WHBM,
Thanks for the correction on the NZ terminal,...of course you are correct Terminal 2 is where we fly into at LAX.

What is your opinion on using a hired car? Do you think we would have better luck making the connection (provided of course, everything goes as planned)? Our flight is the first one offered for that day (although I assume there has to be one prior coming FROM Stansted)so hopefully it will be relatively on time <fingers crossed>.

You have truly brought me upright with the info on the baggage claim for Ryanair!! Is it really a mile away?? Not that I doubt you, I simply had to repeat it in order to process it! Do they have a shuttle or something? And if we use a hired car, do you know where they pick their passengers up, ie; at baggage claim or at Arrivals Hall? And if at Arrivals Hall, I assume they would drive one to baggage claim (Lord, I hope so!). I'm lol at the how this must sound to you, "the epitome of lazy", and there may be some truth to that , but I also have a rather severe back injury at the moment and the thought of accomplishing that trek (and in a rush) is more than a little unappealing.
Thank you for the hotel recommendation! It will be a huge help for the first leg of our trip!
Much appreciation!!!
Valencia