Greg Dixon finds fine food, wonderful views and rusticating luxury at one of New Zealand newest luxury destinations.

Some holidays are hard work, but, as Danielle Wright finds out, that can be the point.

Danielle Wright takes her family to a Northland town so good they named it twice.

Planning your next holiday already? These websites may come in handy.

From an 1870s kauri shearing shed to a 100-year-old post office, Danielle Wright discovers quaint and quirky accommodation options for your next getaway.

Accommodation website Airbnb is gaining traction with holidaymakers who want to stay off the beaten tourist track.

This architecturally-designed two-storey house is nestled among a cluster of upmarket properties in a quiet cul-de-sac. It accommodates 14 in six sumptuous bedrooms and has three bathrooms and a galley-style kitchen. Views of Coronet Peak, Queenstown Hill, Ben Lomond and the Shotover Canyon complete the sense of luxury.

For further information see luxuryholidayhouses.com.

Justine Tyerman's wish for snow is granted during a pilgrimage to her spiritual home.

We round up some of the best places to stay when you're looking for a spot of luxury in the wilderness.

Forty minutes from Taupo along SH5, Poronui (Maori for 'part of something bigger') is miles from mobile reception and smack bang in the centre of heaven.

For further information see poronui.com.

This summer, treat yourself to a stay in eco-friendly accomodation.

Catherine Smith looks at some of the new facilities and activities on offer in Auckland's regional parks.

Santorini, or Thera, is an island of many names but in ancient times it was known as Kalliste, the most beautiful one ... Justine Tyerman agrees.

This special wilderness sanctuary at the foot of the Warmwaterberg Mountain Range offers five-star accommodation as well as the opportunity to see endangered black and white rhinoceros species.

For further information see: sanbona.com

We round up some of the best eco accommodation options for those wanting to get back to nature across the ditch.

Non-traditional urban accommodation providers are appealing to travellers in Austria and New York.

Barney McDonald enjoys the taste of a Cloudy Bay experience.

Justine Tyerman looks for anything but authentic ... or traditional.

Sequestered in the battlements of Castle Mandawa, Paul Rush dreams of his best exotic marigold hotel.

Danielle Wright spends a family weekend with nature.

Deborah Telford plunges into polishing up her command of French with practical lessons in a Provence village.

Spa Qualia on Hamilton Island and the Gold Coast's Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat are great places to unwind.

Danielle Wright discovers small-town seaside charms on a weekend away in Raglan.

Catherine Smith jumped at the chance to bike and hike her way through Nelson's stunning landscape.

Barney McDonald revels in a powder-perfect Mt Hutt day.

Gwyneth Paltrow shows what her house has to offer potential Airbnb guests. Video / @gwynethpaltrow

Europe's most affordable ski slopes are in Poland, as Jared Savage discovers