Google Maps is famous for getting the commuter, cyclist and pedestrian from A to B; but it is a little known fact that the man who oversaw its development is a Kiwi.

Large swathes of the North Island are being hit by thunderstorms this afternoon with warnings of heavy rain, slips and flash flooding.

An outpouring of support for the 80-year-old business to stay on the waterfront included 4500 followers on a Facebook page and a petition with 2037 signatures.

Fatal accidents, breakdowns and huge traffic backlogs have plagued the first four days of the official Christmas road toll period.

Some New Zealanders go to their bach during the holidays, others to their crib. It all depends on your age and where you're from, according to a researcher who looked at which words New Zealanders preferred.

The North Island can expect a wet start to New Year's Eve but a sunny afternoon, as most of the country continues to see warm but damp weather.

Wind and rain look set to dampen New Year festivities over many parts of the country.

Rustic mountain huts, baches on the beach and a miner’s cottage with vineyard views - Danielle Wright discovers humble holiday homes to book in advance.

Go with the flow - "Don't get stressed about your hair, go with the gypsyness of summer," advises Louise Pilkington of Dry & Tea salon in Newmarket. "Go with your hair, work with the sea."

Christmas holiday? What Christmas holiday? Prepare for disgruntled partners and disappointed children over the summer break.

It's different, it's fun and it's only three hours away, Peter Malcouronne looks at island festivities.

Juliette Hogan, fashion designer, talks to Gill South about taking a holiday while running a business.