Andrew's Journal, New Zealand Andrew J. Stillman Andrew's Journal, New Zealand Andrew J. Stillman

The Rescue of Gilly the Cow

I had three WWOOFing experiences during my time in Aotearoa, but I must admit, Gilly's involvement in the third one made it the best.

All three experiences occurred in close quarters with each other, but I’d arranged the final one before I left California.

I was initially contacted by Ruth, who I’m insistent is one of the kindest souls I’ve ever encountered. After my week with her, she arranged for me to help out at the Stubbs’ farm.

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Andrew's Journal, New Zealand Andrew J. Stillman Andrew's Journal, New Zealand Andrew J. Stillman

Mind-Blown in Cathedral Cove

To my surprise, hardly anyone else knew this was a filming location for Narnia. I didn’t realize I’d be the only one excited about that aspect, but no matter. The mind of the fantasy author is not one to be questioned or tampered with, and just as I did as a child through the forests of Yosemite, my mind took me into the world of Narnia.

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Andrew's Journal, Inspiration, Stories, travel, New Zealand Andrew J. Stillman Andrew's Journal, Inspiration, Stories, travel, New Zealand Andrew J. Stillman

Cape Reinga: The Tip of the Bottom of the World

A week wasn’t a week in New Zealand unless accompanied by at least one major mental breakdown. Each meltdown came in waves, and fear always acted as its driving force. I’d suffered through Auckland and feared I wouldn’t enjoy the trip — only to find the Williams. I then got comfortable at their residence until it came time to face the fears again.

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Andrew's Journal, Inspiration, Stories, travel, New Zealand Andrew J. Stillman Andrew's Journal, Inspiration, Stories, travel, New Zealand Andrew J. Stillman

Farmwork in New Zealand

During my research about ways to save money in New Zealand, I found Willing Workers on Organic Farms, or “WWOOFing.”

Part of the comfort zone I stepped out of coming to New Zealand revolved around my work life. I knew how to do what I was familiar with, but I wanted to learn what else was out there.

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Andrew's Journal, Inspiration, Stories, New Zealand Andrew J. Stillman Andrew's Journal, Inspiration, Stories, New Zealand Andrew J. Stillman

Jumping off Auckland's Sky Tower

My original plan upon arrival in New Zealand was to check into the hostel, buy a ticket for the Sky Tower, and jump off of it.

I even booked my hostel right next to the Sky Tower so I wouldn’t get lost.

People didn’t think I could survived this trip, and I wanted to make a statement, start bold and do something that evoked adrenaline and proved I could do whatever I wanted.

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