Submitted by Maggie Parker on the 2025 Winter program in New Zealand…
This past month has been the best month of my life. All the fresh food I had, people I talked to, hikes around the country, and friends I made along the way will stick with me for a lifetime. One thing that really stuck with me was the infusion of Maori culture and Western culture. Similar to the States, Europeans came to found New Zealand, but there were already native groups fully established on the islands. This caused much war and tension, very similar to American history. Instead of completely eliminating Maori culture forever, there is an integrating back into society. With schools teaching children both English and Maori, street signs being written in Maori, and even names of towns being changed back to the original Maori name, there is an acceptance of native culture that was so unique and wonderful to observe for a month. “Kia ora”, is a common phrase most often used for hello. However, depending on the tone of your voice and the context of the conversation, it can have many, many meanings. “Kia ora” is also used to say goodbye. So with that, kia ora to the best month I have been able to experience, to the friends, food, and hikes along the way, and to the amazing country of New Zealand. I know I will come back one day. (Submitted January 29, 2025)
