Yep March is probably our best month for surf around the country and they were lucky to get that big cyclone swell at the right time, but I would have to say that after living in Aus for around 10 years and returning for occasional holidays that the surf there is generally better , more consistent and more of it,there is still plenty of uncrowded spots, the water is warmer and clearer and the weather better, so there you go , you might as well cancel that surf trip to NZ!