Hitting home

It is funny the things I now consider home. What I now have incorporated into a word that means a lot more than the walls that I grew up. However, when something hits you close to home it doesn't matter how newly incorporated that piece was, it still hurts. I was fourteen when Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans. I was vaguely aware of the damage that it caused. I was not personally affected, nor knew anyone who was affected until college. It was a huge disaster that just didn't hit close to home. It was a horrible tragedy, but as a fourteen year old I didn't feel it.

The past earthquake hit a lot more close to home. Christchurch is a spectacular city  in the South Island of amazing New Zealand. I was lucky enough to spend close to 24 hours in the area. At the time I visited, it was a stopping ground before my next adventure. I got a chance to explore the city a bit, walk around the town square, see the famous church. On those walks, I saw the damage of an earthquake that occured this past September. Buildings still laid in rubble, signs still declared  buildings unsafe, some were just left untouched. Shops had moved, closed signs still stayed up, things were forgotten. Most of the city, however, was booming. The city had a livelihood, a quick pace, a laid back attitude that defines the entire country. The square gave it a more European feel. The towering skyscrapers provided an amazing contrast. This is how I last remember seeing the city on Monday February the 14th. A city with amazing vigor, life, and hope.

News of the earthquake hit us during class on Tuesday 22nd in our new location of Sydney. A 6.3 magnitude earthquake hit the city. The death toll is now over 75 and still climbing as over 100 people are still missing. This disaster his a little closer to home compared to Katrina. New Zealand was a terrific host during the past six weeks to my study abroad program. Every Kiwi we came into contact with wanted to ensure we enjoyed our stay in their home, that we got the most out of our experience on their island, that we had a good impression of their country. New Zealand became part of my home. Looking through pictures of the devastation is unreal. It still hasn't sunk in that places like the Cathedral now lay in rubble. I have some of the last pictures of the city untouched by natural disaster. Those pictures are now a bit more precious than others I have taken. Those hold memories that some people may never get to experience. It is extremely unsettling.

Tuesday was proclaimed as one of the darkest days in New Zealand's history. They will need all the help they can get rebuilding. Power and water still remain off in most of the city. People are still being searched for in the rubble. Buildings are being evacuated for the fear they could still crumble. A National State of Emergency has been declared. New Zealand prime minister John Key urged for "the strongest possible focus of local, national and international resources working together to achieve the best possible response in the shortest timeframe." They are going to need all the help they can get rebuilding and getting back on their feet. It is not going to be an easy task, and nothing can completely recover their losses.

Professor Richard Barke, a professor that taught during the New Zealand portion of the program, sent us an email stating, "the Kiwis [can be characterized] as a warm, generous, fun-loving people, which makes the earthquake's loss of life and devastation even more painful to witness." He couldn't have phrased it any better. Seeing these places, meeting these people, and benefitting from both have made it a bit harder to watch the news, to hear about the distruction, to see pictures. This tragedy couldn't have happened to a better and more friendly country. Please remember to keep them in your prayers. New Zealand maybe home to only four million people; however, they have all been deeply affected. There is hope at the end of this story though, just pray it arrives quickly.

The above picture is a picture I took during my trip through Christchurch. The picture below is just some of the destruction caused by the earthquake

Hello Goodbye

I do not even  know how to begin this post. I am feeling so many emotions it is a bit overwhelming. Leaving New Zealand, to come to Australia was a lot harder than I ever dreamed it to be. Let me begin with my last few days. The first few days were filled with a lot of schooling. Two papers, quiz, and I am sure one other assignment. Those were a lot of fun.I am not joking about the school part. I have missed papers. I have missed discussion classes. I have missed not needing my calculator for a class. History and Ethics were both taught by the most amazing professors. It was the biggest blessing I have ever had. I will never be able to thank my professors enough. I wish I could write a creative argumentative paper for Chemical Engineering. I would be thrilled. I would be able to nerd out and write. I was channeling Mr. McAlister and all his wisdom. I am glad I was able to find it somewhere.

Besides school, we also went to New Zealand parliament. It was something that I am so glad I  got to do. Sitting in on a session was the most fascinating governmental thing I have witness so far. It was during their "Question" time, where members of Parliment get to ask a question to someone else. Basically, it is a giant shouting match. People talk whenever they want, try to drown out others when they are talking, their version of the speaker of the house is just shaking is head in amusement, fingers are being flipped, the witty insults are flying everywhere. Take the fastness of pinball, but that in a boxing ring and you have Parliment. Their government works in a spectacular way. I wish I knew more about mine. I will though. I will.

