Herald reporter Beck Vass explores Tongariro National Park, a World Heritage site.

A global travel magazine highlights Kaikoura as a place to have a whale of a time over Christmas.

Paul Rush embraces nature in a remote forest sanctuary.

Bored with flash hotels and lodges? Then plan to spend your holidays in a houseboat, or a teepee, or a barn.

Chocoholics rejoice, heaven has landed in the holiday destination of Mangawhai, a short drive from Auckland.

Pam Neville takes a different view of one of New Zealand's greatest beauty spots.

NZ's lush green pastures, snowy mountain peaks and clear lakes are turning the country into a "wedding photo tourism" hotspot.

Helen Van Berkel searches the Hauraki Gulf for those gentle giants - Bryde's whales

Timaru's Caroline Bay Carnival runs December 26 to January 10.

Paul Rush finds that a fun-filled family holiday around Taupo region can be enjoyed at minimal cost.

There was some sex, a little violence, home improvements and some intimate dining-in - it could have been any night of reality television but in fact these scenarios were being played out among the kotuku.

Altitude and adventure mingle on this helihike.

Australasian passport holders arriving in NZ now no longer need to be checked by a Customs official.

A leisurely ride through stunning Otago leads Joanna Sullivan to aesthetic heaven.

Jill Worrall makes the most of a rare clear West Coast morning with a flight over the Southern Alps.

Jill Worrall puts her new hip through its paces on a tour of Franz Josef Glacier.

When I find out we're going to be riding a 'trike', it's hard to stop my mind conjuring up images of a 3-wheeler kiddy toy.

The historic Kingston Flyer train, stations and railway line are being sold by receivers.

Monique Balvert O'Connor learns why thousands put cave rafting in their top 10.

Heather Ramsay rounds up the best of what's on around New Zealand.

Whale Watch Kaikoura has been named the supreme winner at this year's Responsible Tourism Awards in London.

Sue Baxalle finds out just how friendly the dolphins in Akaroa really are.

The kauri reigns in this spectacular regional parkland, says Jim Eagles.

NZ's world-beating sights aren't reserved for overseas tourists, so here are four highlights selected by Lonely Planet.

Looking for something to do over the next few weeks? Heather Ramsay rounds-up some of the best events NZ has to offer.

Rachel Glucina discovers a luxurious and tranquil getaway with an impressive pedigree.

Going green can be a festive experience, finds Eloise Gibson.

What's on around the country this week.

Maria Slade proves you don't have to be a connoisseur to appreciate art in Wellington.