Gary, we are touring the South Island starting November 23 and ending in Auckland on 12/1. Perhaps we will cross paths! Wish we had more time for land portion but I'll be a new grandma in early November and have to make a quick trip back East before leaving for NZ.
We're flying Air NZ (premium econonmy) from LA to Auckland (and on to Nelson). Keeping our fingers crossed that we made the right choice.
Looking forward to meeting you on the cruise.
