Queenstown's Mount Nicholas station cruise is both epic and intimate, writes Paul Rush.

Justine Tyerman learns the pin-step on a famous South Island river of ice.

Elisabeth Easther dives into the history of the Marlborough Sounds' best kept secret.

The popularity of major tramps has 'exploded' and DOC boss says charge of up to $100 may be needed.

Lonely Planet described the winning region as having a 'deliciously offbeat new gallery' and being home to 'a magnificent hiking trail'.

Tennessy Weir checks into a sophisticated boutique hotel in Queenstown.

It's another world within your underground embrace. You're the beating heart of St Kevin's Arcade down the stairs and to the left

As the warmer weather works in our favour, take advantage of the opportunity to unplug and venture out this weekend with one of these great Auckland walks.

Eveline Harvey finds magic above and below ground in Waitomo.

Helen van Berkel is well prepared for a camping weekend with teens at Martins Bay and takes everything but the plastic box.

ZM's Megan Sellers checks out an award-winning eco-tour.

A boutique lodge on the fringe of Northland's Waipoua Forest has been named New Zealand's best hospitality business.

Bike, swim or lick an icecream at this beachy paradise, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Queenstown novice Dan Ahwa experiences the resort town's extreme, adrenaline-fuelled activities for the first time.

At the birthplace of the nation, Winston Aldworth and his kids encounter our gritty past.

Winston Aldworth jumps aboard NZ611 - a night flight from Auckland to Queenstown.

Otago's dreamland is best seen without the summer crowds, writes Mike Yardley.

Shandelle Battersby checks into a hotel that celebrates the story of NZ's early settlers.

Tess Nichol is pleasantly surprised to find generous cheesemakers and inspiring gardens in Hamilton.

Sales on the first charter flight from Dunedin to see the aurora australis are taking off and the trip's organiser is considering making the flight an annual event.

Derek Cheng basks in a panoramic view that few have experienced.

COMMENT: Is it time for major holiday reform in New Zealand? Do we need a late October combo mega celebration dubbed "Super Weekend"?

Stephanie Holmes lives a life of luxury in the Coromandel ... if only for a weekend.

Elisabeth Easther explores a Central Otago hamlet, population 300, where newcomers are welcomed with a community dinner.

Eli Orzessek checks into a Fenton Street spot with an excellent spa bath.

Lorna Subritzky enjoys a winning bach in acclaimed surroundings.

Take your time in this seaside village, writes Elisabeth Easther.

A four-year-old adventure business with a big conservation programme has taken the supreme tourism award.

Breath-taking thrills and spills and awe-inspiring sights are on offer in the tourist mecca, writes Morgan Tait.

Lindy Laird samples the delights of the Bay of Islands.