After the longest flight of my life, 24 hours of traveling. I made it to the other side of the world. My first impression of this beautiful country was an older Māori woman, Pippa, whom I met on the plane. I discovered she’s a social worker (my major!), and we instantly clicked! Learning a culture is always better through the locals. She was in Dunedin for a business trip and had rented a car, so she offered my mother and me a ride to our hotel. She said the taxis were way too expensive. Pippa told us all about Māori customs, beliefs, and culture on our journey through the mountains to the city by the harbor. The island was named Aotearoa by the Māori settlers long ago because, as they arrived, it appeared as a long floating white cloud to them. There’s a North and South island, both having their multitude of tribes and different cultures, but there’s a strong sense of community and unity in their environment throughout the country. Pippa’s kindness, generosity, and wisdom were the perfect introduction to this beautiful country and people; the Kiwis are the most friendly people in the world!
As for the seaside city of Dunedin, it is everything all at once. With the vast green mountains surrounding the harbor, the steepest street in the world is here. The beaches are beautiful, with an aqua blue hue and huge waves; the surfering reminds me of Salve. The city is a cultural blend of Māori, Chinese, and Scottish, with a whomping population of 25,000 students. The city never sleeps, and right next door is the vast peninsula, home to yellow-eyed penguins, black swans, and huge sea lions. In the past month I have been here, I explored the forests, gardens, beaches, and the rich art and theatre this city offers. People are simpler but live much richer lives. They prioritize their happiness, family, earth, and values over money, and it’s been quite refreshing. The indigenous community here believes in Tikanga, a set of principles they follow. They see no separation between us and the earth; we are one with the sea, sky, mountains, and valleys. It was a culture shock for me compared to the disconnection between our consumption and the earth in the United States. Rāhui is a conversation restriction frequently done here to preserve wildlife populations, resource protection, and the community’s health. When they conserve, they are rewarded the next season with more prosperous fish or plant growth. I’ve had access to cheap fruits and vegetables at the local farmers market. I’m constantly in a state of gratitude to be here.
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