New Zealand’s international star Stan Walker will headline Taupo2, along with a line up of famous New Zealand acts; including Anika Moa,

It was before the start of the Rugby World Cup since New Zealand last had a high pressure system move over us - and this week it finally happens again.

*Tropics

Tropical Cyclone Wilma formed last night east of Samoa and long range computer models show the remnants of the cyclone are likely to pass northern New Zealand towards the end of this coming working week.

I missed many great films at the 2011 NZIFF, and this was one of them. Having a major interest in both alternative media and writing in general, this was one film I thought could be both important and eye opening.

I love Star Wars! Also despite what some of the hard core fans say, I still love the prequels despite their massive amount of flaws! So when I got my invite for the press screening for the 3D re-release of ‘The Phantom Menace’ I was quick to say yes!

The Pike River Receivers confirm that a number of charges have been laid against the company by the Department of Labour. These were served yesterday.

Missing Wairapa artist Barry Sears has been located in the lower North Island safe and well.

Mr Sears was reported missing from their family home in Tinui approximately 10 days ago.

Christchurch Police are treating the death of a teenage girl in a house fire yesterday as a homicide.

It'll be very good news for three players from Auckland and Waitara when they realise they've won a $333,333 share of Lotto's First Division following this evening's draw, says NZ Lotteries' Chief Executive Todd McLeay.

There was a time when cancer survivor Claudia Little could only dream of having a trip to a hair salon with her famous aunt Lorraine Downes. During her treatment for a Wilms Tumour after diagnosis in June 2009 at age four, Claudia lost all of her long blond locks.

Within a jet’s roar of Wellington Airport, in the Capital’s eastern suburbs, the Wellington Regional Aquatic Centre has a wide range of services and facilities for all ages.

Do you love chocolate? Then you’re sure to love Butlers Chocolate Cafe, as hands down they do the best hot chocolate in town and the drinks even come with a free handmade chocolate.

Whenever I holiday I love to start out with a massage to get me relaxed and out of work mode.

Just walking in I could immediately tell Ima Spa fit the bill perfectly, with the delicious lemongrass aromatherapy and calming environment.

There are so many kayaking options you will be spoilt for choice (or if you’re anything like me, completely unable to pick) - from hourly hire off the beach, half day, full day or overnight with guided and freedom options.

So many wineries, so little time.

I had initially thought a bicycle tour would be a fun way to get around the wineries. But in the end, I’m very pleased sanity prevailed we opted for an air conditioned van tour.

Having visited Hahei for many years, I thought I’d seen it all... But for something different the Hahei Explorer gave me a wonderful new perspective of the 12km of beautiful volcanic rock formations along Coromandel Peninsula coastline.

Hot Water Beach is on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula approximately 12 minutes (8.6km) drive from Hahei. And its name is no exaggeration!

When setting up life insurance, you can choose any lump sum you would like.

However as your situation changes over time you might find that you need a greater amount of life insurance (for example if you have had children or taken out a mortgage your need for cover will probably increase).

I’ve always loved making my own bags, and I’m one of those women who think one can’t have too many bags.

It’s one of these books I have an inane aversion to opening.

Even looking at mere pictures of creepy crawlies is not my thing. But as it is so often, I’m at the same time grossed out and fascinated by the leggy creatures that inhabit our environment, no matter how we feel about them.