Amiekay's Adventure | Page 4 of 5 | "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all" -Helen Keller

July 27, 2017February 25, 2018

The Reality of Finding Work Abroad

Anyone who thinks it is easy finding a job abroad either works in tech or has never actually tried it.

I have been in New Zealand for over 2 months now, and just finally found someone who will pay me to work. And while it is a good gig, it’s only on a temporary basis, which means unless they continue to have a need for me, I could be without a job again come October. And for anyone who enjoys a sense of security, that’s a tough pill to swallow.

I’m a good candidate with lots of experience and I like to think a decent online presence. I come with passion and a somewhat ridiculous work ethic. I have written some incredible cover letters and have applied to dozens and dozens of jobs since moving here. And what has that gotten me in New Zealand? Two interviews and one job offer. (Unfortunately, the job offer was based in a distant suburb of Auckland on weekends, and would almost definitely require me to have a car so I had to turn it down.) This, of course, has affected my confidence and has sort of caused me to withdraw back into myself. It has caused me to walk away from this blog, and spend most of my time wondering why I moved here in the first place.

I have been asking around, and the most common answer I get from anyone is that immigration is a big political issue here at the moment and that I probably won’t be able to find permanent work of any kind until after the election, and employers know more if I am a candidate they can invest in. Meanwhile, I am missing having a career and upward mobility. I am missing creating but at the same time avoiding it because this inability to even just get interviews is new to me, and makes me wonder what I am doing with my life. It makes me think maybe I should return to the States, where I can find work, health insurance, and a sense of stability.

Is any of this New Zealand’s fault? No. Like the States, it only makes sense a country wants to provide for its citizens first before making room for new people like me. I get it, I do, but it doesn’t make my struggle, or any other immigrant or expat’s struggle any less valid. (Or any less frustrating.)

So what am I to do here if I want to stay? Well, I have always loved spending time on the computer since my childhood. (Seriously, ask my family how I would take over the family computer and build websites during middle and high school.) So, I have thought about going to school to learn coding or some other skill in the tech world to make me more appealing to employers. I know it is something I would enjoy, but student debt is a hard reality I am still dealing with and not something I’m sure I want to incur more of.

So what is the point of writing all this? Well, I think people have this misconception that being a qualified candidate makes it easy for you to live anywhere you want. That if you work hard enough, you can achieve whatever dream you have for yourself. But the truth is that this isn’t possible to some extent, as there are external factors at play, especially for people seeking a life in a new country. Short of starting your own business, opportunities are few and far between unless you have a skill that can’t be found in someone else who already has residency or citizenship — or two things you can’t get anyway without a job offer or a native partner.

I am sorry if this seems political, I don’t mean it to be. I simply needed a post to explain where I’ve been for the past few weeks. I have plans to get back into this blog, but I really needed a break while I dealt with some of these issues. Obviously, they haven’t been fixed but I am at a much better place now than I was a few weeks ago. I also wanted to give you some reality into what it is like looking for jobs outside of your country of residence, and just how hard it is to find a job when you are a foreigner, even if you speak the same language.

On another, happier note, the working environment here in New Zealand is quite different than that in the States. (For one, I drank beer in the office yesterday!) But I’ll save that for another post.

Drinking a cider at my desk as part of “Friday drinks,” a tradition in many New Zealand workplaces

July 25, 2017February 25, 2018

Marlborough Wine Country

So I finally started working here in New Zealand. It is a temp job, but its money and that means I can do things like leave Wellington and explore this beautiful country. And being a white wine fan, my first place trip was, of course, to Marlborough wine country.

The original vineyard at Hunters Winery, planted in the 1970’s

The region isn’t that far from Wellington, but it is on the South Island (or what’s known to the locals as the “main land,”) so that means you either have to get on a plane or boat. Both modes of transportation are adventures in their own right, and thankfully my friend who booked the trip had us take a boat there, and a plane back.

You have two ferry options to cross the Cook Strait from Wellington to Picton: either the Interislander or the Bluebridge ferry. On this sailing, we took the Interislander, which is the original, although I am told there are pros and cons to both.

