Treasure the Memories

New Zealand is just incredible!

The views will never cease to amaze me, even on a day like today when it rained for the first part, it was still so beautiful. The locals also amaze me. Whilst I did mention in my previous post about locals taking the time to talk to me on my first night, it did creep into my mind that alcohol may have exaggerated their excitement and passion for the country. I could not be more wrong. They are so welcoming and can’t do enough to help you and that attitude definitely made me feel more confident whilst out exploring the area for the first time alone as I knew if I was going to get into any trouble, I could rely on someone helping me.

After speaking to people who live here it becomes increasingly apparent how incredibly open they are. They talk about their families, relationships, worries etc. and I can safely say I know more about one stranger I met today than I did after being friends with someone for 6months. I have had a few conversations here with locals and they mock how reserved we are in the UK in comparison to themselves. From my personal experience I have always been perceived as relatively open but I know that was just a facade covering up so many insecurities and negative thoughts I had about myself. On reflection I do think if I divulged more about my thoughts and how I felt about myself, maybe- just maybe- I would not have gotten as ill as I have been. However,I am not going to dwell as that will completely go against what I am trying to achieve whilst I’m here. It just amazes me how going to a new place can help me reflect on something that would have probably not crossed my mind if at home.

Since arriving I have been lucky enough to go to a few places in the Marlborough area and have already had the pleasure of sampling the famous green lipped mussels, a world winning gin from 2007 called Blenheim Bay , local wine and even tried some locally brewed craft ale which I am surprisingly enjoying- if my parents thought I would come back from this famous wine region a connoisseur, they are going to be incredibly disappointed.

Trying new things and just driving around this beautiful area perks me up. It reminds me that I am so lucky to be experiencing foods, drinks and views that we don’t have at home and that is one of the main things I love about travelling new places and immersing yourself in other peoples culture and experiencing their way of life. It opens up my mind in such a positive way. The more that I will push and challenge myself throughout my journey- physically and mentally, the better. I have already got my next couple of  journeys planned out and after my journey today along the Queen Charlotte Drive, I can’t wait to explore and continue to treasure the memories it will provide me with.

Below are just a few of the amazing views I captured whilst driving around. Hope you enjoy them!