The Bay of Islands' biggest jewel is ideal for a classic Kiwi beach break, writes Elisabeth Easther.

No, it's not the Sheraton or the Four Seasons - New Zealand's latest accommodation provider to list its wares on Booking.com falls a little further off the beaten track.

Everything from lakes and beaches to cities and movie sets have featured in New Zealand's most Instagrammed locations this year.

Shandelle Battersby checks into The Heritage Collection Waterfront Suites, Paihia.

New research from Cheapflights.co.nz found Kiwis looked for cleanliness, decent toilets and a good range of bars and restaurants in airports.

Farmer Stu Muir talks to Matt Philp about transformation and taniwha.

Elisabeth Easther finds horticultural heaven, just a short jaunt down the motorway.

NZ places where earthquakes or volcanic activity have changed the landscape forever.

The falcon comes straight at me. I can see its big eyes fixed on me as it approaches on a dead level and silent flight path, like a feathered attack drone.

There's plenty to see in Whanganui, where Pam Wade gets an elevated view.

Dunedin's 'arty' suburb is worthy of a film, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Holidaymakers are being urged not to write post-quake Kaikoura off as a destination.

Fiona Fraser and her husband, Fat Freddy's Drop saxophonist Scott Towers, newly minted Hawke's Bay residents sample the offerings at Cape Kidnappers.

Stephanie Holmes has a hard time tearing herself away from her suite's stunning views.

Elisabeth Easther finds country village living at its best in this Wairarapa town.

Stephanie Holmes flies JQ295 to one of New Zealand's most stunningly-situated airports.

Shandelle Battersby checks into a boutique hotel in the heart of the city.

A holiday jaunt to Palmerston North and beyond surprises Helen Van Berkel.

Alex Braae visits the Treaty Grounds - a perfect spot to soak up a little of our history.

Here's why the Taranaki capital should be on your New Zealand bucketlist.

The majesty of the skies above Tekapo is captivating, writes Sarah Daniell.

Nestled in berry country, this sunny town is bursting with Edwardian elegance, discovers Elisabeth Easther.

The tiny dishes of this Lyttelton eatery grew on locals, says Jesse Mulligan.

Anna Harrison embarks on four days of cycling to explore the rugged West Coast.

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.