When i'm in Cambodia it'll be HOT, when i'm in New Zealand and southern Australia it will be mild/cold (July/August). Also i'll be checking out some glaciers etc in New Zealand.

I'm going travelling for 4 months, and so obviously don't want to take a huge coat as it will take up too much space in my backpac, as well as weight.

I also want something fashionable for many evenings out in Sydney and Melbourne.

So shall i take a decent fleece, and just a trendy jacket that is waterproof?

I've really no idea.

Buy somethink when you get to the cooler climbs or have it sent out,mind you i didn,t take a coat to Thailand or Malaysia and froze on the air-con coaches!

I don't want to buy stuff when i'm out there, simply as i'll most likely get this coat as a present!!

So would like to buy it here!

I don't want to faff about with loads of layers i want something warm and waterproof fit for the climate in New Zealand.

Now as i want something "fashionable" should i just buy your standard waterproof warm jacket from Next? Or will i freeze in New Zealand?

Or should I take a fleece and waterproof top? if so what?

I would get a "trendy" good looking lite Soft shell and buy some cheap and cheerful fleece layers in New Zealand to go under it!!

any recommendations mate! Also with soft shells, aren't there varying degrees of waterproof with soft shells as well?