New Zealand. (vs Australia)?

I may have posted this before, but I'm really trying to make it happen for 2012.

Have you been to either? Both? which would would you recc?

I keep hearing NZ.

I'm not picky. I think they are both in the same price range, right?

Any tips you can give (especially ones that can help me save a dime or two on air fare, when to go, etc) would be wonderful!

Re: New Zealand. (vs Australia)?

we went to australia on our hm so I would definitely vote for australia! it was AMAZING and you can get very different experiences - ex: sydney and barrier reef...it was awesome! great food too!
we saved money by going with a travel agent that got us a deal with a tour operator - you get transfers to and from airport free, etc. and better rates on air

Re: New Zealand. (vs Australia)?

What time of year are you going? The seasons are reversed. What do you like to do? Australia has a lot to offer as does NZ. If you are an outdoorsy person, NZ is good for that. There is skiing in the winter and a lot of hiking year round.

Australia has good diving/snorkelling, wildlife, and cities.

How long are you thinking of going for? I would not do less than 2 weeks. Keep in mind Australia is about the same size as the US, and you would have to take a plane if you want to do Cairns and Sydney, for example. It is also expensive.

I've never been to NZ, but I lived in Australia for 5 years (DH is Australian) and I go about once a year. I prefer Australia because nothing really interested me to go to NZ. I don't ski and I don't like a hiking vacation.

FM me if you have any questions.

Re: New Zealand. (vs Australia)?

I have never been to NZ but I have been to Australia as I have tons of family there and I must say I absolutely love it. Sydney is fabulous and a beautiful city. I cannot wait to go back!

Re: New Zealand. (vs Australia)?

I cant help, But I am dying to go to both.

Re: New Zealand. (vs Australia)?

Loved NZ
I was there for 3 weeks in the winter after 9-11. Love loved love it.

The flight was very expensive and I would imagine the flights are still high. I flew to LA and changed there to Auckland.

I rented a car and did the 2 islands. I took the car on the Ferry. It depends on what you want to do as well. There are bus trips, rental cars, bike trips and so much more to do!

I would have to look at a map to see all the things that I did. At the time, we had no real reservations but found places to stay everywhere.

One thing that sticks in my mind is how untouched the waterfronts are.

Go check out the Lonely Planet guide as well just for ideas of things to do. I remember they had something in there like things to do if you have week, 2, 3 etc.

Message edited 9/16/2011 12:49:52 PM.