Submitted by Lauren Stagnitti on the 2024 Winter program in Australia and New Zealand…
After a long travel day, my group and I arrived in Auckland on the morning of Friday, January 5th. After settling in and taking a walking tour of the city, we went to a group dinner where our group bonded quickly and I made many new friends.
On January 6th, our first full day, we traveled to Waiheke Island and visited “Allpress Olive Groves” as a group, where we were able to taste four different olive oils as well as fresh olives. It was very interesting to taste the different flavors of olive oil and learn about what kind of dishes each is meant for. We then spent the day exploring Waiheke Island and we visited Cable Bay Vineyards for lunch and a wine tasting. We learned about different kinds of white and red wines and were able to taste four different kinds. We then went to the beach and got to go cliff jumping and ate dinner on the beach.
On the ferry ride home, we met a local woman named Charolette who talked to us about her experiences as a local, and how they differ from our norms as Americans. We learned about how laws and taxes differ and it was really interesting to learn that in New Zealand, healthcare is free and you cannot sue peoole. She also talked to us about how the New Zealand lifestyle is more laid back compared to the high pace of the lifestyle in America. We also learned that all of the locals are very friendly and willing to help tourists with directions, questions, recommendations, etc. which is different from most parts of the U.S. It was really fascinating to speak with a local and hear about her day to day experiences living in New Zealand, what she does for work, and how she perceives America.
On January 7th, we visited Waitekere park ranges as well as Piha beach. We hiked in Waitekere and learned about the history of the park, and how to keep it clean. At Piha beach, we hiked to an ocean lookout and were able to see the beautiful views. New Zealander’s are very environmentally conscious and it is really special to learn from them about how we can better take care of our planet.
Our classes began today, January 8th, and we were lucky enough to get a visit from Mike Hearn at AmCham as well as visit DHL express and meet with their Vice President of Operations, Chitra Shinde. We learned a lot of valuable information about the day to day operations of each business as well as how they handled the global pandemic. At DHL express, we were able to tour the packaging warehouses and see first hand how it efficiently operates. It feels very valuable to get the ability to get this real world, hands on experience and to talk to these important business men and women face to face.
Overall, we are settling in very well and are making new friends and experiencing new things every day! I can’t wait for what’s to come. (Submitted on January 7, 2024)