I'd get something newer than the D70, even though it is a good camera.
The D80 is also out of production and can be had for nearly the same price.
Yes the dslr will have an auto setting. Also you will be able to shoot much faster and not have the shutter delay. None have very fast frame rate at 3 frames per second but you'd have to pay quite a bit more for more.
I don't know why he recommended those lenses. Instead of two, I'd go with one lens of either the 18-200 vr which will alllow shooting in lower light or if that is too expensive then the 18-135.
You'll also need some memory cards to cover how much you shoot, and probably, at least, some basic editing programs.