12th Week In New Zealand

I am now enjoyng the vibrant city of Auckland, NZ. But, I will talk more about in the upcoming Week 13 post.

As for the past week, things have been hectic and draining, both physically and spiritually. But, there was still a number We spent a large portion of the week helping get the M/V Pacific Hope ready for tours in Auckland as well as training to prepare us for life on the ship.

However, all the business didn't mean that I could not explore more of Tauranga. Due to the ship's location in Tarunga "The Strand" was within very easy walking distance. So for the first time since I started my DTS I've been able to truly explore city as well as take part of some it's gastronomic offerings.

One of the highlights of my week was to join the guys on my team in an afternoon out. After getting deciding on a movie, we grabbed some Turkish then went back to enjoy the movies. That was a great and memorible day!

We sailed for Auckland on Saturday, arriving on Sunday Morning. The journey was at night so, I thankfully get to sleep during the 12 hours of travel. I severely underestimate my reaction to the sea on a boat without stableizers. However, I eventually got my act together and got to enjoy some amazing views of the approach to Auckland.

10th Week In New Zealand

Yesterday I ended my 10th week here in New Zealand. It will be my last full week here at the Marine Reach Base. This coming Friday, myself as well as many of my fellow DTS students will move to the M/V Pacific Hope (the Ship) for our last week of lectures. Once that week ends, we will officially be in the Outreach Phase... So Excited!

This past Thursday, my "Spec Ops" team, along with other student voulenteers, went to the Ship to do some painting. This was my second time painting on the Ship... I have a renewed dislike of marine grade paint. Though we got got a lot done, there will probably be some "touch-up" work for us once we get on board and certainly by the time we set sail to Auckland on the 16th of April.

The highlight of my week was a Team Trip to the Redwoods - Whakarewarewa Forest in Rotarua, New Zealand. Such a beautiful place, it reminds me a lot of the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, with the addition of palm trees. We hiked about 13km in total, as we made our way up & down, and in & out of the forest reserve. We had so much fun, we make a great team!

After our hike, we headed back to the Tauranga area for dinner. We got some takeout in then walked to Mt. Maunganui beach to eat and watch the waves.

After this week, I just have to say that I have a new love for the beauty of this country and the God that made it all. So eager for what lays ahead!