I first traveled to New Zealand as an exchange student, studying environmental studies and film. Drawn in by scenes like bright blue Lake Tekapo and the dramatic Tongariro Alpine Crossing, my bags were packed. I attended Victoria University of Wellington for four incredible months, and then simply couldn’t leave, traveling around the country for another two months.
With every weekend trip to a new spot, every personable yet hilarious Kiwi I met, and every hike to the top of a mountain, I fell more in love with New Zealand. I explored untouched-appearing landscapes, surrounded by nearly no people, and loads of sheep. I developed intimate connections to the land around me and the incredible country of Aotearoa New Zealand. My passion for travel was born in NZ and I can’t wait to share the love.
Q&A with Keila
What's the best local dish you've tasted?
I was a frequent fish and chips consumer while in New Zealand. Surrounded by water, the country has great access to a bunch of tasty white fish varieties. They fry them up perfectly and load you up with chips (or French fries to Americans). My favorite spot was in Lyall Bay near Wellington Airport. I’d grab an order of fish and chips, sit on the beach, and watch the planes land and take off.
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
I was on a two-week road trip around the South Island of New Zealand with my university roommate. We spent the four-month semester getting to know each other and sharing wows at the incredible scenery. It was our last trip of the semester and last chance to hit all the NZ bucket list items. Included, of course, was bungy jumping as New Zealand made the first ever commercial bungy jump. Upon making eye contact with that beautifully terrifying bridge, we both contemplated our decision. To, hypothetically, lessen the fears, we chose to do a tandem bungy and jump together. Getting suited up we realized that, besides our feet tied together, the only thing keeping our bodies together was us. As we held each other arm in arm, my roommate doubted my commitment to not let go and panicked on the edge of the platform. She shook her head, no, begged not to jump, and then on the count of two (instead of three to our surprise) we got a push and were off. We spent the entire jump laughing our heads off and smiling at each other with relief. I can’t imagine a better finale for my NZ journey.
Where would you love to travel next?
I dream of a Nordic vacation. I’m specifically drawn by the Lofoten Islands, the rainbow sunset skies, sunny summer swims, and winter snow-capped island mountains. I’m also a big knitter and wish to be among the amazing yarns and knitters of Denmark.