Yee (Michelle) Hoon - Licensed Immigration Adviser

BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE 

Where are you originally from?  

Malaysia

What was your legal background and experience in your home country?  

I earned my LLB Law degree from Cardiff University in Wales, United Kingdom. Following that, I returned to Malaysia to complete my legal training and practised as a lawyer before relocating to New Zealand.

TRANSITION TO NEW ZEALAND

What motivated you to move to New Zealand?  

I’ve always been drawn to countries with four distinct seasons—it’s been a dream of mine since childhood to live in a place where the landscape transforms throughout the year. New Zealand, with its stunning natural beauty, truly captured my heart.

What motivated you to practice law or work in the NZ legal industry? 

When I first moved from Malaysia, I was eager to immerse myself in New Zealand’s legal industry. I wanted to gain a deeper understanding of how the profession operates here — how legal professionals approach their work and how the systems differ. It was important to me to broaden my perspective and grow both personally and professionally by learning from a new legal culture.

Can you describe the process you went through to become a lawyer or get your current role in New Zealand?  

When I first arrived in New Zealand, I worked as an immigration paralegal in both boutique and national law firms. Those early experiences gave me valuable insight into the intricacies of New Zealand immigration law and allowed me to develop a genuine passion for this field. That led me to pursue a Graduate Diploma in New Zealand Immigration Advice to formalise my expertise. Shortly after completing the qualification, I was offered a position as a Licensed Immigration Adviser with New Zealand’s largest immigration firm.

CURRENT ROLE

What is your current role and what are your main responsibilities?  

I am a licensed immigration adviser, responsible for providing clients with expert guidance and helping them navigate complex immigration laws and regulations.

How does your current role differ from your previous roles in your home country?  

Previously, I worked as a property lawyer in Malaysia, where the focus was primarily on transactions and legal documentation. In contrast, my current role in immigration is deeply personal and human-centered. I find it far more fulfilling because it's not just about laws—it's about people, their stories, and helping them build new lives. Being part of such transformative journeys makes the work incredibly meaningful to me.

CHALLENGES AND ADAPTATIONS 

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when transitioning to the legal field in New Zealand?  

One of the biggest challenges I faced when transitioning into the legal field in New Zealand was finding where I could contribute meaningfully in a foreign law firm or organisation, and determining how I wanted to shape my career. Unlike accounting, where one qualification can often be used internationally, law is jurisdiction-specific—what qualifies you in one country may not apply in another. For many, including myself, it means spending one to two years (or more) requalifying as a lawyer, or reassessing whether to pursue a parallel profession that aligns with our legal background. Navigating that uncertainty was difficult, but it also led me to discover new opportunities that resonated with my passion and values. 

How did you overcome these challenges?  

Overcoming these challenges took time and introspection. I began my journey as an immigration paralegal in a law firm, which allowed me to explore the field and better understand where my interests lay. I considered requalifying as a lawyer, becoming a licensed immigration adviser, or stepping into a role outside the traditional legal pathway. It wasn’t an easy decision, but I believe that the right opportunities come when we’re ready for them. Staying patient and true to what felt meaningful helped me find a path that aligns with both my values and my strengths. 

SUCCESS STORIES AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Can you share a memorable experience or achievement in your legal career in New Zealand?  

One unforgettable experience was helping a migrant who had overstayed in New Zealand for over 20 years to finally regularise his visa status through a Ministerial Intervention request. The case was deeply complex, involving challenging family circumstances but underscored by compelling humanitarian grounds. I can still picture the moment he received his visa—the sheer joy and relief on his face is something I’ll never forget. Moments like that remind me why I do this work; they’re what keep me going.

ADVICE FOR OTHER FOREIGN LAWYERS

What advice would you give to other foreign lawyers considering moving to New Zealand?  

The beginning is always tough, but do not give up! 

Are there any specific skills or qualifications that you found particularly valuable?  

For me, language skills are especially valuable—being able to communicate in more than one language opens up even more opportunities.

FUTURE GOALS

What are your professional goals for the future?  

My professional goal is to continue supporting migrants in the community and help make their transition to life in New Zealand as smooth and stress-free as possible. I’m passionate about guiding people through the immigration process with empathy and clarity, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way. Making a difference in their journey is what motivates me to keep growing in this field.

How do you see your career progressing in New Zealand?  

I believe my career in New Zealand is progressing in a meaningful and fulfilling direction. I’m able to make a real difference in the lives of people in need—helping them navigate life-changing processes and build their futures. That’s what makes this journey truly rewarding.

WORK-LIFE BALANCE

How do you find the work-life balance in New Zealand compared to your home country?  

The work-life balance in New Zealand is definitely much better compared to my home country.  

What do you enjoy most about living and working in New Zealand?  

What I enjoy most about living and working in New Zealand is the emphasis on work-life balance. Back in Malaysia, I often worked until 8 or even 11 p.m. most nights at the law firm—it left little room to truly live my life. In contrast, New Zealand’s lifestyle allows me the space to breathe, recharge, and enjoy the everyday moments that make life meaningful. It’s not just about working hard; it’s about living well.