Which way would you drive and where would you stay?

You're from New Zealand and you want scenery? From what I've seen of New Zealand, you have much more lush landscapes. Southern California is a desert; that's always important to remember. I think your best bet is to go up into the mountains to Big Bear. Then take the "back way" out of Big Bear through Lucerne Valley, and take I-15 to Vegas. Big Bear or Lake Arrowhead probably have the best places to visit.