I also got to go explore the bay for the first time. I lived in Wellington and never say the waterfront until the last two days. It was sad and disappointed; however, those were also the best two days. They were perfect. The sun was shining, the air was warm, the breeze was calming, and the gelato was better than all of those things combined. It was spectacular. Wellington is a city everyone should come to once. It is a huge bustling city, but it is also quaint. That is the best word to describe it. It is the largest quaint city I have ever seen. Dear Wellington, I will be back. Love Annie.

I boarded the plane for Sydney with dread. I did not want to leave New Zealand. It is spectacular. By far, my favorite place I have ever been. I was upset I didn't get to see everything. Happy I got to experience a lot. Worried about a large city. Worried the people wouldn't be as friendly. Wanting more time. Wishing I could stop time, run all over the country do what I want then board the plane. New Zealand sewn itself permanently into my heart, and well Australia you just weren't in the cards. I didn't expect to be this emotionally attached to a place. However, I find myself with an immense amount of memories, places that remind me of home, sounds and sights that constantly make me think of New Zealand. 

I unboarded, and got off the plane . We traveled to our hotel. I still wasn't thrilled. Then we went to walk around town. Touche Sydney. You have won. I will admit to having falling in love with you within about two hours of walking around. I cannot come with words to describe it yet. You have the new and the old standing right next to each other. You have a chinatown nearby. You have gardens within walking distances. A huge beautiful church a block over. Lots and lots of sushi and Mexican restaurants. You really know how to win a girl over. Walking around, finding dinner, getting lost was a perfect introduction to the city. The next best introduction was my run this morning. A group of us set off towards Hyde Park. Not quiet the London one, but you know what its just as awesome. We ran through the park, towards the Botanical Gardens, towards the Harbor. Side note, these gardens not as good as wellington. Wellington 1 Sydney 0. Anyway, we ran towards Harbor. We decided to take a side trip up to the information desk. This was best idea yet. Cheap front row tickets because I am a student. Yes please. I cannot wait. Cannot wait. Then Bondi beach. A thirty minute bus ride takes you to the most famous beach. It is spectacular. Too many people for my taste, however, it is spectacular. Tons of sand, amazing waves, lots of cute shops. It was a lot of fun. Plus, I just missed the water. It was so nice to be able to get in again. I enjoyed it so so so much. So much. I will be spending so much time there. I have four more bus passes, and I plan on using them and then more. I am so so so excited.

I reserve my right to judge Australia, however Sydney you are doing a pretty good job of convincing me I will like it here. All I am going to need here is a bathing suit, a book, and a towel and I am set. I cannot wait. Goodbye New Zealand, Hello Sydney!

Instead of thinking up a list of things I didn't get to do while in New Zealand, I decided to look on the positive side of things. This is a list of things. This is a list of things I get to do when I come back. I am coming back. I will make it happen. When I do, I have my trips planned out based on things I need to do again, want to see, or just want to explore. Anyone who comes over to this part of the world should really look into these things.

1.      Jump of the dock into the harbor need Te Papa Museum

2.      Kayak around Wellington.

3.      See Cleopatras pool again

4.      Explore the caves near the second camp site in Abel Tasman

5.      Summit Mt. Taranaki

6.      White water raft over the largest commercially rafted waterfall

7.      Sky Dive, ears or not

8.      Summit Mt. Doom

9.      Ski. Anywhere, just ski over here.

10.   Attend a rugby match during Sevens

11.   Paraglide in Christchurch, darnit

12.   Find that store in Christchurch

13.   Bungee jump and touch the water

14.   Bungee jump off the highest point possible

15.   Kayak and hike Milford Sound

16.   See and experience Dunedin

17.   See the south south Island

18.   See Bay of Island and north of Auckland

Visit wine region

20.   Eat a nice fancy lamb dinner

21.   Go to geothermal hotsprings

22.   Relax and enjoy and take each place in without the worry of school, time, or anything

23.   Come back with my family

24.   Come back with E

Observations from New Zealand

·        Now that I am finished with New Zealand, I have noticed a few things. These things are mainly from the South Island because that was fresh in my mind. I really loved New Zealand and was able to learn a whole lot from the trip. I hope these give a glimmer of those things.

