Saturday, 7 March 2026During the Chinese New Year holidays, a group of us embarked on an enriching 12-day study tour to Auckland, New Zealand. The journey was more than just a trip; it was a profound cultural exchange that provided us with unforgettable memories, strengthened our English skills, and allowed us to build lasting relationships with the local community.
Life at Mount Roskill Grammar School
Our time at Mount Roskill Grammar School was a true highlight. Although many of us felt nervous upon arrival—some even had ‘shaking hands’ on the first day—the warm welcome from the local students quickly put us at ease. We were amazed by the school’s inclusivity, witnessing students from countless cultural backgrounds working together with genuine respect. By the second day, nerves had turned into excitement. We made many new friends in our classes, and by the end of the week, many of us were not ready to leave.
Auckland’s Best: Science, History, and Nature
We spent our time exploring the diverse attractions that make New Zealand unique:
- MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology): We stepped back in time to see how things worked in the past, riding vintage trams and exploring historic trains and planes.
- Kiwi Valley Animal Farm: A major favourite for many was the chance to ride a horse for the first time. Despite some initial jitters about staying balanced, it was a thrilling experience.
- Laser Tag: We tested our reflexes and teamwork during an intense game of laser tag, which proved to be one of the most enjoyed activities of the trip.
Stepping into a Fairytale
On our final day in Auckland, we visited the world-famous Hobbiton and the stunning Hamilton Gardens.
- Hobbiton: Walking through the rolling green hills felt like stepping directly onto a movie set. For fans of The Lord of the Rings, it was a dream come true, topped off by a refreshing ginger beer at the Green Dragon Inn.
- Hamilton Gardens: We explored a variety of beautiful landscapes, from peaceful Chinese gardens to traditional Māori plantings. It was a wonderful reminder that beauty manifests in many different forms.
Embracing Māori Culture and Inclusivity
One of the most impactful parts of the tour was witnessing how New Zealand honours its indigenous heritage.
- The All Blacks Experience: We learnt about the Haka, the powerful traditional ceremony performed by the Māori and famously adapted by the New Zealand rugby team.
- Auckland War Memorial Museum: We were blown away by a traditional Māori performance and inspired by how effectively the country preserves and celebrates its indigenous culture.
In summary, this trip was a life-changing experience that pushed us to step outside our comfort zones. Witnessing such a diverse and inclusive society taught us the importance of respect and global collaboration. We return to Hong Kong inspired to spread these values within our own community.
We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity and will cherish these cultural experiences and memories forever.