My above suggestions pre-suppose a car. Another option for returning from Lyttelton if you don't have a car, or if someone can bring it back or take you back to it, is to walk the 'First Settlers' Bridle Path over the hill from Upper Lyttelton back to the Gondola site. It can be done in an hour or so, and is not too difficult if you're reasonably fit.

Thanks for the ideas, Twoflower. What about a tour to White Island? That looks like it could be very interesting. It appears to be about an hour or so drive from Rotorua. Any thoughts?

Sydney: Sebel Pier One -- right under the Harbour Bridge in the Rocks. Very modern, large room, very nice. Cannot recommend enough.

APT had a good Blue Mountain tour that goes off-road.

In Kangaroo Island, also consider both an off-road tour to see more critters and a night tour to see the fairy penguins.

Adelaide: Hilton Adelaide Downtown -- right on Victoria Square. Around the corner is an indoor Farmers' Market type area and also a whole restaurant row with all manner of international cuisines and cafe style outdoor seating.