I have the exact same problem. I've visited many countries and can't compare them—Japan has kind people, Alaska has amazing nature, Vanuatu best fishing in the world and so on. I grew up in New Zealand and have seen both the North and South Islands. I can definitely say that the South Island is where I'd spend more time—Nelson, Stewart Island, and Dunedin are just very beautiful places. I can't agree on the accent, I've been all around Australia, and you guys have the weird accent, not us.