Mimifunata!

The past week in Mimiwhangata was a perfect introduction to New Zealand. It was filled with excitement, hard work, and also some much needed relaxation. Our group spent the morning uprooting weeds, taking down old fences, fixing up houses, etc. After work (and sometimes before) we could explore the pristine beaches, rocky cliffs, and windy hills that make up Mimiwhangata.

I personally found excitement in a few surprise kayak surfing sessions, but found that the most memorable moments had to be sitting on the tops of some of the giant hills either watching the sunrise or simply basking in the beauty of the landscape. Others found special moments playing cards in the grass, sitting in the Pohutakawa trees, going for afternoon swims and playing some rugby or soccer.

While we are more than excited for the rest of the trip, we continue to remember the experiences we have had and the places we leave behind us. - Ian