I stared at Mount Taranaki for as long as I could. Rising up through the clouds, this massive mountain was the last visible part of New Zealand as my plane flew away yesterday.
The journey is complete. God in his graciousness granted me the ultimate desire of my heart: 6 months of traveling around New Zealand, looking for adventure.
I thought I’d list out the highlights of my trip, and list a few of the things I’ve learned along the way. These are in no way comprehensive, but simply a summary of this incredible trip.
The Highlights
- Moments of Solitude – I prayed before I left that God would bless me with times of solitude. Chances to sit alone on a hillside, overlooking the beautiful work of His hands, and just be.
- Skydiving – I threw myself out of a plane from 12,000 feet in the air. Need I say more? It was intense, it was stupid, it was awesome! I won’t be doing that again.
- Climbing Mountains – there’s something about being at the top of a mountain and looking down at the view below. Feeling like I’m on top of the world. My favorite spot in all of New Zealand was the top of The Remarkables in Queenstown:
- Bro Time – I was tremendously blessed with great friends all over New Zealand, especially in Tauranga. I will always cherish those friendships, all the fun times and growing together. However, one friendship stands out above the rest. When I met Jono in Tauranga, we were an answer to each other’s prayers. We’d both been praying for a close friend, someone to challenge us and ask the tough questions.
- Adventurous Activities – This is what drew me to New Zealand in the first place. I made a list before I left, and then I obliterated that list! Hiking, camping, kayaking, skydiving, surfing, sailing, mountain biking, jet boating, glacier climbing, yacht racing, motor biking and way more. Wow! I resolve to carry on my pursuit of adventurous activities no matter where I am in the world.
What I’ve learned
- It’s a Big World Out There – In many ways, I’ve had my bubble burst during this trip. It was my first time leaving the United States and living in a foreign country. Though New Zealand is very much a “Western Culture,” it’s still different than the one I grew up in. I could write another whole blog about my observations of the cultural differences and some of the stretching experiences I’ve had. I’ve also had some challenging conversations with various people that have opened my eyes to more of the world beyond my world.
- The Lord Always Provides – From the moment I decided to go to New Zealand until the moment I left, God has been my provider. Though I have struggled greatly at times, I have never been in want. He’s provided all of my needs, and many times he gave me so, so much more than I could have asked for or imagined. I am humbled and overwhelmed by his provision for me.
- I Crave Adventure – I have a confession to make: I am addicted to adventure! In reflecting on this journey, I’m starting to see how God uses the excitement and uncertainty of adventure to draw me to himself. As much as I love adventures, I’ve learned that I have to get out of my comfort zone and go looking for them. Some times they’ll find me even when I’m not looking for them. But like many things in life, adventure requires taking initiative.
- Life is Meant to Be Shared – We’ve all heard this cliche before. But I’ve learned that it’s especially true for me. It’s been very difficult being away from my friends and the community back in Nashville. On top of that, I spent a lot of time traveling around New Zealand either by myself or with people I’ve only just met. I’m very thankful for the friends and companions I’ve had in New Zealand. But there is just no substitute for sharing life with people you know, and who know you.
Through this journey, I’ve been changed forever. This incredible country, all my memories and all the friendships will always have a very special place in my heart. I want to say a HUGE thank you to everyone who offered a couch to sleep on, or a warm bed, a hot drink or a hot meal. Thank you for your hospitality and friendship. Thanks for sending me to the secret spots that Lonely Planet doesn’t know about. Thanks for making this the trip of a lifetime!
I also want to say thank you to you, my readers, who have travelled on this journey with me. Maybe you weren’t physically there, but it’s been a lot of fun being able to share my experiences with you through this blog. I promise that I will never stop pursuing and learning from life’s adventures. I hope you’ll walk with me into the next great adventure!
Question: What, if anything, have you learned or taken away from journeying with me through New Zealand?
Do you have any thoughts or comments? I’d love to hear from you. You can click here to lend your two cents.
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From Jim Borum:
I’ve read and enjoyed every blog post and picture you’ve posted since you left. That was such an amazing adventure. I’ve learned much about New Zealand from just keeping up with your blog. Thanks for taking the time to share your travel adventure with those of us back here.
From Kevin:
Wow, thanks for your faithful following Jim. You’ve been a great encouragement to me along the way. And of course I would’ve frozen to death without your sleeping bag!
From Liz:
Great blog Kevin. So good to hear your trip was incredible & gained greatly from it too. God is good!
What have I taken away from your adventure… do not be afraid.
Where ya goin’ next?
From Kevin:
Ah that’s good. I have stood face to face with many of my greatest fears on this journey. Some you wouldn’t believe if I told you! Yet I’m still hear, alive and well and (mostly) unharmed. I agree, God is good!
Where am I going next? That is the million dollar question. You’ll find out soon enough
From Heather:
What an incredible journey! Ending are so bittersweet, but as you are ending this journey you begin another. I’ve enjoyed coming along for ride through your blog. You are an excellent writer and photographer. See you soon!
From Kevin:
Thanks very much Heather. I’ve really appreciated your support along the way.
From Naomi:
Hey Kevin
Ive really enjoyed reading your blogs (just finished em)…you defs make me miss NZ haha. Hope your enjoying being back in Nashville…wherever you travel next make sure you continue to blog so we can all travel vicariously through you haha.
From Kevin:
Hey Naomi,
Who says I’m back in Nashville?
Thank you for keeping up with my adventures. I promise to keep the blog going. I think you’ll be excited to see what’s on the horizon for me.