He aha te mea nui o tea o? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata. What is the most important thing in the world? It is the people, it is the people, it is the people. How long does it take for strangers to become whānua (family)? Sometimes, as quick as a camera flash. I am…Continue Reading It is the people that make the place
The Reimagining India tour began with Auroville. This illuminating experience introduced us to an intentional community far outside of New Zealand norms. It’s through experiences we find the most uncomfortable that we encounter the deepest insights and this visit stands emblematic of this truism. One noble lie sealing the lips of truth as we pave…Continue Reading An ode to Auroville
It has been a little over a week that we have been here in Santiago, Chile, and I can’t believe how much has changed already. Upon first arriving here, this city overwhelmed me. The heat made my head spin, the language barrier left me reeling, and the lack of proximity to any sort of natural…Continue Reading As the unfamiliar becomes familiar
Embarking on my six-week journey across India, I’ve been here for a week now, absorbing the rich culture and diverse traditions. I’ve learned that India welcomes visitors with open arms, showcases immense dedication through hard work, harbors big aspirations, and contributes to global betterment through various innovations. The spiritual essence of the country has also…Continue Reading Week One Reflections and Goals
Magnificent mountains that tower in the sky. This was my first impression of Santiago which reminded me of home. I find comfort and nostalgia in seeing mountains, which was the main feature in my hometown in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and in Kyoto, Japan, where I lived before moving to Aotearoa. In Santiago, the distant snow-capped…Continue Reading Santiago, Chile: At the foothills of the Andes
Reflecting on my first week in Chile and writing this blog has made me imagine a theme or something to organise the disparate excitement, chaos and confusion that comes with being in a new place. Going overseas to another country is very much an act of disconnection, leaving a place that is entirely unfamiliar. Indeed,…Continue Reading Connecting in Santiago Week 1
Arriving in Chennai was nothing short of magical. We were welcomed by a cacophony of sounds and smells, a blissful assault on the senses that took over any nerves I felt on the plane. I wrongfully assumed that rain would be a distant memory left behind in New Zealand, but the hot muggy air reminded…Continue Reading Rain is a sign of good luck!
Pack your bags Leave your reservations behind Bring with you only the essentials An open mind A caring heart Bring the stories of your whenua Remember the way the winds feels Sand between your feet The music of the forest The babbling of the creeks Carry your history The mountains you’ve climbed to get here…Continue Reading Intentions for India
Tūwhitia te hopo, mairangatia te angitū – feel the fear and do it anyway! This whakataukī has been a constant in my teenage years, and was particularly important during my first year of University last year. Over the past week, this whakataukī has naturally integrated its way into our conversations and thoughts — it’s a…Continue Reading Being comfortable with being uncomfortable
Auroville’s Symphony of Sustainability As the first leg of my ‘Reimagining India’ study tour unfolded, Auroville emerged as an oasis of sustainable living, embodying the principles of regeneration and harmony with the environment. Nestled in the vibrant town of Pondicherry, Auroville beckoned with its iconic structure—the Matrimandir—an architectural masterpiece and a focal point for spiritual…Continue Reading Sustainability/Regeneration through the Indian Lens