Aus/NZ in March 98 - Tons of Questions:)
 

A friend and I are planning a 2 week trip to Auckland and East Coast of Australia. I've never been, she has, but only to Sydney/Brisbane. We want to do Sydney, Cairns & possibly Kangaroo Isl. as well as Auckland. Can anyone give advice on what to do, where to stay (on a budget), whether or not to rent a car, and what the cost might be? Also, is it cheaper to buy airpasses when we get to Austr, rather than b-4 we go? What about nightlife? See, I told you I had lots of questions! I'd really appreciate any advice since I'm a novice to that area of the world:-)

Thanks,

Sara

Hi Sara : Have you considered Melbourne (and Victoria in general)? Melbourne is fantastic in March as both the Grand Prix and the Moomba Festival are on 6-10th. Accommodation can be at a premium but I would suggest you stay in the suburbs and commute - Dandanong is beautiful. Victoria has a lot to offer tourists, especially if you are into the outdoor stuff. If you are interested, email me an I will find you some sites.
Car Hire : I would guess approx AUD$45.00 per day. Don't forget that it is a 9 hr drive Melbourne to Sydney. Sydney to Brisbane : 12 hrs. Brisbane to Cairns: 20 hrs... it's a big country!

Might be work reconsidering Auckland, their MAJOR power blackout is now expected to extend into April/May

Have a friend going over to live in NZ for seven months starting in late April. Any ideas where he could find suitable accomodations in Auckland? Do you have any ideas? Also, what are the going rates for a furnished apt? Also, is public transport good or will he need a car if he is staying in Auckland most of the time?

Have a friend going over to live in NZ for seven months starting in late April. Any ideas where he could find suitable accomodations in Auckland? Do you have any ideas? Also, what are the going rates for a furnished apt? Also, is public transport good or will he need a car if he is staying in Auckland most of the time?