No No one cares about security here.

o   They do not check liquids while boarding airplanes unless it is international

o   Domestic flights sometimes do not have security, well most time they don’t

o   They don’t even check, scan, weigh my carry on. Nothing.

They really just do not care. Airports are just weird when a full body scan isn’t required. I am not quiet sure if it is good or bad. It is just different, new, and something that would never ever ever fly in the US. Yes the pun was intended

 

·        New Zealanders are always on time but never rushed. It is refreshing when you compare it to the states, where everyone is never on time and always rushed. I fit in with society’s timing so much better. Lateness is just something that will always get under my skin, however, I am learning to relax and take things more easily.

·        People always know you are American. Always. It is without fail. This is a typical conversation with any foreigner over here.

o   Me: So where are you from?

o   Stranger (in some accent): Im from such and such small town in such and such awesome country, where about the states are you from.

They just assume that you are from there. I look European, I blend in, I still get called out for being from the states. People are also extremely interested in California and the adventure states. That is about all they know. I am also amazed at home many  people know or have some connection to North Carolina. Normally the group mentions that we are from Georgia, I am always proud and say NC. When someone knows anything about it, my hearts jumps and I get a little more excited. I am proud to be from the states, and especially NC.

·        The world attitude towards traveling, work, youth is so much different compared to ours.

o   It is common to take a year off between high school and college to work and travel. Everyone from Europe has this sense of adventure unlike most Americans. We are so get the job you want, make something out of your life, reach the next goal. It was refreshing to meet so many young people who want to experience the world. Who want to leave their bubble and experience anything and everything. They do any job they can get and just live. It is an amazing attitude.

My last observation is something that took my the entire six weeks to figure out. Why New Zealand is called the country of the giant white cloud. Sorry if this observation is less poignant than the others, however it is worth noting. Weather is extreme here. When it is cloudy it is cloudy. Clouds sweep over the sky and that is all you can see for miles. When it is sunny, boy is it sunny. It is really sunny. When it rains, it pours. When it is windy, well you get my drift. It is just a lot of extremes.

 
 This observations might seem silly, however, they are just a few of what I have learned over here. I wish I had the time to write them all down.This is just one of those trips that will be remembered by little things.

Fill in the blank: Awe_____

Awesome, Awe-inspiring, awestruck, and even awful. Awe, means to be have an overwhelming feeling of reverence and fear. That pretty much sums my weekend up in three letters. I felt awe in every form of the word imaginable this weekend. It was truly amazing, well really awesome.

The trip began on the North Island, with a flight from Wellington to Christchurch located on the South Island. The airport is well lets begin as just different from ours, this subject should have its own blog entry and most likely will. Anyway, we got through boarded our tiny aircraft and left Thursday night at sunset. Sunset is just about the most amazing time you can fly. The clouds are all sorts of colors, the water is illuminated below, and everything is just prettier. I cannot believe people get to live here on a daily basis and see this constantly. It is a breathtaking birds eye view. Goodness I get overwhelmed with how lucky I am sometimes. Anyway, we landed and by shear mistake were picked up by a shuttle that should have stopped two hours ago. Their mistake, our benefit. We rode 20minutes into the city talking to our shuttle driver, a young Austrian woman who was on a travel/work year. That in of itself is an amazing concept. A culture in which that is normal. People do take off and travel the world and do not have a corporate job, and it is ok. It is completely normal, and almost expected. I was floored. We arrived at our amazing hostel, crawled into bed, and awoke the smell of freshly baked bread. That is a good start to a morning...however we then met some awful circumstances if you will.

That friday morning, we were supposed to meet with our other travel companion who had a later flight and go paragliding. Those things didn't happen at all like they should have. We had an scheduled appointment for 11, and our friend was flying in at 9. Plenty of time. We called our paragliding company and they said they would be at our hostel in 10minutes to pick us up. This is at 9am. Does anyone see the problem with this? The guide arrives, but we insist on waiting. So we wait, and wait, and play cards, and wait more. Finally, the guide says if we dont leave soon you might not get to do this. So what do we do, we leave. Easy decision, back up plans were in place. So far, not the best circumstances, but not the worse. We then drive an hour out in the gergeous country side of South Island New Zealand. Let me just tell you, there is not an inch of this country that isn't amazingly pretty. Not one single inch.We arrived when it was pitch black, unable to see anything. We climbed into our cabin, which was just another name for a hostel, and went to bed. 

