In New Zealand...hit a snafu yesterday as we approached Sydney.  Seems as if American Airlines forgot to adjust our flights relative to passing the international dateline.  Therefore, we lost a day and our overnight in Sydney.  After a wonderful flight with Qantas from Honolulu (9 hrs. 35 min) we then made our 3 hour flight to Auckland.  Checked into the hotel around 2am!  Now we're flying to Christchurch Airport to collect our van and then head to parts unknown.  There will be a minute of silence today for earthquake victims and folks are asked to stop wherever they are and whatever they're doing--even if driving.
Don't know what my internet access will be while on the road, but I'll try to keep you all posted as to our activities.  Wish me luck in driving and shifting on the left!