We already know we've got great beaches in New Zealand - but it's always nice to have it internationally recognised.

Like most Kiwis, I thought I knew the Ruapehu region.

Staying at Kinross Cottages is like taking a step back in time, only it's comfortable and luxurious.

New Zealand's Great Walks are acclaimed around the world. Make the most of them.

Leila George finds out what's new at Queenstown's skifields and down in town.

Shandelle Battersby gets a taste of tramping through the bush, with the luxury of home.

The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is a great place to hang out and watch what's happening on the airfield.

Ewan McDonald is shocked to find TripAdvisor on the money regarding comfortable beds.

Queentown is a mecca for the world's wealthy, who need experiences and accommodation to match.

One day I hope to recite a story which explains why life as a sports writer can be so rewarding.

Gun-toting Sarah Ell becomes a member of the cool crowd for a high-flying adventure.

Elizabeth Binning is pleased she mustered up the courage to visit Rotorua's Farm Show.

You're not in Auckland anymore Toto - the temperature drop was noticeable the moment we stepped out of our Jucy 4WD rental car.

The founders of this skifield still love strapping on their skis, writes Kelly Lynch.

Helen Van Berkel discovers the perfect place for Mother's Day - or any special occasion.

Travelling by ferry to Waiheke, I always thought, was as far removed from city life as I could get via a short boat ride.

He may have raved about his "sensational" holiday in New Zealand, but a US news anchor had one serious problem with our country - the toilets.

Simon Kay relishes the fact that he is finally a welcome guest at an iconic hotel.

New Zealand has been named as a popular fishing destination for millionaires.

Bring your bike because the Twin Coast Cycleway is just 40km away at Horeke.

It may be our majestic mountains and pristine lakes that tourists come for, but apparently the loos are worth a gander as well.

At Mangarara, they put the planet before money, writes Tim Roxborogh.

The entrance could be better signposted: I tried to enter via the exit and ended up dithering dangerously on a high-speed road.

Elisabeth Easther seeks out the historical and beautiful sides of this Hauraki Gulf gem.

Winston Aldworth lays down his towel at a classic Coromandel beach.

We were asked to keep our heads down, follow the path and walk single file with no talking.

Our third island offers friendly locals and an array of adventures.

As one of the frontrunners so succinctly put it: "That was super-hard, but man it was fun!"

Elisabeth Easther finds herself stoked with a small town's selection of brews.