A New Zealand retreat billed as "somewhere between seven stars and heaven" has been named the world's top luxury coastal hotel.

Spooky tunnels and historic weapons keep young and old entertained at Auckland's North Head, writes Jim Eagles.

Here are New Zealand's Top 10 favourite native birds as voted on ForestandBird.org.nz, with the kakariki taking out Bird of the Year 2010.

It's a shame the path around Devonport's North Head isn't quite complete, writes Jim Eagles.

On October 23, enjoy a day exploring the glorious gardens and woodland trails at Eastwoodhill Arboretum near Gisborne for half price.

The courses run by Tree Adventures at Woodhill Forest can prove just as much of a fun challenge for adults as for kids. Kirsten Warner gave it a try.

A new property just out of Hastings offers stylish and modern accommodation in a gorgeous setting, writes Joelle Thompson.

Trade Me has clamped down on sellers encouraging flight ticket buyers to impersonate them at check-in to bypass airline security rules.

You'll be surprised what's behind them, writes Chris Samsara.

During Waimarino's new Thermal Hot Pool & Glow-worm Cave Kayak Tour, paddlers skirt the bushy shores of Lake Rotoiti before slipping into a cave where glow-worms twinkle all around.

The Waitakere Tramline was built in the early 1900s to facilitate repairs and maintenance to the Waitakere Dam. Weekly trips have now been running for 35 years and are a great way to amuse the entire family, whatever the weather.

We sent our two experts out to find Auckland's best playgrounds. Diana Clement reports back.

Rotorua has a host of new activities, making it even more of a destination for a weekend away. Anna Jones investigates.

Fast boats, helicopter views and thundering water - the central plateau provides adrenalin galore, writes Beck Vass.

Staying home is the new going away. Bronwyn Sell looks at how the 'staycation' can be just as fun as a holiday away - and at the same time can save you lots of money.

Saddle up with a friend, your partner, or the kids these holidays. Some of these facilities also offer school holiday camps.

Get the kids off the couch these holidays and explore Auckland's west coast on foot. Diana Clement checks out the tracks around Karekare.

A weekend visit to a farm can be an educational experience for the kids, writes Diana Clement.

You don't have to be rich or famous to enjoy the lifestyle on offer at Omaha. And the beach settlement just north of Auckland will please all the family, writes Bronwyn Sell.

Get your blood pumping with these adventurous activities in and around Auckland.

Joelle Thomson goes with the flow at a luxury escape in the heart of the city.

This sumptuous hotel is perfect for the soul, writes Beck Vass.

Ten dollars to make camp for the night at an Auckland Regional Council park - what a bargain!

Take a drive to Clevedon and Whitford and you're likely to leave with a full stomach.

City dweller Janna Hamilton gets out of her comfort zone, spending a weekend getting wild in Poronui - albeit with a large dose of luxury.

Qantas-owned budget airline Jetstar is expanding in the New Zealand domestic market by offering 39 extra flights from February.

For a compact round of golf with the kids, complete with novelty fun factor.