Hi first time post:

I have the opportunity to travel to New Zealand this Oct./Nov. And am
trying to determine if a side trip to Australia is a good idea or
not.Qantas has some special where I can add a flight from Auckland to
Cairns for about 500 bucks. I think this is where I would want to go
to access the Great Barrier Reef, right?

My questions: Is Spring (mid. Nov.) an appropriate time to dive the
GBR? I assume that live aboard is the way to go, the reef being too
far for day trips. Is this an accurate perception? Are there 3 or 4
day trips? Is this too short? Does anyone have suggestions on
charters, approximate price?

Now the big subjective questions (think I may only be able to answer
for myself). I am also an avid sailor. Would it be better to stay in
NZ or go to Sydney or Melbourne and sail (or surf)? Is there "great"
diving to be had in NZ, or too cold? Is the GBR just to "great" an
experience to pass up the chance (I suspect so)?

The clock is ticking for me on the flight specials, any advice would
be "great"ly appreciated.

Thanks,
-Darren