I think that the answer lies somewhere in "Both".  It is 03/03 by my internal clock, but my friend's calendar says that it is 03/04.  After a long 14 hour flight, I've arrived safely in Sydney for a small layover to catch up with friends.  I got to my friend's flat where she advised me "Call me when you feel normal again".  I thought I was in pretty good shape as I had a row to myself on the plane and spent time dozing in and out.  However, my friend is very wise.  I took a much needed shower and then promptly fell asleep on her lovely guest bed.  I've just awoken and I can't say that I feel normal, but really what marathon swimmer can say they are "normal".  But I feel much better and I think the plane funk has been washed down the drain.  I'm looking forward to what is going to be a too short afternoon with my friend before heading out early tomorrow to get to New Zealand. 

As for Cook Strait, the organizer has said that the water is downright tropical, but a little rough.  We will have to see.