by Gracie Hunt

Aloha! It’s been quite a journey since I made the decision to move from the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand to the stunning Hawaii. While the first couple of months were undeniably challenging, I can confidently say that I have found my footing and couldn’t be happier with my decision. I won’t sugarcoat it—homesickness hit me hard during those initial months. Being thousands of miles away from my family and friends was tough, and I longed for the familiar comforts of home. However, as time went on, I discovered that distance truly does make the heart grow fonder. Every conversation, every message, and every video call became cherished moments connecting me to my loved ones back in New Zealand.

Aloha! It’s been quite a journey since I made the decision to move from the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand to the stunning Hawaii. While the first couple of months were undeniably challenging, I can confidently say that I have found my footing and couldn’t be happier with my decision. I won’t sugarcoat it—homesickness hit me hard during those initial months. Being thousands of miles away from my family and friends was tough, and I longed for the familiar comforts of home. However, as time went on, I discovered that distance truly does make the heart grow fonder. Every conversation, every message, and every video call became cherished moments connecting me to my loved ones back in New Zealand.

 But oh, the weather and the sun in Hawaii! It’s like a constant summer, the sun always seems to be shining. It’s true what they say—the weather here really does have a profound impact on one’s happiness. I am very grateful that I was able to skip the winter blues that I normally get in New Zealand. 

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been the independence I have gained. Navigating life in a new country, adjusting to new cultures, and building a support network from scratch has been difficult but worth it for so many reasons.. I’ve learned to rely on my adaptability and to trust myself, and that has been an invaluable skill I don’t think I would have learnt without embarking on this adventure. 

I have been snorkelling in some of the most beautiful places, the electric beach being my favourite. I swam with more turtles than I can count and saw some of the most beautiful sunsets of my life. The hiking here is incredible and just the ability to be out in such breathtaking nature all of the time is a privilege I don’t overlook. I’ve been able to slow down my life, revisit old hobbies and pick up new ones. My life in New Zealand was jam-packed, I was always busy doing something – so learning how to take a step back and enjoy the present moment has been invaluable to me. 

With this type of beauty comes a very big price tag though. Hawaii is expensive, more so than I initially thought. The costs do start to add up and basic things like rent, gas, and food are pricey. I got a job on campus to help with these expenses, which I recommend! Money is definitely a limiting factor sometimes on adventures like these, but I strongly encourage that the long hours of saving money to come here were worth it. When there is a will, there is a way. 

As I find myself at the halfway point of this adventure, I can confidently say that it has been the best decision of my life. New Zealand is beautiful and it will always be home, but it is small and the world has SO much more to offer than I realised. Despite the initial fears, uncertainties and money stress, I have grown in ways I never thought possible. The experiences, friendships, and personal growth I’ve gained have made every challenge worthwhile