We have been in New Zealand for about three weeks
now, and while it’s a lot like the U.S.A., there are many
major differences. One of the biggest differences that I’ve noticed is that
the majority of Kiwis are a lot more active and adventurous
than most Americans. Almost all of the attractions and sights
require lots of activity. We took a lot of hikes; there were
thousands of rafting, biking, zip lining, skydiving and of
course, hiking trips you could take all over the north and
south islands.
While driving, we found many more unfamiliar qualities.
For one, each town was extremely far away from the next one; whenever we
set off for our next campsite, we had to drive at least 3
hours in between each town. Second, the winding roads. In
the U.S., we have tunnels through most mountains but
here, not a chance. Everywhere we turn, there’s another
mountain, and another narrow road where if you
miscalculated your turn the slightest bit, you’d be flying off
a cliff.
New Zealanders are a lot more concerned with the
environment, it seems. They have much fewer signs telling you
not to litter and to recycle, but much more people seem to
than in America. It’s a very clean place; You have to wear
extra sunscreen because of how clean and clear the air is.
All in all, I think that although we speak the same
language, New Zealand and America are very, very,
different.
