Sniffer dogs were used to check predator-free islands off Northland's coast after a boat broke a mooring and drifted onto rocks, sparking a conservation scare.

Vets at the Auckland Zoo operated on a Kaka that was found shot on the Great Barrier Island. A metal pellet that was lodged in the wing was removed however the bird will not be able to fly again. Photos by Sarah Ivey

Great Barrier is regenerating after its destructive past, finds Cliff Taylor.

The island lives up to its reputation as one of the Gulf's most magical spots, finds Catherine Smith.

Pioneer brothers created a memorial to a wrecked ship, says Raewyn Court.

Fraser Munroe has been a stonemason for 17 years, and his quality stonework can be seen at many of Waiheke Island's vineyards and lodges. He tells Raewyn Court what he loves about living on the island.

Nathan Boulter faces a raft of charges including abducting and causing grievous bodily harm to ex-girlfriend.

A sailor trying to save his yacht from a potential tsunami has run aground off Great Barrier Island.

A man will appear in court tomorrow in connection with an alleged assault and abduction on Great Barrier Island.

A 9-year-old boy helped rescue Nortessa Montgomerie yesterday, 36 hours after she was abducted on Great Barrier Island.

A woman and man missing on Great Barrier Island in the Hauraki Gulf have been found near Claris on the east coast of the island, police say.

Great Barrier residents warned to stay inside as police hunt a man wanted for abducting his ex-girlfriend and attacking her new partner with a crowbar.

"It was cool. It turned on its side and just sat there looking at us just under the water."

While you're slumming it this summer, others are living it up.