similar resources for NEW ZEALAND?

If you're talking about a question and answer forum you can try the Trip Advisor New Zealand forum (www.tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g255104-i125-New_Zealand.html) or Lonely Planet Thorn Tree forum (www.lonelyplanet.com/thorntree/index.jspa). If you're talking about travel guide books I found the Lonely Planet guide to New Zealand to be very helpful. I also got lots of good information from their own travel website (www.newzealand.com).

Christine, As the previous reply mentioned, the Lonely Planet books and the Thorn Tree forum are both excellent sources of information. You could also check the official tourism site for New Zealand, as I'm sure they would also have lots of information. Happy travels!

Lonely Planet guide is good. Also Google 'Pure New Zealand' for helpful information.

I would also recommend the DK Eyewitness Books series, they cover New Zealand. I like the books for the pictures and maps not so much for the recommendations. I have been to New Zealand if you need any help PM me. Are you going to both islands or picking one?

I also used Lonely Planet a lot. If you are doing any hiking, the Department Of Conservation web site has tons of information, very well laid out. I have been twice, most recently last March. PM me for any questions. I love Europe, by NZ is my favorite place on earth.

www.fodors.com has a good NZ forum.
Or ask me...I live here!

About to arrange our 10th visit to NZ (touchwood!) and have found the "Rough Guide to NZ" the most useful over the years. I too suggest visiting the NZ Forums on Tripadvisor, some very helpful local posters on there. For lodgings etc pick up the AA and Jasons guides, they are comprehensive and can be obtained for free at TIs and most car hire places. http://www.aatravel.co.nz/main/index.php http://www.jasons.co.nz/