Thanks folks, It's all firmed up..I am flying from LA to Sydney (late December) with a four day stop-over in Papeete (Air Tahiti Nui). Then on to Chistchurch for a 9 day trip around New Zealand's South Island...organized by, get this, Hostelling International. That should be a riot ...it has been years since I experienced the "hostel" ambience. I then fly back to Oz. Melbourne for two weeks then up to Cairns/Port Douglas for one week, then back to Sydney for three weeks.
I appreciate the feedback....and am getting excited about this two month trip. Finally the Qantas/Virgin Blue flight passes weren't necessary as I got great rates on a variety of carriers by booking early.