Out of Office Adventures

Out of Office Adventures

My Travel Diaries

How I received a life-changing offer in New Zealand

New beginnings, but in which direction?

Claire Drinkwater's avatar
Claire Drinkwater
Jul 29, 2025
∙ Paid

Join me in New Zealand, where a choice between security and freedom could change my future. But first, I have to survive my most terrifying travel experience yet.


"The koru spiral represents new beginnings," said the man, as he placed a carved bone pendant in my palm. Its smooth, circular shape coiled towards the centre.

"It symbolises a new phase in your life," he continued, looking me in the eyes.

The timing was perfect. I'd completed my epic solo round-the-world adventure, spent Christmas back home in the UK, and now I was in New Zealand for a temp job. First, I was exploring the North Island on a guided bus tour. We'd stopped at an artisan workshop where a craftsman made traditional Maori symbols.

Clutching the pendant tightly, I made a silent wish for a way I could stay in this country I'd fallen in love with.

I never imagined how quickly - and unexpectedly - the universe would answer.

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