Hot, humid, yet absolutely delightful

Farhan Rozaidi, A Watch, Trinity College

After a wonderful night's rest in our 6' x 3' x 3' coffins (bunks), we woke up for an all-hands breakfast. Some more ship orientation occurred, and we cleaned the ship, with each watch group having a separate task. Amidst all the deluge of information, I keep asking our chief mate, Rebecca, about climbing aloft to the top of the mast. Unfortunately, that day will come much later.

Around midday, we left for the Ngati Whatua Orakei marae (ancestral grounds for the Ngati Whatua Orakei tribe). We had a wonderful tour guided by Jamie Cook, one of the members of the tribe. Afterward, we had around an hour and a half for research time prior to being called back on the boat. I spent that time studying the salinity and temperature of the ocean up close, and I was able to study some miniature gelatinous creatures floating in the waters (translation: I went swimming and saw some tiny jellyfish).

We're off to a wonderful start here in Auckland. Even though the information being fed feels like trying to drink out of a water hydrant, I am really excited to get underway on Friday and head out to Russell. I have a feeling that this will be an amazing experience with many ups and downs (not looking forward to being seasick).

To my family: As the first Rozaidi to visit New Zealand, I can tell you guys that it's a wonderful place. Definitely worth a visit. I miss and love you all <3

To my climbing crew: I hope you guys are crushing the routes. Once I get trained on going aloft, I definitely will be climbing it as much as possible. Hope to see you all at Smith Rock!

- Farhan Rozaidi, A Watch, Trinity College