Virginia Reid, the Hokies Abroad service-learning in New Zealand and North Queensland 2015 student blogger, writes:

Hello and Kia Ora!

Our last days in New Zealand came much too soon, we were busy up until the very last second! Over the last few days we ventured to a Maori Unities Educational Lodge, called Waitaia Lodge, participating in a formal welcoming ceremony.  We explored the scenic land and discussed the importance of the Maori culture as well as their background and methods of sustainable living.

While in the area we also had the chance to meet, teach, and learn from the local children at Arataki Primary School. The children made us feel so welcome and created the perfect example of how influential we can be to younger generations.

While in Rotorua we became tourists, visiting the Rainbow Springs Kiwi Encounter and the Rotorua Geothermal Site, where we were able to see kiwi birds in captive breeding as well as some beautiful geysers. One of our own, Carl, even became “Chief” during the Maori show in the Art and Cultural center due to our previous knowledge about their rituals. Though I’m sure our knowledgeable guide also helped him along!

Finally, we reached our last stop in New Zealand, the beautiful city of Auckland where we anxiously awaited our first free day.  Some of the group traveled to the legendary Hobbiton, other bird lovers voyaged to the island reserve of Tiritiri Matangi and the remaining five of us explored the city and took a ferry to the quaint and beautiful city of Devonport. Where we were able to see astounding views from the top of Mount Victoria.

New Zealand has been an experience unlike any other. Friendships were made, forests were planted, and the term “Kiwi” became three different definitions to us. We are so sad to say good-bye to our beloved time in New Zealand, but the adventures must continue into the beautiful land of Australia!

Goodbye Kiwis!