Back in the States: Embracing My Kiwi Heart

After a year of driving on the left side of the road, studying wine, and diving for pāua, I’ve returned to the States—and I still pinch myself to make sure it wasn’t just a dream! As I jump back into my passion for marketing, I find myself reflecting on my time in the southern hemisphere and the interesting differences I encountered.

I spent the past year living in the North Island of New Zealand with my Kiwi husband. While home is based in the Bay of Plenty, we were lucky to live on a vineyard in Hawke’s Bay and travel to the South Island a few times. From the stunning landscapes to the unexpected quirks of Kiwi life, each day felt like an adventure. And while I’ve traded in my gumboots for spreadsheets (for now), the memories I’ve made—and lessons I’ve learned—are here to stay.

One of my favorite differences? The weather. In the southern hemisphere, the seasons are flipped. Imagine spending Christmas or New Years in shorts and a t-shirt… take my word for it, it’s incredible. Instead of sitting around a fire, we’d gather on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying fresh seafood.

Then there’s the food. Now, don’t get me wrong—I love American cuisine as much as the next person. But there’s something special about New Zealand’s culinary scene. Fresh fish, savory meat pies, and significantly less sugar in everyday foods made each meal an experience. I discovered new flavors that I can’t wait to recreate.

Let’s talk about the animals. New Zealand is a haven for nature lovers, with a stark contrast to Australia in terms of predators. You can wander through forests without fear. There are no snakes, bears, or wolves—just fascinating insects and an array of native birds. If you’re lucky, you might spot a kiwi or a kererū in the wild, adding a touch of magic to your adventure.

And then there’s the culture. The pride in the native Pacific Island cultures, particularly Māori traditions, is admirable. The respect for the land and its history is woven into the very fabric of daily life, enriching every experience.

Now, for the trickiest transition since being back: driving on the opposite side of the road. When I first arrived in New Zealand, I struggled to adjust to the left side, and now that I’m back in America, I keep instinctively veering to the left. It’s a comical battle, but I’m sure I’ll get the hang of it eventually!

These are just a few of the differences I encountered during my time abroad, and I’m excited to share more as I adjust back to life here. Returning to the States feels both familiar and foreign—like slipping into a favorite sweater that’s a bit tight. I’m looking forward to merging my Kiwi experiences with my American life during this journey of rediscovery. It’s been an interesting transition, especially as I now consider New Zealand my home.