In a corner of the Auckland Botanic Gardens, tucked away from the main walkways and thoroughfares, is the serenely beautiful New Zealand native forest walk.

Cruising the scenic South Island in a super flash motorhome requires more than a steady hand on the wheel, writes Mark Meredith.

An upstream river paddle is fun and games on a budget for all the family, writes Rob Cox.

Steeped in natural wonders, the south Waikato town pours Elisabeth Easther the best water she's ever sipped.

Women outweigh the men in Queenstown's first official marathon, says Rachel Grunwell.

Keep your cool, enjoy the views and let other drivers get past you, writes campervan-convert Jarrod Wright.

Natalie Akoorie finds she's a little wobbly on her sea legs but her husband gets to enjoy the rich sealife of the Poor Knights Islands.

Elisabeth Easther takes the boys on the road down to Raglan for a weekend.

Elisabeth Easther enjoys the grotto and more at a lakeside retreat in Taupo.

Our ancestors would have ventured deeper into our back country if they'd been able to do so in a powerful jetboat, writes Lisa Scott.

Oratia offers more than the average farmers' market, writes Karen Phelps.

Natalie Akoorie checks into the Quality Hotel Oceans Tutukaka.

Meet a dream destination for keen birdwatchers and water sports enthusiasts.

A family with 150 years of brewing history boosts Nelson's craft-beer capital claim, writes Justin Henehan.

Danielle Wright falls for a beautiful bush reserve in the Waitakere Ranges.

Cricket fever has struck so follow the trail to the fan zone, writes Sarah Ell.

A weekend visit opens Michelle Coursey's eyes to the wonders of the oft-overlooked city and its award-winning dining scene.

A spectacular view and fascinating history enraptures Sarah Ell and family.

Catherine Smith discovers a vibrant dining scene in the gastronomic capital of Northland.

A Waiheke horse trek involves a sun-drenched lunch, wine, with a paddle in the saddle on the ride home, writes Donna McIntyre.

This southern town's alpine landscape keeps Elisabeth Easther busy and enthralled.

Pack up the kids and head to the 'Naki, urges Rob Cox, but, he warns, you may have to eat humble pie when you see its glories.

Elisabeth Easther suggests some fun ways to explore Auckland's beautiful waterways.

Hawkes Bay's unique landscape and climate is reflected in the exquisite wines produced there, discovers Patricia Greig.

Slowly but surely, Auckland is becoming a city for cyclists, finds Elisabeth Easther.

Open up your driveway and earn money.

For a less-crowded coastal experience, Smuggler's Cove at Whangarei Heads is for you.

Rebuilt in the 1930s, Art Deco Napier seduces Michelle Coursey.

This geothermal beauty basks in the glory of its famous maunga, says Elisabeth Easther.

It is no wonder stand-up paddle boarding has taken off as a way to enjoy the ocean: it's fun, it's great for you and it's relatively simple to get the hang of.