Discovering the World, Discovering Myself

New Zealand is composed of two small Islands and this is where I have lived my whole life. Though, residing somewhere where it takes 6 hours to drive coast to coast, we ‘Kiwis’ put little effort into discovering our own backyard (at least until you are retired with a campervan). From the sandy beaches up north, the glorious glaciers down south and each blue lake, snow-capped mountain and national park in between, how do we say no and continue living a sheltered life?

This is when I decided to go against the norm. My hometown of Taupo is known for two things; the largest lake in New Zealand and Mt Ruapehu. It is difficult to ignore the lake, especially in summer, but I have successfully avoided visiting the mountain for five years and this is where that all changed, with a simple two hour drive.

Ohakune is the location, a small village where the massive volcano known as Mt Ruapehu stands over. The road leading to the ski field is dreamlike, the trees creating an arch leading the way. After a few minutes lumps of snow appear on the gravel roads, soon occurring more often and suddenly we are driving through snow. Half way up sits a stunning river and waterfall, a small walk away but sinking into the snow and slipping on the ice is half the adventure, making the view even more worth it. Once reaching the top and looking towards the horizon is when, for the first time, I actually understand why people travel to New Zealand. The contrast between the pure snow and the green barren landscape isn’t like anything I have ever seen before. Jumping into the chairlift and looking down at the massive rocks immerging through the snow and a small stream waiting to be frozen over. I am flung off the chair and begin making my way back down to the base, sinking into the snow with every step, avoiding being run over by snowboarders and skiers. After a few hours of taking a step, looking back, taking a step, looking back, I eventually arrive. The wind begins to pick up and between that and the freezing temperature I know it is time to leave, though not before running back to the car while snow rains down from above.

Looking back, I am amazed it took me years to discover my hometown. Mount Ruapehu is a beautiful backdrop, but when you actually get out there and make an effort to be immersed you will be rewarded. I have gained an appreciation for the setting of my everyday life, which has and will continue to encourage me to explore.