If the floor was put in first it shouldn't be a problem. If the floor was built around the cupboards, it's a bigger deal, floor wise.

moving plumbing and electrical are bigger costs.

you could affect resale value as people like islands presently.

Do you seat a lot of people at table? Why are you wanting bigger dining space?

I note no windows on that wall. Is it a flat or townhouse? Is there a neighbour there? If so the wall might be concrete or brick.

A cheaper idea is to get a bench built, with storage underneath the seat, along the peninsula. (It's not technically an island is it? Or is it?)

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No table, but you get the idea. To save bumping your head, I think lift up storage would be preferable than having drawers under the table, but it's personal preference.

A factor is that kids love bench seating,. Adults don't much. It all depends on what you can afford to do, so I suggest you cost out both options.

DIY IKEA hacked banquette . Very cheap option (just to show we give great service here on Houzz!)

https://blog.krysmelo.com/2012/10/10/diy-banquette-seat-ikea-hack-dining-room-makeover/

the beauty of this is for resale, you can take it with you if you move.

I've seen that black and white striped fabric in theIkea catalogue,,it's cheap and coated, so presumably spills clean up more easily.

That sounds fair enough. Do you have outdoor entertaining area outside the sliding doors? If so, is it possible to make it a "three season " room by partially enclosing it?

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Did you look to see whether the flooring goes under the island cabinets? And is that a "Party wall " shared with another home, where you want to move them to? If it's yes to the first question, and no to the second, it should be a cheaper job to move them.

I've got pavers outside so a pergola or verandah is possible with some blinds, yes. And I don't know about the flooring (how do I check?) but that's not a party wall :)

See if the floorboards or tiles appear to have a cut edge at the island base. If not, it should run right underneath. That's good it's not a cement or brick wall, that makes plumbing and electrical easier.

Re, cheaper patio covers, I'm paying off one of these at my local Mitre 10 at the moment.

http://www.abscodelivered.com.au/patio-covers-awnings.html

Cant tell you how it performs, yet, but I've bought two of their sheds and a carport before, and they were ok.

Thanks again! I like the clean lines of these patios and it's a good affordable option for a few years at least.

Any experience with the cheap ikea gazebos like this one? http://m.ikea.com/au/en/catalog/products/art/10234367/ 

No, I'm sorry, I don't know that one. With the patio, general rule is you must submit the plans to council for permission, on any structure you attach to the house.