Ms Windley has been appointed as a coroner in Wellington, but will stay in Dunedin for several months while a replacement is recruited.
"My husband has been commuting [to Wellington] since I was appointed in November with the hope that he would be able to find work down here and that hasn’t happened."
Her husband is a public servant who works in a managerial role.
"I’m still really enjoying my role; it’s a great job. I have always had a soft spot for Dunedin and it will always feel a little bit like home to me. But the reality of my situation is that I need to make use of the opportunity that’s presented itself.
"I’m disappointed . . . I would like to stay for my kids, but the reality is slightly different."
The couple have two children, aged 10 and 14.Ms Windley was based in Wellington before shifting to Dunedin last November.
She was born in Dunedin and spent part of her childhood in the city.
Based in Dunedin, the role involves coroner work from throughout the South Island.
