@Boel *******

Ah right. Under considerstion for extensions are definitely fine to leave on and return. I did this last month, with a re-entry, with no issues. In Pattaya, a home visit is required. Not sure on other offices.

You say visa application. Do you mean NON O visa, or extension of stay? Marriage or retirement, and which office? You can leave during both, with a re-entey permit, but you will have to be very up front with immigration. If it is a marriage visa or extension, some offices want to visit your home. Return to the office on the review date and you will be fine.

DTV. 5 years.

@Stuart ********

You think wrong. NZ citizens can definitely apply for a NON O for Thailand, and I would recommend that this is by far the best option in this situation.

Asking a question about something that may come in around May.

Yes you can.

@Brad *******

That is correct.

60 day visa exemption + 30 days + 60 day family, then no more.

Sounds like you need to go back and read the conditions of your visa. It is always important to know exactly what visa you have, the conditions, and the requirements for extending it. If you are planning to get the 2nd 5 years, while inside Thailand, you better get organised very soon. But by the sounds of it, you were not anticipating the 2nd 5 year application, so head back home and get another 5 years.

No.