I am considering an adventure to NZ - but no idea where to start. I know there are two Islands - and love things like mountains, ocean, people watching and visiting, etc. Help?

If you like "tramping" (hiking) the South island is aces! Though it's been many years, the Milford trak was a beautiful hike. Probably over populated now, you might try the Routeburn or Hollyford trak which are almost as georgeous. Kiwi's (the populace in NZ) are "god's own", rivaled in their hospitality by perhaps, the Australians. If you have the adventurous spirit you will definately be amongst "good mates". Any other questions, email me.

I've just returned from NZ for a trip last month. Both North and South Island are great and you should visit both.

If you love Ocean, don't miss Dunedin. It is a place that are omitted by most of the tourist but the view from Sandfly Bay to the Pacific Ocean is so beautiful that you can't believe your eyes.

Enjoy your trip.

If time is limited and outdoor things are what you most want to do go South. The mountains and bush are great, the Milford is still a great tramp and numbers are limited so it is not overcrowded. But there are heaps of other good tramps too. Dunedin is a good place - I remeber charging down the huge sandhills at sandfly bay and in the immediate region you can almost count on seeing penguins, sea lions, albatross and miscellaneous other wildlife (not counting the rugby players or students)..

If you have a little more time and want people watching and the cafe society I'd recommend a few days in Wellington and if you want warm water at your beaches head Noth at least as far as Napier or maybe the Bay of Island North of Auckland.

Hi Craig,
Depends on the time you will be in Nz as to what you can do, don't miss Coromandel Peninsula, Cathedral Cove & Hotwater Beach, bush walks, glow-worms etc. E-mail me for more info and help to plan itinerary.
Regards
Sharon

Definately South Island.
The famous places ARE the best - Milford Sound is a spectacular fiord that's even better on a rainy day.
- you MUST go whale watching and swimming with the dolphins in Kaikoura. Book the FIRST trip of the day - it's very early but the sea is smoother.
Queenstown is a tourist/alpine/ski town but is A LOT of fun with good nightlife and heaps of things to do (parapenting, bungy jumping, jet boating (The Dart River trip is better than the Shotover)).
I love the West Coast for its beauty and you should walk on one of the glaciers when you pass them. Finally, go sea kayaking in Nelson/Marlborough - it's easy and wonderful. Lots of operators to choose from. This area also has VERY good vineyards - make sure you visit some.

Just returned this morning from NZ - S. Island. Agree with comments made especially Jeff's comment about Dart River v. Shotover. Queenstown is outstanding as base and destination. Not too much in Christchurch - the city proper - except Le Bon Bolli Restaurant - world class entrees starting at $11 US. People, scenery, activities and prices outstanding. If time and budget permit - don't miss Mt. Cook flights to land on glacier. A flight you will not forget.

I am about to go on a trip to New Zealand in a couple of weeks for a business trip. I would like to know how much it would cost for a trip from Chicago's O'hare airport to one of New Zealands airports. Also I would need to know how many hours it is , miles,what airline I should take, and the restaurants and hotels I will go to.

I ventured to New Zealand the first two weeks of March to follow a band, Tanya Donelly's. I covered both the North and South islands on my trip. I posted a story with photos on the net should anyone want to read about it.

http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/1...ewzealand.html

Ta ta!

Vinh

<BR>If you want to see both the islands (which I would recommend) with a tour group, depending on your budget and travelling style, either the magic bus or Kiwi experience with take you on a pretty comprehensive tour of the country. You pay a set price for your route (if you're going to Oz prior to NZ it's cheaper to by your ticket there) - varying between NZ$350 - 700 depending on the company (Magic is slightly cheaper) and the route you chose. Milford sound (bottom of the south isl), the Routeburn track and the Tongariro crossing (middle of the north isl) are great for seeing the amazing scenery NZ has to offer, but make sure you check to see if they are open when you plan to visit, or if the huts on the tracks are open or have the heating on! In winter or during bad weather they can be shut. A full day hike on the Franz Joseph or Fox glacier (mid way down the west coast of the south isl) is well worth it for the experience and the views. The bay of islands (north of Auckland in the north isl) has some spectacular coastal scenery, and everywhere you go you will experience the amazing Kiwi hospitality. Some top hostels to stay at are kiwi paka - Rotorua, Centre of NZ - Nelson, **Noah's Ark- Greymouth**(best one!), Chateau Franz - Franz Joseph, McFess - Queenstown, Adventurers BP lodge - Dunedin, Stonehurst - Christchurch, Adelphi hotel - Kiakoura, Waterfront Lodge - Napier, and Cactus Jacks - Rotorua. Have fun + BUNGY!