Historical and cultural exchange in the capital.

Last term, our International students embarked on a historical and cultural exchange to the capital city, Wellington. This trip was proposed by senior International students who wanted to explore the city with their peers from the college. Instead of bungy jumping and jet boat rides, the three-day trip north focused on the significant cultural and historical attractions Wellington has to offer.

Our  itinerary began with a guided tour of the Parliament buildings, followed by a visit to The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. These guided tours provided the students with insights into the historical context and significance of the attractions currently on display. One of the most impressive exhibits was the Gallipoli exhibition by Sir Peter Jackson. The enormous figures captivated the international students, preparing them for the following day's adventure to Wētā Workshop.

On Day 2, the students experienced a full guided tour of Wētā Workshop in Miramar. We learned about the design, manufacture and artistic creation of props, such as the weapons used in the film Avatar and costumes for a number of movies such as the Avengers and Lord of the Rings actors to name a few. The two-hour guided tour allowed students to interact with some of the props and see how 3D printers create large and intricate designs. Students and staff were fascinated by the detailed process and the technology behind the creation of props for blockbuster films. Wētā Workshop is an absolute must visit experience for anyone who is interested in film, theatre and the Arts.

Post the guided tour we experienced a two-course meal at Karaka cafe downtown Wellington as part of the Wētā experience. For many of our International students, trying their first hāngī meal was an important aspect of the trip. This offered the students a unique and immersive culinary experience that deepened their understanding of New Zealand's cultural heritage.

Our final part of the trip was to explore Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington and meet two new International students at St Patrick's Silverstream for lunch. On site residential assistants were able to show our group through different halls of residence on the Kelburn campus and explore the campus Faculties of Humanities and Social Sciences, Science, Engineering, Education, and Health.

St Patrick's Silverstream hosted our group for a lunch and tour of their school. Head Boy Kobe and Head of Hostel Cooper, were gracious to join us at the dining table and for a korero. It is with new friendships and connections that we continue to explore New Zealand enriching our experiences and broadening our horizons.