Paihia —> Rotorua

After the exciting days in Paihia, I headed back to Auckland. I took Theo, who until then had done hitchhiking, as he wanted to buy a car in Auckland. On the way, we bought cheap CDs for $1, one of which was really cool, and I treated my wound on my chin. 

After a small break with a walk and good talks, we were welcomed by traffic jams in Auckland. However, we also had a beautiful rainbow, so we couldn't really complain. Upon arriving in Auckland, it was an absolute nightmare to find parking. In the end, we parked in an extremely expensive parking garage, but what can you do? 

We then stayed at the “Choise” hostel, where we quickly got ready because the plan was to do the bar tour with Paula and Jonny. And that’s exactly what we did, although my mood was a bit dampened, just like my right ear. It had filled with water, but after five visits to the doctor, I was able to have it checked and received the right medication, so it should get better now. 

The next morning, we slept in and met a few guys from our room. Then, I went out of Auckland with Paula and Jonny for a nice trip. We marveled at the “Karamatura Waterfall” and enjoyed a lovely view. 

Back at the hostel, Theo had cooked for me. After that, we connected with a few other Germans, a Canadian, and an Italian. We played cards and chilled. 

The next morning (today 11.10.), I first went to the ear doctor and then to “Rotorua”. I took the Italian (Giacomo) with me since he wants to hitchhike to the South Island. On the last evening, we got along well, and it was very relaxed; I was also able to improve my English skills. 

Upon arriving here, I had to wrap my head around everything, so many impressions and thoughts swirling in my mind. Living alone is cool but also quite exhausting; paying for everything and thinking of everything, eating, drinking, and lodging—the basics from home become a challenge. 

That evening, however, Giacomo and I wanted to go into town, but we searched in vain for a cool bar that was well-filled. Instead, we found an overcrowded ice cream shop at 9:00 PM at 10 degrees. But New Zealanders are generally more resistant to cold and walk around here in shorts and shirts. A bit of an upside-down world.

The hostel and the city seem quite empty to me at the moment, but we’ll see; tomorrow I will plan anew. Starting Monday, I should be able to begin fruit picking at the Kiwi Farm.