Kia Ora!
Week 1 is done! And what an incredible first week in Kaikoura it has been! The 6 of us have pretty much adjusted to New Zealand life and are enjoying the pursuit of a Kiwi lifestyle. We also finished our first class, Te Reo, which was quite the immersive experience as we learned Hakas, mihimihis (introductions), and everything else one would need to present an authentic Te Reo Whaikorero (speech). Our instructor, Brett, was amazing. A local Maori, Brett is skilled in the saxophone, well-versed in conservation efforts, and excellent at teaching us Te Reo and Maori culture.
So far, life in New Zealand is pleasant as can be. I have loved surfing and getting immersed in the Kaikoura landscapes. The town is nestled between the ocean and green pastures with humongous snowy mountains overlooking everything. It’s going to take a while to get used to the view. The Kaikoura community is super welcoming and we have enjoyed the charming town full of coffee shops, thrift stores, and fish and chips. The CCSP staff and Professors have been incredible in teaching us how to be mindful followers of Jesus as we pursue a creation-caring perspective.
Some random things we did this last week: Surfed 6-10 foot waves, learned how to bake bread, learned the ukulele, preserved Dotterel nests on the South Bay, hiked the Kaikoura Peninsula (and got scared by a cow), planted trees native to New Zealand, learned about the existence of moss piglets, baked cookies for the nearby hospital, and visited the Reserve Recovery Center.
It’s been legendary…
Max Kru – Biola University