It's always hard to leave what you know and where you're comfortable for change and uncertainty.
I'm about to do this. After eight years at the Rotorua Daily Post, today is my final day.
I've learned so much, met some amazing people, formed lasting friendships, had many fun, excitingand sad experiences and written some memorable stories.
I started here as the Weekender reporter in 2005 after working in radio for a few years. I was new to a newsroom and remember at the time feeling excited and nervous about the new path I was about to head down. I moved into the general news reporting team and after a few years became the chief reporter. I obviously have enjoyed myself and my time at the Rotorua Daily Post, otherwise I wouldn't have remained here so long.
As a reporter, it is your job to tell other people's stories. It's an amazing job and Rotorua has been an active, entertaining and amazing community to be sharing those stories with. In my time here, I have made some vital contacts, attended many events and gigs, taken part in community activities, contributed regular columns and more. I've seen many changes, including our biggest yet - going to a morning paper and to compact size.
Thanks so much for reading my articles and columns, giving feedback on different issues and letting me into your homes and lives with your stories.
While I'm very sad to be leaving my Rotorua Daily Post family and the Rotorua community, I'm looking forward to what lies ahead, changes and new challenges of my next step overseas.
You may see me around in the future and who knows, I may decide I've made a big mistake in leaving and come back one day.
