Only fifty percent of Kiwis reported themselves as 'Christian' in the 2013 census, writes Paul Morris. But what does Easter really mean to most NZers?

This year, Anzac Day closely follows Easter, the most sacredly held period for Christians. One of these narratives is deeply embedded in fact, the other, myth, writes Sam Clements.

Mahatma Gandhi was once asked what was the greatest obstacle to the extension of Christianity. He answered: "Christianity."

I spotted my first hot cross bun on Jan 6 this year, three full months before Good Friday, writes Peter Bromhead. Clearly, a long run-up to Easter is considered profitable for modern-day bakeries.

As many Kiwis prepare to head away for an Easter break, research shows motorists support the lower speed tolerance during holiday weekends - but are less accepting of it at other times.

Carlos Angell of Titirangi took this photo on Sunday and even though he's 18 years old, he now believes in the Easter bunny again.

The Easter Bunny may need to forgo the garden this weekend and hide its eggs inside the house, as wet weather settles in over much of the country.

While some Kiwis are yet to wind up their Christmas breaks - and get through their Christmas ham - hot cross buns have already hit the shelves.

A horticulturist sacked by an Auckland garden centre for referring a customer to a competitor has been awarded almost $9000, thanks to an email sent by her former boss.

Check out the Easter parades, hunts, rituals, gatherings and celebrations from across the globe in 2013.

Thrill-seekers at the long-running Auckland Easter Show have been left disappointed after its main ride provider set up a rival event, breaking a 60-year tradition.

Anna Subritzky hatches a material plan to keep chickens in the burbs.

Easter egg manufacturers are likely making more of a profit this year than in Easters past, an analyst says.

Easter, eh? That time of the year where everything is dipped in chocolate, and the actual meaning of and reason for the longest weekend is kinda forgotten amidst the prayers for fine weather and that one last chance for us to pretend it is still summer.

Main roads out of major centres were clogged with traffic today as holidaymakers hit the roads for the Easter weekend, but so far drivers were being patient police say.

The country's top traffic cop is urging drivers to make history with another fatality-free Easter weekend.

Auckland SPCA is calling for people to adopt their own Easter bunny this weekend, but only if they are prepared to look after it.

Fine weather over the Easter weekend is good news for holidaymakers but bad for most farmers waiting for significant rain to break the drought.

A circus show featuring an 11-year-old contortionist is among new attractions at this year's Coca-Cola Easter Show.

Hunting for Easter eggs is coming with a $12.2 million warning this Easter, after nearly 20,000 people injured themselves at the expense of taxpayers last year.

Police are challenging drivers to achieve another zero-death road toll this Easter as New Zealanders take advantage of their last holiday weekend before winter.

Danielle Wright discovers the world of farm animal handling and finds you don't need to own a farm to become involved.