NZ's north island!

So far the past 2 weeks have been incredible! Its been fun seeing the similiarities and differences between NZ and USA. Its also been interesting getting to know everyone on the trip. Everybody has defined personalities and are very diverse but we all share one thing in common, we are all blown away with the beauty of this countries landscape and are having heaps of fun with the backpacking, whitewater rafting, caving and even riding in the van for the most part!

 OAL 275:

I feel Chapter 8 relates to Adam's leading style because he is very open and non judgemental. It is very simple for anyone to talk with him because the conversations never end in a condescending manner. The group therefore experiences no resentment and the relationship between the leader and the group remains positive.

Chapter 31 Doing Little can also be used to describe another leadership quality. During a group activity we all formed a circle and locked hands across from eachother and virtually tied ourselves in one giant human knot. Under instruction we were told not to speak therefore as a group we had to figure an alternative means of communication. Our leader's tips and advice was extremely minimal, however in the end we were able to solve our issue by collaborating.

Another example I feel very applicable would be Chapter 49 Be Open To Whatever Emerges. So far in our trip Adam has let the group agree upon compromises of how we should plan our day. Multiple times we have decided when we should shop for groceries and we have been responsible for delegating who cooks as well as how to manage our time. In regards to time management we have planned as a group when we should eat and how much time is alotted for us to do personal errands. As well as what time to participate in different activities. For example as a group we decided when to attend the Kiwi Culture Show in Waitoma in order to organize and plan our day around that time frame.

Practicuum 309: This class basically places an emphasis on leadership experience and group facilitation. I feel it is necessary for someone to step up and take command to discourage disorder within the group. For instance, a copule days ago on our camping trip it was critical to unload our gear and quickly establish camp before nightfall. I am grateful our groups guides were there to reiterate our priorities and maintain our objectives. In addition I believe a leader is beneficial in regards to offering common logic. It is wonderful to keep a level head by communicating with our guides to overcome and obstacles if present.

OAL 362: Overall I feel that all of the places and activities we have participated in would classify as primarily adventure based tourism. It seems obvious to me Waitomo, The Kaituna, Mangaweka and Rangitiki river fall under this category. During our adventures at these places our guides supplemented information about the area's natural ecology. However these were just little snippets of facts and with all the excitement occuring it was very easy to overlook this. As far as how we affect the natural environment I have observed negative and positive aspects. In Waitomo it was extremely difficult to avoid touching the walls for support while we were caving. Although this may not seem like a big deal, the oils on our skin are detrimental to the bio-organisms that live in the caves. Another negative happened while rafting. Sometimes our oars/paddles and raft would crash into the walls on the sides of the river, damaging native plants and small species. However on a positive note everyone tried their best to be precarious. By acting so this creates an awareness resulting in a positive impact. Partaking in these activities helps support the small businesses in the outdoor industry here in NZ. Culturally speaking it is tough for me to pinpoint any examples. All I can think is by documenting these events and sharing with others, it can only bring and spread more enjoyment, business and consciousness to this gorgeous country.

-Timothy