Pupils from schools around Thailand are on a three-week exchange in Balclutha and attending South Otago High School to experience different cultures. The group of about 20 pupils came from various schools throughout Thailand. They were welcomed with a powhiri and have experienced school life and various areas in the Clutha district. Dean of international students John Douglas said the school ‘‘loved’’ having the pupils experience what the district was like. ‘‘It’s great for them to see a different country and really immerse themselves [in] the culture of a completely new area.’’ The Thai pupils said the culture was ‘‘very strange’’ compared with their own, and they really enjoyed the nature. New Zealand was ‘‘beautiful’’ but the people were very different from what they were used to. The school is looking for for people interested in being homestays for their exchange pupils in the future. The school can be contacted for more information.Â
REPORT & PHOTO: EVELYN THORN
