Chris, my wife has relatives in Orewa and Browns Bay, both nearby, and my cousin lives in Christchurch. Lovely areas. But my favourite is Queenstown, just flying in over the mountains takes your breath away.
I’m sure Allen will be fine without you for a week or so. Fingers crossed he doesn’t get any affects from the RT.
Tell him to get on here if he needs any advice. There’s many helpful and knowledgeable people on here.
I am jealous of your trip...
Phil