Day 4

Culture shock.  I didn't think it would be an issue for me.  But there are definitely a lot of little things that add up to create one big confusing and challenging experience.

For example, EVERYONE uses Celsius versus Fahrenheit.  Even my hostel mates that barely speak English understand Celsius.  It comes up in conversation a lot, so I just downloaded a converter app so that I can understand the context.  Personally, I think Fahrenheit makes more sense but my group gives me shit about it all the time.

I still haven't met an American.  Turns out Americans rarely do working holidays in NZ.  I think this should benefit me in the end since being fluent in English is actually rare.  The most popular nationality in the hostel is definitely German.  There are tons of Germans and they are all traveling solo but have turned into this giant group of friends, it's insane!!  They are also super young, every German I've met is only 18.

Money.  I didn't think getting used to the money here would be so difficult but it really is.  They use coins much more often than we do in the states because there are 2 dollar and 1 dollar coins.  I'm starting to recognize them but I generally have to stand there at the register and look really closely because every piece of money has the Queen on it.  AND no tipping in NZ!!  I seriously love this because things are already so much more expensive but it also means that if I get a job at a cafe or restaurant I won't be making the extra money I expected.  

They drive on the opposite side of the road in NZ.  That's not really an issue for me because I will not and should not be driving, BUT as a pedestrian it's tricky.  Not only do you have to be super aware when crossing the road you also have to walk on the other side of the sidewalk.  I always find myself in the way of people or walking up the wrong side of the stairs.  I always aim for the right but should really be on the left side.

There are definitely moments of panic, where I start asking myself why I got myself into this.  BUT if I wait it out something new and exciting happens and I forget to stress out.

The pictures below are from a day of just randomly adventuring through Auckland with my hostel-mates.   Proof that I have made friends :)