Itchy Feet Get the Best of Me

Hey Guys, I need some serious input! 

I'm getting ready to buy my ticket out of New Zealand but I don't have a set route yet. I'm thinking Singapore, Philippines, Thailand, Laos, Hong Kong... I must leave here by February 19th and be back in the USA by June(ish). Looking for work ideas, places to stay, places I must see, and cheap ways of getting there!!!!

 Also I'm in the market for a great camera/video camera to document my travels, thoughts?