne, then yes. I haven’t really ventured outside the inner-north, except to St Kilda once to see the penguins!
How was transitioning to a new jurisdiction in Victoria?
In terms of substantive law there were no difficulties whatsoever, the statutes are very similar. Procedurally though, it’s very different dealing with multiple courts with different rules and different time zones! I got caught out once with the time zones and that was a learning curve.
What do you remember of your first week and setting up?
I remember flat hunting in 40-degree heat. Flat hunting in Melbourne is efficient but intense! You have to just commit a couple of days of your life to going to check out somewhere between 4 and… 20 flats.
Are you working on any interesting matters?
I like working on contract and restitution cases. I’ve noticed even boutique firms here have bigger matters than some of the matters I’ve worked on at larger firms.
How did you find using a recruiter? How did it make the process easier for you?
It was very nice to avoid the admin involved in finding a job, especially when you don’t understand the process on the ground. You’ll have enough admin involved in both leaving NZ and landing in Aus, so having a recruiter take some of that off your plate just makes life easier.
Which coffee is better? Has there been a change to your go-to coffee?
The best coffee is equally good in both places, though Wellington coffee is more reliable. When I arrived here I experimented with the Magic, but it’s too strong for me. I realised I’m just a weak, milky boy.
Thoughts on the north/south side divide, where do you sit?
Look, the entire reason Wellingtonians move to Melbourne is to move to the inner-north. South of the river is just not the intended location, in my opinion.
Been to any fun gigs or theatre shows lately?
I loved Comedy Festival, just pick the strangest thing you can find, and you’ll have a good time.
I recently had a great time at The Beths (NZ indie rock band). My advice is go to see a Kiwi band in Australia and you will become instantly more patriotic.
What’s your favourite new restaurant?
I love street food, so I’d say Bhang in Brunswick.
Have you done any regional trips out of Melbourne yet?
No! Like I said I’ve been trapped in the inner north, but I’m keen to go to the Yarra Valley on a wine tour. Red wine here is excellent.
Piece of advice you’d give to Kiwis moving over?
Winter in Melbourne is surprisingly brutal, but you can fly to Asia more easily and cheaply than you can from NZ, so book a trip! Also, sprits here are expensive, and beer is mediocre, just drink wine.
Does anything else about your move seem noteworthy?
Most of the friends I’ve made are still Kiwis (sigh). That 2 degrees of separation…we seem to find each other.