Christmas is the busiest time for counselling service Lifeline Auckland, which sees a sharp increase in the number of calls it receives.

Although this year's harvest is bountiful and prices are buoyant, a long-term threat hangs over the future of the UK's mistletoe.

Christmas, they say, is for the children. Well, that sucks. Who made up that rule? Children, undoubtedly - crafty little buggers.

'Tis the season to try new wine varietals or labels. And think beyond your Christmas dinner to all those parties and post-Christmas barbies.

A summertime Christmas has many advantages when it comes to dessert.

Top chef and Life columnist Peter Gordon shares his favourite Christmas recipes.

The executive chef of dine by Peter Gordon at Sky City answers your cuisine questions.

Te Aroha locals are supporting the families of workers who lost their jobs when the local meatworks went up in flames.

Ten well-known Kiwis have written a Christmas book to promote a ChildFund programme which lets New Zealanders give animals to families in developing countries.

Up to 95 homes in Auckland's Franklin Rd now have their Xmas lights on at night, says the founder of the annual spectacle.

Christmas is a good excuse to stock the cellar - and splash out on something extra special.

Before you whip out that credit card, ask yourself if the gift you're about to buy for someone is expressing your true feelings - or will it just insult them?

Check out these photos from this week's Great New Zealand Santa Run at the Viaduct Harbour in Auckland.

An amazing dessert - or array of desserts - is the perfect finale to Christmas dinner.

Start your festive day with an easy but impressive brunch.

With Christmas nearly upon us, the Canvas book reviewing team takes the hassle out of gift-shopping with ideas for all ages and tastes.