Pirates operating off the coast of Somalia have begun to use aggressive new tactics including torture against captives.

New Zealand businesses are enjoying the fruits of a booming cruise ship industry, as tonnes of food and drink are loaded aboard for luxury-loving passengers.

London insurers have radical plans to reduce seaborne hijackings.

A crate of plants came with an exotic surprise this afternoon as biodiversity officials discovered a live boa constrictor hiding inside.

Port of Tauranga has reported strong rises in forestry-related exports and in imports of grain and dairy food supplements.

Nick Smith says uranium transiting through NZ ports will only be used for "peaceful purposes", despite one of its recipients being involved in making nuclear weapons.