I landed in Auckland in '84, and hitch-hiked (walked!) down to Wellington via Hamilton, Rotarua, Lake Taupo, Palmerstone North etc. Got a few different rides though. Helpful when it's raining!
Arrived in Wellington about 5 days later after camping along the way.
The 'desert road' runs near the big Volcano in the middle of the Nth Island. Spectacular barren scenery up there!
Arrived in Wellington and took the Car Ferry to Picton at the top of the South Island.
That crossing, Cook Straight, is arguably the roughest stretch of water in the World. The front of the ferry was disappearing under the water, and then pointing up at the sky. Talk about vomit inducing!
Arrived in Picton and walked from there to Nelson, around the spectacular Queen Charlotte Sound. The scenery is awesome. The hills run at a steep angle down to the water, just like a Fjord.
Big ferns overhanging winding roads. Great motorcycle riding country!
Nelson is a friendly holiday town on Golden Bay. Wineries and stone fruit are among the local industries.
Partying was the favourite local pastime!
I got a job three days after arriving in Nelson, and I stayed for a year.
The rest is a blur!
The locals are friendly, the pubs are better than Oz.
After the Pub closed, it wasn't unusual for someone to invite the whole pub back to their place to continue the party.
Skinny dipping in the Maitai river at midnight with a bunch of stoned locals was good fun. The Golden Bay 'herbs' were world renowned, and maybe still are, 'cough, cough'!
The Maori's are especially hospitable, and they love their food and drink.
Beer was available in Mini Tankers, which are large kegs on a trailer, complete with gas and taps etc. Just hire one from the Pub, and only pay for what was consumed.
Came back to Oz in late '85, and have regretted it ever since.
Aah, the Memories!
I wholeheartedly recommend NZ, but it's probably a bit more sedate if you go with your family!
