The first place we stayed during our amazing study abroad program was a small, connected, and beautiful surfer town called Raglan. I have been looking for a town like this for twelve years. First off, it is the greenest place I have ever seen. It … [Read more...] about Raglan: Simply Sustainable
Don’t Worry Mom, We Are All Eating Well.
Food is the ingredient that binds us all together. We know this from family meals, holidays, ceremonies, spending time with friends, etc. We all lead busy lives, and sitting down for a meal is usually a nice way to slow down a bit and enjoy … [Read more...] about Don’t Worry Mom, We Are All Eating Well.
New Zealand’s Take on Sustainability
Learning how New Zealand values nature and its protection is both inspiring and disheartening. It is impossible to not compare the Kiwi’s view on the environment to our own. In today’s political climate in the United States, the health of the … [Read more...] about New Zealand’s Take on Sustainability
Walking Through Nature
I cannot believe we have been in New Zealand for over two weeks now, the time has flown by and we’ve learned so much! I am very excited to be staying at the Hart Family Farm for the next five days. It is absolutely gorgeous, the rolling hills are … [Read more...] about Walking Through Nature
Head-faked
It is currently day 13 here in New Zealand. I am still having to pinch myself. I wake up every morning thinking I am at home again and I have to actively remind myself that I am on this insane adventure toward growth. Shortly after waking up I can … [Read more...] about Head-faked
Rediscovery
WhenI first saw the poster for this trip I was excited because I thought this trip would be a cool place to study abroad. I knew I was going to learn about New Zealand but I had no clue that the things I learned would apply so much to my life back … [Read more...] about Rediscovery
Find your team, stay connected, and stand in your love
Today, we had the wonderful opportunity to meet with many local leaders of the wonderful community of Raglan. Representatives from Plastic Bag Free Raglan, Bag It, Karioi Maunga ki te Moana, and KASM (Kiwi’s Against Sea Mining) selflessly shared … [Read more...] about Find your team, stay connected, and stand in your love
The Power of Being Vulnerable
Today was easily one of the most transformational experiences each of us has ever had. We had the privilege to take part in a traditional sweat lodge ceremony at Manu Wairua Retreat, which was an incredible experience. We anticipated going into the … [Read more...] about The Power of Being Vulnerable
Breathe and look behind you
Actively choosing to learn from another culture on your own volition is a lot like summiting a mauka (mountain) on a starry night. You can read about the environment and what possibilities the magnificent landscape might have to offer, but you can … [Read more...] about Breathe and look behind you
Wayfinding Our Mana
The group has been plunged into an intense program since ending orientation. As Andrew discussed in a previous post, we have been starting to get the initial building blocks for Te Reo Maori. This has been very challenging for everyone involved but … [Read more...] about Wayfinding Our Mana