I've lost 2 camera's in the last few months. One duck diving a wave in Bali on June 27th & another one crash landing a parasail in Malaysia last week.

I'm keen on a Panasonic FZ200 to replace my FZ150, coz image quality, image stabilisation & battery life are important. I also like auto focussing while zooming in/out.

Most important Features needed~

Battery time = 2hrs plus
Image stabilization for walking video
Versatile lens (don't wanna carry diff lens)
Ability to autofocus while zooming in & out coz I like to zoom in/out while panning from close to far or vice/versa in vids

Predominately a camera for video, that takes nice pics as well for up to $500 bang for buckeroos

Anyone got any alternative ideas to the FZ200 reviews I'm reading say no, but they're not fresh.

I am not familiar with the FZ200, and I think you are better with a GoPro for duck diving waves, but something to think about is the FUJIFILM X-S1.

What is unique about it is the lens goes from wide-angle to super mega zoom x26 (it is 24mm - 624mm).

http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/x/fujifilm_x_s1/

I am not sure if it re-focuses when videoing - I am traveling now and can't test it. I have two Fujifilm cameras and they both have amazing zoom. I have never had battery issues - seem to last a very long time.