the way we EXPLORE

Shaun Boucher is an internationally acclaimed skateboarding champion who wants to help others become one too. And that includes you.

Rotorua downhill mountain biking star Lachie Stevens-McNab is representing both his town and his nation on the world stage, carrying with him a whole lot of local knowledge, skill and support.

Feel the need, the need for speed? Channel your Top Gun fantasies on this international-level adventure.

From personal tragedy was born an incredible oceangoing journey, with this intrepid family following their hearts – and their sense of adventure – circumnavigating the globe.

Fifteen mums escape for a few days of vigorous exercise, a lot of wine, spectacular views and the best home-cooked meals a tired mum could ask for.

Tauranga-born kart-racing prodigy Jay Urwin has his sights set on a long motorsport career, helped along by a couple of parents who know all about the thrills and spills of professional sport.

There are more than 25 ski fields in this lovely little country of ours, and whether you’re into gently gliding across groomed pistes or consider yourselves the heli-skiing types, we’re here to help you meet your match.

How a decade-old cycle trail is delighting both tourists and the local community contributing to its success.

I was three hours into trekking across the Greenland ice cap, and all I wanted to do was quit. I’d spent the past six months imagining myself as a strong warrior gliding over smooth snow under bright blue, never-ending skies, the sun warming my bronzed face. The reality, however, couldn’t have been further from the truth.

New research from Booking.com suggests that the pandemic has been the tipping point for travellers to finally commit to their own sustainable journey, with 68% of Kiwi travellers believing we have to act now to save the planet for future generations.

Taking a long, hot bath can be a truly rejuvenating and relaxing ritual. Pairing that soothing soak with panoramic vistas across the South African savannah, a stunning sunset over the Indian Ocean, or nestled among the hills in Queenstown and you have some truly epic self-care.

Auckland’s The Hotel Britomart is the new kid on some beautifully restored blocks. UNO owners Jenny Rudd and Mat Tomlinson checked in.

Four years of work is beginning to bloom at Hamilton Gardens. We find out about what’s sprouted up and the seeds already planted for the future.

No budget? No problem! Here are some fun, free things to do around the Bay this summer.

A girls’ getaway to the Big Smoke doesn’t disappoint.

A whimsical wonderland lies hidden in Hamurana for storybook lovers of all ages to discover. With a story of her own, the creator has found freedom in its magic.

This family-friendly geothermal wonderland just keeps getting better.

The phrase “on island time” may seem incongruous as wet weather approaches, but Waiheke Island offers the perfect – alas, temporary – escape from winter woes.

Whangamatā's biggest attraction might be one of New Zealand’s best beaches, but did you know it’s also the perfect spot for a weekend adventure all year round?

Christchurch is like the adventurous and fun friend everyone needs

Tourism and the Bay of Plenty go hand-in-hand this summer, with activities and adventures for everyone – plus plenty of opportunities to relax, eat, and take it all in.

Sun, sand, strolls along the beach… Ōhope is a little slice of paradise with so many options for families, couples, and solo travellers to enjoy this summer.

A wander into Bethlehem Town Centre uncovers some hidden treasures, both old and new

Flying south for the winter, UNO editor Hayley Barnett attempts to turn her family into thrill-seeking adventure enthusiasts, with mixed results

Natural beauty meets artistic expression in this picturesque little town.

Head over to Whakatāne this season, where you’ll find colourful artworks and not one but two bright and shining celebrations this winter.

From the mountains to the tussock grasslands, through picturesque towns and over soaring bridges, taking the train will start your vacation on the right track.

Tauranga-born kart-racing prodigy Jay Urwin has his sights set on a long motorsport career, helped along by a couple of parents who know all about the thrills and spills of professional sport.

Spend a pleasant day shopping in the quaint and colourful Bethlehem Town Centre.

If you need to unplug, and reboot over summer, then head to Whakatāne, where some wild wonders and epic excursions await you.

