Next in the occasional *series of interviews with local expatriates, is an interview with Helen von Dedelszen. Helen, originally from Hawke’s Bay in North Island, New Zealand, now lives in Crassier, a small village with a population of just over 1,000 located on the outskirts of Nyon and very near the French border town of Divonne.
Photo above – Helen in her garden in Crassier. Helen is wearing a Pounamu necklace from New Zealand.
Over to Helen.
“People often ask me if I miss New Zealand. My answer is usually “not really”. Of course I miss my family and friends but after thirteen years in Europe with almost ten of that in this corner of Switzerland, this has become “home”. I now live in Crassier with my Italian husband and our two boys.
In many ways Switzerland and New Zealand are alike. They’re both clean, safe, wealthy and stable countries. They both have prominent mountain ranges, crystal-clear waterways and vineyards.
Photo above – C. Nelson-Pollard – Vineyard on the Route du Vignoble in Vaud
In other ways they are worlds apart. New Zealand considers itself multicultural with a mix of indigenous Maori, and people who’ve mostly arrived from England over the past 150 years, with a smattering of residents originally from the Pacific islands and Asia. But compared to Switzerland – or really anywhere in Europe – it’s a fairly homogenous place. Growing up, I spoke only English. In Vaud, my young children happily switch between three languages without any effort at all.
Photo above – New Zealand Tourism. Black Bridge Vineyard, looking through to Te Mata Peak, Hawkes Bay
New Zealand’s location, essentially at the bottom of the world, also means that meaningful interactions with other cultures are limited – unless you’re willing to take a 27 hour flight to Europe on a regular basis! Switzerland’s location in the middle of Europe means I now experience a more colourful and stimulating life, with exposure to a multitude of languages and cultures daily.
I do miss the casual, friendly, “no worries” attitude of New Zealanders – we call ourselves “Kiwis”. I miss “popping in” to visit friends and never needing to think ahead whether I have all the vocabulary I need for a new situation.
I sometimes wonder how my children will identify themselves. Swiss almost definitely. However, I make an effort to expose them to Kiwi language (“jandals” instead of “flip flops”, “togs” instead of “swimming costume”) and they have regular contact in person and over Skype with Kiwi relations. And thanks to the New Zealand rugby culture, my boys can already challenge anyone with a pretty heartfelt haka.
As a family we love being able to walk out of our front door to wander between the beautiful orchards, fields and vineyards. I will never get bored of the views of the breath-taking Mount Blanc and sparkling Lac Léman. We’re also always discovering new gems in the area – the various beaches on the lake which are great for the whole family and the small forests and river walks which provide “adventures” for the little ones.
Photo above – C.Nelson-Pollard – Swimming in the lake with Mont Blanc in the distance
Photo above – New Zealand Tourism – Cruising on Lake Taupo in North Island – North Island
If you’re new to the area I strongly suggest that you join a club or group, providing you with opportunities to meet people and improve your French (if necessary). The other tip I have is get to know your neighbours. Most people I’ve met here are very open and willing to help newcomers. The variety and different perspectives that you will encounter will only enrich your life and experience. And you never know, like me, you may make some great friends and start calling here home!”
*Other interviews include: Living in Le Vaud with Christine Carey, Living in Rolle with Sandra Wilmer, Living in Bursinel with Debbie Croft Living in Divonne with Celia Marsh