In an effort to capture the T.W.T experience, we asked a few regulars if they wouldn't mind telling the story.... service with a smile, some beautiful wares, all complimented with a laugh, a brew and a good yarn or two.
This time, the spotlight is on Joe Hirst. Joe has been a loyal customer of Ben's, long before Ben joined the TWT ranks, and we have so enjoyed getting to know him since. You might recognise his face from behind the doors of Welly craft beer OG establishment - LBQ, but here's a little insight into what makes him tick outside of the wonderful world of hospitality!
HOW: General Manager - began working in hospitality age 17 as a source of income, kept going alongside studying (music & events management degree) & then continued afterwards full time while looking for work in music/events. Eventually just progressed through hospitality jobs, gained more managerial experience & enjoyed it. 21 years later I'm still doing it, but on the other side of the world!
WHY: Came to NZ on a 2yr working holiday visa, travelled most of the North Island before settling in Wellington to find work. Since gaining residency have travelled most of the country but feel Wellington is the best spot for me - there's enough going on to keep me entertained, accessible with ferry & airports, geographically in the middle of the country, and it's just a stunning part of the world. Cool city with incredible landscape all around. Love it
WHERE: Tough pick, anywhere hot & sunny, or with good scenery. There are parts of USA I've visited that I loved, Colorado, Florida, Texas etc. The Cook Islands (on a good day) are tropical paradises that look like movie sets, but I also love my shitty hometown (Middlesbrough) - there's no place like home
WHAT: Working through reading Cormac McCarthy at present, Blood Meridian & The Border Trilogy are personal faves, ticking off a few others. TV - Always Sunny, The Sopranos & Curb are on constant repeat in our house, in between movie nights.
WHO: It varies - I like to see people achieve & improve, whether physically, mentally or occupationally, so anyone who's working towards that motivates me. My partner being a perfect example of that, and it makes me feel good to be alongside her, hopefully helping! Constants: always my parents - always provided, always been there