We woke up early so hike a bit of Mt. Cook, and still make our canyoning excursion in Queenstown that afternoon. We woke, and saw the most amazing sunrise I have seen here. What was once black, was not illuminated by light. It showed the mountains surrounding us, the lake that was before of us, and Mt Cook. It was spectacular. I couldn’t believe that just a few hours before this was all unseeable. We then traveled to Mt. Cook and only had time for a short hour hike. I was going to see some of it. I was determined. We arrived at the viewing point. It was amazing. Mt Cook, the tallest mountain in NZ, shown ahead covered partly by clouds. If you traveled off the platform, you could strain your head just right to see glacier pools. My mind went racing back to Canada and the pools I swam in there. It is amazing what a distinct color they have. We hiked back and then began our drive to queenstown. We booked a 1 oclock canyoning trip, I believe we left around 9:30. It was supposed  to take around four hours. We still had to get lunch. This was going to be fun. We raced, I mean raced to Queenstown. I have yet to ever ever drive that fast around that many turns. I was fantastic. We made it in 2.5hrs. Oops. Hehehe. We had plenty of time for lunch. Plenty. We then went canoyining. 

Few things to know about our group, we do not do anything that is not fun and we do not do anything that is warm. Canyoning sounds amazing. It is don’t get me wrong, but wet suits and a sub100lb girl pound girl do not work. They just don’t. However, it was fantastic. 6 zip lines, one huge repel, amazing jumps, amazing drops. It was a blast. Along the way we met a man who was traveling around the world for a year with his wife and four year old, and two year old. This man and his wife our my new hero. I do not know how they did it, or are still doing it. I also think that traveling around the world is one of the bravest things in the world. It is adventuresome, and without his family I think otherwise extremely lonely. There was an attitude about life to learn from him. We finished canyoning, went to our hostel, and got ready for an ice bar. Yes an ice bar. I told you all we do is cold related things. I dare this group to go to a hot spring. It wouldn’t happen. So the ice bar, was really amazing. I liked the blueness of it all. That’s what I remember, minus the cold, was how blue it all was. I am completely ok with the color blue. It was spectacular.

We left the ice bar and ate my favorite meal of my entire six weeks. Mexican. Yes, it was crappy compared to just about anywhere in the states. But when you have craving hot sauce, chips and salsa, and non curry rice, any Mexican jumps to the top of the list. I burnt my tastebuds off with how much hot sauced I used, and I was perfectly ok with this. I was thrilled. When I get home mom and dad, can I please get Tequilas? I am putting my request now. That and taco bell, and sweet tea. Lets make these things happen please. Then I experienced my first and what will be only pub crawl. I like the concept, hated the realization of it. Maybe I should try it else where, it just was one experience here that Id be ok not doing again. Funny side note, we did run into a Canadian who was studying some sort of physical therapy over here. Had he not been plastered, I would have questioned him more. Anyway, the funny part is that I ran into him today in Wellington. Small world. We finished the pup crawl and went to bed. 

I awoke with this want to do something stupid, something fun, something new. Well what better place that the birthplace of bungee jumping. I signed up. It took about 2 seconds to decide I was doing it, another 2 to realize it was worth the money, and another 2 to give over my credit card. I paid. I was not backing out. Danny and I were the only ones who wanted to do it so we drove out by ourselves. We went to the birthplace, this is where the first person did it. Who decides that bungee jumping is a good idea? Who comes up with the idea to attach a rubberband to their legs and trust enough to jump? A crazy person Ill tell you that I would have loved to have a beer with. They would have some stories to tell. Well, we drove out to the 43meter high bridge. Paid, and didn’t sign a single waiver. This is a good sign. We walked out onto the bridge and within 2 minutes had harnesses on. No backing out. Another minute they were wrapping my legs in a towel and cord. Let me try to put you in my mindset. No time to think about fear, all I can see is water and a towel around my legs. I was no way in heck going to do it if that’s all that was attaching me to a rubber band. Tip to the guide, put the safety clip on first. They did that second. Stupid, why would you have me think even for a few seconds that a towel and a rope sorta tight around my feet was keeping me safe? Dumb. Well anyway, they attached a safety rope to my harness and put me on a ledge over the water. I wanted to touch the water so badly. They said due to my weight I wouldn’t be able to. I was upset. I don’t like when I am told no. Anyway, I stood on a ledge. Look here for a picture. Look here. One, two, three dive. I dove a dive coach white would be proud of. I apparently jumped out as opposed to the normal falling. Oops. It was much better this way. For a second, I was couldn’t comprehend what my body was experiencing. The second second you register the falling. The third second you begin to smile and enjoy it. It was fantastic. I have never had an adrenaline rush like it. It was fantastic. I stopped bouncing, and was pulling to a boat. I couldn’t help but laugh. It was all I knew how to do. It was just incredible. I watched Danny jump. I then bought my pictures. Best decision of my life. I loved having physical evidence that I did it. That I jumped. I am coming back. I need to go tandem, but I am touching that water. It was that amazing. 

