I have officially been here a little over a week. Yet, in that week I feel like I have done and seen so much. I have been keeping track in a journal but find it hard to sum up everything in a blog. I have seen some of the most beautiful sights without traveling more than an hour from where I’m living. Also, I have made an awesome group of friends that make it hard to believe I’ve only known them 10 days. Together, we have just been trying to soak up all the beauty around us and are constantly reminded how grateful we are to be here. The enthusiasm from the students, community, and university have really made my experiences so far extremely enjoyable.
The university seems like a great place. Through international orientation events, they have really welcomed us and reminded us that our studies are important but that we need to really experience NZ while were here and not just the library. All the staff and students have been so warm and welcoming. When the chancellor of the university welcomed hundreds of us international students at the start of orientation, I couldn’t help but be in awe at the concept of study abroad/exchange. It made me happy to see, and be part of, the room of eager and excited students from around the world who share the value of going abroad.
Anyways, here’s some of what the last few days have looked like:
This is one of many pictures from the top of Mt. Eden, the highest natural point in Auckland. It offered a beautiful 360 view of the city. We didn’t know what to do so decided to head here on a whim. It’s nice to be able to walk so many places and have a variety of options of what to do and see. My friends and I have made a checklist of things we want to do before the semester ends and, so far, it’s a pretty great way to plan our days!
Upon arriving off the ferry to Waiheke Island…extremely beautiful day
Oneroa beach at the island. It was absolutely gorgeous. I think we spent about over 2 hours walking in the water and just sitting in awe. While exploring the island, we must have walked at least 10 miles. It left us crazily tired and hungry but was well worth it. Sometimes, riding a bus just isn’t the same. Also, we noticed here that the sun really is stronger than we’re used to. Apparently, the ozone here is thinner or non-existant so the sun feels that much warmer and it is easy to burn. I didn’t burn though, no worries!
A view from the bridge walk we did across Auckland Bridge and further justification why Auckland is referred to as the “City of Sails”
A view of Auckland/some of the North Island from the summit of Rangitoto Island. We hiked to the top and I’m not going to lie, it wasn’t the easiest walk. It was quite rocky and steep but so many people do it. I have noticed the people here are extremely active. There’s always runners and bikers any day any time. I have been fortunate to find a running friend here. We have seen some awesome sunrises over the water and stopped at some beaches during our runs…not a bad way to get some miles in.
That’s all for now. We’re about to head to a local farmer’s market. Food here is extremely expensive but we have found some places with great deals. My group of friends has been rotating cooking dinner for each other so that’s also been a good time! Classes start Monday…yikes! But, nevertheless, I’m still excited for my next few months here.
Location: Auckland, NZ
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I really like the idea of making a list of things you want to see and do this semester, it will definitely be helpful to keep track of everything so you don’t waste anytime. I’m going to do that for my time in Italy too! New Zealand looks beautiful and I’m so jealous of the weather! Have fun:)
The photos really are amazing, definitely might use them to convince my housemates of a spring break trip to NZ.
Your photographs are gorgeous! Especially the one on top of Mt Eden. You seem like you are adjusting well to life abroad even though you’ve only been there for a few days! Good luck with classes starting Monday (this is midterms week for me)!