It's been a year of both celebration and grief - from the World Cup rugby win to the devastating Christchurch earthquake and the Rena disaster in Mt Maunganui. Here are some of the most compelling images of the year taken by NZ Herald photographers.
Image 1 of 25: All Blacks captain Richie McCaw holds the Webb Ellis Cup aloft on October 23. Photo / Paul Estcourt
This online-only contest showcases the best of nature photography
The underwater photographer of the year competition celebrates photos beneath the surface
Imagination, engineering skills and steely nerve was all competitors needed
Thousands gathered at Waitangi in Northland to celebrate our national day. Photos / Dean Purcell
The week-long festivities have been full of colour ahead of Waitangi Day. Photos / Dean Purcell and Alyse Wright
5 C-130H Hercules transport aircraft retire with a nationwide flypast. Photos / NZME
From 6,000 there could be only 3 winners. But there were plenty of really good pictures that came close
NZ Herald Summer Holiday Photography Competition entries
NZ Herald Summer Holiday Photography Competition entries...
NZ Herald Summer Holiday Photography Competition entries
NZ Herald Summer Holiday Photography Competition entries
NZ Herald Summer Photo Competition online gallery of entries...
NZ Herald Summer Photo Competition online gallery of entries...
NZ Herald Summer Photo Competition online gallery of entries...
NZ Herald Summer Photo Competition online gallery of entries...
NZ Herald Summer Photo Competition online gallery of entries...
NZ Herald Summer Photo Competition online gallery of entries...
NZ Summer Holiday competition entries from New Year's Week
NZ Herald Summer Holiday Photo Competition - entries from 24th - 26th December
NZ Herald Summer Photo Competition - first days entries - Day 1 and 2
A selection of cartoons from Herald cartoonist Rod Emmerson over the past year
Stunning images from the awards that celebrate the beauty of science
Doctors have told Paige Suisted she has 18 months to live. She is determined to live each moment to the fullest.
Metservice meteorologist Heather Keats updates as the country braces for severe weather, including high winds and snow. Video / Marty Melville, Cameron Pitney, MetService
MetService Severe Weather Update: April 30 - May 3. Video / MetService
This is the tear-jerking moment a mother listens to her late daughter's heart, which is now keeping another young girl alive.
