I'm new (and all ready very addicted) to kitesurfing, had my first lesson yesterday in fact.

I did a lot of research in to gear for the beginner that will also suit when you get better. I found the Crazy Fly Wii Moo kite to be very popular with beginners and not to mention a quality kite, also as some one mentioned the newer kites have good safety features.
any way that's my 2 cents
cheers.