Follow the Journey

Written by Gavin Parker, 2022-23 Latitudes Student 

Kia Ora! My time in New Zealand has been very much an eye opener in many aspects, either that be culturally, environmentally, and learning more about myself as well. While working with Whenua Iti Outdoors, they have helped me see these learning opportunities and have allowed me to see the beauties of this country, taking me on many of their programs and seeing the rolling hills, canyons, talking with local Māori, and venturing the clear blue sea. Taking pictures and video for the marketing department has been a breeze. Most of my time working has felt like an adventure rather than work. Whenua Iti has treated me so well during my time here and I am so grateful to them for letting me have my volunteer placement here. It’s been such a great experience being able to learn, work, and enjoy the country all in one.

Carpe Diem: What has challenged you about this experience so far? 

Gavin: During my time here a few challenges have popped in and out. One being transportation since there is no bus, taxi, or Uber system in the town I’m staying in. So, I’ve had to ride my bike every day and, on occasion, get a ride from a coworker. But more than anything it’s been great getting a good 10 mile ride every day in my day so it’s not too much of a challenge. Also, being able to find things to do in my freetime when I’m not in the office. Though here and there I have a day where I just rest, most of the time I get offers to do things and it’s been getting me outside of my room doing something in the city nearby or out in the wilderness. The other challenge has been budgeting my money and stretching it out for weeks ahead. However, I’ve done well with that though as I rarely eat out and usually make my own food.

Carpe Diem: What have been some of the top highlights? 

Gavin: Since New Zealand is fairly good for outdoor adventures, I’m not going to let up any offers. So, in the first week when they offered to take me rafting, I did not hesitate. Though it was their safety training I enjoyed it very much. Since then, some of my biggest highlights during this trip have ranged from time spent on the beach kayaking and paddle boarding, waka racing at Tahuna beach, canyoning in the Abel Tasman, rock climbing in golden bay, a bit of time mountain biking, and spending time on the programs. It makes me glad that I’m working with an outdoor education organization since they ensure my safety for these outings and give me the opportunities to do such things.

Carpe Diem: What have you learned about yourself so far? 

Gavin: Since the start of the program, I have learned and grown into more of an independent person. I’ve been able to take care of my health both mentally and physically, along with taking care of my responsibilities at Whenua Iti. This trip has given me more insight into adulthood and how I maneuver through challenges that arise. It’s also given me a better viewpoint on culture. Though I’ve traveled to Greece and Italy in my previous semester where culture is really rich, I’ve learned more in New Zealand. I had the chance to talk to some of the Māori kids on one of Whenua Iti’s programs and they gave a better insight to what their culture means to them and talks about the idea of living without it is impossible to think of. Relating this back home in the states we eat to eat, we sleep to sleep, and we swim to swim, for the Māori in New Zealand these things have a deeper meaning. They have introductions (mihis), songs (waiatas), prayers (karakias) that they speak in their native language either for food, start their days, set off to sea, or before they go to sleep. The culture is very rich here and being able to learn from them gave me more of an understanding of what culture is.

Inspired by Gavin’s gap year? Learn more about the Latitudes Year and carve out your own journey!