Novice kayaker Debbie Griffiths and kids go down a lazy river.

Even the rain has a five-star edge at Te Waonui Forest Retreat, finds Bronwyn Sell.

It's a stronghold, but Elisabeth Easther finds it's also a great place for a summer holiday.

Winston Aldworth tours an exhibition at Te Papa celebrating our aviation.

On Waiheke Island, Elisabeth Easther discovers full-throttle fun on mountains and inner peace in a Mongolian mansion.

Sarah Lang gets on her bike for her health – and a slice of history.

Pitching a tent with the family just got better, says Sarah Ell.

Camping is our New Zealand thing. From quirky old-school caravans to smart new-school glamping or campervans, we love to shed real houses, shed our shoes and get back to nature.

Forty years ago, caravans were as much a part of the New Zealand lifestyle as fish 'n' chips and Jandals.

After the excesses of Christmas and New Year celebrations, Joelle Thomson investigates North Island walks for you to check out on your holidays.

Pitch your tent and slap on the insect repellent — DoC reveals its most used campsites.

Justine Tyerman cycles to Paradise ...

A new arrival on Waitemata Harbour tempts Donna McIntyre to pack an overnight bag and take a pleasure cruise.

Beaches, fishing and scenery combine to give Aucklanders a prime getaway, poll finds.

The summer hot spot is known for its beaches, but in case of rain, there are great shops, cafes and markets to explore too. Here's our go-to guide.

Fingers crossed, you will be blessed with a refreshing sea breeze as you tackle these top walks.

Elisabeth Easther enjoys a tour of a Cambridge stud farm and takes a crash course on raising racehorses.

Three-wheel pedal power can lead to a perfect pinot noir, writes Paul Rush.

Elisabeth Easther's love for lighthouses wasn't dimmed after a trip to Tiritiri Matangi's 150-year-old beacon.

There's more to the Hauraki Gulf's island treasures than meets the eye, discovers Sarah Ell.

Bronwyn Sell stays at a family-friendly place with dramatic ocean views near Greymouth.

It seems the sun always shines on the East Coast, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Sarah Ell and her son are awed, charmed and enlightened by a 'movie' at the Observatory.

Everyone's in fine feather at Butterfly Creek's new exotic aviary, says Dionne Christian.

Tristram Clayton makes like a megastar at a top Auckland address.

Nicky Park dishes up five food experiences to try in Rotorua.

Elisabeth Easther finds a town with Scandinavian heritage and real socks appeal.

At the sea life-rich Poor Knights, Donna McIntyre and family let the fish find them.

One of Auckland's most beautiful western suburbs, Huia is a darling settlement 33km from the centre of Auckland where time seems to have stood still.