Cheers JockinTas,
Advice appreciated, that is similair to our original thoughts.
I know it sounds daft, the only places on the North Island we plan to visit are Palmerston north with maybe 2 days in Melbourne. In the south it will be Nelson, Blenheim and around Christchurch.
Trying to keep focused on these as don't want to dilute the time there. Chose these places after doing research our needs/work etc.
Thanks again!