Brett
I originate from NZ and yes the Sth Island is pure majesty and you can go do mountain flying near Pt Cook and hone up your skills whilst you are there PERHAPS visit warbirds over Wanaka at Easter but I reckon Bali is maybe the best holiday destination in the World for a cheap, [4 star hotels for 100 bucks ] relaxing, [ beaches] sometimes adventurous [ rafting, diving,]friendliest place.The Restaurants at Seminyak are world class.
The artwork and home furnishings are fabulous too, I bet the wife would love that.
I have been to the Caribbean islands 4 times , Hawaii, Italy, Turkey, Fiji, India 48 countries in total and for my vote its BALI.
Where else could you go to a funeral ceremony in the morning, elephant riding in the afternoon and visit 1000 yr of Hindu Temples on the way. At night the local music and dancing is entrancing.