Auckland has been waiting many years for a public transport system with a transfer ticket.

Peter Calder heads west of Nelson and wonders what took him so long to get there.

Waitomo is world famous for its subterranean wonders but, as Anna Jones writes, there are plenty of treasures above ground too.

Diana Clement heads to Mangere Bridge for a day of cycling and fresh air in a lovely rural-type setting.

Ophir's elegant O'Connell bridge was built to last, says Don Donovan.

Matakauri Lodge offers royal treatment in a laidback setting, writes Michele Hewitson.

Think long weekend, think great escape. Megan Singleton recommends four getaway destinations.

Kirsten Warner is captivated by the beauty and mystery of Great Barrier Island.

In a secret spot, restricted to visitors, Jim Eagles marvels at the elegant, isolated beauty of NZ's only flock of endangered white heron.

Cate Foster and daughter circle the north in a weekend road trip that takes in food, history, craft and culture.

NZ's freshest designers set up camp in Dunedin's historic quarters, writes Catherine Smith.

Supporting tourism in Canterbury will help Christchurch get through bad times.

A mini-break to Great Barrier Island can combine luxury, solitude and adventure - as well as breathtaking scenery.

You don't have to go far to get up close with creatures great and small, discovers Bronwyn Sell.

Novice canoeist Diana Clement satisfies a long-held ambition to paddle the mighty Whanganui River - and all in one easy weekend.

Susan Edmunds takes to the water with a surf school - and manages to do without Piha Rescue.

A hands-on cooking school is a delight from paddock to plate, writes Alexia Santamaria.

Ancient forests and waterfalls are all part of a short trek through the Waitakeres, writes Danielle Wright.

Liz Light visits Westland's kotuku colony.

Carolyn Bergquist enjoys a short break on Waiheke, so near to Auckland, yet so far.

There's a track for every ability on two wheels, and great scenery too.

Jim Eagles discovers crazy heart-pumping, breath-taking thrills on historic rivers, mining tunnels and shafts on the West Coast.

Spending by tourists dropped to a five-year low in 2010, even as more people visited New Zealand, as the strong kiwi dollar sapped purchasing power.

Liz Light finds weka, seals and superb scenery at Cape Foulwind.

Shenagh Gleeson finds gorgeous beaches, fine art and good food on the northeastern Coromandel peninsula.

Make the most of fine late summer Sundays to explore Auckland's back yard and beyond.

A helicopter flight is the quickest way to get from crowded city to island vines, finds Danielle Wright.

For a day of fresh air and fun, golf can't be beat. Graham Hepburn visits Auckland's courses.

Jill Worrall revisits a childhood haunt that has also inspired authors and film makers.

The East Cape makes for a great family holiday, writes Alex Tully.