AUCKLAND - New Zealand above sea level is pretty spectacular. Below sea level, it’e even more beautiful. Pity so few see it. But if you are a diver or snorkeler, New Zealand offers some awesome sites for you to explore.

MARLBOROUGH, NEW ZEALAND - It’s hard to decide which is better — New Zealand’s wine or the breathtakingly beautiful scenery in the regions where the grapes are grown.

AUCKLAND - While there are plenty of ways to get around in New Zealand, one of the most fun is on two wheels. With so many options – motorcycle tours, biking in a wine region, or riding the New Zealand Cycle Trail — visitors can lift their feet off the ground and check out the sights, sounds and magic of the country.

AUCKLAND - Going on vacation always seems like a bit of a splurge, no matter what your budget. And for many, New Zealand is the ultimate tick off the bucket list that requires a great commitment of time and cash. While there are plenty of budget and reasonably-priced places to stay on both the North and South Islands, there is a growing trend for even the most budget-conscious visitors to take a night or two and indulge themselves by staying at one of the country’s nicer lodges or hotels.

MOOREA, FRENCH POLYNESIA - “Off to the left!” announces Dr. Poole as we all turned our heads in unison to see the pod of spinner dolphins off the port side of our boat. Dancing and playing as if for our viewing pleasure, sometimes spinning in the air — as their name suggests; these magnificent mammals cavort around, oblivious to global warming, economic slowdowns and national debt issues.

BORA BORA, POLYNESIA - Our guide, Heifara Tairua drives the hilly roads that snake through Bora Bora deftly, intuitively — these hills have no secrets from him.

GUAM, SOUTH PACIFIC - This little dot in the Pacific might lack for size, but it more than makes up for it in fun and flavour.

CHRISTCHURCH - It was just before 1 p.m. on Feb. 22, 2011. The ground shook violently, glass shattered, people screamed . . . 20 seconds later, much of Christchurch was in ruins, 185 people are dead and thousands injured and left homeless by a 6.3 magnitude earthquake.

Capital cities possess a unique quality which isn’t always flattering. Wellington is the exception.

PERTH, Australia - Towering lemon-scented gum trees welcome you with the fragrance of peaceful hospitality as you enter Kings Park and Botanic Garden. And they’re just the beginning. There are so many things here to make you forget the hustle and bustle of the nearby city centre.