Report from Maddie Simpson

My recent journey to the United Kingdom was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I flew out of Wellington, it was clear that this would be a journey of discovery, cultural exchange, and growth. After travelling for almost 30 hours, I arrived in Aberdeen, Scotland. There, I was greeted by my first host family who ensured that I felt at home right away. During my stay in Aberdeen, I had the privilege of visiting several iconic Scottish sites, each offering a glimpse into the country’s history and culture. I visited the Walker’s shortbread factory, Glenfiddich distillery, and RAF Lossiemouth. It didn’t take long for me to appreciate the striking similarities between Scotland and Aotearoa both in the people and the environment, but the main difference was the number of castles in Scotland!

After spending time in Aberdeen, I took the train to Edinburgh, where I stayed for three days. I was fortunate enough to visit the National Gallery of Scotland and had a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle where I had tea with the Governor. One of the most surprising experiences was discovering my newfound love for haggis, the traditional Scottish dish. After my time in Edinburgh, I spent 10 days in London, where I had the chance to explore some of the most famous sights in the city. I visited the London Eye, Big Ben, and attended a couple of West End shows.

Throughout my journey, one of the highlights was the opportunity to share New Zealand and Māori culture with everyone I met in the UK. It was clear that there is a strong desire to connect with and appreciate cultures from around the world, and it felt incredibly rewarding to be able to represent New Zealand in this way.

However, the most memorable aspect of my trip was undoubtedly the hospitality and kindness of the Scottish people. At Robert Gordon’s College, I was welcomed with open arms. Everyone at the school showed a genuine interest in me and the Everiss Scholarship, and I was touched by their curiosity and enthusiasm.

 I encourage all the students at Ōtaki College to aim for a Ngā Ringa Whero role and apply for the Everiss Scholarship if given the chance. This scholarship offers an incredible opportunity to learn about the world in many ways. I am deeply thankful to Otaki College and the Everiss Trust for this amazing opportunity, and I encourage you to take full advantage of any similar experiences that may come your way.