31 December 2013: New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve in Auckland is pretty special, as it is one of the first major cities to welcome the new year.  This year, the weather was outstanding and it seemed to be reflected in the vibe throughout the city: people were playing drums and singing, cars moving slowly along Queen Ave (the major thoroughfare into Auckland city centre) were thumping with loud music.  The atmosphere was definitely festive!

Dr. Moran and I made our way down to the center of action, the intersection of Victoria and Queen Sts, just before midnight, in order to see the traditional fireworks display on the Sky Tower.  Once again, we weren't disappointed as the LED countdown on the Sky Tower hit zero: a fireworks display lasting several minutes lit the night sky as revelers cheered and hugged one another in celebration of the new year.  It was also a time to reflect, if just for a moment, on how fortunate I am, our group is, to be traveling in a spectacular country like New Zealand, but also to consider how we would not be here without the support of our families at home.  If you haven't heard 'thank you' from your child yet for helping him/her get to New Zealand, please know each student has remarked on how lucky each feels to be here.  Thanks and Happy New Year!

The Sky Tower, in downtown Auckland, lights-up the night sky in celebration of New Year's 2014!