I stayed in Brown Kiwi from 28 January. On 7 February, I paid to extend my stay until 14 February. Upon returning to my room I realized my laptop was missing and reported to the guy who works at the front desk. And when he asked the other residents in the same room, apparently another laptop was missing too.
I was using my laptop the day earlier before lunch and only returned at 9pm, the light was already off and I went straight to bed. The red laptop was in my backpack, there were 3 others laptops on the floor, the missing black laptop was charging when it was taken while the other white netbook and black laptop (in a pouch) was left untouched, which is weird.
The room has a big window facing the street and we left it open at night for ventilation. Anyway, I didn't make a fuss about it as there was a locker provided (although one is broken). The management suggested me to make a police report and was happy to refund the rent that I have paid earlier the same morning. I was in a shock and forgot to ask to see the CCTV (if any).
It has been a really nice experience staying with them until the incident. Below is the original review I wrote for The Brown Kiwi while I was still staying there:-
I was being referred from another backpacker in the CBD as they were fully booked for the long weekend. It was tucked behind the busy street of Ponsonby Road with all the restaurant and cafe. And only 15 - 30 minutes walk to New World and city centre.
The building and rooms are old but well cleaned everyday. If you get the front room downstairs, be prepared to the constant door slamming during daytime.
The fridge is always full. Coffee and tea are available. For those who cook, the kitchen has all the ingredients you need: oil, salt, spices etc. Donation is welcomed.
I stayed for a week and opt for the 1.2GB wifi for $30 washing and cleaning have since increased to $4 each. The shower and toilet are really limited. There is one at the backyard with attached shower and toilet. And separate male and female bathroom (with 2 shower and 1 toilet each).
The management should advertise about the patio aka secret garden at the backyard. It was lovely. Being one of the two Asians there, I rarely have much communication with the other residents.
Yes I've seen many Germans travelers, they tend to hang out by themselves (who doesn't especially you find your own friend in a foreign country) but they are generally friendly and will smile back at you, if you offer one :)
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