Looking for a destination golf course where the views are as beautiful as the quality of the course? The revitalised Summerhill Estate golf course is worth the drive.

Tīrau may be better known for its quirky corrugated iron sculptures – but this tiny town is certainly worth your time.

UNO editor Hayley Barnett experiences the ultimate family getaway: Fiji’s Plantation Island Resort, where luxury meets value with endless fun for kids and adults alike. 

Reliving the spirit of their 20s, with fewer compromises and more surprises, mid-life travellers Sue Hoffart and her husband discover the beauty of making it up as they go along.

Bridging Europe and Asia, Nicky Adams explores the melting pot that is Turkey. 

Liz French skied the slopes of Canada’s Sun Peaks and Big White resorts, and it made her feel like dancing.

Aitutaki’s crystal-clear waters and relaxed vibe isn’t just for honeymooners. It’s what makes Rarotonga such a must-visit destination for Kiwis.

Catherine Sylvester and her family escaped the Kiwi winter for a scenic coastal road trip in sunny California, hitting up the best the Golden State has to offer along the way.

Liz French travelled to Cambodia and experienced firsthand the work of the Tauranga-based Cambodia Charitable Trust, meeting her sponsored child and learning about the brutal history of this beautiful country.

If you’re planning your next holiday, there are plenty of destinations around the Asia Pacific region that are culinary gateways to a world of gastronomic adventures

A trip to Sydney gives the opportunity for some work-life balance.

Say goodbye to the winter chill. The Cook Islands heat is calling. As the days get chillier and we cosy up by the fire in our winter woolies, it can be difficult not to daydream about sun kissed beaches and warm summer breezes.

With World Ocean Day just around the corner, Booking.com has compiled a list of sensational stays with breathtaking sea views that offer both luxury and sustainability to the eco-conscious traveller.

New research from Booking.com suggests that the pandemic has been the tipping point for travellers to finally commit to their own sustainable journey, with 68% of Kiwi travellers believing we have to act now to save the planet for future generations.

For those itching to get back to island travel, Booking.com shares their picks for travellers planning to head to the Cook Islands.

While there are many beautiful island destinations in this world, they don’t all come complete with a welcome that feels absolutely genuine, a national pride which shines out, and the locals’ desire to share their blessings with you, a passing traveller.

A sunny stroll through the canals which are a great surprise to find in such a sprawling city, and we picked up our bags from the hotel and headed back out to the airport for our 9pm flight. An entirely different continent and three days of discovery, then back feeling refreshed. The best way to holiday.

Awards, massive renovation and a new service centre and showroom in Pāpāmoa are pushing the dealership to greater heights.

With the futuristic RZ 450e Dynamic, Lexus has raced straight to the top of the electric car category.

family drive

Future of family motoring

How does an EV handle a weekend away with the kids in tow? Surprisingly – and delightfully – well, as we discovered.

Smooth ride

Fancy a road trip? Douglas and Heather Stewart took in the South Island’s stunning autumn foliage in their brand-new EV.

Matt Batchelor and Lance Uhlmann love their toys. And they know how to look after them.

The speed, the sound, the colour. Take Aston Martin’s ultimate GT, the DBS Superleggera, subtract the roof, and hit the accelerator.

Lexus of Tauranga’s new showroom is open in Elizabeth Street. The passionate team share their picks of the luxury vehicles in the showroom.

It’s never a bad day in the office when an invitation arrives to drive something a bit special and stay in a lavish setting. I seldom get to enjoy that perk with the family in tow, so when the opportunity arose to showcase Taupō’s beautiful Kinloch Manor and earn some serious brownie points with my wife and son, I grabbed it with both hands. The transport? Aston Martin’s DBX.

On a road trip to Northland in a ridiculously beautiful Bentley, going shoeless has never felt so right.

If you’ve ever driven a Lexus, you’ll know the experience is all about luxury. The high-end sister brand of Toyota is famous for its quality, attention to detail, and craftsmanship. And for the very first time, those features are about to be seen up close in the Bay of Plenty.