COMMENT: Have you started Christmas shopping yet? Here are my top survival tips.

Trying to tame holiday gift excess? Give these thoughtful ideas a go!

Compared to Obama's first switch on where there was a packed house.

The Franklin Road Christmas lights were turned on Friday to mark the start of the Christmas season. Pictures / Dean Purcell

Nine people were also caught drink driving as police launched an operation in Wellington.

Catherine Smith dives into the world of foodies.

James Russell & Dionne Christian review a selection of chapter books fit for presents.

The annual Christmas light show on Auckland's Franklin Road was flicked on tonight. VIdeo / Dean Purcell

It's lights on for Santa at Franklin Road- with one special guest.

The latest casualty in a year full of weird trends: the humble Christmas tree.

James Swan, 5, is slowly dying of a disorder so rare doctors don't have a name for it.

It's the annual Christmas show on every Aucklander's calendar - at Basement Theatre.

COMMENT: Why do I still feel like running a mile when I see real fake snow?

The Auckland Farmers Santa Parade celebrated its 84th birthday this year

New Isis propaganda images may have uncovered a plot to attack Europe's Christmas markets.

New Zealand's national Secret Santa scheme is in its eighth year.

What toys are on the top of the Christmas wish list for many Kiwi children?

The 84th Farmers Santa Parade is on tomorrow. It starts at 1pm at Mayoral Drive.

Goop has released its annual holiday gift guide featuring some truly bizarre items.

A charity has lifted the lid on what Christmas is like for poverty-stricken children.

Is this the end of ugly Christmas sweaters?

Celebrating Christmas with a difference in Auckland.

The Sylvia Park Shopping Centre in Central Auckland is gearing up for Christmas by taking the traditional Santa's grotto to a hi-tech new level.

A bakery's attempt to put some pastry in a Nativity Scene has sparked outrage.

A mother and son's simple act of festive kindness has inspired a nationwide effort.

How a mother faced with an impossible conversation supported her two young sons.

Now you can decorate your Christmas tree with the Colonel and his famous fried chicken thanks to KFC New Zealand’s inspired set of tree decorations.

An etiquette expert reveals when it really 'tis the season to get your Christmas tree.

Christmas comes once a year, but festive season goodies are bound by no such time limits.

Now in its 25th year the Franklin Rd Christmas lights won't stop- not even for roadworks.