In every city/town we can find the i-site (information center) where there is all necessary information about attractions and weather conditions which is to say that we are far enough from the Yassi cyclone that has visited Australians.
As we are traveling through New Zealand`s back country within a very shrank budget, we have been escaping even from hostels, the cheapest accommodations here which usually have descent dorms, clean sheets and towels, fully equipped kitchens, fluffy carpet, hot shower, heating system, etc. All these justify daily rates around NZ $ 25.00 per person, but still over run to out financial premises.
However, we found amazing and inexpensive ways to travel: camping, huts (Lodging Mountain), WWOOF and CouchSurfing (CS).
The Department of Conservation (DOC) in New Zealand responds for all National Parks and protected forests in the country. The DOC make available huts and campsites from NZ $ 4 to $ 32. There is also the chance of volunteering during the season working as hut wardens. The volunteers do maintenance works in the hut in change of roof and food. We have visited Whanganui, Tongariro and Taranaki national parks, and we are excited to start volunteering as hut wardens at Whirinaki forest placed at East Coast by the last week of February.
Exploring New Zealand national parks means hikes around 3 to 6 hrs per day, climbing mountains where volcanoes are dormant, paddle rapids in kayaks and canoes and enjoy natural beauty.
WWOOF is a worldwide organization of organic farms that aims to spread the organic culture, techniques and fair trade. Farms registered offer, in general, accommodation and food in exchange for 4 to 5 hours of work per day.
We've been WWOOFing in the Smart Organics farm where we learned a lot about organic orchard, composite tea production, on the content of non-organic foods as well as how to manage a farm, a organics specialized shop and an industrial kitchen. Barbara, the owner, hosts WWOOFers with much hospitality, and manages all these busness almost ALONE.
Next week and we are heading to Avojoa Farm, where avocados, guavas, tamarillos, ducks and chicken are grown. It’s also located in Taranaki region.
In the second half we will join White Cliff brewery where the Mike`s organic beer is brewed. We offer 4 hours of work in exchange for accommodation, a huge lunch and beer. We
are very excited about it!
CouchSurfing is an organization dedicated intermediate contact between travelers and locals keening on host travelers in their homes.
We already had opportunity to stay in two Kiwi family houses, having a great feeling of being at home, understanding their culture, listening to their stories, getting involved in politics, cooking, etc.. In fact, an effective way to indeed immerse into country’s culture, not limited to traditional sights inn. All these within a very low budget!
Soon we will publish pictures and details about these interesting and inexpensive ways to travel that we have exercised.
Good trips to all fellows!
