Auckland

From North Cape to southern Stewart Island, each Kiwi community has its own unique local way of celebrating New Zealand’s national day - Waitangi Day - on 6 February.

Hot on the heels of Rugby World Cup, and a bag full of international tourism accolades from 2011, New Zealand is set to stay in the international spotlight for 2012.

Summer is the season for outdoor food and wine events in New Zealand, and this year a worldwide movement embracing this - The Summer of Riesling is set to captivate the country.

New Zealand’s luxury lodges are basking in a series of international accolades – lining up with the world’s best to demonstrate how the local luxury accommodation sector continues to punch above its weight.

Kicked into touch on home ground for the first time – in Auckland’s Queen’s Wharf Rugby World Cup fan zone – Tourism New Zealand’s giant rugby ball has broken all previous visitor records.

Sir Richard Branson – in New Zealand to catch the finals of the Rugby World Cup – has been seen out on Auckland waters testing an innovative form of Kiwi transport.

Auckland’s streets are teaming with Gallic and Kiwi pride in anticipation of the Rugby World Cup final as the two rugby hemispheres unite in a weekend to remember.

Traditional Māori culture and 21st century New Zealand innovation have added a new dimension for rugby fans exploring Auckland’s waterfront at Waka Māori.

Winning or losing aside ... off the field and away from the pressures, New Zealand’s great outdoors has provided some amazing experiences for Rugby World Cup players between matches.

Two Brits with a couple of bicycles are the ultimate rugby fans – Londoners Tom Hudson and Jodie Burton have cycled almost 28,000km through 28 countries to New Zealand for the Rugby World Cup tournament.