Feature Story - Dr David van Hyfte
Dr David van Hyfte graduated from Medical School in Belgium in 2001. Initially he was looking for a contract for a year to see if he and his girlfriend fitted in before applying for permanent residency. He accepted an ongoing position as a general practitioner at Inglewood District Health Centre and Vogletown Medical Centre, in the Taranaki District and he is still working there today.
Dr van Hyfte’s main motivation for moving to New Zealand was the lifestyle. He really enjoys living by the sea and the hours of work compared to Belgium are better. The most difficult thing for Dr van Hyfte and his partner to adjust to was being such a long distance from home and their friends and family in Europe. The excellent surfing opportunities and more relaxed lifestyle certainly help!