Corruption of Riuwaka, riu for bilge of waka (or basin) where water might gather, and waka for canoe.

The Shotover Jet is as good as it gets for thrillseekers in Queenstown, finds Shandelle Battersby.

Paul Rush finds Gore is hooked on trout, hooch, abstract art, insects and music.

New Zealand's stunning landscapes are highlighted in a new series of films that shows the "View From Above" at a variety of locations around the globe.

This proud community plays host to the best scenery - and cake - you'll find, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Shandelle Battersby checks into the CityLife Hotel, Central Auckland.

New Zealand has yet again been named one of the best countries in the world.

Everyone capable of doing so should ship aboard a Heritage Expeditions voyage to Snares, Auckland and Campbell Islands, writes Paul Charman.

Here are some of the best events happening in Hawkes Bay over the next few months.

An idyllic day was had by all when Lesley Springall escaped the kids and joined three sea turtles in the stunning waters off the Poor Knights Islands.

Elisabeth Easther flexes her mussels in the world's green shell capital.

Boogie boarding on the sand dunes of Hokianga is addictive, family friendly fun, writes Rob Cox.

While most of you were cowering under what was left of your tent on the Coromandel or up north, I was holding the fort here in Auckland, Shandelle writes.

Opito was worth the journey, even if Eveline Harvey didn't get to sample its scallops.

Sarah Ell relishes a taste of Great Barrier's wild landscape and sense of freedom.

Get away from the rat race with a few days' stay on one of our beautiful islands, recommends Donna McIntyre.

Wellington's reputation as the capital of cool gets a boost next month.

Trade Me has revealed that camping was the most popular search term for the over-60 age group before the Christmas holidays.

Kelly Lynch soaks up the old-world feeling in Waipu's ancient caves.

Next to the Parry Kauri Park, an impressive stand of kauri and other native trees tell the story of its cultural and kauri-milling heritage.

Patricia Greig has a fairy tale stay at a luxury country house near Tauranga.

It's a short drive from the city but Helensville is a world away from the demands of Sarah Ell's children.

Elisabeth Easther cycles the Great Taste Trail from Nelson to Kaiteriteri.

This caring community's a one-stop shop for food, fiestas and outdoor fun.