Polynesia queries

Hi all,

Hopefully travelling to the region with family (couple +3 kids aged 9 to 4) around a year from now.
New Zealand is currently on our menu around November to February/March but we would like to squeeze an island experience before/after.
Currently eyeing French Polynesia or maybe Fiji but open to other suggestions (assuming reasonable flights).

1. Our schedule options are either November or February (before or after New Zealand). Is the weather significantly better in November than in February? What about chance of Cyclones between those months? Online resources on this topic are a bit confusing.

2. Any recommendations on specific islands that can be interesting enough for children as a "base-camp" for 1-3 week vacation without having to switch island every week? Most of the online resources are either about romantic resorts (most of them can't fit 5 in a room) or about diving/snorkeling (some of us not into that). We are more into hikes/scenery and local culture/food. Nice beaches would be nice too. Recommendations on activities on suggested islands are also welcome.

Thanks in advance!
Ofer

Hikes and scenery, plus local culture and food?
Vanuatu, especially the island of Espiritu Santo comes to mind. Some great though rough hiking, very traditional culture, stunning beaches with good snorkelling... also readily available local food. The island is big enough to spend 1-3 weeks on it, especially combined with Efate, the island where the country's capital is and where you will arrive first anyway.

Grande Terre in New Caledonia is another very good option if the language barrier doesn't put you off.