On this edition, we look further afield at Lucca. And from Italy to France, we take a taster with Lyon.Autumn adventures in RuapehuRevel in some autumn adventures in Ruapehu, in the centre of the North Island. The district’s southern gateway is Waiouru, home to the highly engaging Army Museum. Pay your respects at the Tangiwai Memorial and enjoy some family frolics in Raetihi and in Ohakune.

RuapehuKiwi Tripsters romps around Ruapehu. From Ohakune, one of New Zealand’s great half day bike roads is a signature experience. The Old Coach Road is a 15km thrill ride, headlined by some astonishing Victorian-era engineering. You can ride across the retired raiways viaducts, including the longest viaduct in the Southern Hemisphere, which is nearly 300 metres long, 45 metres above the river.

Sights in LyonLet’s indulge in some long-haul destination spotlights with a look at Lyon. It’s a big French city, but very much the bridesmaid to Paris. They've got a stash of Roman Empire relics – some of France’s best, because its where the Romans established the capital of Gaul. Dive into the Cinema Museum, because Lyon lays claim to be the birthplace of film, thanks to the Lumiere brothers. Gastronomically, Lyon is a culinary hit with old-school bistros a holiday highlight. Donkey snout salad, anyone?

Heading to Europe: Check out our episode on Christmas markets in EuropeVisiting Lucca in TuscanyKiwi Tripsters heads to Italy. Among the galaxy of great Italian towns, Lucca is not your typical medieval town in Tuscany, because it’s as flat as a pancake, which makes it ideal for exploring on foot. Ravishing architecture and traditions abound in this Tuscan charmer. We highlight the essentials including San Martino Duomo and Puccini’s family home.

Also read: Expensive spoils of Venice