I made it

I am proud to say that I successfully made it to New Zealand!

As I was waiting for my flight in Los Angeles, I saw a young man with Iowa State sweatpants who was with another guy. Before too long, I was having a nice conversation with them and found out their names were Evan and Joey. They were on the same flight as myself and headed to New Zealand to study abroad. In talking to them, I learned that they are planning to travel in the same direction as I am before they begin their studies. I got their email with the possibility that we may meet up along the way.

The flight itself was uneventful. From Los Angeles, it ended up being a little over a 13 hour flight. I am a happy Quantas customer. The seats were comfortable, the flight attendants were friendly, and the service was great. Upon waking up from my slumber, I was happy to find a little snack bag on my tray table filled with goodies. Because I was able to sleep on the plane, I am not suffering from jet lag.

I arrived in Auckland around 9:30am. Going through customs was a breeze. Aside from asking what food I had brought, I wasn’t asked any other questions. They didn’t even ask what I was doing or if I had a way back to the States. Guess New Zealand doesn’t care how long I stay! :) I soon collected my backpack and made it though a baggage screening. I was then warmly greeted by Jeff, who took me back to his home where I met his family. I am grateful for the Pelz’s hospitality as I stay with them the next couple of days in Auckland. After Auckland, my plans are to head north to the Bay of Islands.