Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific - Queen Charlotte Track and Abel Tasman - one or both?

I will be in NZ in Nov and for about 3 weeks. Both Abel Tasman and the Queen Charlotte Track seem excellent. I was wondering if someone could tell me a little more about them. Are they similar? Worth seeing both? One better than the other?

Thanks!

Have a look at the Conservation Dept (http://www.doc.govt.nz/templates/ByRegionLanding.aspx?id=35796) web site. Note that geeting a reservation on either can be an issue. Both very popular.

November shouldn't be too bad as it is shoulder season, although both will still be busy. Personally I prefer Abel Tasman for a different mix of terrain (after the first day Queen Charlotte feels much the same as previous day).

From Christchurch I'll be heading to Queenstown. I can either head all the way west and go see Franz Josef Glacier or I can head to Mount Cook. Unfortunately, I don't have the time for both. What would you suggest I see?

If you are that short on time then do Mount Cook. Going via the west coast glaciers takes a lot more time.

In addition to the DOC site, consider getting the Lonely Planet Tramping in NZ book (http://www.amazon.com/Tramping-New-Zealand-Walking-DuFresne/dp/1740597885). It's a very good resource for planning as well as on the ground.