Kiwi Kwestions

I'm sure this post has appeared 1000 times by now. But I am from Vancouver, Canada and am looking to move to New Zealand in between my University courses in 2009. I have a lot of experience working in high end restaurants, and as a carpenter. Are seasonal jobs like these easy to find in Auckland, Wellington or Queenstown (-ton?)?

Also, what is the average rent/cost of living in these cities, Vancouver has a very high cost of living, so I'm thinking I should be OK.

Finally, for a younger more arts-driven individual who does enjoy the outdoors a lot, but enjoys urban culture just as much which cities have what as pros and cons?

Thank you everyone!

Hi Ivan
I've been in Auckland for 7 years now - moved here from Vancouver. I think you'll find lifestyle and expenses comparible - both fairly pricey. My preference is for Aucklan, but you'll find Wellington is also nice, I think its got a bit more culture (a bit stuffier too . If you like Whistler and a colder winter (wet snow) then Queentown is an exciting new area thats grown hugely since I've been here. All three have top restaurants and because of growth (althought we're moving into a recession)they still need tradespeople. If you want to surf then Auckland's great. All three have great access to outdoors and have their artsy areas.
My advice would be to save enough to come here, do a bit of travelling and check out all three before settling in one.
If you're only planning to stay between uni semesters then you may want to choose based on the time of year you're coming - its winter here during your summer, don't forget. So that means cool wet weather (like vancouver) in Auckland and Wellington and snow in Queenstown (which may be better for making money in ski season).