Latest from Pacific Islands

Polynesia: To the islands

Lauren Jones looks at some of the Pacific's top events.

Pacific province to ban junk food

The next time you holiday in Vanuatu, don't expect to see any M&Ms or Mars Bars in every hotel minibar.

Spy probe near done - what to watch for

The investigation into issues raised by Edward Snowden's Kiwi leaks of National Security Agency material is almost complete. David Fisher points to the areas most needing attention.

Fiji: The straight and narrow

Want more from a Fiji break than just a pool and a cocktail? Healthy holidays are easy to find, writes Lauren Jones.

Kiwi discovers huge undersea eruption

A Kiwi scientist has unexpectedly discovered what appears to be a huge undersea volcanic eruption near the main island of Tonga.

Shark attack numbers fell in 2016

The number of unprovoked shark attacks across the world fell last year, in the wake of a record figure in 2015 that scientists partly put down to warmers waters created by a strong El Nino system.

Gisborne bus crash: Teen's long road back

Tevita Lokotui, who plays the tuba in the school's brass band, is recovering after having his leg amputated at the knee as a result of the Christmas Eve bus crash.

Amedee Island: Sandy white delights

Life is just a beach of parrot fish poo in New Caledonia for Maureen Marriner.

Fiji newspaper publisher barred from flying to NZ

A Fiji newspaper publisher charged with inciting "communal antagonism" over an anti-Muslim article has been prohibited from flying to New Zealand for medical treatment and his daughter's wedding.

'Bowie was totally at ease in Rarotonga'

As we approach the anniversary of his death, I remember my time spent with him. David Bowie, musician, composer, actor and personality

Kudos for Herald snapper

<i>Herald</i> photographer Brett Phibbs has been recognised by Newsweek in their annual 'most iconic photos' section.

All Black Patrick Tuipulotu becomes a chief

All Black lock Patrick Tuipulotu will take on a fresh challenge in the new year, having been named a family chief in Samoa this week. The

Dame Val shares a moment with mum

Valerie Adams visited her mother's grave today, after news she has been made a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

Missing yachtie off to Oz?

Missing yachtie likely to be sailing his tiny catamaran to Australia, where he has disappeared with his 6-year-old daughter Que previously, according to an expert.

Missing yachtie, girl: Interpol called in

Police have concerns for Alan Langdon, 49, and his daughter Que who left Kawhia Harbour in the Waikato bound for Bay of Islands on December 17.

Taika Waititi donates bag of blood

The Kiwi filmmaker has taken the time to roll up his sleeves and go on the bone marrow registry.

Crash survivors arrive in Auckland

Crash survivors still weak but 'doing okay' after their flight from Gisborne.

Bus survivors to perform tribute concert

Survivors of the deadly Christmas Eve bus crash in Gisborne will perform a tribute concert today - the same day the bus was recovered from the scene.