An Italian study backs up Alasdair Thompson's claim that women take more sick leave due to their periods, but experts say the reasons behind gender-related pay inequality go much deeper.

Listening to this Canadian band - who have the best band name in the history of music - is like having a really good hangover headache.

A Kiwi kayaker who watched as his best mate drowned has spoken of the frantic effort to rescue the 20-year-old.

Lady Gaga wants to work in fashion when she is finished with music.

They have become the most sought-after couple on the internet - but is their steamy kiss a remarkable photo or a well-staged fake?

Speaking two languages from a young age may help protect people from Alzheimer's disease.

A handful of visually impaired people in Britain are now using echo-location to help them navigate.

Billed as the largest cultural festival of its kind in North America, Toronto's Caribana Festival is an exciting celebration of Caribbean music and culture.

A Canadian couple have decided to raise their 4-month-old baby to be 'genderless'.

It's foolish to rush into further commitments on cutting carbon emissions, writes Phil O'Reilly

Robert Pattinson feels like he has split from a lover now the Twilight: Saga movies have wrapped.

The little islands off Vancouver are relaxing hideaways, writes Rachel Ward.

Japan's biggest quake since records began triggered a shocking 10m tsunami. See how the quake ranks in history.

Smoking researchers say NZ's top priority should be banning smoking in cars with child passengers.

Amanda Taylor-Ace had a dream and, through the sheer force of her personality, made it her reality, upping sticks and creating a most enviable life in France.

Reforms helped create IT systems that are envied by other countries.

Two Kiwi friends are lucky to be alive after being caught in an avalanche while skiing in Canada's renowned Whistler ski resort.

The French-Canadian city of Montreal is an easy place to fall in love with, discovers Linda Shackelford.

Great news for students - jeans left unwashed for a year are no dirtier than those that have been worn for a fortnight.

Wildlife, thrilling scenery and art abound on Canada's Sunshine Coast, writes David Eames.