Day 1

Below is a map of New Zealand. Palmerston North is located near the bottom of the North Island.






Below is a view of my dorm, also known as a hostel:





hang drying is not the only option, I must say, I was relieved! This building is the common room for all the inhabitants of Rotary Court.



This is a view from just out the dorm. There is a lovely grove of trees that overlooks this bluff and then the river down below. There are plenty of happy palm trees and ferns all around. Its rather off-putting as its quite chilly here. Normally I associate summer, warm, and tropical with palm trees.



This is another view around campus, near one of the many bus stops. I really enjoy the soft rolling hills. They sneak up on you when you least expect it!



Here is a pond in the center of the square, downtown Palmerston North. This is the heart of the downtown. Its a beautiful location with plenty of shops surrounding it. Normally, when i envision a downtown area, skyscrapers and noisy traffic come to mind. That is not the case here. There are a few tall buildings, but not really a skyline so to speak. The shops and businesses surround the square and expand outward. Most buildings are only 2-3 stories. There are a few exceptions, but they seem to be scattered throughout the town, with little rhyme or reason.



This is a beautiful church located just outside the city square.



This is a shot down one of the streets. As you can see there is very little traffic. Pedestrians have the right of way when crossing, although if there is a stop light, its easier to cross there. But if there is a crosswalk, make it snappy and get across the street so as not to annoy the drivers! The driving patterns is opposite here than back home. At first, driving to the campus from the airport was strange, as i sat in what i know to be the drivers seat, however here, is the passenger seat. Thankfully most roads are one way, so its quite easy to get around.




A lot of the trees look like the one above. Its rather reminiscent of an overgrown bonsai tree.



This is just outside the Palmerston North City Council Building. It also showcases the variety of plants that grown here.



Above features a fountain located in the center of the square. the following photos will show the inscription.









above is the public library. Its quite modern on the inside as well. They have free internet access, and a great cafe as well as books, cds, dvds, and magazines.



This is a sculpture just outside the doors of the public library. I found it quite intriguing!



This is another sculpture I found while wondering around downtown.



And at the end of the day, I was greeted with a beautiful rainbow!