daa@mhuxj.UUCP (ANSEN) (07/02/85)
I am planning a trip to New Zealand during May and/or June 1986. I know I'm posting this request for information extremely far in advance, but I'd like to get some flavor of what to expect. My questions are: 1) What is the weather like in New Zealand at that time of year? 2) Can anybody tell me any interesting places to go to, or interesting sites to see? I'm an avid hiker, so any suggested hikes, canoe trips or bike rides are greatly appreciated. 3) What kind of accomodations are available? I've lived and backpacked in some of the "less developed" areas of the world. As a result, I'm usually more than satisfied with as little as a clean bed, a shower and a secure room. Anything more than that is unnecessary. Hostels are fine -- but I would occasionally like to rent a private room. I'm used to Central American and North African prices which means that much of the time $5.00 a night gets you fairly decent lodgings. How do the rates for various accomodations compare in New Zealand? I'm sure it's quite a bit more expensive. 4) Based on current rates, how would you say the cost of living in New Zealand compares with the cost here? I'm interested in finding out the cost of things like train and bus travel, the price of an average dinner, fruits and vegetables in stores, etc. 5) Are there any special New Zealand dishes I should try when I'm there? 6) What is the best way to get there? Does anybody have a travel agent they recommend? I've seen air fares for $1,200 via Australia. I've heard that this is less expensive than flying direct. Is this true? Would it be cheaper to find an inexpensive flight to the West Coast (I'm in NY) and fly from there? Thanks for any suggestions you may have. Debra Ansen inhp4!mhuxj!daa