Wanting to start out. Where and what to buy?

[PandaAttack1]

Hi all!

My GF and myself want to start mountain biking. To be completely honest, I've been completely overwhelmed with the amount of info and options available to us. There are a few questions that we are not even sure of ourselves that are constantly asked when I am searching for good beginner bikes etc.

Lets start with the basics. The main objective is to spend much more of our free time in nature being somewhat active. My GF don't intend to do any 'rough' or 'hectic' trails, however I'm not sure about myself. I know if the bug bites I will try and do the more tricksy stuff. I've been racing dirtbikes for near 15years so I definitely have the 'itch'. We live in Pretoria East, so there are quite a few popular trails and mountain biking locations around us. We also have family in George so travel quite often to other areas of the country where the cycling will be fantastic...

I'm about 1.81cm and weigh 105kg. My gf is about 1.74cm. 

I'm looking to buy end of November. Budget is around 10-15k for my gf and 20-25k for my bike. Then helmets, shoes and a bikerack... The rest we will buy as time goes on.

I've been looking at one of the Specialized Rockhoppers for my GF, and a Titan Cypher Sport RS for myself.  Both of these are on sale at the moment and hopefully won't be much more expensive when I am ready to buy.  I have zero knowledge on bicycles and therefore not comfortable buying used.

 I'm still in two minds if the full suspension is necessary for me. Maybe the Rockerhopper will be good enough for me as well and I can upgrade same time next year if the bug bites? I'm really not sure how this game goes...

Any thoughts, recommendations or general insight is more than welcome.!!