Getting Oriented in Christchurch, NZ

By Elsa and Ricky

Hello friends and family!

All 14 of us have arrived safely in Christchurch, New Zealand, where we’ve been for a few days orienting ourselves to the program and each other.

We meet in what is called a “circle.” The name originates from the shape in which we gather. Many of us have been surprised by how quickly we’ve come to feel comfortable with one another.

Without our phones, we have no option but to talk to the people around us.

For one of our orientation activities, we went on a scavenger hunt in Christchurch. This helped to foster the independence of traveling we hope to gain over the next three months. With a partner, we were tasked with various activities, some of which included asking locals for information. Once again, without our phones, we had to find other ways to be resourceful.

Orientation has been rather cushy in this very comfortable and accommodating hostel. Later today we’ll embark on our first more intense cultural immersion where we’ll be living in a traditional Maori community.