New Zealand: South Pacific Expedition

Our group flight crosses the international date line, makes a stop in Fiji, and finally lands in Auckland! We meet our Kiwi guides and travel to the rugged western coast of the North Island. After we arrive, our home in the beach community of Raglan provides us with an incredible backdrop for teambuilding activities, getting to know one another, and learning about the history and culture of “Aotearoa.” Here, we embark on a variety of environmental projects such as perma-culture, planting trees, and a community recycling project. When we are not working, we are hanging out with our new friends and enjoying New Zealand’s incredible beauty. Activities include learning to surf at the famous Raglan beach break, hiking on Mt. Karioi, and kayaking along the bay.

The next portion of our trip brings lots of adventure! We explore the world-renowned Waitomo Caves, home to glowworms and geological marvels. We even get the opportunity to rock climb and repel down waterfalls. On our way to the next destination, we stop to volunteer with the Kiwi Foundation and get a chance to see these endangered birds! We then head to the city of Taupo to explore the famous Huka Falls.

The next part of our New Zealand journey takes us to the geothermal wonderland of the central North Island to gain a true appreciation for the Māori people and their unique culture in Rotorua and the Te Puia Marae. The local community welcomes us– sharing the spirit, legends, dance, song, food, vitality, and warmth that are the essence of New Zealand’s native Māori culture. We drive along the beautiful landscape, getting a taste of the country that brought us ‘The Lord of The Rings’ (and a stop by the set of The Shire!). Our final New Zealand stop is Auckland, “the City of Sails.” On our last evening in New Zealand, we have time to explore,  and reflect on the first leg of this amazing journey.