Abdinz

There’s something magical about the moment when the sky transforms into a canvas of colors as the sun dips below the horizon. Back in my hometown in Somalia, I would often sit by the beach, watching the golden sun melt into the Indian Ocean, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was my favorite way to end the day—reflecting on life and feeling grateful for the beauty around me.

Even now, as I live in New Zealand, I haven’t stopped chasing sunsets. In fact, my love for the golden hour has grown stronger. New Zealand’s nature has a way of capturing your heart, from its clear rivers and sparkling lakes to the majestic mountain ranges and endless skies. The Waikato region, where I now spend a lot of my time, has become my sanctuary.

Hiking in Waikato: Clear Waters, Open Skies, and Hidden Gems

Waikato is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Its rolling hills and lush forests are perfect for hiking. Some trails lead to stunning viewpoints where you can see the sunrise peeking over the hills, casting a gentle glow over the landscape. Others take you along crystal-clear rivers that reflect the vibrant green of the surrounding bush, creating a peaceful atmosphere that makes you feel connected to nature.

One of my favorite hikes takes me to the shores of Lake Karapiro. The lake’s calm waters reflect the sky, and as I stand there in the early morning, I can feel the world waking up around me. It’s the perfect start to the day, watching the sunrise paint the sky in soft shades of pink and gold while the silhouette of distant hills creates a peaceful, almost surreal scene.

Sunsets and Sunrises: A Time for Gratitude

As the day comes to an end, I find myself drawn to the evening skies. There’s nothing quite like watching the sun set in Waikato, with its vast open spaces and vibrant colors. The golden light casts long shadows over the landscape, creating a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere. 

It reminds me of the beach sunsets back home, where I would sit and reflect on the day. No matter where I am in the world, I find comfort in this ritual. It’s a moment to pause, be grateful, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, both in nature and in life.

New Beginnings in a New Land

In New Zealand, I’ve made new friends and become part of a new family. We often hike together, chasing the sunrise in the mornings and enjoying the sunset in the evenings. There’s something special about sharing these moments with people I care about—it makes me feel connected to this new chapter of my life.

From the rolling hills and rivers of Waikato to the glowing sunrises and silhouette sunsets, New Zealand has given me countless moments of awe and gratitude. I’m still chasing sunsets, but now, they are a reminder of both the life I’ve lived and the new experiences I’m embracing.

No matter where the sun sets, I find peace in knowing that the beauty of nature is always there to remind me of how far I’ve come and how much there is to be grateful for.