Whisper of Farewell: A Fifteen-Year Goodbye
Fifteen years have quietly passed, and the moment of farewell is always mixed with a sense of nostalgia and gratitude. Christchurch, New Zealand, has been the backdrop to my family’s life, leaving an indelible mark on our journey. Today, I’d like to share some stories from this memorable chapter.
Arriving in Christchurch: Snowflakes and Hope
In the winter of 2011, my son and I set off for New Zealand with our luggage and a sense of hope, feeling a bit like adventurers heading to a new world. On the day we arrived in Christchurch, snowflakes gently drifted down from the sky. It was the first proper snowfall in over a decade, almost as if the city was giving us a special welcome. Watching the snow softly settle on the windscreen and melt like feathers, I felt the warmth of this new beginning.
Those early days were simple. We lived in a small temporary apartment with a lawn out front and a white camellia tree. During the day, my son and I explored the local library, and in the evenings, we read and played together. Life was modest yet full of joy. My son attended a Catholic school where, despite not speaking English yet, he prayed in Chinese, much to the amusement of his teachers. Within three months, his English improved remarkably, even surpassing many local kids.
Embracing the Culture and Community
My husband was a huge supporter of my son and me getting involved in local activities, from rugby to public speaking training and Scout camps. Even with his busy work schedule, he always made time to take us on weekend day trips to small towns around Christchurch. We especially loved visiting weekend markets, where we’d pick up fresh, locally-produced foods like garlic, apples, veggies, and honey.
To help my son better connect with the local community, I organised Chinese New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival events at his school. I brought in lanterns, red envelopes, calligraphy sets, and traditional costumes, teaching the kids how to write Chinese characters with brushes and make dumplings. I’ll never forget one child touching the ink and saying, “This is amazing!” Seeing their joy made me feel incredibly proud.
My son also joined a youth rugby club. From weekly training sessions to weekend matches, I gradually transitioned from being an observer to an active participant, fully embracing this rugby-mad culture. The friendships he made and his dedication to the sport not only shaped him but also deepened my appreciation for the community spirit here.
Exploring New Career Paths
Over the past fifteen years, my career has taken many twists and turns. From running a café and exporting New Zealand wine to China, to eventually transitioning into tourism, I discovered new possibilities at every step. In tourism, I designed unique travel experiences, showcasing New Zealand’s diverse beauty to visitors. When the pandemic paused my career, campervan trips and hiking adventures became new ways to find fulfilment.
I remember during an Able Tasman hike, a fellow traveller handed me a chocolate bar and said, “Have a bit of sugar; it’ll keep you going.” Such small acts of kindness left a lasting impression. Every journey brought me closer to the people and the stunning natural landscapes of this country.
Growth and Transformation
In New Zealand, my roles have continually evolved: mother, entrepreneur, volunteer, and even student. From earning tour guide, barista, and life coach certifications, each new skill opened up fresh opportunities. Once upon a time, I’d scoff at the idea of taking exams, but now they’ve become a way for me to redefine myself.
After the pandemic, I took on the role of Activities Coordinator at a retirement village, a position I’ve held for about two years (since February 2023). During this time, I’ve patiently and cheerfully helped residents with their smart devices, earning the nickname “Magic Mei.” This job has been more than just work—it’s been about forging genuine connections. The smiles and gratitude from the residents are some of the most cherished memories of my life.
Farewell as a Gift
Goodbyes are never easy. Every street and every friendly face in Christchurch hold a piece of my story. This city has taught me resilience and kindness, giving me the space to grow from a newcomer to a confident, multi-skilled individual.
I believe that farewell isn’t an end—it’s the beginning of a new chapter. The memories I’ve made here will fuel my journey forward, and the warmth I’ve experienced will remain the foundation of my life. Every day ahead is a gift waiting to be unwrapped.
Leaving with gratitude, I’m stepping forward with hope.
-To Be Continued EP005-
