New Zealand

New Zealand is a very beautiful country. By volunteering here, it has helped me see that and help restore that natural look. Daily activities included carving new paths, planting trees, and cutting invasive weeds to allow sunlight to reach the native plant species. This trip wasn't just about the volunteering; it included a whole new cultural experience. I lived on a marae in a suburb of Wellington, and it was beautiful. It was built by Bruce Stewart and a few friends, and is still being added on to. He and his daughter taught me and my group much about the Maori culture, such as a powhiri, a formal greeting, a few songs, the haka (also performed by the New Zealand national rugby team, the 2011 World Champion All Blacks!) My personal favourite is the hangi, where they cook food underground on hot coals. In addition to this, I also got to tour the country, doing activities such as hiking a glacier, bungee jumping, and whitewater and blackwater rafting, just to name a few. I traveled from Queenstown to Auckland, and got to see much of the amazing country! This experience has impacted me in a way that can't just be described in words. I came back to the U.S. feeling empty, as I wanted to be out volunteering and exploring other cultures. The world is here for us to explore; it gives us life, and it is up to us to give back.