Moving to Wellington from Ontario - help

Hello - I am looking at an MBA at Uni of Victoria (currently live in Ottawa) and have a few questions related to moving with my family:

1 - I am a kiwi by parents birthright so won't have a problem getting a passport, but my husband and children are Canadians.with the intention of going for 2-3 years, what Visa should my husband (finance/economics background) apply for? How long will it take on average?

2 - Can you recommend great family neighborhoods that are safe and accessible to downtown and the Uni? We are going to buy - any idea on realty fees when selling?

3 - Is it worth it sending a shipment of furniture back and forth between Canada and NZ or just to purchase new in NZ and then selling?

4 - any idea if other languages are taught to little ones in school (kindergarten and grade 1)I would prefer French but don't imagine there is french in Welli? Generally speaking, is the education system good?

Thanks! We love New Zealand (been 3 times in the last few years).we aren't going there for money - I KNOW all of the downsides to living there. I want to spend some time with my extended family and REALLY experience New Zealand.

I can't answer your questions but I think you'd probably get more help here:
http://britishexpats.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=83