To most, kiwi is an exotic fruit. In New Zealand, it is a native, flightless bird, and also the term used to describe the native people. Not only were the Kiwis wonderful to interact with, studying geology and environmental science in a country with such diversity was truly the experience of a lifetime. Before the trip, we attended classes where we were informed of the different land forms and climates of New Zealand as well as various environmental practices. While the lectures were interesting and informative, nothing could prepare me for what I would actually see on the other side of the world.
For me, the greatest thing about the New Zealand trip was exploring a vast majority of the country. We were lying on the beach by the Pacific Ocean one day, in a city the next, and in the blink of an eye, we were hiking through a temperate rain forest and on to a glacier! The first few nights were spent at a Marae, or a place where native (Maori) people gather for certain occasions. We participated in a ceremony led by the eldest Maori present upon entering the Marae and continued to experience rituals and traditions during our stay. This was an incredible way to exchange cultures with the natives as we engaged in conversation and hiked through their sacred grounds.
My favorite place in New Zealand was Queenstown. Located on the South Island, the views were breathtaking in every direction, and Wakatipu Lake was visible from my hotel room. Since we stayed here the longest, we thoroughly experienced the city and nearby attractions. The first full day we enjoyed the thrill of jet boating and took a four-wheel drive tour of the location where Lord of the Rings and various other movies were filmed.
After a morning on the water, we had the evening to explore the city. The next day, however, was the highlight of my trip. I bungee jumped in the morning over the Kawarau River, and after free falling 43 meters, I was inches from touching the gorgeous blue water. It was a feeling almost impossible to explain but nothing short of exhilarating. The rest of our only “free day” was spent taking a gondola to a lodge with great views of the city, relaxing on the wharf, and kayaking across a lake for dinner.
Two weeks among the Kiwis certainly exceeded my expectations. I left the states knowing almost no one in the group, and returned home with 31 new friends who also shared my incredible journey. The professors were phenomenal, and I couldn’t be happier that I took advantage of this trip.
Working with third graders at an elementary school near Pittsburgh, Pa., has also been a great experience. As we continue to exchange stories, research, and questions via email and webcasts, I continue to enjoy discussing my trip and experiences. The pristine environment I witnessed in New Zealand has made me realize that we often take nature for granted. It is important to make efforts to preserve the Earth and its natural resources, and upon graduating I hope to make an impact with my degree and first-hand experiences such as this incredible interim trip.
Civil and Environmental Engineering at Lafayette
Study Abroad at Lafayette
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