We then caught back up with the group and drove to the glaciers. It began to rain, but it didn’t matter. I was still on my amazing high. We arrived at Fox, it was too cloudy to see anything. So we rode onto our hostel near Franz Josef. Dinner, cards, bed. I awoke to a reminder that people are good. It was valentines day, normally I day I don’t necessarily enough. I use to break up with boyfriends before it, then get back together after. It is silly. Anyway, I woke to a present of chocholate from the boy given to me by a friend. That is the most appreciated chocholate I have gotten since well Becky or my mom got me some. I guess I get chocolate a lot, which isn’t a bad thing, I really appreciate it every time. This time especially. We then packed, the rain had cleared so we went to see Franz Josef. I hate to admit but I have seen better. I feel so bad saying that, but I am sorry nothing can compare to Canada. I thank everyone who  made that trip special. There is a glacier near Alberta though that will always have a ace trump. It was nice, however, to be reminded of it. Nice hand Franz, Canada has you. We left the glaciers and went on the most pretty drive to date. Everyone, go to New Zealand, and drive on Aurther’s Pass. Go, add a tab, look up flights, and make it happen. It is worth it. I promise.

We arrived back at Christchurch, and flew home. Back to my second valentines gift. That made coming back to Wellington so much better. It is nice to get a little piece of home. This trip was amazing. I have added another five or six things I definitely need to do again or just see. I will be back here, the next time hopefully with a little bit more of home next to me.

A Little Piece of Culture Pie

Last Wednesday, our group was granted two special field trips both of which opened my mind to many new ideas and views. It was my first look at the native culture, as well as a look at how a familiar culture conducts its business in unfamiliar territory. Both were eye opening, both sparked many questions, both taught me to think about the world as a larger place than I originally thought.

In the morning, we attended a traditional Maori Welcoming Ceremony, Powhiri.  This is was my first taste of a native culture that has deeper roots then the British culture that is predominate over the nation. Victoria University teaches Maori Studies, and therefore preserves many of the customs that the natives find beloved. We walked up a street I walk every day to class, pass buildings I find myself now not noticing, to a crossing that I cross everyday without a second thought. There we were met by our speaker. Since we do not know Maori, he spoke on behalf of us for the entire ceremony. He gave a brief description of what we were about to go through, then led us down an ally. We entered into the marea, the courtyard in front of the sacred house. This is dotted most predominately by a large wooden pole with sail looking like protrusions. The women stood in the center of while the men surrounded us. This traditionally is because outside of the house is the domain of the War god. The men are meant to protect the women. Then a woman exitted from the ornate sacred house, and began to speak. This is the call, and formally welcomes the visitors into the house, the domain of peace. Here all things must be kept  peacefully. We removed our shoes and entered the house. We sat men upfront, women behind (it is an extremely sexist society). There is then a speech given by the hosts in Maori. The then sing the most powerful lullaby. Our speaker then answered for us in Maori. The exchange is to be that of graciousness and to say that we enter into the house with those who have passed before us. That we travel with our ancestors. It is a concept that is often forgotten in our culture. That those who have passed, remain with us at all times. We then finished the ceremony with a traditional greeting called a Hongi. You press your noses together while clasping hands. It reminded me of a eskimo kiss. Then we were seated and invited to a traditional meal. This seems like a simple ceremony. However, I by no means did it justice, partly because I am writing this a week later and partly because it is something you must experience.

