Hi folks!

I'm seeking for tips and adivces for Wilderness Backpacking in New Zealand. Jan/Feb. I'm starting to do my research, so any info is welcome.

I'm an experienced wilderness backpacker in the Canadian Rockies. I'm aware conditions, weather and rules will be different over there. Since Jan/Feb is summer over there, I'm assuming temperatures will be warmer, and it will be more humid and rainy than here. Also, bears won't be something I'll need to worry about haha.

I like solo camping and less crowded places, so I was thinking going to the South Island. I'm open to any recommendations though. I have rain gear, and I'm planning to bring all my backpacking gear with me.

My main questions are: - Do you need permits to go wilderness backpacking? - How rainy and wet is it? Would my down sleeping bag be okay? Or will be better to bring my synthetic?

Any other advice, thoughts, recommendations are welcome.

Thabk you!