I need info about the other side of the world. Does Rick have a travelers helpline for down under?
No, his is only Europe.
Try Frommer's.
I got lots of info from TripAdvisor before I went, Auckland, Sydney and Melbourne were my destinations.
Also try Lonely Planet, which is based in Aussieland.
ernest,
Your best source for information will probably be Lonely Planet as they're based in that part of the world (Australia). They also have a Travel Message Board called The Thorn Tree where you'll be able to get questions answered.
You might check your local Bookstores or Library to see if they stock any of the Lonely Planet Guidebooks, as those will provide lots of information for planning your trip.
Cheers!