Latest from New Zealand Holidays

Coromandel: Head for the hills

Rural Coromandel was so much fun Alexia Santamaria's kids want a return trip — immediately.

NZ accommodation rated among world's best

A Queenstown hotel and a Marlborough bed and breakfast rated well with TripAdvisor guests.

Flight Check: Auckland to Wellington on Air NZ

Grant Bradley flies NZ499 - 'The Nightrider'.

Mt Cook: Swimming with icebergs

Justine Tyerman finds one of the only flattish walks in the Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park - even Japanese ladies in high heels and Aussies in jandals can manage the Hooker Valley track.

Waikato River: Mellow meander

A lazy cruise down the Waikato River is a belated birthday getaway for Isobel Marriner.

Politicians lying low over holidays in some favourite Kiwi spots

A straw poll of Parliamentarians found most were opting for a modest summer break at or near home while the House is in recess until January 29.

Hamilton: Enjoying a blue streak

A visit to a blueberry farm is entertaining for the whole family, discovers Alexia Santamaria.

Omokoroa: Idyllic retreat with a dash of fun

Danielle Wright finds a holiday park with 'complete silence' and an award for 100 per cent cleanliness the perfect antidote to Waimarino's Adventure Park thrill-rides.

Of wine and food... but mainly wine

Justine Tyerman learns the finer points of wine tasting at a trio of Gisborne vineyards.

Visiting Middle-earth in New Zealand

Standing in front of a round green door, set into a cheery hillside, I half expect to see Gandalf the Grey and Bilbo Baggins wandering up the footpath.

Oamaru: Fresh taste of vintage charm

Catherine Smith falls for Oamaru's Victorian township and modern food.

Hidden gems: Palmerston North

The Dullsville reputation is busted by a museum with wow factor and a cool city centre.

Northland: Four of the best northern highlights

If the Far North is on your list of places to go, here are a few suggestions to add a bit more excitement to your break, including dolphins, spirits and the deep blue sea.

Hidden gems: Hamilton

It may be the butt of many a joke, but Colin Hogg can't wait to get back to the city Aucklanders love to hate.

Mt Aspiring: Tackling the Rob Roy track

Justine Tyerman writes of her love affair with a place deep in the Mt Aspiring National Park.

Hamilton: Waikato's sweet spot

Alexia Santamaria finds there is more than enough to keep both parents and kids happy on a day trip to Hamilton.

Pirongia: The enchanting forest

Dionne Christian finds activities for all ages in Pirongia and its surrounds.

Hidden gems: Ashburton

Colin Hogg finds a southern town steeped in heritage.