Need advice for tripod

[lyrov]

I dont really have work at the moment but I have a few no budget music videos and small projects coming up and I figured it would be nice to have a decent tripod handy for any none serious work. Can always rent out an expensive one if necessary. Dont have the full luxury of ebay or amazon since they dont always mail to NZ and customs may cost a lot. Going to China in a few months as well so kinda looking for something not too heavy for some smooth pans and tilts. Am okay with dropping $500-$600NZD if that can get me some really smooth pans.

Since you re located in New Zealand, have you heard about that company? http://www.globalmediapro.com/ It is located in NZ too, I think...
They have great prices and a huge variety of products. I never tried shopping from them though, dont know how legit they are and Im afraid of custom taxes, but since you re in the same country it might be a good solution for you...