Miniature trains have enjoyed a rise in popularity over the past few years thanks to a certain engine called Thomas.

Our story on Auckland's Top 10 Playgrounds on October 10 drew a great response from readers, who have added to our suggestions.

Diana Clement and a friend took two long weekends away from men and children to discover the tracks of Tongariro National Park.

The wild west coast is worth a day trip with a couple of stops along the way, writes Libby Nicholson-Moon.

Auckland's farmers' markets are booming, but don't forget the city's traditional markets.

Families can enjoy a close encounter with Aoraki/Mt Cook 'The Cloud Piercer' from the comfort of the valley floor, finds Paul Rush.

September arrivals for British visitors were the lowest in a decade, Statistics NZ figures show.

Watch out for the sea lions when you're on the Auckland Islands, warns Jim Eagles.

Jim Eagles takes the grandkids to Glenbrook to meet a favourite family friend.

As you drive up the long tree-lined road into Millbrook Resort, you get the eerie sensation that you're leaving the world behind you.

The Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge is a mammoth event. Phil Taylor shares his experience.

A potty-mouthed puppet called Rico is the controversial new face of the country's national carrier, Air New Zealand.

Auckland's maritime military past, present and future are put on fine display at the new Navy Museum in Devonport, writes Jim Eagles.

Jill Worrall discovers a settlement that time forgot.

A New Zealand retreat billed as "somewhere between seven stars and heaven" has been named the world's top luxury coastal hotel.

Spooky tunnels and historic weapons keep young and old entertained at Auckland's North Head, writes Jim Eagles.

Here are New Zealand's Top 10 favourite native birds as voted on ForestandBird.org.nz, with the kakariki taking out Bird of the Year 2010.

The courses run by Tree Adventures at Woodhill Forest can prove just as much of a fun challenge for adults as for kids. Kirsten Warner gave it a try.

A new property just out of Hastings offers stylish and modern accommodation in a gorgeous setting, writes Joelle Thompson.

Trade Me has clamped down on sellers encouraging flight ticket buyers to impersonate them at check-in to bypass airline security rules.

You'll be surprised what's behind them, writes Chris Samsara.

Jill Worrall explores the region that was home to the legendary bushman and prospector.

Next time you're passing through Christchurch International Airport during the hours of darkness keep an eye out for the control tower.

During Waimarino's new Thermal Hot Pool & Glow-worm Cave Kayak Tour, paddlers skirt the bushy shores of Lake Rotoiti before slipping into a cave where glow-worms twinkle all around.

The Waitakere Tramline was built in the early 1900s to facilitate repairs and maintenance to the Waitakere Dam. Weekly trips have now been running for 35 years and are a great way to amuse the entire family, whatever the weather.

We sent our two experts out to find Auckland's best playgrounds. Diana Clement reports back.

Rotorua has a host of new activities, making it even more of a destination for a weekend away. Anna Jones investigates.