I came here on the 15th of July 2012.I have been here about 1 year. My first thoughts were different food, different language and people. NZ's food is really different from Japanese food. Japanese food is so healthy compared to NZ's food. Obviously, the language spoken by people is English. I was struggling so much that I couldn't understand anything about what kiwi were saying. But they kept trying to talk to me. I appreciated them. I stayed at Finnigan's house close to Fitzroy beach for 9 months. In the summer, I went to the beach to siwm or surf with my host family or friends everyday. I enjoyed hanging out at the beach.
In March, I moved out to my best friend's house. It was hard to hang out with her before I moved. But after that, I was with her everyday. I was glad I moved. The families are both really nice. I thank the families for having me. My favourite subjects are P.E. and ESOL. Because there are some opportunities to get along with people who I didn't know through P.E. class and I can communicate with my friends who are from different countried in ESOL. My most memorable moment is not just one : When I saw a beautiful view with my friends at the beach. It was a sunset. When I scored a goal at soccer. When I was with my friends and laughed so much.. Everything is a memorable moment for me. What I spent most of my time in NZ doing was playing soccer. I couldn't imagine how amazing it was going to be. I wouldn't have enjoyed it without soccer. I went to Taupo for the nationals and also went to Hamilton, Palmerston North,Wanganui... I got along with everyone and they are my good friends now. I'm so glad that we met through soccer in NZ. I appreciate them. They made the year of my life. Thay mean so much to me.
So, I'm leaving form New Plymouth on the 10th of July 2013. The next day I'm heading to my home Japan, I will be so sad to leave here, I can't imagine that I'm leaving soon. But that's life. I hope it will make me strong. I will never forget that I spent time with my host family and my friends in NZ. My plans when I get to Japan are catching up with my friends, and spending time with my family, eating amazing Japanese food - all the time (haha), and playing soccer at a high level, studying for university. There are lots of things to do. I will be so busy of course, I will keep in touch with my friends in NZ.
I had an experience in NZ that I couldn't imagine if I was in Japan. I'm pretty sure it made me strong. I am coming back to NZ soon to see my friends.
Thanks to everyone who encouraged me, helped me and made me happy! This is the most amazing experience I've ever had in my life.
By Suzu
