A potty-mouthed puppet called Rico is the controversial new face of the country's national carrier, Air New Zealand.

Auckland's maritime military past, present and future are put on fine display at the new Navy Museum in Devonport, writes Jim Eagles.

Jill Worrall discovers a settlement that time forgot.

Spooky tunnels and historic weapons keep young and old entertained at Auckland's North Head, writes Jim Eagles.

A New Zealand retreat billed as "somewhere between seven stars and heaven" has been named the world's top luxury coastal hotel.

Here are New Zealand's Top 10 favourite native birds as voted on ForestandBird.org.nz, with the kakariki taking out Bird of the Year 2010.

It's a shame the path around Devonport's North Head isn't quite complete, writes Jim Eagles.

On October 23, enjoy a day exploring the glorious gardens and woodland trails at Eastwoodhill Arboretum near Gisborne for half price.

The courses run by Tree Adventures at Woodhill Forest can prove just as much of a fun challenge for adults as for kids. Kirsten Warner gave it a try.

You'll be surprised what's behind them, writes Chris Samsara.

Jill Worrall explores the region that was home to the legendary bushman and prospector.

Next time you're passing through Christchurch International Airport during the hours of darkness keep an eye out for the control tower.

During Waimarino's new Thermal Hot Pool & Glow-worm Cave Kayak Tour, paddlers skirt the bushy shores of Lake Rotoiti before slipping into a cave where glow-worms twinkle all around.

The Waitakere Tramline was built in the early 1900s to facilitate repairs and maintenance to the Waitakere Dam. Weekly trips have now been running for 35 years and are a great way to amuse the entire family, whatever the weather.

We sent our two experts out to find Auckland's best playgrounds. Diana Clement reports back.

Rotorua has a host of new activities, making it even more of a destination for a weekend away. Anna Jones investigates.

Saddle up with a friend, your partner, or the kids these holidays. Some of these facilities also offer school holiday camps.

Cape Kidnappers is a rugged, chaotic and whiffy bird-lovers' paradise, writes Paul Rush.

We have a family pass valued at $390 for two adults and two children to venture out to one of the most diverse marine parks in the world - Auckland's own Hauraki Gulf.

Get the kids off the couch these holidays and explore Auckland's west coast on foot. Diana Clement checks out the tracks around Karekare.

A weekend visit to a farm can be an educational experience for the kids, writes Diana Clement.

You don't have to be rich or famous to enjoy the lifestyle on offer at Omaha. And the beach settlement just north of Auckland will please all the family, writes Bronwyn Sell.

Get your blood pumping with these adventurous activities in and around Auckland.

Joelle Thomson goes with the flow at a luxury escape in the heart of the city.

This sumptuous hotel is perfect for the soul, writes Beck Vass.

Ten dollars to make camp for the night at an Auckland Regional Council park - what a bargain!

Take a drive to Clevedon and Whitford and you're likely to leave with a full stomach.