I am planning a trip to N.Z. in October with my soon-to-be hubbie. We have 16 nights (this is somewhat flexible) and then plan to go onto Fiji for 10-11 nights afterwards.

At the moment I am at the stage of guidebook planning and I've put together a rough itinerary based on the things that interest me most (that is outdoors activities such as walking and kayaking, though I love city breaks too). I would like it to be a holiday rather than a mad rush glimpsing all the sights. On that basis, I'd appreciate comments on the itinerary - am I missing anything, or spending too little/too much time somewhere?

Fly to Auckland (from London) - 2 nights

The time in Auckland is mainly to recover from jet lag. If it wasn't for the 24 hour flight I'd probably want to go straight to the South Island to maximise time there.

Fly to Queenstown - 3 nights
Interested in white water rafting here. Also is it too early in October to do some walking on the Routeburn track - I have looked at some guided tour websites and they do not start day walks/tours until mid-Oct/Nov.

Te Anau - 2 nights
Plan to kayak in Milford Sound

Fly Queenstown -> Christchurch

(preferred to a long drive however spectacular...)

Christchurch - 2 nights

Pick up rental car

Drive to Hanmer Springs (1 night)
Aim for this to be a relaxing day/night staying at a nice B&B/hotel

Drive to Kaikoura (2 nights)
I think the setting of the town looks fantastic and am keen on the wildlife watching

Drive to Nelson area (4 nights)
Plan to explore the Abel Tasman N.P. through a combination of walking and kayaking.

Fly to Fiji connecting through Auckland