Duck, I don't think there is anything better than owning a Paso, but if you have to spend some time away from one I am assuming you are not in the market for another Ducati just now
However if you are looking for solid transport that will prove exceptionally reliable & versatile I can highly recommend the BMW K100RS, there are plenty of them around (at least there is here in OZ) & you can't kill them with a stick! you should be able to pick one up for a couple of grand ( I asume $NZ are similair to $OZ). Don't be worried of they have a few K's on the clock as long as they look tidy they should be fine. I have owned mine since 1989 & traveled well over 100,000 Km on her with nothing but smiles. you also don't have to worry about lubing the chain & adjustments in that area either. They have a fantastic luggage system & good protection form the elements behind the fairing. (The RT has the bigger screen but the RS is very effective as well & looks a lot better). Mine has the 8-valve motor from 1984 & it is certianly not a slow bike & is more than adequate on the twisties! If you replace teh ugly square exhaust with a Staintune they sound great as well.
That is my recommendation. There are several members on this site that also garage a K-Series so they are likely to be a bike that will suit you. Your Paso has been spotted in the Classifieds so I hope you are not without 2 wheels for long my friend :thumbup: