I'm going to New Zealand with a small family group for 2 weeks beginning March 4. We're traveling from Auckland to Queenstown and back, with stops in Christchurch and other small places in between. Also have scheduled an overnight boat on Milford Sound. The weather looks quite different from north to south, and I'm used to traveling light and layering. However, the guidebooks are so general I'm wondering what to expect and how to dress at this time of year--days in the 70's in Auckland, in the 50's or 60's on the south island? Rain?

Any advice on the weather and any must see and do will be appreciated. I'm particularly interested in visiting some of the lovely gardens I've heard about--any recommendations? My group is not staying overnight in Wellington but I could go on a day trip from Christchurch I think. I'd like to see it and to visit the botanical garden there. Is that day trip easy? worth it?

Thanks, Judith

Hi Judith
Weather in NZ is generally quite settled in March and you could easily see temperatures up 80 deg particularly in parts of the South Island. I would be surprised if you see much rain, although a shower of rain can be expected occasionally in Auckland. If you do get rain it won't last more than a day or two at the most and the temp will drop but it will be followed by warm weather. I wear nothing but a T shirt and shorts at this time of the year (when not at work) with a sweatshirt if the temp drops a bit. If you have a couple of layers that can be put on or taken off and a light-weight but waterproof jacket then you will be fine. It will probably rain in Milford but that's an advantage as the waterfalls are spectacular.
I assume that you are driving but not sure. If you can give me a rough itinerary then I can certainly make suggestions on what to visit. The botanical garden in Christchurch is near the centre of town (about 3 or 4 blocks from the square) and you should probably plan at least half a day, if not a full day visiting central Christchurch and the gardens, can easily be done on foot if you don't mind walking. You will need a sun hat - with little air polution one can get sunburnt very fast!!
Shame on you for not stopping in Wellington!
Cheers
Graham

Judith -- you probably already know this, but the most important thing have when traveling in NZ and Aus is sunblock. The hole in the ozone is no joke down under, so put some on every day.
Agree with Graham about Wellington. Auckland is a wonderful city, but the national museum Te Papa in Wellington is great and it's fun too (try the bar-code sheep shearing exhibit). The drive south from Wellington to Paraparaumu for along the coast takes you up high with stunning, dramatic coastal scenery with views of Kapiti Island. For me, this is the most powerful memory of NZ. Ummm -- must also confess, also Lindale Farms where they make their own cheese and ice cream from their own cows. Try this site for info: Jason's Online