One of the stunning views from the ferry of the South Island

If you luck out like us, the ferry ride will provide you with stunning views of both islands and crisp blue waters. There’s really no words to describe it, and for around $50 NZD ($37.30 USD) it is a real bargain. (However, if you go on a stormy day it may not be as smooth, as some riders found out a few days later.)

In case you don’t know, New Zealand is a country of micro-climates. It means a quick car trip could take you from a chilly, windy day in one place to a beautiful, still sunny place in another. And that’s really what happened to us. Unlike the blustery, chilly and gray Wellington I am currently calling home, the other side of the strait is beautiful and sunny. It is lush with palmettos, and once we arrived in Blenheim, I felt like I was in a beautiful small seaside town somewhere in South Carolina.

The main intersection in Blenheim, complete with a gazebo and clock tower

Blenheim may be tiny and quaint, but it is a lot of fun. And its hotels have heat so I felt like a real queen. (Mostly because it had insulation and heat in all rooms.) My friends and I got some lunch at a wonderful Indian Restaurant called Mango in town. And then, after a quick nap we out to enjoy a quick wine tasting before heading to a local pub to watch the rugby test between the New Zealand All Blacks and the British & Irish Lions. The game was a close one, and really fun to watch until it ended in a tie! Maybe it is because I’m American, but watching match up between two great teams that only happen more than a decade apart end without a winner is a bit of a bummer.

The real fun began the next day when we hopped on the Highlight Wine Tour van to check out a few wineries in the region. The Marlborough area, known for its Sauvignon Blancs because of its warm days and cool nights, is beautiful and vast. Just take a ride down the main road and you’ll see wineries lining both sides, some of which are full of sheep and lambs to helping to keep the grass trimmed. (Unfortunately, we were driving past these wineries so I didn’t get any pictures.)

A look at the vineyards from the restaurant at Wairau River Winery

We visited several wineries on our trip, which ended up being private since we went off season. (Most people visit Marlborough in the summer months.) It was, unfortunately, a bit rainy so we didn’t get to stroll the vineyards like I would like to, but I still enjoyed myself. This was my first wine tour anywhere, and the neat thing about Highlight is the tour is tailored to who is on the bus, so the wineries we were planning on visiting changed once or twice throughout the day. For example, we originally were going to visit vineyards known for their rieslings (my favorite variety, don’t judge,) but as the day went on we were really keen on drinking reds, so instead, we visited a place specializing in Pinot Noirs. It was a really wonderful experience, and our tour guide was a wonderful and cheeky woman named Colleen who picked up on our sense of humor quite quickly. We loved her so much we gave her a hug at the end of the trip.

But the adventure didn’t end there. Remember I said the flight was equally adventurous as the ferry? That’s because we flew in a Cessna! While I have flown in small planes before, I had never flown on one commercially and enjoyed this unique experience. Because it is was so tiny, you could watch the pilots fly the plane, and even hear all of the conversations being had between other passengers. (Additionally, you could wake everyone up who was sleeping by just checking your phone!) There were also more traditional flight amenities, including a magazine in for each passenger to read. (And oddly enough, I had more leg-space on that 25-minute flight over the Cook Strait than I ever had on more standard commercial airplanes.) I’ll admit the flight was a bit bumpy going into “Windy Welly” but that wouldn’t deter me from doing it again. The company that flies the planes, SoundsAir, flies from multiple destinations around New Zealand and its something I would suggest you look into should you ever decide to visit.

A photo of me on the ferry by my friend, Ashley. Here’s to more adventures!

July 10, 2017February 25, 2018

Seeing Seals at Te Kopahou Reserve

So here’s an update you weren’t expecting: I went on an actual hike, like on purpose. (Or was it more of a long walk? This definition is sort of up to debate amongst my friends.) Either way, I took time out a few days ago to see nature and guys, I actually enjoyed it.

One of the views that made the dirty shoes worth the walk

Here’s how it happened: after a long night out (you wouldn’t believe if I told you what time I went to bed,) a friend of mine messaged me the next afternoon and asked if I wanted to go and see live, wild seals. Not really thinking about my dehydration or really anything other than the fact I would get to see seals I immediately said yes. I didn’t think to ask how long it would be, or what kind of shoes to wear. (However, since I only own things that fit in a suitcase, I wouldn’t have had too many choices for the latter.) That being said, I am going to assume my enthusiasm and adrenaline got me through the next few hours, because looking back, I’m not really sure how I managed to make it the 2 and a half-hour trek otherwise. But regardless, it was totally worth it.

