They can do the laundry, collect the mail, even comfort a child with autism. Suzanne McFadden meets the canine helpers giving people their lives back.

They have long been thought of as man's best friend. But it seems dogs could also have benefits for babies.

Vets at the Auckland Zoo operated on a Kaka that was found shot on the Great Barrier Island. A metal pellet that was lodged in the wing was removed however the bird will not be able to fly again. Photos by Sarah Ivey

Danielle Wright stays overnight at Auckland Zoo and finds the children and zoo animals on their best behaviour.