Thanks for that. Actually I've heard a few things about the sole caravan park in Queenstown that make me think possibly Frankton or somewhere like that might be a better option in that stretch. Also that I'll have to head for Kaikoura/Marlborogh Sounds at the absolute beginning if I have to go in December (rather than the Alps where I was planning to start). Either that, or pray for rain! 
What sort of opportunities exist for "stealth" camping over there? Are there laws about camping on vacant crown/public land? I know that over here the laws tend to vary from place to place.
__________________
I am clinically insane. I am proud of it.
That is all.