I am still in Auckland and happy with my decision to come to NZ again and stay aound for a while. Staying in a backpackers hostel gives me the flexability to go away for a week or so which I will be doing next week.
I also have free wifi access here and I am based right in the central business district. My only issue is having to leave my car in the suburbs as the parking is very tight and expensive.
I have forged together a nice group of friends who are all mainly travellers and are working in Auckland. Meeting locals is ok as I have got to know the hostel workers and their mates pretty well.
I am attending weekly Spanish lessons starting next Monday which might give you a hint as to where I am planning to head after NZ.