Submitted by Katherine Pacer on the 2016 winter session program in New Zealand sponsored by the Department of Animal and Food Sciences…
Green. That’s what I associate so far with New Zealand. Green and very friendly people are the two things that stick out the most. I’ve flown half-way around the world to get to one of the most beautiful and nicest places on earth. It took almost a full two days to get here, but so far I have no regrets. I’m staying on the South Island of New Zealand, which is covered in farmland. From the high hills down to the Canterbury plains, the land is all green pasture to feed sheep, horses and cattle. The green rolling hills almost remind me of where I call home, Pennsylvania; however, the hills here feel untouched. Minimal things have been done to change the landscape from when settlers arrived in the 19th Century. Not only does this probably keep the citizens of this country happy, but it’s a smart business move. New Zealand is an island that is located far away from the rest of the world. To be a profitable nation, they rely highly on exported goods and tourism to the country. It doesn’t even take the seven days I’ve been here to find out that what draws people in is how remarkably beautiful the country is.
It can’t be forgotten that by being an island nation, New Zealand is surrounded by beautiful waters as well. I’ve only ever seen water so clear and crystal blue once before in my life, in the Dominican Republic. I have visited four beaches in my time here, and so far the coasts in New Zealand have been incredibly breath-taking. I feel like the color along with the beautiful views throughout the country contribute to people’s overall happiness. The native Kiwis translate this into their attitudes and respect for others and for their country. I can’t help but wonder if in America we’ve lost a bit of this feeling for ourselves. There are beautiful landscapes all around us in the United States, but we’ve forgotten to stop and take it in and let nature’s beauty affect us. New Zealand’s got it right so far. They’re doing a lot to preserve their beautiful country for future generations. Hopefully, that’s something my study abroad group and myself can take home with us at the end of this journey.