AA Directions Summer 2023

Main feature: community spirit

We meet people and organisations around New Zealand who are doing the important work of fostering connection, elevating voices and forging friendships.

Roadworkers deserve respect

There has been an uptick in aggression towards roadwork crews over the last few years. We investigate this disturbing trend.

Discover a different side to Wellington City

Dig a little deeper to find things you never knew about Te Whanganui a Tara Wellington, our nation’s capital.

An urban garden oasis in Auckland

When it comes to inner city gardens, the only way is up according to Auckland’s Mark Van Kaathoven, gardener extraordinaire and climate change crusader.

Top tips for buying a campervan

Owning a campervan or motorhome is an attractive idea for many people, but how do you decide which is best for you?

AA news and Member updates

What's been going on at the AA? We share news from the Association and our Partners.

Cultural Conversations community hub, Nelson

Bringing people from different backgrounds together is the aim of this vibrant Nelson community initiative.

Cycling Northland's Twin Coast Trail

Discover both the beautiful Bay of Islands and the historic Hokianga Harbour on this easy Northland cycle trail.

Drunk driver testing numbers are on the rise

Drivers be warned – if you take the risk of getting behind the wheel drunk you are now more likely to be caught.

Kelmarna Community Farm, Auckland

An urban farm in Central Auckland has nurtured plants and people for more than 40 years.

Everything you need to know about investing

Spending money to make money – a beginner’s guide on how to invest.

Australia’s Great Southern Train Journey

A 2,880-kilometre train journey from Adelaide to Brisbane takes in the vast scale of Australia.

Featherston Community Centre

Friendships, crafts, workshops and social connections are forged at the Featherston Community Centre.

Wheel Love: Trevor Jones and his 1984 BMW R80 RT Motorbike

Trevor Jones has owned his vintage BMW motorbike for 37 years and still rides it regularly today.

Blueskin Playcentre, Waitati

Pre-school play has stengthened community bonds in the small community of Waitati, Otago.

Tips for summer driving

With a hot, dry summer predicted, we share tips for driving to the conditions to avoid trouble boiling over on the roads.

WOMAD Festival, New Plymouth

Experience the colour and positivity of a weekend camping at the WOMAD festival in Taranaki.

Money matters: property expert, Nichole Lewis

Nichole Lewis shares how she went from drowning in debt to becoming a successful property investor, mentor and author.

A dog-friendly Coromandel road trip

We discover the rewards and challenges of taking a dog on a Coromandel road trip.

Q&A: Kenrick Smith, sand artist and mindfulness coach

Pāpāmoa-based Kenrick Smith is a mindfulness coach who uses sand-art to channel his energy and create a place of calm.

A cycling tour in Puglia, Italy

Take a cycling journey through the Puglia region in the heel of Italy’s boot to experience food, wine and fascinating history.

Top Spot: Jon Toogood, musician

Jon Toogood fronts the iconic Kiwi band Shihad as guitarist and vocalist. He shares his favourite place to visit in New Zealand, and his plans for touring Aotearoa this summer.

Home profile: a co-housing residence in Wellington

Housing with a difference has redefined cooperative living in Wellington.

The importance of community access radio

For four decades, community access radio has provided a way for the diverse communities of New Zealand to share their voices.

Meet the maker: Flutter Design butterfly chairs

Liz Kerby from Flutter Design has reimagined a classic piece of mid-century furniture for a Kiwi outdoor lifestyle.

Top tips for baby-proofing your home

We share advice on how to make your home safe for babies and young children.