Mackenzie Erickson, the Eagles Abroad sustainability in Australia and New Zealand 2015-16 student blogger, writes:

Kia Ora!

That means hello in Maori, which the indigenous culture here in New Zealand. The first few days of the trip have been packed full of activities. I was fortunate enough to make it to all of my flights on time unlike part of the student group who got stuck in Chicago because of the snow. So far we have spent our time in Auckland, New Zealand. I have gone on a bus tour of the city, learned about the Maori culture, spent the day by the water at Mission Bay, and rung in the New Year at the heart of the city.

In only a few days I’ve realized how clean New Zealand is. The country is so dense with ecotourism and sustainability that I imagine there will be no problem in learning the content of this course and how important it is. Over the next few weeks I can’t wait to experience all the great things on our itinerary and be able to come home and share what I’ve learned with everyone. I will make sure to keep you all updated!