The shadow of earthquake and recession may still be hanging darkly over the land but that seems only to have spurred Kiwis to fly further and to more exotic locations when they go on holiday.

Prime Minister John Key has hit back at a British rugby writer who has declared there's no way Rugby World Cup matches can be held in Christchurch.

Guilt will be one factor facing the Christchurch tourism industry as it tries to rebuild itself, a tourism operator says.

Christchurch is "utterly" committed to holding its Rugby World Cup matches, and its citizens "will be far from pleased if they miss out on an event that has taken on a different meaning", Mayor Bob Parker said this morning.

John Key says his "strong preference" is to hold Rugby World Cup games in Christchurch, and says it's still possible if AMI Stadium is fit for matches.

A Rugby World Cup agent for package trips says nobody has cancelled following the earthquake but overseas fans will need reassurance about Christchurch's infrastructure.

Christchurch hoteliers are waiting to assess the damage to tourist accommodation with about 3000 rooms behind the CBD cordon.

A friendly club, but don't visit when it blows from the west, writes Jim Eagles.

The Whangārei hospitality community have created a disaster relief fund for the Quail Cafe. Video / Supplied

For a day of fresh air and fun, golf can't be beat. Graham Hepburn visits Auckland's courses.

Hundreds of millions of dollars are being spent rebuilding Eden Park.

Air New Zealand will be adding two new direct services each week to China from December, meaning it will have a direct service to China every day.

A smoking ban at Sky City's Darwin casino has dragged profits down for the company.

After digesting both sides of the debate, Jim Eagles believes there should be a uniform set of rules governing freedom camping.

Paul Henry and transport are among reasons overseas tourists don't like us.