The Brown Kiwi was a friendly place, but a bit worn down these days. I stayed there because of other reviews, and reading about it in Let's Go New Zealand. I wasn't just backpacking, so had more stuff with me than backpackers, and the room was very small. The price was $58 NZ to get a double room to myself, and it was a very SMALL and run down room. I could have paid just a bit more in some spots for a much nicer room. The staff was great, the other guests were great, but it was difficult to negotiate the stairs to my room with heavy bags (I know--I had too much stuff....partly since I was bringing things over to NZ for my daughter who has moved there), and the room was threadbare and the carpets are very run down. The garden in the back is pleasant, and it's easy to walk up to Posonby Road for eating and wandering....but I wouldn't stay there again. I guess it depends what you're looking for, but I can't imagine that it looked the way it does now with the nice reviews it received a few years ago.

If you're planning to stay in Auckland for a few days make sure you stay at The Brown Kiwi. It's close to the city but far enough away to escape the hoons that drive round Auckland all night! There is a sweet little garden and it's close to all the funky cafes and bars in Ponsonby. Also near to the super market and the Link bus which will take you all over the city.