The mother of the French woman who has accused Dominique Strauss-Kahn of attempted rape has told police she also had a "violent" sexual encounter with him.

France's pregnant first lady tells a newspaper: 'There are things that are better kept secret.'

Centuries old tunnels make excellent wine cellars, PK Stowers explains.

They stole our chance at winning the 2007 Rugby World Cup. This year, they're at it again, wearing fake moko for a photoshoot.

Despite weather extremes, an Auckland climate scientist is unconvinced about the role of human-induced global warming.

We need to hear what really matters from the Prime Minister.

A guide to surviving at French restaurants.

We have learned much from French winemakers - now it's time to give back.

Life after Galliano begins - but Dior still knows how to put on a show.

Our intrepid foodie finds a perfect rendition of peasant cuisine, coq qu vin, in a tiny village in southern France.

Three Kiwi Francophiles share what it's like to get past France's tourist veneer.

It takes a whole day to make but a French cassoulet is worth the effort, writes Grant Allen.

Picturesque Charleville Mezieres will be filled will the magic of puppetry during this wonderful biennial festival.

Advice on what to see in Paris and where to stay in France's Champagne region.

At 67, French screen legend Catherine Deneuve embodies the essence of growing old gracefully. Helen Barlow surveys the life and loves of the star and talks to her about her new film, a feminist comedy.

New Zealand cyclist Julian Dean is intent on doing what he does best for his Garmin-Cervelo team as he contemplates contesting what could be his last Tour de France.

France's Loire Valley was the unlikely last home of an Italian Renaissance genius, writes P.K. Stowers.