Sometimes you just throw a bag in the boot, reverse down the driveway. Nothin' more than a couple of hundred clicks of open road ahead. Ewan McDonald did.

The area's creativity is on show, writes Sara Bunny.

Diana Plater enjoys some of the best Central Otago has to offer.

The town popped up following the discovery of gold in the mid-1860s and was named after George Ross, provincial treasurer of Canterbury.

Joanna Hunkin lives the champagne lifestyle in Queenstown during a weekend loaded with luxury.

A new Lonely Planet book has singled out some of the best things to do in New Zealand - and most of them won't cost you a cent.

This friendly town is a fabulous place from which to explore the Catlins.

The mercury is dropping but Sarah Lawrence's spirits are rising as she heads south.

Sara Bunny heads over the Rimutakas to indulge in some winter R&R.

Shandelle Battersby finds plenty of activities for families in and around Whangarei.

Neil Reid travels to Waiheke Island for a 24-hour getaway and rediscovers one of the jewels in the wider Auckland region.

In New Zealand's original seat of power, Winston Aldworth finds a pub to celebrate.

Elisabeth Easther explores a piece of paradise, at the top of the South Island.

Winston Aldworth checks into a property with postcard views of prime New Zealand scenery.

Peter Donaldson ventures into the northern unknown.

Wellington is a very easy city to love, and it's just about perfect for a food-and drink-filled weekend getaway.

A Dunedin street has become an unlikely tourist attraction, after people have shared photos on social media of a bizarre optical illusion.

It's nearly the end of the school holidays and you haven't been out of town? A mid-winter jaunt in Miranda is the perfect escape.

NBA legend Yao Ming made a surprise appearance in Dunedin this week.

New Zealand is full of these wondrous warm spots and many of them are free. Here are some of the best to check out around the country.

There's intrigue in the bushes at Zealong estate, and the owners will not give up their secrets easily, learns Tim Roxborogh.

Herald Travel readers share their advice for getting kids on skis or boards this winter.

A mid-winter mission in a muscle car is just the ticket, writes Alanah Eriksen.

Elisabeth Easther explores the charms of a sleepy settlement.

A winter treat brings warmth and a feeling of well-being, writes Lydia Jenkin.

Andrew Gillick tests his driving and cycling skills in Tongariro National Park.

Named for a local tribe, a branch of the Waitaha people, and Ngati Mamoe.

A Kiwi hotel and island have been named among the world's best by Travel and Leisure magazine.

These places will prove to be the cherry on top of your Otago holiday.

Chris Daniels apprehensively doubles down on the North Island's highest mountain.