New Zealand - That Is All! - Group Travel

Absolutely nothing in it, it does what it says on the tin!!

I will be landing in Auckland on 14th March 2013 to start a 12 month work Visa. I should have enough cash to see me through 12 weeks with no work but must then find some PT work if i'm to see out the full year. Will hopefully be visiting - Numerous LOTR's film sites, Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Lake Taupo, Wellington, Hot Water Beach, Canterbury, Mt. Cook, Milford Sound, + anywhere else that looks like a worthwhile addition to my adventure. Further more, taking a trip out of a Lonely Planer Guide sounds kinda Plain Jane, i'd like to think that a certain amount of flexibility will make for a more rewarding trip.
With a small bit of planning and a couple of nights in Auckland done, it will be time to head out. I'm thinking North first, up to the Bay of Islands and then back down via another route and onwards. Would love to hear from anyone who's travelled/lived/worked in NZ, it's my 1st time and i'm not sure what to expect when i arrive so i'm totally open minded. March cannot come soon enough, only 92 days of work left!

"It's a dangerous business, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no telling where you might be swept off to."
Bilbo Baggins.

New Zealand - That Is All!