Worth a detour: New Zealand's unusual attractions and hidden places
by Peter Janssen.
"Unbeknown to many tourists (and some Kiwis), New Zealand is a land of quirky collectors, colourful characters and unusual 'backyard' projects. It is also, more commonly known, to have some of the most beautiful 'off-the-beaten-track' scenery in the world. This book lets the reader in on all those unusual things to do and places to see that don't appear in the regular tourist or travel guides. While some places are well known locally, they are more often than not bypassed in favour of the bigger drawcards. From Hawera's Elvis Presley Room and the Pyramids of Otago to Patea's extensive lightbulb collection to the remote and delightful Guns Camp. Along the way meet colourful characters, stroll empty beaches and uncover the other side of New Zealand's history. Worth A Detour takes you on more quirky adventures than a traveller could wish for. Avoid the tour buses, the crowds, the tacky souvenirs, pop a copy of this guide in your glovebox, pack a suitcase and come see the real New Zealand." (Real Groovy)

Organic explorer New Zealand: artisan and eco-friendly places to eat, stay and experience in New Zealand
compiled, edited and published by Leonie Johnsen and Tony Ward.
"A fabulous guide to organic food and eco-friendly places to eat, stay and explore throughout New Zealand. Included in the handbook are over 350 listings of: Organic food cafes, restaurants, gate sales, places to shop; Comprehensive list of Farmers' Markets throughout the country; Eco-friendly places to stay including straw bale, mud brick & natural timber B&Bs, homestays, self-contained cottages as well as luxury eco-lodges; Wellness retreats, yoga retreats, day spas and health packages; Authentic and intimate Maori tourism experiences; Nature based activities and adventures." (Real Groovy)

The penny pincher's passport to luxury travel.

by Joel L. Widzer.

"Who says loyalty isn't appreciated? Follow the advice laid out in The Penny Pincher's Passport to Luxury Travel and you may find yourself wallowing in the pleasures of luxury without breaking the bank-- especially if you travel often and stick like glue to one company. Grateful airlines and hotels often respond to such brand loyalty with free seats or room upgrades, the first steps towards living the life of Riley at the same costs as those Joes cramped behind in coach. Widzer--with a business degree from Pepperdine, a career in marketing and a million-mile award from his chosen airline--knows all the ropes when it comes to the business side of travelling in comfort and explains how to ask the appropriate questions to get the desired results. If you're paying full price because you booked last minute, for example, asking for perks often gets you luxury extras. Widzer shares strategies for saving money depending on if the dollar is strong or weak; regularly obtaining airline seat, hotel room and car rental upgrades; effectively voicing (and being compensated for) complaints, as well as knowing whom to tip when. With an appendix of travel resources, this is the book for those who are willing to do their homework in order to win the prize." (Amazon)

Secret hotels: extraordinary values in the world's most stunning destinations.

edited by Erik Torkells & the editors of Budget travel.

""Where should we stay?" This may be the most vexing question facing anyone planning a holiday, especially travellers whose resources are limited. But finding affordable accommodation does not mean having to settle for surly desk clerks, paltry meals and a cramped hotel room whose only window faces a brick wall. Breathtaking views, attentive service, great on-site food and the full range of amenities are all available at a cost that won't make you cringe. You just have to know where to look. That’s where "Secret Hotels" comes in. Compiled by the editors of "Budget Travel" magazine, this out-of-the-ordinary guidebook acquaints you with an enticing array of lodgings including beachside cottages, hilltop villas and gracious, family-run guesthouses where you can stay in comfort and style without having to worry about breaking the bank. Setting its sights on eight of the world's top travel destinations, including Provence, Tuscany, Tahiti, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Cornwall, Bali and the French Riviera, "Secret Hotels" scopes out the hidden treasures that, till now, have mostly been known only to the locals. The description of each hotel is accompanied by sumptuous colour photos of the grounds and interiors, and contact information and rates are provided." (Amazon)

New Zealand: the budget travel guide.

by Christopher and Melanie Rice.

"A popular series of practical guides for independent and adventurous budget travellers of all ages. Revised and updated annually. 1 A - Z of travel basics brings all practical information together into one easy-to-use section 1 Mini locator-maps enable travellers to identify at a glance the areas covered by routes 1 Extracted Thomas Cook timetables show actual public transport timings 1 Features budget options for accommodation, transport, eating out and sightseeing, and practical information on car rental, air travel and public transport 1 Includes full-colour photo sections and city and area maps." (Amazon)

Cheap hotels, by Daisann McLane.

Going overseas on a budget: an A-Z for Australians and New Zealanders, by Wendy Alexander.