With the turn of the millennium they got a bit more savvy and worked somehow what inflation meant, I have no idea what the going rate is now as I'm somewhat out of the loop and have absolutely no interest.
Longnecks are a recipe for a major hangover IMHO, I still stick with the brown bottles or green cans. Quality has certainly improved since the early 2000s, haven't had a dud for years.
The rates with regards to the gym costs sound pretty realistic Sparrow. I think there is still a gym at the swimming centre on Tarama Road, that would be worth checking out as well, don't know what they call it though. It should still be ok as it was only built a few years ago for the South Pacific Games.
Good luck with your new job, whatever you are doing.