New Zealand is the equal-least corrupt country in the world, according to a global survey.

Fancy getting away from it all? Consider this private island paradise off the coast of Belize.

Sheltered behind the world famous Belize Barrier Reef, Coral Caye is a completely private island that can accommodate up to 12 people in its two wooden cottages. For further information see thefamilycoppolaresorts.com

Is the lure of this 'crime ridden' spot worth the risk? Rachel Sainsbury finds out.

Auckland Zoo needs your help to name two new arrivals - a pair of male capybara pups.

Kim McFadden laps it up on a tiny island, where the tropical waters are a diver's delight.

Ometepe Island's primordial beauty has captivated explorers for centuries, writes Tim Johnson.

Mukul Resort provides classes for employees, plus health care, portable water and a soccer academy for the local community.

Which species will Ben Ross add to his Life List?

A group of Latin American leaders yesterday declared that votes by two American states to legalise cannabis have important implications for efforts to quash drug smuggling.

A Kiwi scientist has helped discover a monster volcano under Hong Kong - one of just 50 'supervolcanoes' worldwide on the scale found under the city.

If you haven't booked for the party of the year, which marks the start of a new era for humanity, you'd better hurry.

Andrew Stone surveys some of the more remarkable trends and breakthroughs which may - or may not - come to pass next year

Leftist politicians in Mexico have proposed that the country issue a new kind of marriage licence - one valid for two years.

Expensive dental and cosmetic surgery here is creating a burgeoning industry overseas. While a nip and tuck is cheaper offshore, experts say it might also be riskier.

Thriller writer Robert Crais talks to Craig Sisterson about the allure of Hollywood and turning an enigmatic sidekick into a leading man.

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

The link between seas is still a marvel, writes Bronwyn Elsmore.