Why I Created Almost Local: The Expat Dilemma
When does a place stop feeling temporary? When do you stop calling it ‘this city’ and start saying ‘home’? I’ll never forget the first time ...
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Building Community, Far From Home
Stories, guidance & real connections for life abroad — unfiltered.
ABOUT ALMOST LOCAL
Are you an international woman navigating life abroad?
Feeling the highs and lows of this journey? Sometimes it can feel a bit lonely or like a roller coaster.
We get it!
Join us for our monthly Almost Local Coffee Circles in Auckland.
Let’s navigate life abroad together, one coffee at a time!
Join us in Auckland!
Next in person Coffee Circles and Workshops: March 7 . May 9th
Home is where your heart is… and where you can finally find a decent cup of coffee!
Join the Almost Local Community
Meet other Almost Locals in person in New Zealand or connect online wherever you are in the world!
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Join the Almost Local Coffee Circles
Are you an international woman in Auckland, NZ?
Reserve Your SpotTake a break and join
an intimate gathering
for women navigating life
between countries,
sharing the ups and
downs of life abroad.Limited spots. Booking essential
From the Community
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“It wasn’t one single moment — it was the presence in the room. The safe and trustworthy space Maria and Andrea created allowed us to truly connect. I felt seen in shared experiences and inspired by others’ stories. Even knowing only a few women beforehand, I left feeling a real sense of belonging.”
Yanina Auckland, NZ -
"Great initiative taking shape in this beautiful community! Always great to connect, share and meet new people! 🫶"
Flavia Auckland, NZ -
"Thank you so much Maria for inviting me today. And for putting together a very thoughtful event with a beautiful group of women. You and Andrea are very special women ❤️"
Karina Auckland, NZ
See what we've been up to
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Almost Local Community Moments
Almost Local Coffee Circle in Auckland
A Gathering for International Women Building Community Abroad Moving to a new country changes more than your address — it shifts your sense of belonging, ... -
Returning to New Zealand as an Expat: Embracing the In-Between
Returning to New Zealand as an expat isn’t starting over — it’s starting differently. In this reflective piece, I share what it really felt like ... -
Book of the Month: Migrants – The Story of Us All
Why this book, and why now Some books arrive at exactly the right moment. Migrants: The Story of Us All is one of those. This ... -
The Power of Community Abroad: Finding Connection and Belonging
Discover why community abroad matters, how loneliness affects expats, and practical tips on how to make friends abroad and build real connection.
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Relocating to New Zealand: Finding Home, Community, and Connection
Welcome Back I’m Maria, your host here at Almost Local. Today I want to share a deeply personal and universal story—the experience of relocating to ...
Meet the Voices Behind Almost Local
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Living Abroad? You’re Not Alone!
Navigating Life Abroad: Unfiltered.
About UsMoving abroad is an adventure—but let’s be honest, it’s also a lot. From making friends to navigating culture shock, life comes with its fair share of challenges.