Kia Ora from New Zealand! A Peek into ALS 2024 Highlights
Last April 15 to 21, our dear ABOs embarked on a transformative journey – the Amway Leadership Seminar in New Zealand – where passion meets purpose, and potential is unlocked in the pursuit of business excellence.
In the heart of New Zealand's North Island lies Rotorua, a city famed for its geothermal wonders and rich Maori culture.
Departing from the usual routine, some of our dear ABOs embarked on an extended trip to Rotorua, eager to immerse themselves in its unique offerings such Agrodome Farm where they witnessed the art of sheep shearing and the agility of sheepdogs herding their woolly charges. They also had the opportunity to interact with a variety of animals, from playful lambs to majestic alpacas.
They also visited Te Puia, a cultural center nestled within the Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley. Here, they marveled at the towering geysers, bubbling mud pools, and steaming vents that seemed to breathe life into the earth itself.
Next stop is nestled along the banks of the Waikato River, Hamilton Gardens beckons visitors with its enchanting landscapes and meticulously curated themed gardens. Their journey culminated in a visit to the Hamilton Gardens Pavilion, where they were treated to a sumptuous high tea experience fit for royalty. Seated amidst elegant surroundings, they savored delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an assortment of decadent pastries, all served with steaming pots of fragrant tea.
Following their time in Rotorua, our dear ABOs reunited with fellow ALS Qualifiers in Auckland for a special business session. This gathering was more than just a mere educational endeavor, the business session symbolized a profound commitment to growth, health, well-being, and the creation of a supportive community.
As the day drew to a close, we savored a delightful dinner at Orbit Restaurant, nestled within Auckland's iconic Sky City. From our vantage point, the panoramic views of Auckland cityscape provided the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening.
For those seeking an even greater thrill, the Skywalk beckons. Perched on a narrow platform encircling the Sky Tower, daredevils are invited to step out into the open air, 192 meters above street level. With nothing but a harness keeping them safe, they walk the perimeter of the tower, feeling the wind in their hair and the pulse of the city beneath their feet. It's a test of nerves and courage, rewarded with unparalleled views and an unmatched sense of accomplishment.
But for the ultimate Auckland adventure, nothing compares to the Bridge Climb. Scaling the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge, climbers are treated to sweeping views of the city skyline, Waitemata Harbour, and beyond. As they ascend to the bridge's summit, they hear the hum of traffic below and feel the gentle sway of the structure beneath their feet.
Another highlight during this amazing trip is the unforgettable visit at Hobbiton Movie set.
This quaint village, immortalized by J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, beckons travelers from across the globe to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Middle-earth. As we meandered through the cobblestone pathways, lined with vibrant gardens and cozy Hobbit holes, it felt as though we were strolling through Bilbo Baggins' own neighborhood. Each meticulously crafted hobbit dwelling exuded personality, from the vibrant hues of Bag End to the quaint charm of the Green Dragon Inn.
Their journey reached its climax in the glow-worm caves, where bioluminescent creatures adorned the cave ceiling, creating an ethereal spectacle. Their soft blue-green light cast an ethereal glow, illuminating the darkness with an otherworldly beauty.
Last on our ALS New Zealand experience is a Behind-the-Scenes Adventure at the Weta Workshop! One of the highlights of the tour was visiting the weapons department, where iconic props from beloved films adorned the walls. From swords and shields to futuristic firearms, each piece was a testament to the dedication and skill of the craftsmen who crafted them. From the challenges of bringing Gollum to life in "The Lord of the Rings" to the groundbreaking visual effects of "Avatar," it was a fascinating journey through cinematic history.
For our dear ABOs who are cinephiles and fantasy aficionados alike, there's no greater thrill than stepping into the shoes of their favorite movie characters as we celebrate this milestone of success and concluded this ALS New Zealand trip.
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