A $7.5million centre showcasing the pioneering heart of New Zealand's national identity is scheduled to open at the Hermitage Aoraki Mt Cook in January 2008.
New Zealand hero Sir Edmund Hillary was famed for conquering Everest but may also have unwittingly knocked off one of the world's greatest mysteries - the existence of the yeti.
A wintry blast that has blanketed the Southern Lakes region of New Zealand is perfect timing for the American Express Queenstown Winter Festival due to open Friday (June 27).