We did the fiords last March, which is fall in NZ. Fiordland weather is always unpredictible, and with 400 or so inches a year, one is likely to encounter weather. In our case, on both Milford and Doubtful, it was rainy, windy, cold. Do let this deter you. There were patches of blue sky occassionally, but the water falls were glorious, and on Doubtful overnight we had a dusting of snow higher up in the rain forest.
But what I wanted to tell you is this. In NZ there is a high country sheep called Merino. It is prized for its wool for softness. In Chc, Qt and other places you may see Merino wool clothing for sale. It comes in many weights and designs. Consider buying pieces, though it is not cheap. My wife and I both bought the "next to skin" weight, and I can't tell you how pleased we were days later in the stormy cold fiords.
Also, my wife's which is a mock turtle neck design, gets worn frequently back at home. as an outer garment under other sweaters, etc. I have worn mine on many cold golfing mornings.
Thought I'd add this to the collective NZ lore found herein.

In addition (or as a cheaper alternative) to superfine merino, which runs approx $60 to $100 US for a top, there is polypropyline which is sold in various colored stripes, and used generally as ski/hiking underwear, however it looks perfectly fine worn as a long sleeved t-shirt. Approx $14 -$20 US.

where in auckland can you buy merino
outerwear.??? we live in hawaii and will
be touring 3 weeks , one week north, 2 weeks in the south and know we will be
quite cold down under.

our trip is the last week of september and first two weeks of october.

thanks for the help

If money is not an object, there is a branch of Untouched World. Check their website, www.untouchedworld.com, for details and an online catalog.

They would be the gold standard but if you go shoppping you should find other brands.

Hi

While in NZ recently I came across a shop in Lake Tekapo called run79 - they sell clothes made from merino wool from Glenmore station locally. The prices vary and some items are expensive but they are excellent quality and you can layer them for warmth.

My daughter is going to Russia in winter so I plan on buying some garments for her. if you order it online it is cheaper because you do not pay the NZ Gst (or whatever equivalent tax they have). The owners are very helpful -see www.run79.co.nz

Thanks for the tips BillJ.
My partner and I will be in NZ (South Island) this time next week, and I am trying to pack now - so your tips are much appreciated