Great report, thanks for sharing! I have just been to Milford Sound over the weekend (no time for any hiking unfortunately but definitely on the list) and I can say I was lucky with the weather compared to the pics from your cruise! Also brought back some Abel Tasman kayaking memories.. That was so much fun. Fantastic pictures too!

About your SYD-AKL flight - you got a meal so soft drinks (in fact any drink) should have been free.. I wouldn't expect the redemption of miles to place you into the 'Seat+Bag' fare class - or else you may not have received a meal.