NZ beer trip - North Island

Wednesday 10th November, Auckland

Began with a bit of a disappointment - had arranged to meet at Mac's Northern Steamship brewbar on the quayside for our first New Zeadlandish pint, when we arrived were turned away by a couple of heavies who jeered that the bar was shut for a private party, a load of accountants! This place does resemble the City of London (as we found, it is not like anywhere else in NZ, tho they do seem to enjoy their private parties here). Anyway, explored elsewhere in Auckland to find (from S Island) a fab Monteith's Black - I am a fan of these dark beers - and a Tui. Score: Trip days 6 Beers drunk 9

Thursday 11 November, National Park

Up first thing to take the Overlander train down to National Park, next to the volcanoes (Lord of the Rings country - like everywhere here!) for a couple of days. Great place to stay, had a Mac Black (at last!) in our log cabin-like hotel, then a tremendous Monteith's Winter Ale (6.00%, the beer of the trip) at the excellent station restaurant. Score: Trip days 7 Beers drunk 11

Friday 12 November, National Park

Walked in Tongariro National Park today, between the volcanoes - not the great crossing walk, but still ace for views (and probably Hobbits....). Earned my beers, another Mac Black, and a Mac White, a wheat beer. Score: Trip days 8 Beers drunk 12

Saturday 13 November, Wellington

Back on the Overlander, heading for Wellington where we arrived early evening and headed to quayside, lovely fish restaurant where I drank yet another Mac Black and a Monteith's Golden Lager. Shame not to be here longer. Score: Trip days 9 Beers drunk 13