EDITOR'S LETTER

Welcome to issue 197, our first print issue since early March. It is so good to back on paper again. We’ve had great feedback on our digital editions, and for those without a permanent postal address, an online version offers a good alternative to print. But as we’ve heard from so many of our readers over the past four months, there really is nothing quite like holding a beautiful magazine in your hands. A printed magazine offers something unique, a tangible ‘time out’, a moment to pause and escape from everything going on around you.

Despite the rapid rise of all things digital, I strongly believe there will always be a place for quality printed magazines like ours. Just look at how the New Zealand public spoke out over the past few months when many magazines had to close – Kiwis love their mags! We love reaching into the letterbox and finding the latest issue. For those days when it’s cold and wet outside, a magazine and a hot cuppa on the couch can brighten your day and fill you with inspiration and excitement for future travels.

But of course, we wouldn’t be here without the support of our loyal advertisers and our loyal readers. So to everyone who has supported MCD over this tough time, thank you once again – we’e so happy to be back.

Please enjoy this month’s issue. We’ve got some fabulous travel stories – from tramping around Coromandel to Irish jigs in Kaikōura. Plus Jill Malcolm shares her motorhome journey from Auckland to Christchurch and offers insight into how some of New Zealand’s townships are faring in the months since lockdown.

In this issue, and over the coming months, we’ll be republishing some of the great stories and reviews from our digital-only issues for those of you who missed out.

Travel warm and stay safe – make the most the final few weeks of winter!

Donegal House hotel in Kaikōura.