The Te Kopahou Reserve seems like another world, but it is a short drive out of Wellington city center; it took us about 10 minutes to get there. When you arrive at the reserve’s massive parking lot, you’re met with accessible restrooms, water fountains and other amenities so you can make sure you’re prepared before taking the trek. (The only thing it doesn’t have is food, so I suggest you eat whatever you need to get you through the walk before you go.)

This picture screams inspirational quote to me

Once you pass through the gates, be prepared for some breathtaking scenery. The reserve is only open to pedestrians and bikers; if you see a car on the path it must belong to one of the areas few residents, and they are only allowed in a small portion of the beach. (My entire trip we saw just one vehicle.) Most of the trek is also sand, so take that into account when wearing shoes. (Don’t be me and wear chucks!)

The easy walk is 100% worth it and offers some of the most stunning views I have seen so far in New Zealand. It was also the first time in my life I have had the privilege of seeing black sand (which if you haven’t seen is a beautiful site in itself!) The black beaches, jutting rocks and spectacular mountains are really amazing to see. (And this is all before you get to the seals!)

The seal in the background is just showing off

When we finally got to the seal colony about an hour and fifteen minutes from the entrance, I was blown away. We didn’t just see one seal, no these creatures littered just about every rock in the areas “red rock” formation. Because they are conserving energy, it is easy to walk up to them and take a picture. (One did bark at me, but quickly went back to his nap.) I was also really excited to find one laying right along the path, but this excitement quickly subsided after the poor animal threw up. We also came across at least 2 dead seal carcasses, so the path isn’t 100% serene, but it is natural and in my opinion, worth every step.

Another highlight of the walk is the “Devil’s Gate” formation at the top of a mountain near the seal colony. It is the perfect spot to grab an instagram photo to share with your friends at you enter the other side of Middle Earth, although I promise it is too beautiful to be Mordor. (If you are going to take a photo though, I would recommend walking through it and turning around for the best shot. Otherwise, you’ll have a warning sign in your image and also miss the chance to capture the sea and the mountains in the background.)

This is the side not to use (I edited out the warning sign because I mean, just look at it!)

My friend Anca took a photo of me on the “right” side

I should also mention this trek also introduced me to Paua shells, a beautiful type of shell unique to New Zealand. They feature iridescent blue, green and purples on their insides. Chances are you’ve heard of them or seen something similar, but that doesn’t make them any less beautiful.

Another inspirational quote photo featuring paua shells

I would like to go back to Te Kopahou Reserve and see the sunset sometime, as the little glimpse we caught of the sun falling behind the clouds was quite beautiful. However, because it is New Zealand there are no lights along the path, you’ll have to be prepared with your own flashlight or torch to get you home. I would also recommend taking the trek with friends or a loved one because it is too beautiful to keep to yourself.

I guess I should invest in some hiking boots.

Quick Overview:

Price: Free

Hours of Operation: 24 hours. Take a flashlight if you plan to be out after dark

Good for: Solo travelers, hikers, adventurists, nature-lovers, families with kids old enough to walk, couples, seeing sunrise/sunset, animal lovers

June 28, 2017February 25, 2018

Celebrating Matariki: The Maori New Year

The beginning of July is just around the corner, a time that for many, marks the start of the second half of the Gregorian calendar year. (That’s the 12-month system we all know and love worldwide.) However, that’s not the case for the native Maori people here in New Zealand.

A shot of the Matariki fireworks from Te Papa

Just like we “ring in the New Year” during the winter months in the Northern Hemisphere, so is the tradition with the Maori. If you didn’t know about this, don’t worry, I didn’t either before I arrived in New Zealand. In fact, I may have completely missed Matariki altogether if it wasn’t for a calendar of events put together by Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. For the first time ever, the museum is marking this passage of time with a number of special events here in Wellington, including a traditional Matariki ritual, which I had the pleasure of taking part in earlier this month.

