A boutique lodge on the fringe of Northland's Waipoua Forest has been named New Zealand's best hospitality business.

Bike, swim or lick an icecream at this beachy paradise, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Queenstown novice Dan Ahwa experiences the resort town's extreme, adrenaline-fuelled activities for the first time.

At the birthplace of the nation, Winston Aldworth and his kids encounter our gritty past.

Winston Aldworth jumps aboard NZ611 - a night flight from Auckland to Queenstown.

Otago's dreamland is best seen without the summer crowds, writes Mike Yardley.

Shandelle Battersby checks into a hotel that celebrates the story of NZ's early settlers.

In the absolute silence of deep underground, Bronwyn Sell experiences true darkness - and the beauty it conceals.

Not just a winter destination; there's plenty to do in Taupo all year round. Here's our pick of some the best.

Derek Cheng basks in a panoramic view that few have experienced.

COMMENT: Is it time for major holiday reform in New Zealand? Do we need a late October combo mega celebration dubbed "Super Weekend"?

Stephanie Holmes lives a life of luxury in the Coromandel ... if only for a weekend.

Elisabeth Easther explores a Central Otago hamlet, population 300, where newcomers are welcomed with a community dinner.

Eli Orzessek checks into a Fenton Street spot with an excellent spa bath.

Lorna Subritzky enjoys a winning bach in acclaimed surroundings.

Take your time in this seaside village, writes Elisabeth Easther.

A four-year-old adventure business with a big conservation programme has taken the supreme tourism award.

Breath-taking thrills and spills and awe-inspiring sights are on offer in the tourist mecca, writes Morgan Tait.

A winemaker is hooked on pinot and the land where it's grown, writes Stephanie Holmes.

Sheba Williams' working holiday in Shanghai was a real inspiration.

Helen van Berkel stays at a Hawke's Bay cottage that offers both sunrise and sunset views.

Cloe Willetts explores the art, tastes, sounds and scenery of the Kapiti Coast.

Sir Peter Jackson is in talks to bring augmented reality and digital storytelling to Matiu-Somes Island in Wellington Harbour.

Sarah Lawrence checks into a lovely spot with mountain views.

Greg Fleming hits the track and heads off towards the east coast.

It was time to fly the nest. All I had was a double bed and "warm wishes" from my parents.

Elisabeth Easther finds a small South Island town that rocks and regularly dances.

Shandelle Battersby flies Air New Zealand NZ643 from Auckland to Queenstown.

On an insider tour of Dunedin's hidden treasures, Eleanor Ainge Roy discovers the other Edinburgh deserves a second glance.

Kim Knight felt the fear (and then walked it off) on a six-hour side-trip to Hokitika.