Well I'm settling in nicely to my new temporary home at the Auckland Central Backpackers' Hostel. I've befriended my 3 roommates (a German guy and 2 Brits) and have been enjoying all Auckland has to offer. Last night we went to the hostel's bar, the Globe. It's in the basement of the hostel, and behind the pool tables is an elevator that takes you straight to your room. Great for stumbling home after a few too many "jugs" (not pitchers.) The best part was this big guy who looked like a chubbier, toothless, Maori version of the Rock. I don't know if he was actually employed by the bar or just friends with the bartenders, but he sure enough was behind the bar serving up his own unique concoctions. Today we went to the Auckland Museum for a dose of culture. We saw a traditional Maori performance, complete with tribal singing, dancing, and war chants. The warriors were pretty impressive with their tattoos, spears, and tongues out and eyes bulging - I wouldn't want to come face to face with one of them in a dark alley. The museum had tons of Maori artifacts, including a huge replica of a traditional house, covered from roof to floor in intricate wood carvings.