Destinations

Nestled between Mangakino and the Pureora Forest turnoff on State Highway 30 resides Pouakani, the world’s largest tōtara and one of the greatest living monuments in New Zealand.
The township of Opononi is testament to the adage, ‘less is more’. With a population of less than 700 and just a handful of shops, this is a place you can catch your breath, unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy simple pleasures. Claire Smith visits this northern gem.
Lisa Jansen starts at the top of the South Island and keeps going up, as she explores some of the more off-grid attractions beyond the better-known delights of this treasured region.
MCD writer and fervent foodie Alexia Santamaria scours the mighty Waikato in search of the best places to go to get your tastebuds tingling this autumn.
With its native beech forests, towering mountain ranges and pristine rivers, Glenorchy is a destination for thrill seekers and nature lovers alike. Claire Smith took a trip to this tiny but mighty township to find out more.
The little town of Tūrangi is well known for being an angler’s paradise. Claire Smith shares her childhood memories of trout fishing, adrenaline rides and some great Kiwi pies.