Looking on suggestions on where to ride xc mtn, preferable singletrack, with some scenic riding. Also, where to rent bikes as we will not by flying with ours.

Thanks for the site, crazycanuck!

Also, any suggestions for outdoor fun (kayaking, hiking, skiing) would be greatly appreciated...

Also, was wondering if you could recommend a car rental company? Are snow chains needed? We would be picking up in aukland and dropping off in christchurch. We are not sure if we want to separate it out (aukland-wellington), take ferry over as passengers, and then pick up another car in picton-christchurch OR do the whole trip with one car and pay the ferry for the car in addition. Any suggestions?