Hi ...I would love some advice on an itinerary for 2 weeks in NZ in March. I am thinking we should concentrate on the South...we love wine and the water. Any suggestions would be MUCH appreciated.<BR><BR>Thanks in advance

Hi, Heather!<BR><BR>Not much specific advice here, as I am an Aussie.... but you are certainly wise to concentrate on the south island. Christchurch is a particularly pleasant city, and you will want to spend some time there; it's like stepping back in time twenty years. Whatever you do, arrange a trip to Milford Sound, which is the "jewel" of the south island.. I am sure google will find plenty of information for you on what to do there and where to stay. Now I will send this to the top and let some New Zealanders reply.

Thanks for the rely Alan,<BR>I did a lot of research yesterday and as a honeymoon I think I want to take advantage of the wonderful lodges I have been reading about...I want to make sure there is enough relaxing in this trip...definately adree about Milford Sound and Blanket Bay in Glenorchy looks amazing...I am from the US so coming that far and not seeing the North would be a shame so I am toying with the idea of doing both but I wonder if this is a bad idea...

The north Island in my mind is boring in comparison to the south. There is nothing on the north that you don't have in the USA - for that matter in the south too actually. I wouldn't go to the S I just to go to Christchurch as you can see it all in an hour.

Hi again, Heather!<BR><BR>The main attraction of the north island is the system of hot springs, most of which are fairly close to Auckland (at Rotorua, for example.) As you say, it might be nice, since you're coming half-way round the world, to at least have a look at that area, though I certainly wouldn't hang around there too long with the beautiful south island just a few hours' drive away! But, since Auckland is the major city of New Zealand and the destination of most of the international flights, why not do a stopover there, stay a day or two, and then fly on by a domestic flight to Christchurch, from where you can hire a car and head for all those places you have been researching? New Zealand is s surprisingly small country, and even though the south island is quite mountainous, it is really surprising how far you can get in a day. One tip: the road to Milford Sound is often closed in bad weather... shouldn't think that would bother you in March, but it might be wise to check. There is a great lodge right at the end of the road, but I can't remember its name. Good luck!

Heather,<BR>I live in Christchurch, and I agree that it would be a shame to miss what the North Island has to offer. Having said that however, the South Island has most of scenic beauty.<BR>One place that I strongly recommend is Mount Cook National Park. Amazing scenery and you can go on some great walks. You can even climb Mount Cook, with a guide, if you so wish.<BR>The West Coast of the South Island also has some spectacular scenery. A visit to one of the glaciers is an absolute must.<BR>A day trip to Greymouth from Christchurch, on the Tranzalpine is something that I really have enjoyed.<BR>I do have a travelogue plus photographs of a recent jaunt through the South Island. Let me know if you would like them.<BR>Have a great Honeymoon.