I was really impressed by how New Zealand has managed, more than anywhere else I’ve been, this wonderful mix of indigenous populations – the Maoris – and the british immigrants. White people have embraced a lot of the Maoris traditions and you can sense the admiration for the Maori Haka and warrior spirit. There are elements of the Maori culture everywhere and at Te Papa (the Museum of New Zealand) the Maori language is first before english. There seems to be a mixity that Australia, for example, doesn’t have, as far as I can see. It’s inspiring to see that it can actually happen.

The landscapes are majestic and extremely varied. The fact that it’s a volcanic island make it very different from Australia. Also I was imagining it very green and hilly – which it is – but I had no idea of how big the beach culture was. There are gorgeous and wild beaches everywhere.

It was a wonderful trip, I liked everything we did from kayaking to skydiving and exploring the caves. I’d never done an organised trip before and I’m glad I tried something new because I enjoyed it and will do it again. It was also lovely to meet Marie, Jennifer, Kiana and Sally.

E noho ra New Zealand!