I am planning on heading to New Zealand and Australia for 6 months later this year from November to April. I am planning on spending 2 months in NZ and four months in OZ.

I was wondering does anyone have an opinion on which country would be better to start in. I mean, would it be better to be in OZ from Nov-Feb and in NZ from Mar-April or would it be better to be in NZ from Nov-Dec and OZ from Jan-April? I guess I am thinking mainly about the weather and also how busy it is for backpackers during these times. For example I read today that the Great Barrier Reef is not so good to go to in Jan-Mar.

I plan on doing everything possible while I am there – scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, mountain biking, 4WD, bars and nightlife,the sights, etc….

any thoughts would be appreciated!! Thanks!