Old Bond movies on television are the extent many Kiwis will bond with the British Empire this weekend. We are grateful for the Monday off. But In Her Majesty's Service? Not us.

Where are some of society's great melting pot locations, those places of equality? For my money, it's a New Zealand domestic plane flight - as Sir Bob Jones has discovered.

Hush please, for I am about to discuss classical music. I will compose this in four parts and remember to hold your applause until the end, writes Marcel Currin.

Next week will be a week of big decisions and the issues set out for Tauranga City councillors are a mixed bag, writes Amy Wiggins.

A few weeks ago a study somewhere found faecal matter in facial hair. This much is true: some beards are grotty. But so are some people, says Marcel Currin.

The Western Bay is a great place to live and the growth will only make it better, writes Amy Wiggins.

Man flu should just be called "taking sensible measures when you have a cold", writes Marcel Currin.

During the past few weeks, we've seen numerous Tauranga residents take it upon themselves to get stuff done.

The first international indoor bowls test series to be held in Tauranga between New Zealand and Australia got rolling at the Mount Sports Centre yesterday.