September 11, 2015, marked my first day in New Zealand. This journey began after my visa application for another country was rejected.

In 2015, I was a recent graduate eager to improve my language skills and, more importantly, travel. Initially, my destination was not New Zealand. However, after my visa rejection, a friend who was already studying English in New Zealand invited me to join them. I researched the country and enrolled in a four-month language program. Ultimately, I ended up staying for almost six months.

Day 1: My new home on Birkdale Road.

My initial accommodation, arranged by my program in Thailand, was with a host family for one month.

And this was my bedroom.

The view from the balcony is breathtaking.

A small kitchen suitable for basic cooking.

Every morning, I take the bus to school from the bus stop. The fare is 5 NZD (similar to the Rabbit card in Thailand, this country uses an AT Hop Card, which costs 10 NZD to purchase). After obtaining the card, you can choose between a top-up or a monthly pass. If you have a student ID, you can use it to get a discount on the top-up option. The monthly pass, which cost 180 NZD (approximately 4500 baht) when I was there, allows unlimited travel on both buses and trains. I opted for the monthly pass because I travel every day. To get to the city, I take bus routes 973 or 974. However, if I take the 974, I need to walk a little further. The weather is fantastic. The sun was shining on my first day, but the temperature was 11 degrees Celsius.

The train schedule is very accurate, with trains arriving on time as indicated. Electronic displays show the remaining waiting time for each train.

This is the route from your accommodation to the school. It takes approximately 30 minutes.

According to the map, we will need to cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge both ways, which will give us a view like this.

Today, I explored the area and routes to the school and met with a senior student who studies here.

The first day of the City Tour concluded without visiting many places. The participants only explored the route to the school and observed the city's atmosphere. Afterward, they dispersed to find food and returned to their respective accommodations.

The next time I will share about restaurants and holidays.

Apologies for any mistakes. This is my first attempt as a newbie.

If you have any further suggestions, please feel free to leave a comment.

Thank you.