Just to give you some background: Matariki actually refers to the cluster of stars more commonly known as the Pleiades. Because Aotearoa (the Maori name for New Zealand) is located in the Southern Hemisphere, these stars rise on the cusp of winter, usually around late May or early June. For the Maori, the sight of this star cluster marks the start of the new year.

A look at the set-up for the Matariki Ritual, which also featured traditional Maori music

The museum’s traditional ritual did a really good job summarizing what this time of year is all about for the Maori. It centered around a giant fire pit and started with the host telling us the story of the Matariki. He also opened up the floor for people to speak and talk a bit about themselves, something I am told happens during a majority of Maori rituals. For me, it was especially interesting to hear from people all over the world. I was amazed at just how international the small city of Wellington really is; I think we heard from someone who originated from just about every continent. I also enjoyed hearing people speak in the native Maori tongue.

Next, we moved on to the actual Matariki ritual and taking the time to appreciate the past year. For the Maori, Matariki is a time to say goodbye to the loved ones lost during the year. During the ritual at Te Papa, we symbolized this by lighting a candle and sending it adrift on a nearby pond. I personally didn’t know anyone who passed in the past year, so I actually said goodbye to my career in television news. This was a job that defined who I was for almost a decade. As I let go of my candle, I said farewell to that person and allowing myself to embrace this uncertainty in a new country.

Each candle represents a personal farewell to the last year

Matariki is not just a time to say goodbye though, it is also a time of celebration. Like Thanksgiving in the States, the celebration happens around the time crops are harvested, which means there is a lot of food to be had. This is why the ritual centered around the fire, as traditional Maori food is typically cooked in “hangi” ovens, or underground pits. And yes, it does take around three to four hours to cook. (But if you don’t have that much time you can buy it made for you here in New Zealand for around $10 NZD.)

The ritual’s “traditional” fire pit (It was gas fed)

In addition to the feast, Matariki is also a time to think about what you want to see happen in the coming year, and really look forward to all of the new possibilities ahead. For the museum’s ritual, we did this by writing down our wishes and dreams for the next year. At the end of the night, we then put those messages in baskets. I assume part of the ritual next year will involve reading some of these, but I guess I have to wait to find out! Either way here’s hoping some of mine come true.

In all, I really enjoyed taking part in something uniquely New Zealand, as well as taking the time to pause and reflect on where I’ve been and where I’m headed. I’ve always been a fan of New Year celebration, so I find it quite amazing I managed to find a place that will allow me.to celebrate my favorite holiday twice a year.

The Matariki fireworks from Oriental Bay

June 26, 2017February 25, 2018

The Cure to Anxiety?

Today was the first in four days that I took my prescribed medication for my anxiety. I didn’t take it because I felt especially anxious, I took it mostly because I felt like I “should,” and to see if it would quell the headaches I have been getting as of late.

This is a remarkable occurrence, because usually when I don’t take my medicine I find myself depressed and stressed about the future. Seeing how I don’t have a job, health insurance or source of income at the moment, I should have spent the past few days freaking out but instead, I was oddly calm.

So this left me wondering: where is the anxiety that has followed me around like an abusive ex-boyfriend for the past 30 years? Did it disappear? Is this a temporary lapse?

I wouldn’t be the first person to have seemingly had their anxiety managed or “cured” through traveling (see this wonderful post “On Anxiety and Travel” by Lauren at “Neverending Footsteps,”) but before setting off on this journey it was certainly something I didn’t expect would happen to me; after all I have been taking 40mg of citalopram every day for almost a decade and have been in and out of therapy since I was a child. I have been lead to believe that what is wrong with me is chemical and only managed through modern medicine.

But it seems New Zealand wants to prove the doctors wrong.

I think the anxiety is lessening, if not all gone thanks to a lot of things. For one, I feel safer in New Zealand than I ever have in my life. Honestly, I do things here I would never do in the States alone: I go to bars, I go latin dancing, and even walk home alone at 3 in the morning and don’t worry about my well-being. As a woman living in America, I have always worried about being mugged, or worse raped when going somewhere solo. Here, that nagging fear doesn’t exist.

