Kia Ora fellow kiwi.
I've have lived in Bristol for the past 36 years, and you can't find anywhere better than Bristol. Yes it has it problems but the diversity of this area is fantastic. Plenty of different shops pubs and cafés. The gateway to the south west and Cornwall. You won't find anywhere better.
Also there are many stunning and beautiful places to visit in the UK. We know us kiwis need to spread our wings , and doing so appreciate NZ more.