Features

The rainforest of the Waitakere Ranges is the ecological treasure at Auckland’s western fringe. Situated only 24 kilometres west of Auckland, the area covers more than 18,000 hectares of rainforest and beaches, and features more than 240km of walking trails through beautiful strands of native trees, streams and stunning coastline.

Auckland's dramatic coastal scenery is only the beginning of the contrasting landscapes found within a short distance of the city's downtown business centre.

Eco-sustainability and a four star luxury rating are not usually bedfellows: but Awaroa Lodge, based in Abel Tasman National Park, combines the two effortlessly.

What better way to slow down and get back to the nature that New Zealand's renowned for, than relaxing in an outdoor bath under the stars?

Claude Stratford is a living testament to the health benefits and the unique natural resources of the honeybee.

Emirates Team New Zealand team mates Dean Barker and Kelvin Harrap love to drive- be it on the water in an America’s Cup yacht, or on the track racing cars.

The five best-known New Zealand fashion design labels internationally - Karen Walker, Nom D, Zambesi, World and Kate Sylvester.

New Zealand by helicopter makes for spectacular sightseeing, over land that can be inaccessible by any other means. Many luxury lodges and hotels also have helipads for their guests’ convenience.

In spring, New Zealand's vast mountains are usually more accessible for hikers, with receding snow, longer daylight hours, and warmer conditions.

Runga is a Malaysian-Maori pop artist, who has successfully fused European pop rhythms with Polynesian influences.