Our New Zealand road trip with teenagers continues north from Waihi Beach, taking us through Whangamatā and Auckland before a free afternoon at Auckland Botanic Gardens and a peaceful evening sea dip at Snells Beach.

A sunny day exploring Waihi Beach with two teenage boys brings hidden coves, rock pools, eagle rays, a favourite café, wildlife, go-karts and a rainy swim — proving the best family adventures don't always need a big budget.

Our final morning in Taupō takes us to the spectacular Aratiatia Rapids before we head towards Rotorua and rediscover Blue Lake, a favourite from 25 years ago.

Our Rotorua adventure continues with Māori culture at Whakarewarewa, geothermal wonders, the Redwoods Forest and spectacular Huka Falls before heading south to Taupō.

From experiencing Māori culture and life at Whakarewarewa to exploring geothermal Rotorua, the Redwoods and spectacular Huka Falls, our adventure continues as we head towards Taupō.

There’s something about the northern tip of the Coromandel Peninsula that feels wonderfully untouched. Rugged, remote and wildly beautiful — it’s the kind of place where you can properly exhale. Craig and I are always on the lookout for small, off-grid, cabin-style escapes with a serious wow factor — our kind of short break. Over the years we’ve found some absolute gems through Canopy Camping Escapes , and this particular stay was no exception. Finding “The One” We’d been bro

The Bay of Islands—and Northland more broadly—has always held a special place in my heart. Every visit feels like a homecoming, and I always try to make the most of whatever time I’m lucky enough to spend up there. This most recent trip with Craig didn’t quite go to plan thanks to good old Mother Nature and the tropical storm she decided to throw at the east coast. Still, we made it north, albeit for a shorter stay than originally planned—and as usual for us, the accommodatio