But I know it is not just this feeling of safety that has my mind relaxed. I have shed the burden of television news, a career which by nature fosters anxiety. It is hard to see the positive and beauty in the world when you spend your day immersed in the worst parts of it. In news, you live and breathe every terrorist attack, every shooting, and every death as it develops. For 8 hours or more, you are immersed in negativity, all the while forced to find ways to make each story, however awful it is, “unique,” “creative” and “important” to viewers. You have to get it on the air “first and fast” so there is no time for you to feel or process. You don’t get to do that until you get home; so even when you’re not at work, you are still dealing with it.

Strangely, there was a time when I thought I would miss this career. And while there are parts of it I will always love, I do not see myself returning to that world anytime soon. Life is so much better when now that I can choose how much information to digest each day; I am still informed, but I am no longer burdened.

Similarly, I think my anxiety is easing because I am doing what I want for the first time in my life, instead of what society told me I had to do. I don’t know where my next dollar is coming from, but I know it is going to be doing something where I feel as if I am adding positivity to my day and to those of others, instead of taking away from it. I have taken control of my destiny, and when you are doing what you want and what you love, stress is much less likely to weigh you down.

So is my anxiety gone? I don’t know. But I know I am feeling more at ease now than I ever did in my life. I know I will probably continue to take less and less of my prescription and replace it with things like meditation and taking chances.

June 13, 2017February 21, 2018

Zealandia

New Zealand really likes to trick me into going for hikes.

Still without a job and keen to take advantage of a good deal, I went to the Zealandia ecosanctuary during its recent “open weekend” promotion with the Wellington Zoo. For two days at the end of the May, the two attractions allow entry for just a $2 NZD donation (or about $1.40 USD.) The entire donation goes to the Wellington Zoo Conservation Fund, which helps save animals in the wild.

The view from the dam at the edge of the ecosanctuary

While it is possible to do both attractions on the same day, I want to express the two are vastly different. On the day I checked them out it was overcast, a tad chilly and had just rained. These conditions are fine for the zoo, which is paved, however, that is not the case for Zealandia.

First and foremost, it is important to remember that Zealandia is an ecosanctuary, not a zoo. The entire attraction is designed to restore the region’s forest and freshwater to their pre-human state. This means, unlike the zoo, much of the area is unpaved and designed to encourage the growth of large trees, plants, and birds.

One of the multiple Kaka’s I saw while they were being fed

I tell you this because Zealandia is absolutely worth the trek, but you need to be prepared to what you’re getting into. I once again did not do proper research before going and was not wearing hiking gear. Furthermore, because it had just rain, much of the experience was muddy and slippery.

However, the chance to see some of the world’s most unique birds and plants was totally worth my muddy Converse sneakers. They say New Zealand is unlike anywhere else in the world, and I can tell you that is 100% true.

Now, I say this having not seen many of the bird species that live in the sanctuary. This is once again, my fault and not the attraction’s, as I should’ve been prepared with things like binoculars and patience. The animals are living like nature intended, and are not confined to any particular space within the area. So you have to be prepared to take your time and pay close attention to the branches above and around you.

All of the kerurus were easy to spot, as they were so big they had to sit on the sturdier branches close to the ground

What I did see, though, was quite impressive. New Zealand Pidgeons or keruru are quite possibly the largest in the world. (Or perhaps they were able to grow so large because they were in their native environment.)

The other birds were equally unique, especially the Takahe, a bird originally from the South Island and unique to New Zealand. The biggest flightless bird in the country, with its beak, and dark blue head, they are quite a sight to see. Previously thought to be extinct, the species was discovered living in a remote valley in 1948.

Just a small glance at the beautiful plants in Zealandia

And this place is not just about birds. The plants and the scenery are a treat as well, even when they are not in bloom. And since 80% of the plants and trees native to New Zealand are unique to the country, visiting somewhere like Zealandia is ideal for travelers with a limited time, or perhaps, more interested in doing indoor activities.

Quick Overview:

Price: Adults: $18.50 NZD, Children ages 5-17: $10 NZD, 5 and under: Free

Hours of Operation: 9am to 5pm daily (only closed on Christmas Day)

Good for: Solo travelers, hikers, adventurists, nature-lovers, families with kids old enough to walk

June 12, 2017February 25, 2018

Fake news and fake friends

I expected to learn a lot of things during this experience in New Zealand, but something I didn’t expect was learning the harsh reality that some people I thought were my friends in the states turned out to be anything but.

