Two people trapped on a stricken yacht 1260km northwest of New Zealand have been rescued by a cargo ship this morning.

Raratonga's buses take 40 minutes to circle the paved rim of the Cook Islands' main isle, passing through tiny coastal villages. Jump on the wrong bus and the worst that happens is that you arrive slightly late.

A Hawaii holiday can add up ... but walk past the expensive hotels in Waikiki, the tourist epicentre of Honolulu, and the greatest attraction of all awaits, for free: the beach.

Sheriden Rhodes goes deep-sea diving and finds a warship.

Gifts for family sparked a career-change for Cook Island carver, writes Jim Eagles.

BlueSky's inaugural trip to Sonaisali Island resort in Fiji is a Fijian holiday experience you won't find in any of the travel guides or tourism paraphernalia, Belinda Henley says.

Stepping off P&O Cruises' superliner Pacific Jewel, Jennifer Ennion spends an "island day" on Vanuatu's Mystery Island.

Levuka is just as laid-back today as it was when the first traders and whalers arrived in the 18th century, finds Kelly Lynch.

Paul Rush sails to dreamy tropical islands under the spirit of the Bula.

Sinalei Resort is better than ever after being rebuilt, says Chloe Johnson.

A youngster from the Solomon Islands has taken on the future king of England in a show of football prowess - and won. "He was good, yes, but not as good as me," said Philemon Fatai, 13.

A bobble-head dive helmet allows Megan Singleton to get up close and personal with the sealife.

The island of Savai'i is home to fewer than 44,000 people and has so far escaped commercial development, making it an ideal place to sample traditional Samoan culture and to see fascinating natural landmarks such as the Alofa'aga Taga blowholes.

Chloe Johnson savours the local craft, music and natural wonders of Savai'i Island.

This annual tournament in Sigatoka is the pinnacle of entertainment in sevens-mad Fiji, more a South Pacific carnival than a sporting contest. New Zealand Herald photographer Steven NcNicholl went along to document the excitement.

The Fijians inject lots of fun into the serious business of sevens, writes photojournalist Steven McNicholl.