SOUTH PACIFIC -- Whanau- a Maori word for extended family.
The students arrived less than a week ago and they have already embraced the meaning of this word. Actually, for most of them, their initial bonding moment came when their plane experienced uncharacteristically strong turbulence while high above the Pacific.
After a safe landing we made our way to our new hometown of Kaikoura where we shared a New Zealand favorite - fish and chips on the beach. The sun was hot, the water was cold and the fish and chips, well, they were greasy but delicious.
Badminton in the backyard.
Photo: Sierra (Point Loma '12)
Orientation is now in full swing. We are learning everything from how to care for our chickens to what flavors of ice cream the local dairy has in stock (some include Pure Passion and Boysenberry).
An important part of learning a new place is learning the plants and animals that call it home too.
We hiked the Fyffe-Palmer Track together in the rain. Photo: Sierra (Point Loma '12)
It is our hope throughout the upcoming semester to grow, individually and collectively, in ways that bring us closer as a whanau.
So here it is, our newly formed, yet surprisingly close family...
Sarah, Travis, Stacey, Jaci, Mathias, Jordyn, Traci, Anna, Josh, Kerry, Max, Korrie, Gina, Sierra, Courtnay, Emma, Jess, Allie, Sam and Tyler.
There is no better way to meet locals than to host a barbeque.
Photo: Sierra (Point Loma '12)
Watching the sunset is quickly becoming an integral part of our family routine.
Photo: Sierra (Point Loma '12)
