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.

An upstream river paddle is fun and games on a budget for all the family, writes Rob Cox.

Keep your cool, enjoy the views and let other drivers get past you, writes campervan-convert Jarrod Wright.

Natalie Akoorie finds she's a little wobbly on her sea legs but her husband gets to enjoy the rich sealife of the Poor Knights Islands.

Elisabeth Easther takes the boys on the road down to Raglan for a weekend.

Elisabeth Easther enjoys the grotto and more at a lakeside retreat in Taupo.

The 'Island of Weka' is full of natural beauty, says Elisabeth Easther.

The marine animals and birdlife on the remote sub-Antarctic Islands captivate Isobel Marriner.

Our ancestors would have ventured deeper into our back country if they'd been able to do so in a powerful jetboat, writes Lisa Scott.

Oratia offers more than the average farmers' market, writes Karen Phelps.

Natalie Akoorie checks into the Quality Hotel Oceans Tutukaka.

Danielle Wright falls for a beautiful bush reserve in the Waitakere Ranges.

Cricket fever has struck so follow the trail to the fan zone, writes Sarah Ell.

A weekend visit opens Michelle Coursey's eyes to the wonders of the oft-overlooked city and its award-winning dining scene.

A spectacular view and fascinating history enraptures Sarah Ell and family.

Great surf and scenery and a passionate local populace impress Elisabeth Easther.

Ask every Aucklander what he or she loves about the city, and you'll likely get a million answers. We hit the road to find the best of our city of contrasts.

Catherine Smith discovers a vibrant dining scene in the gastronomic capital of Northland.

A Waiheke horse trek involves a sun-drenched lunch, wine, with a paddle in the saddle on the ride home, writes Donna McIntyre.

This southern town's alpine landscape keeps Elisabeth Easther busy and enthralled.

Pack up the kids and head to the 'Naki, urges Rob Cox, but, he warns, you may have to eat humble pie when you see its glories.

Elisabeth Easther suggests some fun ways to explore Auckland's beautiful waterways.

Hawkes Bay's unique landscape and climate is reflected in the exquisite wines produced there, discovers Patricia Greig.