An outspoken Auckland business association head says current Easter trading laws are absurd and needed to be updated.

A line of congestion 10km long north of Auckland and delays of up to 90 minutes elsewhere have hit NZ highways as traffic continues to build.

Enjoy next Monday off, Aucklanders - the Anniversary Day long weekend is the last you'll get until Easter, in early April.

It could be something in the water or maybe it's the clean country air - but for whatever reason, Opunake has produced more than its fair share of high-achieving New Zealanders.

Traffic slowed to a snail's pace on many roads yesterday, but the worst of the expected post-holiday traffic jams failed to eventuate.

The story of an annual family picnic tradition that stretches back to the start of the 20th century.

Lava caves, lava fields, pillars and tunnels are all part of Rangitoto's landscape.

Police have a word of advice for the thousands preparing for New Year's Eve celebrations.

A bright, sunny and hot day is set to welcome in the new year in most parts of the country.

Holiday hotspots are filling fast, as New Zealanders prepare to celebrate the New Year.

Thousands of motorists spent hours stewing in traffic jams between Auckland's Northern Gateway toll road and Warkworth yesterday.