GG Friends : Miro Thomas From New Zealand

This is a photo of me fishing

Hello, Kia Ora and 안녕하세요! My name is Miro Thomas and I am delighted to represent Aotearoa New Zealand (뉴질랜드).

Last year I was priveliged to visit the Republic of Korea and attend the 25th World Scout Jamboree. During this visit I really enjoyed getting to learn about Korean history and geography. So much so that it now occupies a large part of my conscience.

Me (right) along with other New Zealand scouts at Saemangeum

I enjoyed visiting the DMZ and Infiltration tunnel museum. The active military presence was a large contrast to a New Zealander.

This experience gave me a heartfelt appreciation for humanity, geography and Korean culture. Now that I have this great opportunity to return and share aspects of my country with you, I feel humbled and appreciative.

Where I come from, Aotearoa New Zealand is an isolated island nation in the South Pacific. Our foreign relations are pro-western and we mostly handle foreign affairs between smaller pacific islands.

New Zealand's pristine geography is some of the most rugged in the world.

Personally, I live in Wellington, the capital city. It is a metropolitan and cultural hub. I enjoy visiting cultural expos such as the Korean, Polish and Ukranian festivals.

Wellington City. Whilst small in comparison to Korean cities, this is one of the largest population centres in New Zealand.

This building is the national parliament of New Zealand, located in Wellington.

New Zealand is geographically composed of many small and two large islands. The majority of Kiwi's (Slang for a New Zealander) reside on the largest two, North and South.

New Zealands Islands

Some of our smaller islands, the Mokohinaus. Photo taken from a national racing yacht through scouts.

New Zealand has diverse and unique species due to its isolation. Because of this, we have interesting types of birds.

A Kiwi. The national animal of New Zealand.

A Takahe. Very endangered flightless parrot.

I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping and water activities.

So overall, thank you for considering me. 안녕, 고마워요. 곧 뵙길 바랍니다. If you have any questions about New Zealand please let me know in a comment.

Here are some photos from both my life and time in Korea:

NZ flag at Saemangeum

DMZ

HBAF almond store in Seoul

Me and my cat.

New Zealand at the KPOP Super Live Concert.

Me (Left) after returning from WSJ.