While others are having fun in the south island, I'm home in the states and back to work. We learned a lot about the ecology, flora, and fauna of New Zealand, but I think one of the most interesting things about traveling is learning about the culture and quirks that are unique to that country. I've compiled a list of some things that I noticed that make New Zealand a whole other world.

1. Kiwi's drive on the wrong side of the road. I suppose since it was colonized by the British, they felt that they had to be wrong like the British and drive on the left side of the road :P It took quite a while for me to get used to looking at the right side of the street to ensure I wouldn't get run over. Now that I'm back in the states, it feels strange to be on the right side of the road. As Kristi would say, "right is right".

2. Kiwi's have two buttons on their toilets. One button only uses half as much water as the other button. If you haven't figured it out already, one is for "number one" and the other is for "number two".

3. Kiwi's have switches on their outlets that can turn them on/off. It took us awhile to figure out why our batteries and such weren't charging.

4. Kiwi's spell "tire" as "tyre". That's just silly.

5. Kiwi's close all their stores by 5:30 PM. With the exception of grocery stores, restaurants, bars, and gas stations, EVERYTHING is closed by 5:30 PM. We had to make a mad dash to the stores to get all our souvenir shopping done.

6. Kiwi's have unusual chip flavors. They range anywhere from burger flavored rings (a Dr. Swanson favorite. Sharing is a must if you are seen with Burger Rings in his presence.) to roasted lamb and mint flavored kettle chips.

7. Kiwi's give you ample opportunity to recycle. There are recycling bins EVERYWHERE. There's no reason for you not to want to help the environment!

The thing you notice most about New Zealand is the people and the love they have for their country. There is a certain pride they have in maintaining its natural beauty. They go above and beyond to conserve their native animals and plants. It is truly a place thriving with culture and beauty.

Hien Tran