New Zealand (south island driving Vs kiwi experience) or Costa Rica.

Hi I've got the end of November off and all of December, I'll probably never have this much time off again. My plan was to go to Costa Rica with a Gadventures tour for 2+ weeks then maybe spend 5 or so days extra there, although not sure what to do yet. I'm learning Spanish, I like hiking and activity sports, photography and jungle environments, and meeting people (in my 30s), and of all the tours it seems one with some hours in transport but perhaps not as much as other tours.

On the flipside I have always wanted to go to New Zealand. I've researched a lot the kiwi experience hop hop off bus and concluded if I did, to only do the south island and take a 10 day bus but maybe stop off longer in each place. This is something I've read people wish they did although not sure how it actually would be in practice, as not all stops have equal things to do. I'd definitely want to get some day hikes in.

The other option is I rent a car. I'm a bit of a nervous driver, but from the UK, I generally enjoy driving once I hit the country roads. And always dreamed of doing a long road trip where I'm driving (although it be ideal with a friend). If I did hire a car I'd hope to stay in hostels, and still meet people. The only problem is I'm a bad sleeper so saying let's get up 7am to go do a hike from a hostel would worry me.

I'm torn what to do, if I went all the way to new Zealand I feel I'd want some freedom to do what I want, and with so much time I could spread it out, whether Costa Rica I'm more happy to be taken along, although I think I wouldn't make it a month long trip unless a stopped somewhere else. I think I'd be curious to know if anyone has any opinions? Hoping to book something soon.