Coming from Australia, anywhere may have been a financial relief but I was delighted I booked an additional flight to Wellington from Auckland without setting foot in the latter. Despite being the capital, Wellington most definitely has the feel of a place of close quarters but big enough to keep me content and occupied.
Fortunately I lucked out with Couch Surfing, so Erica et al put me up, entertained me and kept me out of mischief for 5 days - a real credit to Wellingtonians(?). I hoped they would be the typical Kiwi's I would meet in the future; welcoming, humorous and fun. Stopped in at the Base (mediocre at best, more designed for people who would rather see a hostel bar than NZ i.e. plenty of English). Did meet Miranda though, a lovely Dutch girl who taught me Bingo (apparently an English card game?) although the rules escape me, so if anyone remembers/ knows then please remind me.
Most certainly going to return through on my way to the South Island and most definitely the best starting point I could have asked for. Also, picked up Rusty George within the Wellington region with a shelf life of 6 months....here's hoping.
