So you're thinking of driving straight there after your flight?
Not a good idea matey.
Find somewhere to sleep first at least for that first night. We picked up our campervan straight from the airport and drove to a friends about 45 mins south of AKL. We had a cup of tea and were starving. Because we are 5 and didn't want to put on anyone for a meal we decided to drive out to the nearest McD's (anything would do after airplane food!). Within 15 mins Gary had fallen asleep at the wheel, swerving right across the road and into oncoming traffic. I grabbed the wheel and straightened up just in time. We stopped of course, and I took over the driving. It happened so quickly. I had literally been talking to him one minute, in full conversation and the next minute he'd gone. So, even if you think you're OK, beware.
I've been told similar stories by at least 4 other people since being here and most of the others didn't end so luckily. One wrote off the car they were driving and escaped with just scratches and bruises but another I know mounted the pavement and hit and killed a pedestrian. Another saw nothing of NZ for the first few weeks but the view from his hospital bed after failing to notice the car in front had stopped.
So, be careful buddy. It sneaks up on you quickly and quietly. If there are two of you, you could share the driving but I'd seriously consider giving yourself a few days to get over the flight.
