We all love Piha, Bethells and Muriwai, regular haunts for many of us. But how about trying a different stretch of western sand.

A journey along this 'Lord of the Rings' road can leave you on edge, writes Paul Rush.

Only hours after Judy Bailey completed the Tongariro Crossing, the volcano awoke from its century-long slumber...

Danielle Wright gets into the swing of things at a forest adventure park.

Deb Faith enjoys a perfect winter getaway in Northland.

Interest in the Tongariro Alpine Crossing has gone "through the roof" since Mount Tongariro erupted on Monday night.

A larger-than-life old seadog shows Pamela Wade Taranaki's jolly side.

Dedicated pioneers created Fiordland's colourful heritage in a hostile environment, writes Paul Rush.

Sarah Lawrence and son leave the Xbox behind for the great outdoors, with a rewarding soak at day's end.

Alex Tully finds Whakarewarewa Forest's bike trails easier than expected.

Belinda Henley samples of the resort town's newest foodie offerings... and some old favourites.

Edward Rooney discovers he could get used to the pleasures that come with being chairman of the board.

Danielle Wright shows her son Auckland's volcanic history.

New Zealand's landscape is home to many active and dormant volcanoes.

This charming Waikato town proves a great choice for a weekend away, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Don your life jacket for jet boat thrills.

Belinda Henley discovers a unique five-star accommodation offering on a working high country farm near Wanaka.

Air New Zealand is slashing its cheapest standard fares for major domestic routes from September 1.

Danielle Wright takes a look at NZ's more unusual accommodation options.

Fresh air, coastal wildlife and beautiful views, what's not to like?

A tiny colonial outpost today exerts a big pull on tourists, writes Don Donovan.

Clear, pollution-free skies has resulted in New Zealand beating Australia in an ultimate travel bucket list comprised by an influential news website.

Paul Rush takes a time travel journey through Fiordland's twilight zone.

Whangarei's centre does away with the staid image of art, writes Jim Eagles.

The hectic pace of Auckland seems a million miles away as I idly watch a lone duck disappear around a bend in the river.

Danielle Wright stays overnight at Auckland Zoo and finds the children and zoo animals on their best behaviour.

Belinda Henley checks out the latest development for adrenaline junkies at Queenstown's Shotover Canyon Swing.

Abby Gillies laps up the idyllic sights and flavours of Wanaka.

Joanna Mathers finds plenty to keep her happy away from the slopes.

Want to play in the snow but do something other than skiing? Danielle Wright is spoiled for choice around the South Island.