Think long weekend, think great escape. Megan Singleton recommends four getaway destinations.

Police are hoping the good behaviour at this weekend's Beach Hop in Whangamata continues as people head home.

People in northern and eastern areas of the North Island are being advised to take precautions as heavy rains threaten to sweep across those regions tonight and tomorrow, with a possibility of flooding in coastal and low-lying areas.

Heavy rain is on the way today for much of the North Island, with as much 200mm for some areas today and tomorrow, MetService forecasts.

This gracious home offers a permanent slice of seaside paradise.

A proposal to put an iconic Coromandel beach into public ownership has been withdrawn, but a new estimate that halves the land's value has given the Green Party hope a deal could still be done.

A runabout reported missing off the Coromandel coast may not have logged its return and was probably never in trouble, say police.

On the eve of opening her own store, Viva spends the morning with designer Cybele Wiren.

Shenagh Gleeson finds gorgeous beaches, fine art and good food on the northeastern Coromandel peninsula.

New Zealand holds a special place in Julia McKenzie's heart.

Bronwyn Sell enjoys a girls' weekend away with a difference - a walk and wine in the Coromandel's Kauaeranga Valley.

Spend a weekend taking in the sights while tramping up the Kauaeranga Valley.