With the next Christmas break feeling an age away and summer holidays a thing of the past, most Kiwis are knuckling down for the mid-year slog at work.

Elisabeth Easter cruises along the cycle trails between Matakana and Omaha.

A gentle walking trail that edges its way around a Waiheke vineyard will delight all members of the family, writes Donna McIntyre.

Wander the country's hills and dales on one of these picturesque hikes.

Ease into tramping with an overnighter at the Pinnacles Hut in the Coromandel, writes Andrew Laxon.

Craving fun, sun and stupendous beaches? Here's the place, says Elisabeth Easther.

Megan Singleton stays conveniently central in her search for some of Wellington's finest offerings.

Northland is the most popular summer holiday destination, according to an Automobile Association survey.

Elisabeth Easther pitched her tent on Great Barrier Island and was very reluctant to leave.

The South Island's first gold rush town is resplendent with colourful characters, writes Paul Rush.

We've picked five volcanoes from the more than 50 in the Auckland Volcanic Field.

For a fantastic surf or swim, Waihi Beach is the place to be, says Elisabeth Easther.

Wine, whales and a warm coastal Canterbury welcome capture Megan Singleton's affection.

Dionne Christian joins tourists on the Breeze for a trip back into Auckland's coastal trading history.

No matter what the weather, Elisabeth Easther finds plenty to do at the beach.

Waitawa Regional Park drew thousands of visitors to the southeast coast when it opened last weekend.

Elisabeth Easther flies on a DC-3 to Tauranga and travels back in time.

The harsh Auckland Islands claimed many a ship and their crews, finds Paul Charman.

Graham Young has captured classic Kiwiana in his new book of painted work, Lazy Days. Check out the images and win yourself a copy.

Visitors will be amazed at the variety of attractions, writes Elisabeth Easther.

A leading law firm is calling for changes to how leave is calculated and paid out but a union leader is warning workers could lose out.

Audiences are wowed in New Zealand’s cultural hotspot, writes Sarah Lang.

Elisabeth Easther, paddle in hand, checked out Waitawa Bay, Auckland's newest regional park.

Danielle Wright makes the most of the daylight on a weekend visit to Gisborne.

Tranquil yet full of interest, this town is well worth a visit, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Elisabeth Easther finds ways you can get up close and personal with our underwater friends, just in time for Seaweek.

Ten top ways to see the City of Sails, as suggested by residents.

Frolic at Paekakariki for a perfect holiday, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Elisabeth Easther falls in love with a slice of coastal paradise.

Rotorua's the place for Maori culture and outdoor fun, writes Ellie Mitchell.