We are looking to visit NZ mainly for a holiday but also with a view of a possible emigration. My questions are how long do we need on each island, I know this is like saying how long is a piece of string, but we need to start somewhere. Our kids are aged 8 & 10 so we need to make it enjoyable for them. Do you think we may need more time on one island than the other, we would probably have 2 weeks, is this enough without rushing around everywhere. I would also like to mention that once we have seen something we like to move on instead of spending days in one place. We always buy a travel book and research places before we go but this time I want to start with travellers personal opinions.<BR>Many Thanks

hi jo,<BR>If you don't mind staying on the go, 1 week on each island would probably give you enough time for a brief look around.<BR><BR> If you are thinking of moving here it is a good idea to try to cover as much of the country as possible to see what and where appeals the most.<BR><BR>At least you know you will be able to re-visit the best spots at leisure as a resident.<BR><BR>NZ is relatively small and if you don't deviate too much from the main routes ie: Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington - Marlbourough, Christchurch, Dunedin, Queenstown ...you should cover the distances with ease.<BR><BR>Good luck with the planning, try to come in the warmer months ( Nov- March)

Hi Jo.<BR><BR>Two weeks to do the whole country will be a mad rush in my opinion. You are coming an aweful long way to be zooming here and there day after day - especially with kids in tow.<BR><BR>If you aren't able to spend at least another week, I would consider flying between say Rotorua and Christchurch and/or Christchurch & Queenstown to cut down your travel time. Do be sure to pass thru Tauranga/Mt Maunganui on your way down to Rotorua - you may end up here like we did 17 years ago <BR><BR>Have fun.<BR><BR>nzers<BR><BR>

You are coming all the way from the UK for just 2 weeks? At least you are bringing pounds and spending dollars. We have to do it the other way around. Bummer. In 2 weeks you will get a good idea of the countryside if you travel flat out, and you will need a holiday to recover afterwards. It will be harder for you to get the feel of the place - what it would be like to live here. Returning Kiwis tell us we have a wonderful place compared to much of what is on offer elsewhere. Do you know of others who have emigrated so you can learn of their experiences? Have a great holiday.

I live in Cambridge N.Z and have stumbled across your letter. <BR>Forget all the advice you have been given... go to Nelson for climate beaches,art culture,tramping, beautiful forests, good education and a great place to bring up kids!<BR> Nelson is at the top of the South Island 1hour flying time from Wellington. Wellington .