Former NZ diplomat Warren Searell called Damascus home until the Arab spring made life far too dangerous. This is his story.

Making it in China: Blunt umbrellas.

This month's toll of job losses is striking - but it's a reflection of a slowing of the Chinese economy. It's time to look for jobs that have a future.

In a key shift, the United States is lifting a ban on New Zealand navy vessels visiting US ports, and will remove obstacles to defence talks and exercises.

Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman says deepening military co-operation with the US won't endanger NZ's relationship with China, saying we can be friends with both major powers.

Nothing goes to waste at a Hong Kong market stall, finds Peter Calder.

Graham Reid leaves the clash and chaos of Kunming behind for a day of quiet.

The steady life in sales and prices started in the central Auckland suburbs over a year ago and has now spread across the new supercity. But as Bruce Morris reports, it's still tough going out in the provinces.

Megan Singleton feasts on Chinese delicacies and snaps up some bargains.

It is more important than ever that New Zealand lifts the quality of its holiday experiences for Chinese visitors, says Tourism New Zealand.