It was certainly a worthwhile trip!  It was a new experience going from Winter to Summer in the matter of a couple of days.  It wasn't just the warmth, we went from a 10-hour day to a 17-hour day once we were in New Zealand.  Instant Summer also helped us recover from our Winter colds.

I had been told that New Zealand was much like Alaska, but I would say that it has little parts of the Western US, Canada and Alaska, all rolled into one.  We would constantly say, "This looks like Alaska, or Montana or California, etc."

The one thing I will say, is that it is a great place to visit.  It is surprisingly affordable, and it's a great Winter get away (flowers, fresh vegetables, warm weather, beautiful Summer scenery), but be prepared for about 18 hours in an airplane from the East coast.  Our travel agent was Downunder Journeys and I highly recommend them.