Mid-term and looking for a rest from routine, Danielle Wright gathered up her family and their gumboots, and headed for the hills.

A lack of facilities is having an embarrassing impact on the Auckland waterfront, tourism leaders claim.

It looks as though the Oprah effect is beginning to be felt by Australia's tourism industry.

The Christchurch earthquake has generated new cooperation between Australian and New Zealand tourism authorities, with New Zealand offered a free platform to pitch for business at Australia’s major annual tourism trade show.

The ski industry is gearing up for another good year as tourism leaders push the message that NZ is open for business.

Kirsten Warner is captivated by the beauty and mystery of Great Barrier Island.

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.

Politicians, industry bodies and celebrities have been urging tourists to keep coming, with the message NZ is open for business.

A big global hotel chain has pulled out of Wellington's $100 million Holiday Inn after a long-running dispute between management and investors.

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.