At first everyone is excited about the journey to come, anxious to get out of the busy city and get some needed rest in Otematata.
The car roars as it crests the hill and we take one final look before leaving Dunedin behind.
Shortly after departing from our home we reach a series of towns, hidden away by the bays.
All is calm and quiet as we pass through these small seaside settlements.
Soon arguments breakout over technology and the radio, leaving everyone unsatisfied with bitter words on their minds.
Along the road we go, following the ocean with its white waves and soaring seagulls.
We turn inland, led onwards by the black, tar-sealed snake as it slithers through the landscape.
Through Palmerston and Hampden we go, leaving them be as unnecessary targets.
Oamaru is our first pit stop, rations and toilet breaks are our objectives.
As soon as it comes, Oamaru is gone, left in the distance as we march onwards.
Again we leave, the vehicle passing through vast farmlands, their grass green and crops tall.
Finally we reach Kurow, surrounded by plains filled with rabbit holes; it's the last pit stop on the voyage. We repeat the Oamaru pitstop business then we're off again.
The last stretch is spent in sleep, exhaustion kicks in and we battle to keep our eyes open as the moon presents itself.
In our slumber we make out the forms of the rolling hills, the sharp gullies and the barren peaks of the ridges that surround us.
One person spots it, then everyone is re-energised at the realisation we have arrived at our destination.
Otematata looks almost portable in its valley hiding place.
Our long crusade comes to an end as we back through the gate in the darkness.
The door slides open, a deep breath reveals the smell of cold, dry air.
Brightness shines out the window, I can almost feel the warmth even in the chilly winter night.
Entering the house reveals the smell of lollies, yet another familiarity.
The unpacking over, my duty done, I sit by the fire, cosy and hypnotising it draws me in.
I sit by it for a while before moving off to my bedroom.
The day is over; my eyes close for the final time that night. I drift into a deep sleep, dreaming about the fun times in Otematata.
• By Dom Brosnan, Year 10, John McGlashan College
