NEW ZEALND
01 DESTINATION
New Zealand is often featured in films as the setting for mythical and fictional worlds, because in many ways, IT IS a world of its own. For most of its history, New Zealand remained untouched by outside influences. The result was the creation of a very unique geography, biology, and culture. About 82 percent of New Zealand indigenous plants are endemic. The geography ranges from southern snowcapped mountains to northern subtropics or from rural pastures to volcanic activity. New Zealand is divided into two main islands. New Zealand is home to Mt. Ruapehu (an active volcano), Lake Taupo (with a surface area of 238 sq mi), the Southern Alps, Canterbury Plains, and Franz Josef Glacier. With so many different terrains to explore and experience, it feels as though New Zealand is a dozen realms within two islands. However, because of its distance from United States, the journey to New Zealand is not one that many undertake. If I travel to New Zealand, I wish to see and experience New Zealand’s rural and urban geography. I wish to see the Glowworms in the Waitomo Caves, the geysers in Rotorua, and watch a Rugby game in Wellington. I want to enjoy the sunny beaches in Nelson or take a hike through the Fox Glaciers. The polar extremes found in New Zealand makes it one of the most unique countries to explore.
02 PURPOSE
This trip will be a catalyst for my future. This trip would be my first journey outside of the U.S. From start to finish, this will be my first journey where I would be in control of my direction. I would be the planner, the navigator, and the explorer. I have felt that I have lived a sheltered life. If I did take a trip, it was either with a family or with a large group. At times, I have lacked confidence, because I do not have enough experiences. Not only will going on the trip enrich my life, but being responsible for organizing the trip will empower me. The task of organizing a trip that would span nearly 1644 mi, longer than the West Coast of the U.S., in a foreign country I have never visited, while incorporating all the activities I will partake in, is an accomplishment that will instill me with pride. This quest will expose me to some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the world. It will mark the beginning of future explorations. In order to truly break myself from my routine, I need a drastic change.
03 DOCUMENTATION
I will document my journey by writing a blog that will feature videos of activities I will undertake. I plan to wear a GoPro camera on a headband so I can record what is happening around me, while still being able to live in the moment. I will not just describe the destination, but also express my emotional reaction. I will utilize every one of my senses in order to truly immerse myself in the experience. I will also do a presentation that will summarize my experience. What I hope to achieve through the GoPro videos is a ďŹ st hand recording of the experience, where the viewer will be able to see through my eyes.