The TrailLite's turbo diesel ensured it was no slug on the road and we were through Auckland's busy Saturday morning traffic and over the harbour bridge in no time.

The interior design is a questionable combination of pea soup green and floral. And don't expect to be able to lounge around in a robe, because there aren't any.

The mosquitoes up there are as big as sparrows, they told me. They come in swarms so big they blot out the sky, they added ominously.

Take an extended break and explore this art- and culture-centric part of the North Island.

Elisabeth Easther takes a journey back in time to a small town steeped in history.

Time travel is difficult-but not impossible: witness the nostalgia-seeking horde that descends on Napier for the Art Deco Weekend each February.

As far as breakfast spots go, it would be hard to beat our beachfront campsite at Matata, just north of Whakatane, with its views of crashing surf and picturesque Whale Island.

Cyclists are bringing the gold back to this former mining town, says Elisabeth Easther.

It's Seaweek - what better excuse to get out to some of NZ's top snorkelling spots?

Deep beneath the Earth's surface the magical sight of thousands of glow-worms makes the cave ceiling twinkle.

There's more to this town than pretty parks and coastal walks, writes Susan Strongman.

A US-based "sand artist" has transformed a Northland beach with the help of a local Maori artist.

Most people who live around here have deep ties to the land, their parents are from here, their grandparents, and their great-grandparents.

Scenic Hotel Te Pania Napier has rolled out the welcome mat to guests and their dogs

Over a million Kiwis left our main centres over the Christmas holiday break - but most didn't go far.

Jim Eagles rekindles his love affair with the country's National Clock Museum.

Hands down the nicest motel unit I've stayed in - comfy and stylish. They even offer pick-your-own herbs.

Neville Peat salutes the Milford Track's glorious tramping history.

One time in Melbourne I had dinner with Tool, Shapeshifter, Peaches and Serena Williams' tennis coach.

The ferry journey is as lovely as the destination, writes Neil Porten.

The Wakatipu Basin is a walker's paradise, offering a shed-load of stunning views.

Elisabeth Easther's doing her bit to save the kiwis.

Five walks that highlight the historic significance of Waitangi and nearby areas

Originally called Hukanui, with huka being Maori for "foam, frost or snow" and nui meaning big; in this neck of the woods it means "heavy frost".

Elisabeth Easther heads south of Auckland for a day of shooting and feasting at Bracu.