"In the term three holidays, I went on a cultural exchange trip with other schools to China."

"I was nominated to participate because I had completed the HSK2 standard Chinese test earlier in the year," says year 11 learner Sophia Bool.

"We visited cultural exhibits and zoos, and many historical landmarks. Our first stop was Beijing, to the Great Wall. It was even harder to climb than I expected, and I was reminded that its steepness was made to challenge the enemy."

"The next day we went to the Summer Palace, a traditional pavilion next to a lake. The architecture was detailed and complimented the nature. Filled with numerous walkways and large courtyards, it’s hard to believe this place was largely inhabited by just one concubine and a few servants."

"We later travelled to the countryside to visit Wudang mountain Taoist temple. We got a ride to the top of the mountain and then took a gondola up to hike the final stretch of the stairs that led up to the peak, which is where the temple was. It was raining and foggy on the day we went so we couldn’t see much of the view but I was able to get some good photos, since fog in the mountains is quintessentially Chinese, and added good ambience."

"During our second week, we travelled to Wuhan and took Chinese culture and language classes. While I was there I got to try some amazing food, including hot pot, where you dip meat, vegetables and other ingredients in boiling soup broth then after it's cooked, dip it in a sauce."

"China is such a diverse and beautiful country, with so many differences to NZ, it was an amazing opportunity to experience it for myself!"