A view from above takes a Tongariro National Park experience to new heights.

With the sheep and the All Blacks link there are few places as true blue South Island, says Elisabeth Easther.

Andrew Alderson falls hard for the romance of Chateau Tongariro's historic and literary atmosphere.

A visit to the thermal hot pools at Hanmer Springs should be an essential stop on any South Island road trip, writes Winston Aldworth.

Michelle Coursey finds the ideal way to get away from it all in the peaceful haven that is Kawhia.

Explore the River Trails, embrace the lake and let the young ones play freely while you unwind — this is old school cool, says Elisabeth Easther.

Abel Tasman's coastal track meanders past some of our most beautiful bays and beaches.

Daniel and Adele Le Brun give their tips on what to do when you're in their neighbourhood.

Elisabeth Easther goes to the birds.

Nature's treasures keep drawing people south to the Teviot Valley, finds Elisabeth Easther.

A castle, gardens and penguins give the student town of Dunedin a more refined air, finds Sam Wicks.

Alexia Santamaria goes right to the source, delving into Marlborough's foodie secrets.

Elisabeth Easther tackles the Waitakeres' Fairy Falls Walk.

You don't have to leave the country to feel you've had a break, writes Pamela Wade.

Our capital city has more restaurants and cafes per capita than New York. Delaney Mes tries as many of them as she can.

With the Surf Life Saving New Zealand patrol season officially ending this Easter weekend, and many boaties still out on the water, New Zealanders are being urged not to be complacent about safety.

From biking to climbing to golf, Auckland Airport's The District buzzes with adrenalin-fuelled fun, discovers Donna McIntyre.

Winston Aldworth and his family check into a Wellington hotel with capital views of the harbour.

Danielle Wright introduces her children to golfing holidays in Taupo.

There's much more to this small and unpretentious town than you might imagine, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Elisabeth Easther seeks out some shade in the heart of Mt Eden.

This mysteriously neglected side of the Manukau has plenty to offer the curious, writes Sarah Ell.

Danielle Wright enjoys the magic of Balloons Over Waikato in Hamilton.

Ellie Mitchell spends a night at a well-located hotel in central Auckland.

Justine McLeary and her young family enjoy an adventurous weekend in Whakatane.

Hiking, fishing, rugby and a giant kiwi draw Elisabeth Easther to a small community that has big spirit.

Andrew Alderson and Junior treat their queen to a Mother's Day break on the Northern Explorer to National Park.

Rosalie France explores National Park without snow.

In a corner of the Auckland Botanic Gardens, tucked away from the main walkways and thoroughfares, is the serenely beautiful New Zealand native forest walk.

Cruising the scenic South Island in a super flash motorhome requires more than a steady hand on the wheel, writes Mark Meredith.