The way they raise cattle over here is different from back home, especially the amount of land they use to do it. It has been a great learning experience seeing the techniques, methods and technologies my host uses in his operation. Over the holidays, I was fortunate to meet others from neighbouring stations and attend local events. I was able to spend Christmas with them in Adelaide. We drove down, which was a great way to see the outback. It also toured around the area and made a stop at Glenelg beach!

As my time in New Zealand comes to an end I’m so grateful for all the people I’ve met, places I’ve travelled and memories I’ve made! What an incredible experience!

“Everything has been great. My hosts are kind people to work for! Even in the busy and stressful times my boss remains patient and easygoing. I am surprised with how many people I have met that live in New Zealand, but aren’t originally from here! I have gone to a couple Young Farmers meetings to meet some locals, and many of the club members were from the UK. Overall, NZ people seem quite friendly and easygoing.”

Going through International Rural Exchange Canada is a great way to experience the world. Not only did I get to experience agriculture on the other side of the world, but I also had time to travel on my own and with friends! I went to Melbourne, Sydney, and the Gold Coast. The most memorable experiences I had while traveling was climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Sydney and learning to surf in the Gold Coast!

I had a super time in the Netherlands. I was happy at Eko De Eerste Boerderij and had a great experience meeting new friends from around the world. And learning lots about organic vegetable farming! Looking back, I'd say my trip to the Netherlands, (and some other places in Europe) was a total success! I really enjoyed my international experience, and I hope the things I learned about agriculture, and myself, I can apply to what I do in future endeavours.