Thanks for the information .. that's great! I'm definetly veering towards the South Island. I have a couple of interviews in Auckland lined up for our arrival, but, to be honest, really don't see the point in settling there as it'd almost negate our reasons for emigrating (i.e. to get away from the hussle and bussle).
Am just wishing we could invest in a crystal ball ... am trying to keep all options open, and it's making any plan-making impossible!