Smiles, spinnakers and hangovers prevail in the world's friendliest yacht race, writes Ian Lloyd Neubauer.

The home of a tobacco heiress reveals a little of how Hawaii's rich and famous live. Heather McCracken tours Shangri La.

Make the most of Rarotonga's thriving mini-town, which will steal your heart with daily snorkel cruises, cafes, markets, beachside resorts and superb local produce, writes Carly Flynn.

Circling the colourful island of Tahiti, Paul Rush sees an impressionist painter's view everywhere.

Paul Rush follows a trail of bubbles to Champagne Beach on Vanuatu's largest island.

Joe Kafka and his wife embrace the ease of island hopping by boat.

Paddleboard yoga brings out the best in Andrew Frampton (at least in his head).

Every visitor to these Fijian islands leaves with the memory of a warm welcome, writes Paul Rush.

Honolulu's Bevy pours drinks like it means business, writes Heather McCracken.

Mana Party Leader Hone Harawira is facing a new challenge in his Te Tai Tokerau seat at this year's election, from his party's former Te Tai Tonga candidate Clinton Dearlove.

Paul Rush tours Efate Island and meets the smiling face of the Pacific.

In Samoa this week, Prime Minister John Key indulged in a bit of harmless flattery of his counterpart, Prime Minister Tuilaepa.

If John Key expected to be asked the soft questions when he bowled up for Question Time with school children in Niue yesterday, he was sorely disappointed.

Pamela Wade reckons Tahiti's waterfront 'roulottes' are the wheel deal for fine French fare and good times.

The warm welcome at PNG's Kiriwina Island leaves cruise passenger Paul Rush smiling.

Scott Kara finds Mana Island's sand, sun and snorkelling irresistibly relaxing.

The food on Hawaii's island of Oahu sends Heather McCracken into raptures.

The New Zealand Rugby Union's refusal to play tests in the Pacific Islands remains a shame on the national game.

Winston Aldworth spends a few days enjoying beautiful Aitutaki - and wondering why Captain Bligh ever left...

Away from the famous surf breaks and beaches, Heather McCracken discovers Hawaii's vibrant shopping, art, culture, and food scene.

Words can't do justice to majestic Niue, discovers Alexia Santamaria

Penny Lewis and family escape to an island paradise and revel in all it has to offer.

After a serve of super-fresh fish, some boutique ale, a snorkel and a scoot around, Ben Chapman-Smith reckons Raro's not so sleepy after all.

Peace reigns after inter-tribal war, writes Paul Rush.

The verdant, colourful and exotic island of Moorea works its magic on Paul Rush.