Matapouri Bay has rated well with nominees in our quest to find New Zealand's Best Beach.

Try one of these fun-filled Kiwi favourites, writes Jane Jurgens.

Leonie Freeman plots a course for a few pleasant strolls.

Wairarapa's Castlepoint is among nominees for the Herald's best beach competition.

A 110km bicycle ride's a breeze when it's topped up with a wine or three.

Ellie Hutchinson encounters adrenalin, exhaustion and good food near Thames.

Alex Braae faces currents and rapids of mighty Whanganui.

Kiwis give their picks for the best beach in NZ.

The beauty of a day trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound is a northerner's wake-up call.

Just 75 minutes from Queen St, yet still in Auckland, Te Arai is a long surf beach.

The "shining treasure" in remote Northland has crystal-clear water and white, soft sand.

Generations of Kiwis have made holiday memories at this Coromandel hot spot.

Motutapu is a remarkable island.

Helen van Berkel checks into the Aleenta resort, at Phang Nga, in Thailand.

It is worth the effort to get to Crosbies Hut near Thames for the view of the Pinnacles.

When the time is right Te Puia provides a unique experience.

Got To Get Out: Cape Brett Lighthouse

This week the Herald is profiling different hikes you can do to get fit.

Here's why Lee Suckling has turned down all his invites to go camping this summer.

Party-goers warned to be careful with unfamiliar pills after reports of deaths in UK.

Mount Pirongia gives you something new to look at all day.

Hiking up or around Mt Taranaki gives you amazing views from nearly every direction.

We want to find New Zealand's best beach — and we need your help to do it.

Small towns are coming up with creative ways of battling bad party behaviour.

As city dwellers make a break for it, new villagers pop up to enjoy the rays of summer.

Stay close to the shore with these beautiful stays around the country.

Stephanie Holmes checks in to the Avani Metropolis Auckland Residences.

We've compiled some essential tips to help you make the most of your summer adventure.

Happiness is north in the Bay, writes Miriyana Alexander.

Luxury can be the freedom to do what you like and eat what you like in your own city.