I also enjoyed Napier very much when we were there four years ago. We loved the place we stayed at [County Motel, I think] but it was more $$ than you're looking for. Still, the town is very charming, and has a very moving memorial by the water's edge, with the history of what had happened, after a major earthquake there. The whole town was rebuilt afterward, all at the same time. Hense the abundance of art deco.

We also enjoyed the Coromandel Peninsula. There was an especially interesting experience there, which was worth checking out. There is a beach [Hot Beach] which, at low tide, has spots where if you dig a bit, you can have your own sauna in the sand along the shore. What was funny, was watching the whole affect, of many, many people digging, and sitting in hot water mud pools, inviting in anyone who passed. Good memory!

On the South Island, my favorite spots were Christchurch and Queenstown, but there are SO MANY spectacular spots on this island. It is by far the more spectacular island of New Zealand. Milford Sound was incredible, and the scenery to and from it were spectacular. Also, very accessible fiords are on the South Island.
There is an affordable ecologically friendly hotel near the Pancake rocks that I would think would be worth checking out. We stayed at the higher end one on the water, but the other is supposed to be similar, and is just across the street.

I have many favorite cities in the world, but New Zealand is my favorite country. Have a wonderful trip!

Thanks, Lois. I have been known to ignore my own budget limitations when a really great option presents itself. I welcome every one of your suggestions. Thanks so much for taking the time to reply!

I intended to say, accessible glaciers, not fiords, though they are there as well. We had seen Franz Josef glacier when we were there.

Honestly, if there is only room in your budget for one of the islands, I'd do the South Island. And, if you do both, go to the North Island first, as it is beautiful in it's own right, but would not seem quite so after seeing the South Island. Many 'local' Kiwis told us this, while we were still on the North Island, which we found hard to believe, till we actually arrived there.

We also stayed in Blenheim a couple days, and enjoyed the terrific wineries. If you do stop there, make sure you include a meal at one of the wineries. I will say though, that in my opinion, if I had to eliminate one stop, that would be it.

Hi Lois,
I have vacationed on the South Island in the past. Had it been my choice to set the itinerary this trip, I would have chosen the S.I. However, I am travelling with a friend who specifically wishes to visit the N.I. It is a short trip and we cannot do both. Since reading Liz' blog and a number of these posts I have developed a healthy enthusiasm for the prospect of a week on the NI. It does look wonderful. New Zealand is truly a jewel.

Hi there
March is a nice time of the year here, the kids are back at school, the Christmas holidays are over. Therefore you could wing it as you drive around and with a good guide like Jasons you will find masses of accommmodation available to you without having to book.This way if you drive past a place that appeals to you at least you are not already locked into somewhere that is already booked. I would book your first night and then take off. $150US is higher than you will need for a good quality motel with full kitchen facilities.

Thanks, Kathy!