I think this is such a hard lesson for me because I strive to be authentic at all times; I don’t sugarcoat who I am or what my goals are because society says I should. Sure, my language and demeanor may be different in the office than at the bar but I really strive never to compromise my values and beliefs in all situations. This honesty-of-self is extremely important to me and something I assume is true to everyone. Unfortunately, it has been my experience that this is not always the case.

For example, I would love to be able to travel the world by making money blogging and posting on social media. This, I know, is a pie-in-the-sky dream, but something I am reaching for nonetheless. I am not ashamed of it and am not afraid of failing at it. However, I have gotten more pushback on this dream than anything else I’ve ever gone after in my life. I’ve been told this is “inauthentic” or only achieved by cultivating a “fake” personality. Worse yet, this criticism has mostly been by people who make a career by pretending to be people they aren’t.

I don’t know why the inauthenticity of others is something I have a hard time reconciling, but it is. My past two relationships failed largely because the charming person people saw me with in public was vastly different than the person I knew at home. In both instances when I first started dating these men I was told they were “such great” guys that would “respect” me by their colleagues and friends. Oftentimes the only people who didn’t share this sentiment were their families or other people who knew these men in private.

I don’t say these things to shame people; I say these things because I don’t understand how anyone can sustain such a lifestyle or why am I seemingly more sensitive to it than other people around me. I like to think I have very few dealbreakers, but not being yourself 100% of the time is one of them.

This is not to say I’ve only learned who in my life was “fake,” because the converse is also true; I have learned just who really is there for me. In fact, I have been pleasantly surprised by some of my supporters. For example, although my mom may not understand my need to move to the other side of the world, she doesn’t hesitate to check in now, which is something she didn’t do when I lived in the same country as her. I also still talk to one of my best friends, Liz, practically every day, despite the 15 hour time difference. I have also had people reach out to me and say extremely nice things about how I’ve inspired them or how they love reading my blogs or looking at my photos.

I guess I shouldn’t be surprised by this lesson, as a lot of people travel to “find themselves,” and therefore, also find out how they fit into the world. I also guess it’s kind of naive to always believe the people you support will return the favor.

Me being 100% me at the top of Mount Victoria

June 6, 2017February 25, 2018

Wellington Zoo

I have conflicting feelings on zoos: On one hand, I recognize that they are necessary for conservation and education and without either its hard to preserve and protect the animals in their natural environment. But while this is true, I think we can all agree that the animals would likely be happier roaming freely and it is for this reason I rarely frequent zoos.

However, having never been to a zoo outside of the states, I was quite curious as to what one might be like elsewhere in the world and recently took the opportunity to visit the Wellington Zoo during its “Open Weekend” event. Essentially, for two days at the end of May the zoo and another popular attraction, Zealandia, allow entry for a $2 NZD donation, or about $1.40 USD. The donations go directly to the Wellington Zoo Conservation Fund, which actively helps save animals in the wild, which is something I can get behind.

The outside of the Wellington Zoo in the suburb of Newtown

Not only was I pleasantly surprised with how large the zoo was, but it was also a zoo experience unlike any other I’ve had. Many of the animals were within arms reach and free to roam the exhibits, which is something that doesn’t happen in traditional zoos in the states.

For example, the exhibit dedicated to animals from Australia is one open path where the wallabies, kangaroos, and emu roam freely. I could’ve touched the animals if I wanted to, but didn’t for obvious reasons.

I imagine this emu saying “touch me, I dare you” to me and all of the nearby children

The red pandas and kaka exhibits were similarly open as well.

One of the 3 Kakas who flew above my head during my visit

In addition to the open exhibits, I also saw several animals get fed during the day, which is pretty standard when it comes to zoos, but not something I ever experienced before. And while watching the otters eat was adorable, I can’t say the same for the lions, as I could hear them crush and devour the bones while eating the whole chicken and rack of ribs. However, it was nice to see the big cat so close.

The only picture I got of the lion where you can’t see him devouring meat

But the real highlight of the trip for me, of course, was seeing a kiwi bird. Unfortunately, since the birds are nocturnal and in a dark exhibit, I was unable to get a picture of the bird to share. However, I am thankful the area was dark because otherwise I likely wouldn’t have gotten to see a kiwi, and honestly, what trip to New Zealand is complete without such an experience?

