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At the Airport there is a shuttle bus that will take Backpackers into Queens Street, Auckland Central backpackers, for $7. Auckland backpackers, hostels are plentiful although most offer the same deals of female only dorms, laundry facilities, internet access, travel information and local bar vouchers. None, however, can claim to be the haven we require after a long haul flight due to the Cities party life. So, why stay there at all?
Waiheke Island is just a 45 minute ferry trip out of Auckland’s Viaduct and costs $12.50 single or $25 open return. So primitive, the Island still relies on rain water as its main water source and reminded me of a Greek island.
Hekerua Lodge is a backpackers on the Island and the English owner will pick you up free of charge from the ferry port. Out in a bush setting with unlimited access of an open air pool and spa included in the price of a nights stay, it is a great place to relax. It is a smaller hostel with an incoming phone line that you can also use to make free outgoing local calls which includes Auckland City and its surrounding Burroughs.
With the nearest of many beaches just a stones throw away it’s a paradise that needs to be seen. Billy Connolly included the Island as part of his NZ tour highlighting the glorious scenic walks and art sculptures that are dotted across the Island.
Don’t stay on Waiheke too long though as it’s quite pricey compared to the rest of the North Island.
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