Camping is our New Zealand thing. From quirky old-school caravans to smart new-school glamping or campervans, we love to shed real houses, shed our shoes and get back to nature.

Forty years ago, caravans were as much a part of the New Zealand lifestyle as fish 'n' chips and Jandals.

New Zealand's Lake Tekapo has been ranked one of the best spots in the world for stargazing.

We look at spots made famous by some classic Kiwi landmarks.

After the excesses of Christmas and New Year celebrations, Joelle Thomson investigates North Island walks for you to check out on your holidays.

Pitch your tent and slap on the insect repellent — DoC reveals its most used campsites.

Justine Tyerman cycles to Paradise ...

A new arrival on Waitemata Harbour tempts Donna McIntyre to pack an overnight bag and take a pleasure cruise.

Fingers crossed, you will be blessed with a refreshing sea breeze as you tackle these top walks.

Elisabeth Easther enjoys a tour of a Cambridge stud farm and takes a crash course on raising racehorses.

When the sun goes down, Dionne Christian finds the city comes alive with activities to entertain kids — and adults.

They call it Magical Mangawhai, and with its beautiful beach, great food and proximity to Auckland we can see why.

Three-wheel pedal power can lead to a perfect pinot noir, writes Paul Rush.

Elisabeth Easther's love for lighthouses wasn't dimmed after a trip to Tiritiri Matangi's 150-year-old beacon.

There's more to the Hauraki Gulf's island treasures than meets the eye, discovers Sarah Ell.

Bronwyn Sell stays at a family-friendly place with dramatic ocean views near Greymouth.

It seems the sun always shines on the East Coast, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Tristram Clayton makes like a megastar at a top Auckland address.

Nicky Park dishes up five food experiences to try in Rotorua.

Elisabeth Easther finds a town with Scandinavian heritage and real socks appeal.

At the sea life-rich Poor Knights, Donna McIntyre and family let the fish find them.

One of Auckland's most beautiful western suburbs, Huia is a darling settlement 33km from the centre of Auckland where time seems to have stood still.

If you think you know everything there is to see and do at Auckland's beaches, think again.

Sarah Ell and her family road, ride and walk-test the new attractions at Hobsonville Point.

Salmon 'chanted evenings are the toast of this town, discovers Elisabeth Easther.

At just 47km from central Auckland on the Hibiscus Coast, Waiwera is a doozy of a day trip.

Danielle Wright and family share the water with albatrosses, bottlenose dolphins and sea lions on a wilderness cruise through Doubtful Sound.

When the day is hot and that sparkling blue beckons, you can't say no - especially when it's free for the kids.

Elisabeth Easther is charmed by the Sulphur City.