To make a story even shorter, I had to bail on Auckland. I mean, it's a nice city, but a city in the end. I didn't come all this way to experience the bars, pubs, and clubs of yet another urban nightscape. Desperation led to a last minute bus ticket from www.nakedbus.com. Yes, I am serious and clothing was required, not optional
Arrived in Tauranga to find the hostels full and/or closed but met some bar promo folks in the street and they directed me to Loft 109 (www.loft109.co.nz). It was a great place and just what I was looking for - I couldn't handle another party hostel or a place where the only social behavior was engaging a television set. John and Sue, the new owners were friendly, hospitable, and the almost "parents" that young backpackers seek for the nostalgia of home.
Tauranga in general is a quiet beach town, but does have a wild night life. Hen and stag parties were in full force and every other bar had live music. So much live music that the sounds of dance techno blended with the live proceedings of 90's American rock from neighboring establishments. Nonetheless, the party was just as fun.
The only downside was that I left the loft with only $15 NZ in hopes of an inexpensive couple of beers with my new friends. As the first round was bought by one of the girls from Hamilton, I decided at the next pub to re-pay her kindness. I went to the drink list only to find $10 NZ mixed drinks and $6.50 NZ beers. A little short, I asked the bartender if she could make it work and explained my dilemma. She obliged and I was lucky enough to get both drinks and a decent example of "helping a brother out."
The only downside was that I left the loft with only $15 NZ in hopes of an inexpensive couple of beers with my new friends. As the first round was bought by one of the girls from Hamilton, I decided at the next pub to re-pay her kindness. I went to the drink list only to find $10 NZ mixed drinks and $6.50 NZ beers. A little short, I asked the bartender if she could make it work and explained my dilemma. She obliged and I was lucky enough to get both drinks and a decent example of "helping a brother out."
Again, this trip hasn't' been about the bar scene as much as it is trying to extend this adventure a big longer. I decided the best course of action was to mosey southward, this time with the intention to couch surf. As chance would have it, my bunk mates were going in the same direction as I with a car and tent. Off we went like three peas in a pod, or in this case three schnitzels on a plate .
2 comments:
Hey Sam,
Your trip sounds great! I always wanted to travel to New Zealand.
One quesion, do you remember the tour company that you used (Martine) in the Salt Flats of Bolivia? Sounds like you had the ideal trip! Just wondering what agency you used?
Thanks and happy travels,
Damian
djtstudio799@yahoo.com
Damian,
Sure thing. It was Alejandro or Alexandro Adventure Travel (can't remember exactly) located just a few blocks away from the train station in Tupiza. The office is really small (i.e. one desk) but their should be some signage. If you take a left out of the train station is will be on your right just a bit past the YHA hostel. I don't believe they have a website. Hope this helps!
Safe travels!
Sam
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