Kia ora! I’m Kath, a Filipina from the Philippines who had always dreamed of traveling but never quite knew how to make it happen. Growing up, I would stare at maps, imagine distant lands, and wonder what it would feel like to explore them—but it all felt so far away, almost like a daydream.
Then it all started when I was given the incredible opportunity to represent my college at an international conference in Nanjing, China. That trip was more than just a school event — it was my first taste of travel, and it awakened something deep in me. A hunger for adventure. A longing to chase flights, experience new cultures, and see sceneries I’d only ever imagined.
Fast forward to 2019, another academic conference — this time in the vibrant heart of Thailand. I traveled with my best friend, Jessa, and together we presented our undergraduate thesis to fellow communication majors from around the world. That experience didn’t just satisfy my wanderlust — it fueled it. I realized then how much I craved to uncover stories from different corners of the globe, to explore places beyond what textbooks and Instagram posts could ever capture.
After graduating in 2019, I flew to New Zealand to visit my aunt, uncle, and favorite cousin. I didn’t expect to fall so deeply in love with the country — but I did. So much so that I decided to pursue my postgraduate diploma there. One thing led to another: I studied, started working, and well... I never looked back.
New Zealand has always felt like a dream — and living here has made that dream real. It’s a place where I feel seen, heard, appreciated, and free. What still amazes me is how warmly people treat each other. You’re never really a stranger here. Walk down any street and you’ll be greeted with a cheerful “Morena!” (Good morning) or “Kia Ora!” (Hello) — small gestures that mean so much.
It made me want to tell stories from this side of the world. To share New Zealand’s culture, people, and beauty — all through my own lens.
So, Kia ora! I’m Kath — and this is my New Zealand journey.