The sun bear posed for me to take a picture

Quick Overview:

Price: Adults: $23 NZD, Children ages 3-14: $11 NZD, Under 3: Free

Hours of Operation: 9:30am-5pm daily

Good for: Solo travelers, families with kids, photographers, anyone who wants to see a kiwi bird

Oh yes, they also have sheep (for the record this is the first one I’ve seen since arriving in New Zealand)

June 2, 2017February 25, 2018

New Zealand has Crappy Pokemon

I didn’t move abroad so I could “catch ’em all,” but I would be lying if I didn’t at least consider the benefit being in a new country would have on my Pokedex.
Sadly, it has done nothing for my ‘dex. In fact, I caught more unusual Pokemon while pet-sitting at a friend’s in Florida. (Thanks, Steph!)

May 17 catches — My most recent Pokemon catches after 10 days in New Zealand

Here’s the deal: Because Wellington is on the water, that means there is a lot of water Pokemon to be found. However, this was true when I lived in West Palm Beach, Florida as well, so essentially, I am getting the same Pokemon I got there, MINUS the regionals. (And in case you’re wondering, New Zealand doesn’t have any regionals. You can only get Kangaskan in Australia.) Guys, I’m really sick of all the Psyduck.

Thr psyduck — The most common Pokemon on my daily walk into town

On a positive note, I have been getting more 10k eggs here, so that may count for something. However, my 2k eggs so far have just about all been Goldeen and Oddish.

I did search for better catches on a brief trip to Auckland, but my luck wasn’t any better.

Also, Team Instinct actually represents here?

Bottom line: New Zealand is good for a lot of things, but Pokemon isn’t one of them.

But hey, you can catch Ekans here, even though there are no snakes in the country…

May 26, 2017February 25, 2018

Climbing Mount Victoria

In case you haven’t noticed, I recently decided to start taking advantage of the “holiday” portion of my “working holiday” in New Zealand. I figured it was best I embraced by free time instead of bemoaning the fact that I have yet to find work. Besides, I had completely neglected one of the most recommended and free things to do in Wellington: climbing Mount Victoria.

Top of Mt Victoria — The views from the lookout are incredible

Now, I set out unawares that it would actually be much of a “climb.” This may be because the official and unofficial things I read called it a walk and not a hike. (And I didn’t take the recommended “walkway” because I am an internet skimmer. So my fault on that one.)

One of the steep hills along the Lookout Walkway

Anyway, I prepared for my hike by wearing my reliable chucks, and a fancier sweater than was probably necessary. Because I don’t read full articles, I took the “Lookout Walkway” as opposed to the “Southern Walkway,” because the first one seemed a bit shorter. And while it was definitely shorter, it was also very steep. Furthermore, I probably missed out on some stellar views along the way.

Stairs — One of the hills had a set of staircases. It was a small miracle

The 30-minute walk, however, is entirely worth it, no matter what route you choose to take. That’s because upon making it to the top, you get beautiful 360-degree views from more than 643 feet above Wellington. From the green mountains to the sea, to the airport, every part of the view makes your heart beat and is worth every ounce of sweat that rolls down your back.

But in addition to the views, there is also something else at the peak that’s not to be missed and that is the Richard Byrd Memorial. If you don’t know who Richard Byrd is, he was an American arctic explorer who used New Zealand as the base for his trips to Antarctica. Unveiled in 1962, the sculpture is in the shape of a polar tent and is built from rocks from Antarctica. The outside of it is covered in artwork depicting the Aurora Australis or “Southern Lights,” which you can sometimes see from the city. And if those unique facts didn’t get your attention, get this: the axis of the memorial points due south. So if you were to follow that line for hundreds of miles you’d eventually reach Antarctica. Pretty cool.

Quick Overview:

Price: Free, unless you count sweat as a cost.

Hours of Operation: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week, although I would suggest taking the hike during the daytime. The outlook is accessible by cars for those who want to catch the sunrise and sunset or see the stars.

Good for: Solo travelers, hikers, photographers, couples looking for a romantic view of the city, families with kids, star-gazers