Follow this link for a more accurate description, which I highly suggest reading. Their culture is facinating. Maori Culture 

Oh on a side and funny note, the traditional meal simple consisted of a traditional British tea...I found that a bit ironic. They asked us to sing a song in exchange for the one they sang. So all of us, at a nice conservative meal, stood up and sang the only song Georgia Tech students know how to sing. Boy, did we belt all of the words. We are Ramblin Wrecks from Georgia Tech, and hella of engineers, and damn proud of it. No matter what the setting is, that song invokes a sense of pride in all that sing it. Thank you Miller Templeton and Randy McDow for ensuring that I knew it. I know understand the importance you tried to convey to us up in that lodge. That songs makes us all proud. It unites all graduates, students, any one a relation to the school. Miller once told us that it is one of the most internationally recognized fight songs. I am proud to say we were able to give a few more people a part of our home, a part of what makes Georgia Tech special. I am proud to be a Ramblin' Wreck. I will always be.

After singing our song, we were lead back into the traditional house for an explanation of Maori culture and the ceremony we just went through. We talked with one of the professors of Maori Studies. She was the most engaging and excited speakers. She loved her culture and loved showing it off. She made learning a sometimes in-graspable and unrelatable aspect easier than learning about something that I already know about. She pointed out some of the most the culturally important things. I learned a whole lot, a whole lot.

1) The Maori respect their ancestors in a much reverent and dignified way. They consider ancestors anyone who has already gone on. That means a younger relative that has died is still an ancestor and therefore demands respect. Ancestors give guidance and form the pilliars of their culture. I mean that literally as well. The house wall support system are carving of ancestors. Each with their own story to tell, their own importance to the culture, each have something to teach and give to the next generation. The culture really respects that and carries them with them. They do not mourn death, rather see it is an opportunity to carry on their knowledge and their spirits along side of them.

2)  They have meaning behind everything. Everything tells a story. Their wall coverings tell a story. Their carved posts tell a meaning. Patterns have importants. Every action, word spoken, gesture made means something more than what initially meets the idea. I wish I had more time to experience this culture. It is fascinating.  They are a proud people. They are proud of their past. They are proud of their stories. They like to depict those things.

We exited the house, walked down the street and into a completely different culture. Our own. Following the traditional visit, we visited the US Embassy. Another culture shocking experience, this time is was my own that shocked me. I am the first to say I am naive when it comes to American policy. I know relevant laws and policies that affect my average day, but not much more else. This is a shame. This is something I need to fix. The government isn't a bad entity. It does amazing things. It can do better, but the first place to start is learning what it is currently doing. With that being said, learning about American policies and relations towards New Zealand was amazing. New Zealand has a strong sense of a national identity. They have certain beliefs and hold fast to them. They don't allowed genetically modified foods, the do not allow nuclear anything. They uphold the safety and sancity of their citizens, they believe that each and everyone can make a change in their government. They hold themselves to a high standard using Australia as their basis. They are a remarkable country, both political and socially.

During our visit, we had the second in command, the person in charge of communications, their New Zealand representative, and one other person whose job I wished I remembered. Everyone brought their unique opinion on what America could do better, what they were doing, and where relations with New Zealand was going. The discussion soon turned into a discussion more about New Zealand but I still learned so much about American policy. I want to go home and look more into how the government decides thing, like how we will work with other countries to stop sex trafficking. I live in Atlanta and had no idea of much of a global issue it was, let alone, that countries all of the world are working to stop this issue. I should know these things. I learned the growing value of social media. The Embassy is using  facebook, twitter, blogs unlike any entity before to better their ability to reach Americans living in New Zealand, to get their feedback. It is simply amazing how technology is changing how governments are conducting business.

These two visits taught me that I have so much in this world to learn; however, I also need to start with my own backyard. You cannot begin to judge or criticize any culture or government with out first learning the facts. Who knew that this little scientist could be so interested in politics? I guess I owe Dr. Barke, Amira, and a few others a lot of thanks.

Sevens

After returning from Taupo, we had a crazily busy school week leading up to the most insane weekend of my life. On Tuesday of this past week, we explored a nature reserve. The reserve is home to birds, eels, and lizards. I finally got to see a kiwi, the nations most recognizable symbol. That bird is awkward. Lets call it like we see it. It is round, can't fly, has a huge beak, and is awkward. I can't help but laugh when ever I see one. It is an extremely silly bird.

The rest of the week was spent preparing for this past weekend. One word: sevens. For those of you who aren't familar with rugby, because really so Americans are, Sevens is a circuit of world championship rugby tournaments. One of the largest ones is played in Wellington. Teams from all of the world, come out to play 14mintue games of intense quick fast-paced rugby. Thursday begins the tournament with the parade of players. Each team comes parades through the streets, all dancing to American music. It was really fun to see all the players close up. I have learned lots of things about the people in those nations. South Africa, yep I am visiting there. Definitely. Put that one on the list. Americans are goofy as crap. French aren't very nice. They sprayed us with water. I was not too happy. New Zealand people love kiwi's. Their overwhelming sense of patriotism is spectacular. They love their country and everything about it. It was refreshing to see such a large group of care that deeply about something.

