Shandelle Battersby checks into The Heritage Collection Waterfront Suites, Paihia.

New research from Cheapflights.co.nz found Kiwis looked for cleanliness, decent toilets and a good range of bars and restaurants in airports.

Farmer Stu Muir talks to Matt Philp about transformation and taniwha.

Elisabeth Easther finds horticultural heaven, just a short jaunt down the motorway.

NZ places where earthquakes or volcanic activity have changed the landscape forever.

The falcon comes straight at me. I can see its big eyes fixed on me as it approaches on a dead level and silent flight path, like a feathered attack drone.

Gore's art gallery is the magnet, but other delights abound too, writes Eleanor Ainge Roy.

Greg Bruce goes beyond the cellar door for a winery tour with a difference.

There's plenty to see in Whanganui, where Pam Wade gets an elevated view.

Fiona Fraser and her husband, Fat Freddy's Drop saxophonist Scott Towers, newly minted Hawke's Bay residents sample the offerings at Cape Kidnappers.

Stephanie Holmes has a hard time tearing herself away from her suite's stunning views.

Elisabeth Easther finds country village living at its best in this Wairarapa town.

Stephanie Holmes flies JQ295 to one of New Zealand's most stunningly-situated airports.

Shandelle Battersby checks into a boutique hotel in the heart of the city.

A holiday jaunt to Palmerston North and beyond surprises Helen Van Berkel.

Elisabeth Easther finds a town full of golden opportunities.

Jesse Mulligan checks into a beautiful property in the heart of Wellington.

Alex Braae visits the Treaty Grounds - a perfect spot to soak up a little of our history.

Nestled in berry country, this sunny town is bursting with Edwardian elegance, discovers Elisabeth Easther.

The tiny dishes of this Lyttelton eatery grew on locals, says Jesse Mulligan.

Anna Harrison embarks on four days of cycling to explore the rugged West Coast.

Queenstown's Mount Nicholas station cruise is both epic and intimate, writes Paul Rush.

Justine Tyerman learns the pin-step on a famous South Island river of ice.

Elisabeth Easther dives into the history of the Marlborough Sounds' best kept secret.

The popularity of major tramps has 'exploded' and DOC boss says charge of up to $100 may be needed.

Lonely Planet described the winning region as having a 'deliciously offbeat new gallery' and being home to 'a magnificent hiking trail'.

Tennessy Weir checks into a sophisticated boutique hotel in Queenstown.

It's another world within your underground embrace. You're the beating heart of St Kevin's Arcade down the stairs and to the left

As the warmer weather works in our favour, take advantage of the opportunity to unplug and venture out this weekend with one of these great Auckland walks.

Eveline Harvey finds magic above and below ground in Waitomo.