Author: Bella

Today we went to the Te Papa museum. It was crazy to me that the museum was free because there were so many exhibits. We spent almost four hours walking through and learned so much about different things. My favorite exhibit was the Mana Whenua exhibit that showed how the Māori s ancestors came to…

Today we visited the Sustainability Trust in Wellington. It was cool to see a company that does more than just talk about how they are sustainable. They showed us all of the things they were doing to contribute including remaking curtains for families that need the extra insulation in their homes. They also have a…

Today we learned about the design and architecture of Wellington and how the city’s infrastructure is attempting to be more green. The city has embraced green building practices, encouraging the construction of energy-efficient and environmentally friendly structures. Many buildings in Wellington incorporate innovative design elements such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and efficient insulation…

Today we met with the head of the tourism industry of Aoteroa. We learned that the business is not for profit and is a trust organization that is not funded by the government. They work with transportation and hotel industries to make sure that tourism in New Zealand is as sustainable as it can be….

Today we visited Victoria University of Wellington and learned about their sustainability efforts. It was very interesting to learn about the Living Building Challenge and how the college is planning to expand on their marai (Māori gathering space). The building would be 100% sustainable and is a way to actively teach and learn sustainability. It…

This morning we visited the Waimangu Volcanic Valley and learned about the natural geothermal pools and geysers. The valley was created when the volcano Tarawera erupted, destroying all plants and animal habitats. The valley has since been regenerated and is now the only geothermal system in New Zealand that has not been altered by mama…

Today we learned about sustainable fishing at Sanford Fishing. The only thing I really knew about fishing was how unethical it is most of the time, so it was interesting to hear their strategies and what they do to make sure their fishing is not doing harm to people, or the environment. One thing they…

Today we explored the beautiful island of Waiheke and learned about the vineyards and sustainability on the island. Learning about how the grapes are grown for the vineyard and the process of making wine was very interesting. It was also interesting to learn about eco-tourism. Everything they do on the island is connected to giving…

It was interesting to finally explore Auckland and get a feel of the city. I was surprised to find how much sustainability plays a role in business in New Zealand. I was curious to learn more about how corporate culture is in New Zealand since it is so money and work oriented in the U.S….

My name is Bella and I love traveling and meeting new people so I am excited to go on this adventure with everyone! I am currently a Junior studying developmental psychology and cultural studies as a WSP major. I am originally from Colorado so I love the outdoors and being in nature. Some of my…