Abby Gillies laps up the idyllic sights and flavours of Wanaka.

Chloe Johnson delves into Oamaru's present and its charming Victorian history.

Mountain Scene editor Ryan Keen shares an insider's guide to having fun on the cheap in New Zealand's premier resort town.

Due to be completed in November 2012, this 312km trail runs from Tasman Point near Aoraki/Mt Cook through the Mackenzie basin and the Waitaki Valley, before winding its way to the Pacific Ocean at Oamaru. The Alps 2 Ocean Trail is one of 18 New Zealand cycle trails which will eventually extend 2000km throughout the country.

Much of Canterbury has ground to a halt today due to heavy snow, while the rest of the country is lashed by rain and winds.

Rob Cox longs for a lake view and a big tub.