Elisabeth Easther explores this picturesque town's rich history.

This inviting hotel, with a cosy alpine lodge feel, is the perfect place to retire to after a busy day exploring the Ruapehu District.

For further information see: powderhorn.co.nz.

Tristram Clayton finds a warm welcome and cold craft beers at the foot of Mt Ruapehu.

With all sorts of gems, Ohakune takes the carrot, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Paul Charman on the joys of a weekend driving around the Central Plateau.

Police investigating the homicide of Wanganui man Brett Hall have arrested and charged a man with his murder.

A young woman wept as she admitted causing the death of her preschool-age child in a hearing at the Palmerston North High Court today.

Small town New Zealand does wonderful and whacky to keep up our winter spirits.

Elisabeth Easther finally knocks off the other half of the Timber Trail.

A missing Rangitikei man, who hasn't been seen for a week, has been found in a hay barn, police say.

A contractor who plunged 40m down the same cliff where his uncle fell to his death has spoken of his miraculous survival.

Rachel Grunwell offers tips on how to survive taking the kids on a ski holiday.

Elisabeth Easther took a quirky rail trip and has been singing the little engines' praises ever since.

Escape city life and discover this tiny Central North Island town, writes Rachel Grunwell.

Rural adventures are reviving small-town New Zealand, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Elisabeth Easther enjoys the puns and good humour in a small town like no udder.

This King Country town will make you feel right at home, writes Elisabeth Easther.

New Zealanders will still have free access to Tongariro National Park and its surrounds despite a report confirming his people's belief its peaks were never gifted to the Crown, says paramount chief.

On a rail trip from the capital, Pamela Wade is enraptured by the North Island's emerald green beauty and looming mountains.

Chill out where high adventure and relaxation go hand in hand, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Levin has produced plenty of superstars, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Donna McIntyre feels her fear of heights and does the Tongariro Crossing anyway.