Friday, we explored Wellington and got our costumes. Yes costumes. Sevens is pretty much a huge excuse to dress up, and act ridiculous. People do huge group costumes. They go all out. It is the most impressive spectacle of ridiculousness. They take this seriously. They also do not watch the games. That is not the point of the tournament. Nope the point is to drink, and be ridiculous. It is highly entertaining to watch. There are strange but entertaining people in this world. The games, however, are the most interesting part for me. I love watching rugby. Think of linebackers with the nimbleness of running backs. They are fast, quick, and extremely impressive. The games are also fast paced, so it is something I can follow without getting bored. Emily Woods has to come back here with me so we can go to a game. She has to.

Saturday was an entirely different level of craziness than anything I have ever seen. 1) Our group went a fairies and crayons. I will let you guess if guys or girls with the fairies. 2) I have never seen so many drunk people in my life. 3) New Zealand won the tournament. I think you can put together how ridiculous our night was. It is like Mardi Gras, Halloween, and the Superbowl all in one. The streets are jammed packed. People are even more utterly ridiculous than the fairies I had accompanying me. There were marios, Katy Perrys, anything imaginable. Group costumes are huge. Everyone is in a pack of 10 or more. We saw one pac man, and thirty plus ghosts. This is an event to witness.

I cannot believe that I am 1/3 of the way done with this trip. It is weird to switch from the mindset of I have the possibility of doing everything, to I need to fit everything in. I am excited about Australia, however I am going to be extremely sad to leave this amazing country. I am coming back here. I have started a list of things I want to see again, do again, and get to do. I am coming back here to check those things off. I also want to share this with the people I love back at home. I can show you as many pictures as you want, but I don't think you can grasp it until you are here. The atmosphere, the people, the places are unique. It would be like trying to describe the color blue to someone who is blind. A near impossibility.

Winding Down

It is strange to think I am almost half way done with this trip. I have officially experienced one third of my study abroad experience. It makes me a bit sad, but more excited to truly live the remaining bit. While I have not posted in awhile, it is not for my lack of activity. Rather it is the exact opposite. I have never beeonn this busy. I cannot believe it is this possible to live this much in such a short amount of time. These past two weeks have been more about learning than really doing activities. I will attempt to recap everything as best as I can remember, but it truly has been a whirlwind.

I last left you with my struggle of limits. Well two weekends ago, I have been able to push them a bit further. The entire group of 31 students, five professors, and two amazing TA's traveled to Lake Taupo. We left bright and early on a coach bus, up to our first location Mt. Ruapehu. The trip was first and foremost an educational field trip to visit several interesting geological spots for one of the biology classes. They had to have class outside, while the rest of us could explore on our own. Mt. Ruapehu is a volcano. An active one at that. This is something I can't quiet grasp. We hiked on a volcano that could erupt at any moment. It is scary, but unfathomable. The mountain is also a ski resort in the winter. Yes people ski on volcanoes. I am not sure why that is so hard to believe, but being there in the summer just made it impossible to even imagine snow covering everything and seeing an ominous top of a volcano looming over you with disastrous possibilities. Mkay, back to the point. We explored a waterfall, a snow patch, and the amazing view. It simply was too pretty of a day to even describe. Then after a few more brief scenic stops, we arrived at Lake Taupo.

Lake Taupo is the spot for the New Zealand Ironman. Sarah, mark my words, we are going to complete it. This town, lake, surrounding area is the most breathtaking place for a workout. It is could not be a better place to push yourself completely to your physical limits. That is has been put on the bucketlist with every intention of being checked off. We explored the town, ate the most amazing Italian I have had since arriving, and went dancing. Two major things to note. 1) New Zealand is similar in some aspects to America regarding. It has very little distinctly New Zealand foods. However, the food itself is so much different. Everything has a sweet undertone, even things like ketchup and tartar sauce are just naturally sweeter. Also, they don't do as much preservatives and "unnatural food". Everything is fresher. The also love cafes. Love them. I don't want to go home to Starbucks after this trip. I love the atmosphere of sitting in a cafe, drinking the most amazing cappuccino, and people watching. It is fantastic. I will miss that. I will also miss the lack of commerical chains. They have  so many more mom and pop establishments. It is refreshing to walk along a busy street and not see one fast food restaurant. That doesn't happen in America. My home town has a handful of local joints, but most our chains. Here it is the exact opposite. If I could place American boldness and spicyness in a New Zeland's resturant I would be the happiest person alive. 2) Dancing. They do not do it. They do not grind, or even dance with people. It is all american songs at bars, but no one dances. I don't think any of them have the rhythm to, but booty dancing just isnt popular. It is amazing. It makes this little no rhythm girl fit in perfectly. After eating and dancing, we went back to our lake front hotel to rest up for our big hike.

