It is an awesome place. It reminds me of CA 50 years ago in the natural splendor. I will try to publish a mini-trip report later, but my bottom lines are these:
1. NZ is worth your time, but try to concentrate on the south island.
2. The people are wonderful and could not have been nicer.. A special thanks to Graham[ AnG] and his lovely wife for their hospitality.
3. I have done my last bus trip. It is just too much driving for my old bones, and I hate one niters.

Welcome home Bob. I had the same thoughts about NZ when we first visited. It felt a lot like earlier times growing up. And such natural beauty. I'm looking forward to seeing your photos. I've had camera troubles on both trips to NZ and I have no photos.

Bob,

Welcome back and, how odd to read this today, but last night I spent the evening here in Atlanta on business with one of my vendors who lives in Auckland. We discussed NZ all night while tossing some pints and said the South Island is the most diverse and beautiful.

One thing he was teaching us and I have been studying is how to do a HAKA... which is the trademark of the NZ All Blacks rugby team.

Hopefully you will post some of your photos on ST for us to see. After last nights conversation, NZ is now on the "to do" list.

And, here is th link to my gallery !

http://www.slowphotos.com/photo/showgallery.php?cat=4095

That was quick. As usual, your photos are wonderful. NZ is so beautiful. It looks like you had pretty good weather also.

Thanks again.