New Zealand 2016

This summer I traveled to New Zealand for four weeks to volunteer and experience much of what the country has to offer. The trip was even better than expected as we hit many of the major sites and cities in the country, but mostly because of the project I was assigned. For the first two weeks I lived on a Maraea belonging to a local Maori family. I learned so much about their customs and culture that I know I will carry with me back home in the US.

For my volunteer project, I spent two weeks planting manuka trees on the land surrounding the maraea in order to improve the water quality in the rivers and streams. After two weeks, I began the adventure tour and was able to participate in activities like white water rafting, black water rafting, and touring Hobbiton. Black Water Rafting was easily my favorite adventure activity because I was able to conquer my fears and climb waterfalls and repel down a 16-story shaft into the caves.

I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone wishing to experience New Zealand. It is one of the most beautiful countries and has a lot to offer. Personally, I made friends that I know I will have for the rest of my life. This program is what you make of it individually, and because I went into it with an open mind, I know that I made the most of my month in New Zealand.