 Friday morning, we hiked the tongariro crossing. The hike is called one of the top seven day hikes in the world, and rightfully so. It is spectacular. You started by hiking through the valley of a mountain range. You were  surrounded by grasses, waterfalls, flowers. Then as you began the ascent, the landscape changed from being luscious and alive, the being  completely barren and  void of life. The ascent is covered in volcanic rock as your approach the summit. At the top of the summit is Mt. Doom from the Lord of the Rings. I wish I had seen the movies to compare for you what it was like. I sadly cannot. However, the only word to accurately describe it is ominous. It stands taller than anything around it. The red and black volcanic rock, contrast against the crisp blue skies, cue clouds racing by and you have something that could be straight out of a movie. There is a quote from Sherlock Holmes that says fantasy couldn't even come up with somethings out of reality. It fits perfectly here. No one could have dreamed this up. It is too perfect, too amazing, too beautiful. We then traveled from the volcano, through a valley. It was vast, open, and again completely void of life. We then saw a sundog, which is a circle rainbow surrounding the sun. I swear I have seen more rainbows here than anywhere else. It is a spectacular sight. It is like the sun has a beautifully crafted halo.

We again, then, began to ascend. At the top instead of another volcano was a crater. It is this amazingly vivid red creation. It is something everyone needs to see. Then turning a corner, we saw my favorite part of the whole hike. Amidst the dust, rock, and barrenness, lies these three amazingly vivid blue, turquoise, green lakes. They sparkle in the sunlight and demand to be noticed. I wanted to swim so badly in them, however the overwhelming stench of sulfur deterred my efforts. Something tells me, my fellow classmates wouldn't had been thrilled had I taken a dip. We then traveled through more amazing mountain sites, through a rainforest, past rivers, past waterfalls. I cannot believe places like this exist on earth. It is spectacular.

Though as amazing as the hike was, the things I learned along the hike were almost if not better. I learned that professors are real people. Hiking with them, let me get to know two of my professors in particular. I had difficulty breathing along one and it was comforting to have someone helping the two of us. It formed this bond that I don't have with any other professor. I also got to talk with another professor about his likes, dislikes, college experiences. These are conversations I should have with all adults, however until now, haven't. It is something I will fix when I get back to the states. I also learned that everyone is out of their social comfort zone here. It doesn't matter what brave face people are putting on, everyone misses home, and loves to talk about it. It is something I have taken time to pull out of people, in order to help me cope with what I am missing. Who knew a hike could teach you that much.


After the hike, we used Saturday as a day for relaxation and fun. Three other girls and I rented vespas and scootered around town. I haven't laughed that much in years. First, we look sexy in our helments. Two, you miss a lot of sights in a car. Third, they are scooters. How could I not have fun? We explored the town, went to waterfalls, around the lake, to gardens, to playgrounds. We were little kids. It was amazing. I wouldn't have done that with anyone else on the trip either. Those girls have made my trip so much more enjoyable. That night I hit a rough patch of missing home. It was nice to see how many people I had willing to help me through it. If I have any advice for people planning to study abroad, it would be to open up to those who surround you. It helps you get through the tough times that everyone are bound to have. You cannot possibly get the most out of your experience without people. They are what make the trip. They are what you remember the most. Yes the town, the hike was amazing. But what made it spectacular were the people that surrounded them. Those are what my memories are made of. Swinging with little girls, laughing and singing glee on a scooter, scooting down a mountain on my butt with friends, belting American songs with locals thinking we are crazy. Those are the things that stick out. Those are the things I will take back with me to the States.

On Sunday, we headed back home. Exhausted, filled with new memories, and a crazily busy school week ahead. Do I regret not doing school work on the bus? Nope not one bit.