Eric Watson writes: Are there potentially a large number of Kiwis who feel aggrieved because our "most important" public holidays are Christian holy days?

Sarah Lang salivates over the delights to be found at Wellington on a Plate.

There's more to the West Coast than gannets, finds Danielle Wright.

Anne Gibson takes in the luxurious accommodation and dramatic surroundings at a Palliser Bay lodge that's hosted royalty.

The road around Banks Peninsula is steeped in history, finds Wendy Dunlop.

Danielle Wright spends a rainy day in Waikato, in the company of the Incas' silent brothers — the llamas.

On the streets, in the parks and galleries, Auckland has a wealth of art treasures to seek out.

Tristram Clayton finds a warm welcome and cold craft beers at the foot of Mt Ruapehu.

Herald readers recommended a bunch of great Kiwi activities for Warriors fullback Sam Tomkins. We sent him to see the best of Queenstown with competition winner Dave Floyd.

Head to some of these local gems next time you're visiting the peninsula.

This old mining town is finding a new fortune in the beauty of its forests, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Paul Charman on the joys of a weekend driving around the Central Plateau.

In honour of Matariki, Danielle Wright rounds up activities that everyone can enjoy, from twilight bush walks to narrated waka sailings.

Drink in the gorgeous views on one of the many hikes, says Elisabeth Easther.

Peter Feeney and family fly on Jetstar JQ284 Dunedin to Auckland.

Awe-inspiring mountain country amply rewards tramper Conor MacHugh.

A visit to Waitomo has long been on our family’s holiday "to do" list...

Blame it on the cycleways, the artwork and the market, but cycling advocate Barbara Cuthbert just can't stay away.

Climb aboard a carriage to appreciate a potter's decades-long labour of love.

Elisabeth Easther is introduced to the beers that are in the market for perfect suitors.

This picturesque slice of the South Island is not just a hub for adrenalin junkies, discovers Jennifer Ennion.

Wellington is full of geeks and arty types, and its Bohemian charm captivates Peter Feeney.

The sky is the limit as a Northland town turns on the charm for a winter festival, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Small town New Zealand does wonderful and whacky to keep up our winter spirits.

The 'H's: Hobbit holes, horses and heartfelt hospitality, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Glenn Cullen skis down steep slopes and dreams of what Porters could become with a bit of work.

No longer a sleepy village, this Hawke's Bay locale is now a sought-after destination.

Penny Lewis gets a taste of the sort of luxury usually reserved for tourists.

Elisabeth Easther takes an affectionate look at some stalwarts of colonial tourism that still stand tall today.

Fergus Blakiston rekindles his love affair with Central Otago.