By Kat Pereira
Even before the plane landed I knew something was different. It could’ve been the fact that we weren’t required to take our shoes off, or maybe that iced coffee cost more than a cappuccino. New Zealand was never really on my radar as I automatically associated it with Australia and “The Outback.” Even those around me in San Diego kept asking if I had seen smoke from Australia on my trip. However, I can safely say that my entire world turned around after visiting this breathtaking country. Through SIBC the University of San Diego partnered with Benedictine College and I had the privilege of working with four Benedictine students alongside fellow USD student Kyle Rutherford. To kick off our travels, myself and four of the Benedictine Students chose to stay in Queenstown. With the lush greenery and heavy prevalence of sheep, Queenstown brought us nature hikes with stunning views and peaceful vineyards for a Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tour. From eating at Fergburger, the local burger hotspot, to trying fresh baked Olive Bread from the town bakery, this breath of fresh air left us feeling happy we got the chance to visit.
Next we boarded our plane to Auckland to deliver a riveting presentation to the executive board of Attain New Zealand. The research I spent the last semester conducting helped me gain a better understanding of the consulting industry. Dividing the United States into geographical regions, I then compared the dominating industry in each region to the need for consulting in this industry, competitors, a niche market upon entering, and what type of consulting these companies are looking for. From this analysis, it was concluded that IT consulting in Silicon Valley, California would provide the most profitable opportunity for Attain. After a successful presentation in front of Sharn Piper, CEO of Attain NZ, we all went to Elliot Stables to celebrate. Having to decide between delicious crepes, fresh seafood, or warm bao buns was a challenge but one we all continued to have as the food in Auckland ceased to disappoint. Of course Auckland enriched us in more ways than through its culinary talents as we sailed under the Auckland bridge and saw the city from a new perspective. Another great thing about Auckland was its close proximity to Waiheke Island, Milford Sound, and Rangitoto Island.
Starting with Waiheke, our group ended up finding a cute little area to rent kayaks and paddle boards. Paddle boarding past the sailboats and dodging the ferry we came in on was a blast and something I will never forget. Another day we made a trek to Milford Sound in a bus which then took us out on a boat to see the several waterfalls streaming down from the natural rock that surrounded us. Apart from the cold rain and wind, the day brought excitement and adventure as we all got to drink the fresh mountain water and get close to snow-capped mountains. Overall this experience was so fulfilling as I learned more about the business world on a global scale, and how to conduct thorough market research while still managing to have the best time taking in all that New Zealand has to offer.
Thank you SIBC for this amazing opportunity!