Dear Aotearoa/ New Zealand, This is a particularly difficult blog post to be writing right now. I started this blog when I had made the decision to travel to New Zealand, to document my life here, the adventures I’ve had and things I’ve done, and that, I’ve definitely done.
However, I was realistic that when I arrived in this beautiful country, that it may not be forever. In fact, it was supposed to be only one year. New Zealand has become my adopted home, and I’ll always remember it with fondness in my heart.
In the past 6 months or so, I’ve been continuously thinking about travelling again. From looking up at flight deals to reading about other travellers and their adventures online, I can’t seem to put these thoughts to rest. So it is with great sadness that I write that it is my intention to leave Christchurch and New Zealand at some point this year.
I have no set plans just yet, just the need to be in the UK for a wedding in October, and the possibility of exploring Asia in between leaving here and getting back home.
Before I do move on, there are many things I need to do and see, but there are also many things I need to say.
Over the past few years, I’ve seen and done things, that I never thought would be possible. I’ve seen wondrous landscapes, awe inspiring mountains, and the most incredible lakes imaginable.
New Zealand, you’ve introduced me to snowboarding, allowed me to swim with Hector’s Dolphins, tramp all over your land, and explore my adventurous side by jumping off buildings, bridges and cliffs.
Although I’ve been burnt by your hot sun many times, been encouraged to eat fish, dressed up like a bunny to run through mud like a loon, and got lost many times, I’ve had an amazing time. I’ve made friends, and now have many brilliant memories to pack with me in my rucksack, which I will no doubt share with others in years to come.
Special thanks to those who helped me find my feet initially, and treated me like a member of your families, your love is limitless.
To the people of Christchurch, you are the most resilient, creative, friendly and loving people I’ve been so blessed to meet. Your sense of commitment to one another, strength, determination and love is something I’ll always admire. I’ll miss you New Zealand, with your funny accent and kiwi phrases, but I promise I’ll be back to visit you one day.
Haere rā, Ka kite anō
(Farewell, until I see you again)
[…] day I left New Zealand was bittersweet. I cried after leaving but in my head I felt I’d travel for a bit then […]
[…] Although I’d love to return, I know it won’t be the same. I wouldn’t be living in my lovely old sunny flat, with great flatmates. I wouldn’t be working with the same group of lovely people, in the same job, heck I wouldn’t even have a job (sometimes I do wonder why I left) […]
Abbi, lovely blog. Pleased you chose NZ and Christchurch as your home for a wee while and loved it! Sad to hear you’re moving on, but there’s lots more adventures out there for you I’m sure – and if you tackle them like you have your time in NZ then the great experiences will continue and you’ll have a blast too!
Thanks Ceciel. I have loved every minute of living in Christchurch and in New Zealand. I’ll definitely come and visit again. The World is a big place and I want to explore it before settling somewhere. Awesome to have met you. Will be around for a few more months yet, so will have to see you before then.
It is you that have blessed the people of Christchurch and NZ….so good to have you here….you will be truely missed….Bless ya
Thanks for your kind comment Danny. I’ll miss everyone loads when I leave. New Zealand has been home over the past two years. I’ll treasure you all in my memories.
Just think if you hadn’t ever gone….but you did! You lived every moment to the fullest. You will always have those wonderful memories and your great experiences there will become a cherished part of you. You will go back….to be continued …. not the end! It is the end of a chapter only, not the book. No tears allowed:) xxx
Thanks so much for your lovely comment Christina. I definately agree with you – I did it, and did it well. I’ve just become to realise what’s important. Life’s too short and the World is too big 🙂
Awww, such a beautifully written blogpost! I had tears in my eyes while reading it! I felt your pain in leaving New Zealand. Its such a beautiful country!!!
I know .. When I read this again I feel tearful too. New Zealand is a beautiful place.