The General Plan

First, thanks to Lisa L for providing her tour and guide books and helpful notes, as well as ex Kiwi, Yvonne VanA. People are generally curious about New Zealand and had helpful suggestions about what to do and see. Its about as far south as you can go without being at the Antarctic, filled with the mystic of Tolken's Lord of the Rings, its hard to get to and yet so close by Jet travel. New Zealanders are so much like us, and yet different - how exciting, a big sheep ranch with a party going on 24x7

Phase 1.

Land in Auckland, rent car, and travel the North Island for one week starting with a B&B in Coromandel Peninsula and the Hotwater Beach just to chill after the long journey. Take in Cape Reinga and the Bay of Islands, and do a day long hike the Tongariro Crossing.

Phase 2. Drop off car in Auckland, and Fly to Christchurch. Take the Tranz Alpine Scenic train to Greymouth and Back through Arthur's Pass. Rent a Camper Van and circumnavigate the South Island. Take in some vineyards in Marlborough. Sea Kayak in Able Tasman. Visit Fox and Franz Joseph Glaciers, Queenston and Milford Sound, down to Invercargil, Swim with Dolphins in KaiKoura.

Phase 3 Drop off Van, fly to Aukland, and then fly to New Caledonia

Phase 4. Travel to the North of New Caledonia from Noumea, snorkel and frolic in tropical sun, 27 degree C, clear water, beautiful sandy beachs for a week... then home.