Latest from Middle East

Deadly traps lie in wait as Nato takes aim at Kandahar Taleban

Many US and British officers warn that corrupt police are turning people against the government and 'acting as Taleban recruiting sergeants.'

Theatre Review: My Name is Rachel Corrie, <i>The Basement</i>

Qatar deal adds to Phitek's Mideast sales

Israel snubs EU ministers

All Blacks: Cruden struggles in first start

Much has been gushed about the rise of Aaron Cruden into the All Blacks ranks as the heir apparent to first five-eighths Dan Carter.

Militant precision (+recipes)

Gourmet food and an army pedigree are an unlikely mix, but the union sure tastes good, writes Michelle Coursey.

Threats cloud peace talks

Jesus Christ, Bollywood star

Insect offers mozzie shield

Aid ship attack survivor plans new mission

Long protest road leads to Gaza

Suicide bomb kills civilians

Body of soldier and injured comrades flying to NZ

The body of a Lt Tim O'Donnell and two of his injured comrades will fly back to NZ later today, the Defence Force says.

Soldier's body may be home in days

The body of slain NZ soldier Lieutenant Timothy O'Donnell and his two wounded colleagues may be home as early as Saturday evening.

Tree casts shadow of war in a blood-soaked land

NZ firms shrug off ban threat

Palmer to head UN flotilla inquiry

Sir Geoffrey Palmer says heading an inquiry into a fatal Israeli raid on an aid flotilla will probably be the hardest job he has done.

Israel retaliates for Gaza rocket attack