The Ring of Fire

Arrived safe and sound to Auckland two days back, the flight was uneventful and extremely long as anyone can imagine. Yesterday, I had quite and adventure with a couple of people form the hostel I am staying at, fantastic hostel, but back to the adventure. We decided it would be fun to climb up the local volcanic island Rangitoto, it was wonderful and the weather held for the entire day. The view from the top was stunning, as one can imagine, but the climb up was just as amazing. Auckland is a semi-tropical area, so we climbed through what I would call jungle, bright lush green plant life. A nice change from the airports I had previously been experiencing.

Now, about the hostel, it is amazing. Never have I been in a home with so many languages, French, German and English to name a few. There is a real mixture of people, some who are ending their adventure and others who are just starting. Dinner time is by far the best time, everyone comes together and cooks and then talks about their day. There are many other hostels in Auckland, but the Brown Kiwi is much smaller and intimate then most. I cannot forget to mention our host, Neils, and his love for singing at all hours. It isn't strange to be woken up by Neils voice as he works down stairs.

That is all for now, tomorrow I am planning on doing to the tourist sites, the Museum and Art Gallery. Then after that I am beginning my trek south!